5 Things to do in Oslo — Destination Dreamer Diaries

I have to be honest – Oslo isn’t my favorite European City.

View of architecture in Oslo; December 2022

While the actual country of Norway is stunning, I found the city to be just like most European cities – but it was a little rough around the edges. Public transportation is excellent, and things are indeed expensive – but Oslo’s most charming places were no doubt anything on the water.

View of Oslo from Opera House; December 2022

I felt similar to Oslo as I did about Lisbon – I wouldn’t need to go back, but it does have its moments. Here are the top things I think you should do if you go to Oslo.

Aker Brygge

This was hands down the cutest part of the city I came across.

Flooded with chairs for enjoying the scenery by the water, shopping, and outdoor restaurants – I could see this area being packed in the summertime. If you’re a sucker for charm and waterfront eating, this is a place in Oslo you don’t want to miss.

Oh, and some of the magical moments peeked through – this shot was like Prague 2.0, for me.

Gorgeous shot on Aker Brygge waterfron in Oslo, Norway; December 2022

You can see a castle/fortress in the distance; which is much more worth than walking up to it directly.

Walk up the opera house

Opera House in Oslo, Norway; December 2022

For some reason, this Opera House is extremely popular – like the one in Sydney (though, I have to say – no Opera House can top that one).

What I didn’t realize, is you can walk up the top for a nice view of the city.

Seek cozy cafes

Vegan Nord decorated for Christmas; December 2022

Living in Paris, it’s hard for me to think of any cafes being better anywhere else. However, I will say – Oslo does have some cozy-worthy spots, which are especially nice after wandering the slushy city streets.

View of forests in distance on streets of Oslo, Norway; December 2022

Winter markets during Christmas time in Oslo; December 2022

Typical European-ctiy-like street in Oslo, Norway; December 2022

This brings me right to my next point…

Grünerløkka

All of the other advice you’ve read on the internet is true – Grünerløkka is the perfect hipster place lined up with lots of nifty vegan spots and cute cafes.

I went to Cultivate food right near the tram stop and can highly recommend!

View from Cultivate Food in Grünerløkka; December 2022

This wasn’t a bad spot to relax at after my failed attempt to go up Grefsenkollen earlier that morning…

Failed to Grefsenkollen, but damn Norway…

The Royal Palace

Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway; December 2022

Reminiscent of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, this is something worth walking by – especially during Christmas where the winter market is below the hill.

Want to see more of what I did and thought of Oslo?

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