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Oslo
Norway

Oslo

Oslo’s geographic location at the head of an over one hundred kilometer-wide fjord makes it a naturally stunning city and opens up a number of activities that give the city its lively and culturally aware feel. With most sites easily accessible on foot, Oslo features world-class museums, lively night-life, and a huge range of outdoor activities for the adventurous. Although Oslo is one of Europe’s largest capitals by area, it is one of the continent’s least populated. This setup enables local residents to enjoy cycling, hiking, ice-skating, skiing, kayaking, sailing, and more all within the city limits or a short train ride away. But Oslovian

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Explore Oslo

A CLOSER LOOK

Top places to visit

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The Viking Ship Museum

The Viking Ship Museum or “Vikingskipshuset” is located in Bygdoy, a short bus or ferry ride from the city center. The museum features several Viking ships used in ancient burials that have been preserved amazingly well by the blue clay in which they were buried. The boats are filled with jewels and artifacts, and are definitely worth seeing. This is also an excellent stop for those with kids in tow; many children have been seen gawking at the ships long after their parents wish to leave. Nearby, you will find the Museum of Cultural Heritage, which is a large outdoor museum featuring buildings from various points in Norwegian history.

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The museum of Natural History

This museum is split into multiple sections that chronicle the history of life on Earth. The garden here is breath-taking, and children will enjoy spending time gawking at the dinosaur fossils, gemstones and meteorites contained within the museum. A well-presented display of the evolution of plants is also available for visitors. The museum is open year round has a café.

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The Museum of Norwegian Football

For children who cannot get enough sports, especially those who are in love with football, the Museum of Norwegian Football is sure to entertain. The museum is interactive and well-laid out, making this more intriguing than your average museum. The whole lay-out of the museum is meant to resemble a soccer game, with the first half chronicling football in Norway and the second half providing an account of the history of international play within the country.

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Akershus Castle and Fortress

Akershus Castle and Fortress is one of the flagship destinations in Oslo. The fortress was first built in the thirteenth century to protect the city from invaders. It has withstood many sieges and still serves a reduced military function today. The castle features intriguing dungeons, crypts and a still-functional cathedral. Several museums are located on the grounds of the fortress, and tourists can see the changing of the guard daily. Though it might be closed occasionally for state functions, the fortress usually closes at nine p.m. Tours are offered several times a day during the summer and on a limited basis (usually Thursdays) during the winter. Call +47 23 09 35 53 for information on tours. Address: Oslo mil/Akershus 0015 Oslo Tel: +47 22-41-25-21

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The Nobel Peace Center

The Nobel Peace Center is one of Oslo’s most modern museums and was completed in 2005. Inside, you will find a history of the award’s namesake, Alfred Nobel, along with profiles of each of the winners of the award. Informative movies and recordings of past ceremonies are also included in the museum. Sometimes, former winners come to give lectures within the museum’s confines. The museum is located in the city center; for more information, visit www.nobelsfredssenter.no.

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Norway’s Parliament building

Norway’s Parliament building is located in Oslo’s city center, right across from the Royal Palace. This yellow-brick building is quaint and one of the more beautiful parliament buildings in Europe. The inside is decorated by gorgeous art that spells out the history of Norway. Guided tours are short and available daily.

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The National Gallery

The National Gallery in Oslo houses the nation’s largest collection of Norwegian art and many of its most famous pieces. It is located in the city center and can be contacted by calling +47 22 20 04 04. The most famous piece found in the museum is Edvard Munch’s The Scream. The gallery includes more of Munch’s work, the pieces of many famous impressionists (including Monet, Renoir, and Degas), and those of other famous artists (like Picasso and Gauguin). The collection features art created until 1945, when Norway freed itself from German occupation. The gallery is worth a few hours of your trip to Oslo.

