Oslo Mini Guide
What can you Tell me About Oslo?
Oslo is the capital of Norway and the fastest growing city in Europe despite being ranked the second most expensive city to live in on the planet after Tokyo. It was founded nearly a millennium ago and despite being burnt down in the 17th century, it became the capital of the country. The city was rebuilt in a different location and renamed as Christiania before returning to its original Norse name of Oslo in 1925. It is a major commercial centre and home to Norway’s maritime industry. Oslo’s weather is one of extremes with long sunny warm days in summer whilst in winter, weeks can pass without the temperature rising above freezing.
How do I get to Oslo?
Oslo has three airports with Gardemoen being the closest at twenty miles from the centre. Low cost airlines fly into
Oslo Torp, 65 miles away or Moss Lufthavn Rygge Airport 40 miles away. All airports have flights to Oslo from the UK with many regional UK airports being represented. Rygge Airport is now Ryanair’s major Norwegian hub and currently attracts one of their lowest fares. Bus routes operate from all airports into Oslo whilst Gardemoen also has a direct train link with the city
What is There to See and Do in Oslo?
Oslo is known for its museums and perhaps the most interesting is the Holocaust Centre which details the period of the German occupation and the notorious man who gave his name to the word ‘Quisling’, meaning traitor or collaborator. Few take the time to find out about the effects of war on the countries on the periphery of fighting but the story of Second World War Norway is fascinating. For an altogether more uplifting experience try to get a ticket to see the interior of the Royal Palace which is a very popular attraction. You’ve also got the spectacular City Hall where each year the Nobel Prizes are presented and just outside the city on the harbour side at Bygdoy, there’s the Kon Tiki Museum with Tor Heyerdahl’s original ship and a Viking ship museum with the world’s best preserved longships.
What Should I buy to Take Home With me?
Norway is as famous in home design as Sweden and many of the shops in the capital sell household goods with weird and wacky designs but which are incredibly functional. If you have a modern kitchen at home, pick up a few pieces which are sure to become talking points for guests.
What Should I eat When I’m in Oslo?
For great food on the go, try the grillpolse, or Norwegian hotdog snack. Drier and spicier than its American counterpart, they are a popular part of Oslo street culture and a great way to keep hunger at bay. Another favourite in Oslo is the Lutefisk or fish which has been soaked in caustic soda! Whilst this sounds dangerous, let alone unappetising, the fish is soaked before cooking and the effect of the soda is to give the fish a jelly-like consistency.
What does Oslo do for Entertainment?
Oslo is the most expensive city in Europe and even more so when it comes to beer and alcohol. Much entertainment is therefore centred around coffee and cake rather than pubs and clubs. The laid back evenings are filled with conversation about life and politics and make a refreshing change from loud music and drunkenness!