It’s been a while since I’ve published anything on here. But I am pushing myself to not only post a few pics & Reels on Instagram, but also to give a few insights on my travel destinations here in more detail.
So bare with me, it’s been a while 🥰 But real glad you decided to join me on here. So let’s get started!
Oslo, it was my first real Solo Trip that I’d ever done. In December I took a plane ticket and in February 2024 I left for a couple of days by myself.
I wrote out a few places I defintely wanted to see, but also decided to use my bubbly personality and try to get some info from locals. (Which worked quite well)
I apparently also look very Norwegian as the whole trip, not once did people speak English to me but all of them kicked off a conversation in Norwegian without hesitation. I do NOT speak or understand a single word. However, everyone was super friendly and laughed about the fact that I am 100% not Scandinavian nor Norwegian, although tall and blonde (one woman even told me I had this norwegian vibe around me).
So let’s begin with my top 3 things to see or experience in Oslo that I visited while there. I will then keep going with all the rest of adventures I’ve had and put them into a little Guide for you.
Hotel Voksenånsen
First off, the hotel.
I decided to chose a hotel not in central city. I took a hotel on top of the mountain and had to get the Metro everyday for around 30-40 minutes to the Centre. Which was absolutely no problem as it was a beautiful drive through snow and nature and small houses and the area around Oslo.
One day travel ticket in Oslo costs around 117NOK (~10€). Yes, a little reminder that Norway doesn’t use €. 😉
On a pretty day I was even able to see the fjords and the whole of Oslo from the top. (I did let my drone fly for the most amazing view)
My Top 3
Norsk Folkemuseum
My number one adventure I had was the Norsk Folkemuseum. This is the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History. You are able to visit all kinds of history on how the living situation evolved.
There are over 160 historic buildings. These vary from traditional houses and urban buildings from different regions of Norway.
My favourite building was by far to explore the Gol Stave Church built in 1200 and later relocated to the museum over 130 years ago. I’ve so far only seen a replica in Europapark, Germany!
The Oslo National Opera House
Although I did not go to see any play or concert, I do feel like the Oslo Opera House is simply so iconic and I sat there a long time, watching people walk by. I also loved watching people jump into the ice cold water after being in the saunas.
Blå (Live Music Venue)
This was a tip I received from a local I met in a coffee shop (thank you Harvey!). Honestly I thought finding a fun spot on a Sunday evening was hard. But I had the greatest night! Met a whole group of people and was able to dance with them the whole night. If you want to feel the vibe, listen to the video. A huge orchestra band playing fun songs! The night I was there, the Frank Znort Quartet played. You can find the whole agenda here: https://www.blaaoslo.no/
OTHER LANDMARKS TO VISIT:
📍Oslo City Hall
The Oslo City Hall serves as the venue for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, where laureates receive their award each December. The building’s interior features murals and artworks that reflect Norway’s history, culture, and values.
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo because Alfred Nobel, the founder of the prize, specified that the Peace Prize should be presented in the Norwegian capital, while other Nobel Prizes are awarded in Sweden.
📍Munch Museum
As an art lover, going to this museum was a dream and being able to see all 3 versions of the ‘Scream’ was astonishing. You do have to time this as only every half hour they are ‘showcasing’ one of the painting in a darker room, so the colours don’t fade. Be sure to plan in a couple of hours to see all artworks.
📍Barcode Street Food
This place is a usual mix of all kinds of food. Little foodstands and bars to eat and drink to your hearts desire. A good and cool atmosphere with enough space to sit down and relax with a beer.
📍Karl Johans Gate (Shopping Street)
If you want to stroll through some shops, then the Karl Johans Gate is the perfect place for you to find all the little souvenirs you’d like.
📍COFFEE SHOPS: Fuglen & Tim Wendelboe
There are so many cute coffee shops everywhere, but I was recommended to try these two: Fuglen and Tim Wendelboe and honestly I loved the atmosphere in Fuglen. Many people just sitting there working and the decorations were vintage and I just loved the vibe and also the coffee was 10/10!
Tim Wendelboe was very good coffee however in terms of decor a little letdown as the space was small and quite simple. Lots of people waiting to get a seat. This coffee shop is founded by Tim Wendelboe, a World Barista Champion and coffee expert, so of course the coffee as already mentioned was very good!
📍Himkok Cocktail Bar
Loved the interior design and the vibe. It was really comfortable and relaxing. Also had no issue finding a group of people to join and spend a couple of fun hours with. Cocktails were also a 10/10!
A little description: Located in the Grünerløkka district, the bar is renowned for its unique approach to mixology, using house-made spirits and ingredients such as infusions, tinctures, and syrups. Himkok has a reputation for providing a distinctive, immersive experience, blending both classic and contemporary cocktail styles.
📍Oslo Fjord
I unfortunately did not have time to do a little boat tour or take on of the ferries to another little islands and towns situated around! But the Fjord in itself is beautiful to just have a little stroll. There are a few shops and snack & coffee shops around as well as museums, such as Norway’s Resistance Museum and the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum.
📍Tiger Statue
This statue is located near the Oslo Central Station. Sculpted by artist Lene Kilde, the statue depicts a powerful tiger, symbolizing strength, vitality, and the spirit of Oslo. The statue is often associated with the city’s nickname, “Tiger City” (“Tigerstaden”), a reference to Oslo’s dynamic and evolving urban culture.
📍Other tips:
All around Oslo, you can find Vintage Shops. I basically spent a whole afternoon going from one to the next vintage shop.
I also went to a little market and specifically ate the Vulkanfisk, a little fish restaurant not to far from Blå.
The one thing I also wanted to try was the famous Pølse Norwegian Hotdog from 7Eleven and I did and I actually really liked it!
Another fun place to visit is defintely the Holmenkollen Ski Jump. This is one of the oldest and most iconic ski jumping venues in the world. Located in the Holmenkollen area of Oslo, it has been a central part of winter sports history since it was first built in 1892. The current structure, which opened in 2010, is a modern architectural marvel and offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding fjord. Holmenkollen hosts annual World Cup ski jumping events and has been the site of numerous prestigious competitions, including the World Ski Championships. The arena is also home to the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, which showcases the history of skiing and Norway’s winter sports heritage.
I hope this has helped you shape your next City Trip to Oslo. I am grateful for any feedback to make these guides more fun and better for you!
Sending lots of love and a great adventure in Oslo!
Lots of love,
Chrissi xx
Call me Chrissi! 