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The Ibsen Museum

The Ibsen Museum is a must see for fans of the famous Norwegian playwright, Henrik Ibsen. The museum is built in the playwright’s former house, and is decorated as if Ibsen still lived there; some call it a “living museum.” The museum is definitely worth a visit; for more information, go to www.ibsenmusset.no.

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Gamle Aker Kirke

Gamle Aker Kirke is Oslo’s oldest building, built in 1080. It is located north on the city center and provides Lutheran services on Sundays. The Church is associated with a mythical dragon and has quaint and historically relevant views to behold within its walls. Taking the bus is the easiest way to get here.

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Oslo Opera House

This building is home to the National Opera of Norway. Seated at the mouth of Oslo’s fjord, the building was awarded the culture award at the World Architecture Festival in 2008. Over one million people have already visited this beautiful building; we recommend you do the same, if only in passing.

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THE LOCAL TABLE

Halal restaurants in Oslo

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Ekeberg

this restaurant was entirely redesigned in the 1990s and is one of Oslo’s most modern and finest dining establishments. The beautiful view of the Oslo fjord is said to have inspired Edvard Munch’s The Scream. Seafood is the primary item on the menu, and the desserts will not disappoint.

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Feinschmecker

This is one of Oslo’s top restaurants, and is known for its antique style, although the building is quite modern. The quality of the food here is excellent, and the preparation very detailed and presented beautifully. The menu changes frequently, so you never quite know what you will catch. One dish that is generally consistent on the menu is the rack of Norwegian lamb, which deserves trying out.

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Restaurant Le Canard

This restaurant is located in one of Oslo’s most fashionable neighborhoods a short drive away from the city center. The restaurant is located in an old mansion, which adds to the allure of this French and Belgian dining destination.

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Palace Grill

This exclusive venue features an exciting atmosphere with a bar and small restaurant that are sure to entertain. This hang-out is unquestionably upscale, and attracts the young, hip, and sophisticated. The menu is always changing and the food is made daily.

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Statholdergaarden

This quaint restaurant is only open for dinner. It is located within a restored 17th century house and has been in operation as a restaurant for over one hundred years. Inside, you will find a beautiful setting and artwork that alone justify the decision to eat here. Cuisine changes with the season, but whenever you come, you will find a wide array of dishes including, but certainly not limited to, seafood. Do not confuse this restaurant with Statholderens Krostue, which is the (less expensive) bistro in the building’s cellar.

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Solsiden

This restaurant has a flare that has attracted multiple celebrities since the establishments grand opening fifteen years ago. The dining room has massive windows to accompany its high ceiling, providing a beautiful view of Oslo’s harbor. The meals here are excellent, and dessert will not disappoint. We suggest you reserve in advance.

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Grand Café

This classic venue was once one of the most chic dining locations in all of Oslo. It attracted famous artists, diplomats, and heads of state. Today, the café relies heavily on its tradition and is furnished from within accordingly. the dining selections are strong but not exemplary; this venue serves traditional Norwegian meals.

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Markveien Mat og Vinhus

This restaurant is one of the most authentic Oslovian eateries you will find in the city. Excellent service and a large menu are hallmarks of this establishment-you will not be disappointed by the sauces that accompany the majority of the meals here. The restaurant uses local food primarily, has a formal dining room, and serves fantastic wine. You will probably find that eating well here might stretch your budget, but it is almost certainly worth it.

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Theatercaféen

This café is one of Oslo’s, and the world’s, finest. The café was founded over one century ago and features live classical entertainment and impeccable decoration designed to match the season. You’ll find it difficult to leave once you step in; this café is definitely worth a visit.

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Kampen Bistro

A short drive from the city center will land you at this restaurant, which has become a formidable neighborhood bistro. The lively atmosphere here makes it an enjoyable place to eat, and you will often find that free concerts take place at the restaurant. With tasty food to add to good service, Kampen Bistro is a good deal for your money.

