Norway is known for its beautiful fjord towns, and the capital Oslo is no exception. Right in the heart of Oslofjorden you will find the city, which is becoming more and more rich and crowded every year. The former industrial city has evolved into a cultural city with a buzzing city life, many museums and a strikingly beautiful opera house.
Everything at your fingertips
Although Oslo is growing rapidly, most of the city’s sights are still within walking and cycling distance. You can also always hop on one of the city’s many buses, trams, subways or boats to get to your destination.
Oslo’s main road, Akerselva, divides the city between east and west. From the city centre you can follow the river all the way up to Frysja, where you will find the Technical Museum and a popular freshwater sculpture where you can cool down on hot days. There are also several old factories along the river, which now house cosy cafes, restaurants and bars.
Along the fjord
Over the last few decades, Oslo has become more open to the fjord, where newer architecture has been added. Now you can walk along the waterfront from the modern museum Astrup Fearnley on the west side of the city, follow the bustling quayside of Aker jetty past the glowing new National Museum, until you reach the Opera and Munch Museum on the other side of the city.
On the way, you can take a breath in the shore and take a dip at the berth’s hiptest sauna, Salt, or walk by Akershus Fortress, where you have been able to look out over the fjord since the 1200s.
Diverse districts
Oslo consists of 15 districts, each with its own distinctive expression and offering something for every taste. On the eastern edge of the Grünerløkka district, you’ll find small market stalls, unique shops and a close proximity to bars and restaurants, while on the prestigious Frogner you can walk along wide alleys, prosperous European buildings and visit exclusive design and delicatessen shops.
Between the neighbourhoods are lush parks where the city’s inhabitants gather on sunny days, if they haven't found their way to one of the popular beaches just outside the city centre.
Be inspired by Oslo residents
Oslo residents know how to use the city for what it is worth. In the summer, you can find them in piles on the beaches of Bygdøy, or by the urban city beach of Sørenga. If they want a break from busy life, they are happy to take a ferry from Aker Pier and spend a sunny day on one of the islands in the fjord.
They love the city, but also nature. Oslo residents are more than happy to go on hikes, usually at the weekend, as “Sunday hike” is a separate term. Outside the city centre, you will find kilometres of hiking trails, and several of them lead to a viewpoint where you can enjoy great views of the city.
Hotels in Oslo
Thon Hotels has 15 hotels in Oslo, and we’re sure you’ll find a hotel that’s right for you.
If you want a high standard in traditional surroundings, you should choose Hotel Bristol. The hotel is over 100 years old and has always been known as one of the best hotels in the city.
If you want a more urban hotel with the same central location, check out Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz and Thon Hotel Terminus.
If you are looking for immediate proximity to cultural experiences, you can go to Thon Hotel Opera or Thon Hotel Cecil.
If you want to stay close to the castle and the west edge of Oslo, you should consider Thon Hotel Slottsparken and Thon Hotel Europa.
If centrality and accessibility are the most important thing, Thon Hotel Spectrum may be right for you. You can't get more centrally.
If you’re looking for an affordable, urban and central hotel, check out Thon Hotel Astoria.
If you want to shop, most hotels are right for you, but Thon Hotel Gyldenløve is located in the middle of the city’s longest shopping street, Bogstadveien.
If you want to stay at Aker Brygge, you should check in at Thon Hotel Vika Atrium.
If you want to stay a bit outside the city centre, but within a short distance of transport, check out Thon Hotel Storo, Thon Hotel Linne or Thon Hotel Ullevål Stadion.