Oslo
Oslo is the capital city of Norway and it is the country’s largest city. The city is the nation’s economic and political center and its history of nearly 1000 years makes the city an excellent place for student travelers to visit and explore. The city is closely linked to its natural surroundings as is evident by the fact that the city is bordered by expansive forests. The area is great for outdoor activities including both cross country and downhill skiing. The city also offers plenty for those looking for something less adventurous. Great nightlife, museums, architecture, and history all make Oslo a great place to spend time. With cheap student airfare available, there is no excuse not to go and explore this gem of a city.
- Pictures |
- Things to do |
- Nightlife |
- Dining |
- Shopping |
- Travel tips
Oslo Pictures
Things to do in Oslo
Oslo has something for everyone. The city contains many interesting museums that are well worth a visit. The Nobel Peace Centre is definitely worth a visit. The museum includes many exhibits from every winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Another fascinating museum is the Viking Ship Museum. This museum has 2 of the best preserved viking ships in the world as well as many other interesting Viking artifacts. The city also has many parks to enjoy. St. Hanshaugen is located on the highest hill in the city and offers great views of the city. In terms of activities, the city and surrounding areas have plenty to offer. The surrounding area is great for hiking in the summer and cross country skiing in the winter. Downhill skiing is also a popular activity in the winter. And be sure to take your time exploring the city by foot and experience all that the Oslo and its people have to offer.
Nightlife in Oslo
Although nightlife in Oslo can be pricey, the city has plenty of fine establishments to choose from. If you are looking for cheap beer and a chance to spend the night with locals, make sure to check out Choice Pub, a place not well known with tourists. Bla, is a great bar for the artsy/alternative crowd. Make sure to check their calendar as they frequently have local and international bands and DJ’s performing. Garage is known for their great rock music and very nice outdoor patio seating. For a more down to earth venue be sure to check out Oslo Ocean Bar. The staff is great, the beer is cheap, and the surroundings and clientele is inviting.
Dining in Oslo
If you are dining on a budget (who isn’t?!) a great area to check out is along Torggata and the surrounding streets. This area is particularly popular for Vietnamese, and Chinese restaurants but there are also other great establishments worthy of your time. Saigon Lille Cafe offers great Vietnamese dishes at a very reasonable price. If you are looking for pizza check out Bali, the best pizza in the area. If you are looking to experience true Norwegian food on a budget try Dovrehallen. They have classic meat and potato dishes that are relatively cheap. If you are looking to spend a bit more on dining, Oslo has a wide variety of upscale dining options.Theater caféen, is located inside Hotel Continental and it offers great food, live music, and plenty of exclusive wines. Another place worth checking out is Palace Grill. This gourmet restaurant has an ever changing menu based on the available ingredients and the chef’s mood. Although pricey, a visit is quite an experience.
Shopping in Oslo
In 2006, Oslo was ranked the 6th most expensive city in the world but don’t let that stop you from finding bargains. The city has plenty of shopping to offer, even for a student traveler on a budget. Oslo City is a large shopping center across the street from Central Station. The mall is orientented towards younger crowds such as college students. Glasmagasinet is a department store that dates back to the 18th century and is full of souvenirs, crystal, china, fashion, kitchenware, interior design and much more. The Frelsesarmeen (Salvation Army) is also a great place to find quality goods at a super cheap price, if you really want to stretch your budget.
Oslo travel tips
- Oslo has an excellent public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, trains, the metro (T-bane), and boats.
- Make sure to explore outside of the city. The surrounding area consists of spectacular natural beauty and great activities.
- Drink the tap water!! The water is among the cleanest in the world and drinking from the tap will help you save kroners that can be enjoyed elsewhere.