THE DAILY RHYTHM

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Where to stay in Oslo

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Hotel Continental Oslo

This five-star hotel is located between the National Theatre and Aker Brygge and is considered by many to be Oslo’s best. This family-run hotel has a large Vienna-style café, mouth-watering breakfast, and a great bar lobby. The beautiful rooms are serviced excellently. Though expensive, at the Hotel Continental, you will get a good value for the price.

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Grand Hotel Oslo

One of the most luxurious hotels in Oslo, the Grand Hotel dates back to 1874. Most bedrooms are modern and typical, with the exception of the “ladies floor,” which features rooms decorated by wealthy Norwegian celebrities. The hotel is directly across from Parliament and overlooks the main street of the city. To give you an idea of the caliber of this establishment, Nobel Prize winners stay here when visiting for the award’s ceremony. Address: Karl johansgate 31, Oslo 0101 Tel: + 47 23 21 21 00 Website: www.grand.no

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Thon Hotel Bristol

Hotel Bristol is located in the center of the city, near the National Gallery, the main shopping street, and the city’s public transportation network. The hotel sticks close to tradition, with rooms decorated in early 20th century style. Elegant and beautiful, the Hotel Bristol is filled with energy and the staff will make sure you have a delightful stay.

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Grims Grenka

This five star hotel is located in the center of the city, only a few hundred meters from the nearest metro stop. Oslo’s only design hotel, the Grims Grenka is an excellent choice for families with kids in tow. Each room is designed based on the life of a famous Scandinavian, giving rooms a fairytale feel. Its ultra-modern lobby and numerous facilities make this hotel one of Oslo’s finest. Address: Kongens gate 5, Oslo 0153 Tel: + 47 23 10 72 00 Website: www.grimsgrenka.no

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Rica Holdberg

this quaint hotel does a good job of mixing traditional Scandinavian flair with sensible design and amenities. The hotel is largely wooden, and many rooms have an old, yet rustic feel to them. The hotel is located in a quiet district near the city center. Address: Holbergs plass 1, Oslo 0166 Tel: + 47 23 15 72 00

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Holmenkollen Park Hotel Rica

This four star hotel has one of the finest views of any hotel in Oslo. Located in Holmenkollen district, this hotel features both new and old components. The old component relies heavily on traditional Norwegian architecture and is a sight to behold; however, customers reside in the newer portion of the hotel. The large glass windows in these rooms provide for a stunning view, although be warned that only half of the rooms (those facing outward) will have the opportunity to see it. The hotel has numerous amenities, including massages and internet, and has over 100 kilometers of cross country ski slopes. Address: Kongeveien 26, Oslo 0787 Tel: + 47 22 92 20 00

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Thon Hotel Cecil

This hotel is moderately priced and located within the city center. It is a short distance from many of Oslo’s shopping districts and restaurants, which makes it a convenient choice. The hotel was built in 1989, so rooms are modern and comfortable, although not extravagant. Some rooms do overlook the streets, some of which become rowdy at night. Try to get the rooms facing the atrium in the hotel’s center.

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Carlton Hotel

Though it has seen better days, the Carlton Hotel is still a popular destination for tourists traveling to Oslo. The staff is known for being incredibly friendly, which makes the Carlton distinct from some of its peers in the city. The building is a bit old and rooms are not the cleanest you will find, but the artistic and friendly environment (and the affordable price) make this a hotel to consider. Address: Parkveien 78, Oslo 0254 Tel: + 47 23 27 40 00

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Thon Hotel Spectrum

This hotel is well-placed for those looking for quick access to the city. Many of its room face towards the inner courtyard, providing for a quiet stay that is perfect for traveling families. The hotel is recognizable for its white walls and colorful interior design-definitely worth the price. Address: Brugata 7, 0186 Oslo Tel: + 47 23 36 27 00.

