Oslo is tucked in between the hills and the sea and during the summer the locals gravitate down towards the water, where they can sunbathe, eat, drink and generally be beautiful. But that's not to say the waterfront isn't accessible in the winter, in fact the low sunlight and cold days add an extra dimension.
If you want to experience the whole span of seaside life in Oslo then the recently opened Oslo Promenade is a winner. It’s a 9km marked path and covers the center of town, from the rich suburbs of Frogner to the formerly industrial docks on the east. There are 14 posts in all, bright orange industrial containers with information on the area and some old photos. I recommend starting west by Frognerkilen and working your way towards downtown where you can stop for some food or a beer before continuing out past the Opera to Vippetangen and Sørenga. The eastern tip takes you a bit into no-man's land (and up a hill) so most of the time I stop at Sørenga.
This is a great walk in winter but it can be bitterly cold (and windy) by the water so wrap up warm and be sure to stop for a hot chocolate along the way.
Combining exercise with being sightseeing – now you are really a local!
Find your way with 115 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
For over a decade, this Colombian family has been importing long-stemmed roses and coffee beans from Bogotá to Oslo, ensuring optimal quality & freshness.
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Immerse yourself in the French chocolate craftsmanship, where each bite tells a tale of creativity, and a commitment to redefining the chocolate landscape.
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"Bogstadgård" is an impressive, historic manor from the 18th c. It combines what I like about Oslo: beautiful architecture, surrounded by forests.
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"Grønn Cafe" has been my local neighborhood café since I moved to Oslo - it's a place I stop by to grab a delicious coffee on the go or to meet a friend!
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"Vøienvolden Gård" is the best-preserved gårdstun (small farm cluster) in Oslo. You have to come here if you like the typical Norwegian red architecture!
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"Stovnertårnet" in the outskirts of Oslo is not the highest in Norway, but it's definitely the longest: it's a 265-meter windy walk to go up 15 meters!
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"Linderud Gård" in Northeastern Oslo is an elegant manor surrounded by graceful gardens, the best preserved of many 18th-century rural estates...
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"Albertine Spiseri" is a simple, hidden, typical neighborhood restaurant in Oslo. It's easily accessible and has honest & delicious Mediterranean food!
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"Møllefossen Café" in Oslo has successfully brought together a cozy modern interior in a historical building next to a waterfall with creative dishes!
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The "Lysakerelva" is a 7-kilometer-long river in Oslo that has well-preserved forest on both sides. Go for a walk in nature right inside the capital!
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Folketeaterpassasjen is not just a passageway; it's a portal to captivating theater experiences, surrounded by enticing eateries and intriguing boutiques.
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This isn't the kind of shop where you casually pop in; a visit here is an immersive experience bound to consume a good part of your afternoon.
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115 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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