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Radisson SAS Plaza Hotel

This hotel features stunning panoramic views of Oslo and of the fjord at the mouth of the city. The hotel’s blue-tinted glass and towering summit make it a sight to behold. The building is also Norway’s tallest building and the largest hotel in Northern Europe. The rooms are well-decorated, but the vastness of this hotel makes it somewhat impersonal. The hotel is only a few minutes from the train station and is reasonably priced. Address: Sonja Henieies Plass, Oslo N-0134 Tel: 22 05 80 00

History and today in Oslo

Visa Information

Visa Information

Norway is one of the multiple Schengen countries which require a Schengen visa for entry. This can be obtained from the Norwegian Embassy.

When to go

When to go

Summer in Oslo is usually the best time to visit. The summers are not too hot, and several music and shopping festivals take place for the benefit of tourists. If you prefer the cold, winters are good too, with snowfall usually occurring during January and February. Winters are also colourful, with a lot of festive cheer making any tourist feel welcome.

Fast Facts

Fast Facts

-Location: Oslo is the capital city of Norway. It is shaped like an amphitheater with the city centre at the bottom, and hills and residences to the top. The North Sea that encloses the city from below also includes the island archipelago of Oslo, which is a popular tourist hotspot in the summer. -Dialing code: +47 -Emergency numbers: - Fire 110 - Police: 112 - Ambulance: 113 -Population: 580,229

Oslo Residents

Oslo Residents

Oslo proper has a population of about 550,000 people, with an additional 850,000 including its extra-municipal suburbs, for a total population of 1.4 million people. Although it is one of Europe’s smaller capitals, Oslo may be one of its most diverse. The population includes over 100,000 immigrants, not to mention many of Norway’s most famous celebrities. Roughly twenty percent of Oslovians hail from another country, making Oslo the melting pot of Norway. The cultural differences have impacted local culture in a variety of ways, ranging from different food served at local restaurants to a wealth in the variety of shops in the city center. The most notable immigrant communities hail from Sweden, Denmark, Pakistan and India, among others. Oslovians are also well known for their love of outdoor activities, which is made easy given Oslo’s expansive forests, mountains, and ports. Generally considered a lively and friendly people, residents of Oslo enjoy life in the city.

Oslo Today

Oslo Today

Oslo’s geographic location at the head of an over one hundred kilometer-wide fjord makes it a naturally stunning city and opens up a number of activities that give the city its lively and culturally aware feel. With most sites easily accessible on foot, Oslo features world-class museums, lively night-life, and a huge range of outdoor activities for the adventurous. Although Oslo is one of Europe’s largest capitals by area, it is one of the continent’s least populated. This setup enables local residents to enjoy cycling, hiking, ice-skating, skiing, kayaking, sailing, and more all within the city limits or a short train ride away. But Oslovians do not settle for the wonders afforded them by one of Europe’s most heavily forested cities. The recent expansion of the city, fuelled largely by the discovery of oil reserves in the North Sea during the 1960s, has resulted in the development of a lively retail and leisure sector centered on increased traffic in the cities docks. Nowadays, Oslo is a thriving and vibrant city with a cosmopolitan feel and lively nightlife and café/bar culture. The influx of oil money has allowed the city to make increased investments in art and culture. Home to a wealth of cultural and musical festivals, especially during the summer months, Oslo is a must-see for anyone interested in Nordic culture. The city is also home to some of the greatest museums in Northern Europe, including the National Gallery, which houses Edvard Munch’s The Scream.

Oslo History

Oslo History

Oslo is the oldest of the Scandinavian capitals and was founded in 1049 by the Norwegian King Harald Hardrade. Arcahealogical findings have discovered human remains dating before 1000, leading the city to celebrate its millennium in 2000. The look of the city was shaped largely by its founders, which is evident by looking at some of its buildings, among them the imposing fortress Akershus Slott, which was built by Hakon V in the thirteenth century.

Useful information

Shopping

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Steen & Strøm

Steen & Strøm is located near Karl Johans Gate and is the largest and one of the oldest department stores in Norway. Many of its stores sell traditional Norwegian outdoor gear; others sell kitchenware that reflects traditional Norwegian art. The department store also features a number of famous brand names and a café on the top floor that gives you a great view of the city. Address: NEDRE SLOTTSGATE 8 Tel: +47 22-00-40-00

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Glasmagasinet

This old department store is a location where you can find souvenirs, kitchenware, china, and much more. The store is one of the most visited by locals is also a good location for more general, main-stream shopping. Address: Stortorvet 9, Oslo Tel: +47 22-42-53-05

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Paleet

This might be Oslo’s most exclusive shopping center and features multiple attractions within that will make a walk through the mall pleasant at worst. There are a number of fine restaurants within the center, in addition to numerous designer stores. The center is located right next to Karl Johans Gate, and is thus easily accessible. Address: 35 Karl Johans Gate Tel: +47 22-42-10-22

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House of Oslo

This shopping center opened fairly recently and focuses on interior design. The center features over twenty stores, each with their own theme and style. This upscale destination has become one of the finest interior design centers in Europe. Address: Ruselokkveien 26 Tel: +47 23-23-85-60

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Aker Brygge

Aker Brygge is a trendy seaside food court and shopping center with a bustling atmosphere. It includes shops and bars in addition to restaurants and is one of Oslo’s most popular attractions.

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Norway Designs

this store features an exhibition of Norwegian crafts and upscale merchandise, including jewelry, crystal, pewter, and more. The designs here are innovative and the store worth a trip. Location: Stortingsgaten 28 Tel: +47 23-11-45-10

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Oslo City Shopping Center

Oslo City Shopping Center is Oslo’s most visited shopping center and offers a wide range of stores to satisfy your shopping needs. The shopping center is located just across the street from the city’s central station. Location: Stenersgata 1 Tel: +47 22-17-65-46

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Byporten

Byporten This shopping center is easily accessible and is connected to Oslo’s Central Station. It is one of the city’s newest shopping centers and has traditional designer stores in addition to stores geared towards travelers. Address: Jernbanetorget 6 Tel: +47 23-36-21-60

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Heimen Husflid

Here you will find many traditional and modern Norwegian items and apparel in a variety of styles. Sweaters, folk costumes, and brass goods await in abundance. The store is conveniently located only a block from Karl Johans Gate.

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Vestkanttorget Flea Market

This market might be worth a shot if you are on a low budget. It is located near Vigeland Park and can provide entertainment for a few hours. Most of the items you will find here can be considered to be other people’s junk, but you never know what might pop up! Address: Waldemar Thrane street 46 Tel: +47 22-60-79-81 or +47 48-15-47-38

Signature sights in Oslo

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The Munch Museum

Edvard Munch is perhaps Norway’s most famous artist, and was a pioneer in the expressionist movement. The museum contains a large amount of Munch’s work, most of which were left by the artist for the city. The display is constantly changing, which brings life and dynamism to this museum. For those who wish to see Munch’s most famous work, The Scream, take note that this masterpiece is located in the National Gallery, and not within the Munch Museum itself.

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Oslo’s City Hall (Radhuset)

Oslo’s City Hall (Radhuset) was inaugurated in 1950. Its quality as a building has been hotly debated, but all have come together to watch the annual Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony, which takes place within its walls. Inside, one will find stunning murals and frescoes. The building has two red-brick towers, one of which hosts a carillon that plays every hour. Guided tours of the building take place during the week and on the weekends during June and July. Check for listings on arrival or call +47 23-46-12-00.

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The Oslo Cathedral

The Oslo Cathedral is located near KarlJohans gate in Stortorvet Square. This beautiful building has been rebuilt several times, and currently serves as the main church for the Oslo bishopric. The Royal Family uses the cathedral for large events, like funerals and weddings. The organ within is impressive, with the view of Oslo from the steeple even more grand. There are several bazaars in the pavilion surrounding the cathedral. Entrance is free.

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The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is located in the city center, right off of them main avenue at the end of KarlJohans gate. The palace is the home to the Norwegian monarch and has undergone extensive renovation since its completion in the first half of the 19th century. Tours are available for the general public during the summer and tickets can be bought in advance from local post offices or by calling +47 81 53 31 33. There is a line outside the palace for remaining seats, but it is recommended you buy yours in advance.

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The Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens are a large oasis in the middle of Oslo. The gardens collect plants from around the world and are said to have more than seven thousand plants inside. The gardens, with waterfalls and other soothing features, are also home to several near-extinct plant species native to the city.

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Inner West (St. Hanshaugen, Frogner)

Frogner Park is a large recreational area about ten minutes outside the city center by subway. The centerpiece of this park is Vigeland Park, a sculpture garden featuring over 200 pieces Gustav Vigeland, Norway’s most cherished sculptor. This is a great place to sit and relax, especially at night after other tourist destinations have closed. The easiest way to get to this destination is to catch Tram #15 from the city center.

Festivals and events in Oslo

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Disney on Ice

What better way to enjoy the cold weather than by watching Walt Disney’s beloved characters perform on ice? This is a great place to bring the kids for great family fun.

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Lillehammer WinterArts Festival

The Lillehammer Winter Arts Festival showcases the beauty of winter. Tourists and residents alike can gather together to view the natural icy wonders and frozen waterfalls in the Lillehammer area of Oslo.

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Norwegian Military Tattoo

A colourful event marked with gymnastic displays and marching brass bands at the Oslo Spektrum Arena. Global military bands, motorcyclists and gymnasts

Oslo tours and experiences

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Visit Oslo Pass

This pass is probably the easiest way to tour Oslo, and if used appropriately, can be one of the most inexpensive ways to visit Norway’s capital. The premise of the pass is that purchasing it will give you free access to virtually all of Oslo’s main attractions, free use of public transportation (including ferries on the fjord), free parking in certain areas, free entry to pools, free guided walking tours, and discounts at a range of other city functions and restaurants. The pass comes with a booklet outlining the entirety of the services you have purchased. The pass comes in 24, 48, or 72 hour intervals and is valid from the moment it is stamped. Don’t miss out on this convenient and relatively inexpensive way to explore Oslo!

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Full Day Grand Tour of Oslo

This seven and a half hour tour is one of Oslo’s most inclusive. For around 100 USD, you will get free admission to all the sites on the tour and a lunch cruise on the Oslo Fjord. Sites visited on the tour include the Norwegian Folk Museum and the Kon-Tiki Museum, as well as the Viking Ship Museum and Vigeland Sculpture Park. The tour is guided and comes in English but comes with multiple languages upon request (German, French and Spanish in particular), and children ride at a reduced fare.

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Oslo City Hop-on Hop-off Tour

This tour provides plenty of flexibility for any tourist in Oslo. The tour takes place on an open-top double-decker bus, which provides great views of the city and all of its major attractions. The bus drives around the city in a 90 minute cycle. The tour stops at twelve conveniently placed locations that will allow you to maximize the number of Oslo’s attractions you can see, and you can “hop-off” as many times as you like! The added bonus is that you can take advantage of this offer for two full days with an unlimited number of rides around the city. While this might not be Oslo’s most structured tour, the price (at well under 50 USD) makes it worth the ride.

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Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise

This two hour cruise is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. The tour takes you through Oslo’s fjord and into the gorgeous bays and breath-taking islands a bit farther from the coast. You will also get to view many of Oslo’s attractions that lie on the edge of the fjord, including the award-winning Oslo opera house. Drinks are available for sale on board. All together, this is a classic Norwegian experience!

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Oslo Experience Cruise and Tour

On this tour, you will have the opportunity to spend 40 minutes on the Oslo fjord by cruise in addition to visiting several of Oslo’s highlights by bus tour. After taking in Oslo’s most important and historically relevant area by boat, the buses on this tour will take you to the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Norwegian Folk Museum, the Viking Ship museum and Vigeland Sculpture park. You will also drive by many of the premier attractions near the fjord, including the Naval Museum and the Fortress Town of Fredrikstad. The price of this tour is slightly under 100 USD, which makes it a competitive option for those wishing to purchase a tour in Oslo.

Oslo masjids and Muslim travel

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Gronland Mosque

Location: Akerbergv 28 B, 0650 Oslo Tel: +47 22-68-27-08 Website: www.wim.no

Transportation

Buses

Buses

From 5am to 1am the bus and tram network around Oslo is in operation. Tickets purchased on trams and buses can be used interchangeably. Tram lines run every 10 minutes in the morning, and every 20 minutes at night. The main tram station is in Jernbanetorget, which is where the main bus and train lines can also be found. Buses cover weekend nights and none of the day passes are valid at this time. Travelling weekend nights are therefore an expensive affair, costing 50NOK per ticket or more.

Metro

Metro

The metro, in Norwegian is the Tunnelbane or just T-bane. Oslo has 6 main lines, one of which (Ringen) is the ring or loop line, which circles from northern Oslo to the centre and back. All stations except three on Ringen (Sinsen, Storo and Nydalen) have separate entrances and platforms for trains going east or west. Be sure to check the platform number to avoid unnecessary delays.

Taxi

Taxi

Taxis are mad expensive. Minimum charges of 80 NOK apply and at night times this can double to 160 NOK. Short trips can cost an outrageous 100 NOK so using other modes of transport (trains, buses) is a better choice. Taxis are usually spacious Volvo’s or Mercedes. To avoid being outrageously ripped off, use either Oslo Taxi or NorgesTaxi as these are the more reliable companies. Either way, however, prepare to be ripped off. All taxi companies have a starting fee (which can sometimes range from 0-160 NOK) and a fee per km. Rates vary by time of day. The lowest rate is the day rate, from 6:00am -6:00pm. The next is the evening and night rate from 6:00pm to 6:00am and the last is on Saturday’s after 18.00 till Monday 06.00, but different companies do have different time frames. All taxis accept Visa and MasterCard.

Car for Hire

Car for Hire

Hiring a car in Oslo is probably unnecessary since the city is fairly small and the public transportation system is excellent. Renting a car can also be very expensive, and gas prices in Oslo are notably higher than they are in North America and even many parts of Europe. Parking is also a nightmare in Oslo--meters expire after thirty to sixty minutes and the police impose large fines for illegal parking or overstaying your meter (starting at 500 NOK).

Bike for Hire

Bike for Hire

Another way to navigate Oslo is to rent a bicycle, which is very easy. The Oslo Citybike service (+47 22 02 34 88) leases bikes for three hour periods at multiple stations throughout the city. By checking in every three hours, you can functionally rent a bike for the entire day. To use the service, you must purchase an access card for 70 NOK (these can be found at the tourist office) and make a 500 NOK refundable deposit. Make sure to return or exchange your bike after three hours, or you will lose your deposit. Also, be sure to pick up a map of the bike racks in the city; bike racks are often full, so knowledge of alternative options is crucial.

From the Airport

From the Airport

There are three conventional ways to get from the Oslo airport to the city center. The high speed airport express train, Flytoget, is by far the easiest method and takes under twenty minutes to reach the city. Trains depart every ten minutes with a standard cost of 200 NOK that can be reduced based on mode of payment and age.

Driving Tips

Driving Tips

Driving in Oslo is fairly straightforward, although it is generally preferable to use the public transportation system. While traffic in Oslo is common (especially during rush hours from 0700-0900 and 1500-1800), the city tends to be less congested than most European cities. Navigating Oslo can be difficult for the first-time traveler because of the city’s complicated system of one-way streets.

Health and Safety

Health and Safety

Health and Safety

When traveling outside your home country, it is always advised to ensure that your travel insurance is up to date and includes medical insurance. Always carry a basic first aid kit including allergy medication, Ibuprofen such as Advil and other necessary supplies in case of an emergency.

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