Oslo is at the end of a long fjord, with lots of islands of varying sizes. In fact, many Oslo locals have their summer cabins on these islands so that they can easily escape to their summer retreat. The public transport company in Oslo, “Ruter”, runs regular summer services to these islands in addition to their regular commuter routes which run all year round.
The boats go from the pier at Aker Brygge, close to the town hall, and operate on the same ticket system as the bus and tram so it’s very handy to buy them through the app (your period ticket is also valid if you bought one of those). The closest island is Hovedøya (main island) which is not inhabited but perfect for a walk and a bite to eat in the café. In the summer I like swimming from the beaches on the western side.
During winter you really get a feel for how exposed to the elements Oslo is and how cold and grey the sea can be.
Being on the water gives you a very different view of the city and the local commuter boats give you the experience on the cheap!
Find your way with 115 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Løkka Deli" in Oslo offers the best option for a traditional Norwegian matpakke. The menu is very concentrated but every sandwich is just delicious...
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"Grefsenkollen" offers my number one view in Oslo. There are several amazing 'secret' spots where locals gather throughout the year. Also, the restaurant!
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"Fyrhuset Kuba" fulfills my mission to find cheap beer in Oslo. This small bar adjacent to the Vulkan area along Akerselva offer a laid-back and chill concept.
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The heart of the island, restaurant Gressholmen Kro, is only a 5 minutes’ walk from the dock and impossible to miss. An obligatory ferry trip from the center of Oslo!
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"Solemskogen" is a great entry point to the Oslo forest Lillomarka. Come here and discover why locals put on skis and venture out into the dark forest...
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"Gimle Kino" is originally from 1939 and one of my favorite movie theaters in Oslo. Perfect for discovering a new, unknown director on a Sunday afternoon.
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"Sørenga Sea Bath" has become a massive favorite for the Oslo crowd, especially in summer, but I prefer coming here in winter, early on a weekend...
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"Breddos Tacos" in Oslo is an exceptional example of how we love tacos here and how they've become a tradition. Here they make it perfect, Mexican-style...
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At "Grünerløkka Ballpark" you get the closest thing you can get to a streetball vibe in Oslo. It's also nice to hang out there, especially in spring...
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Situated between Tøyen and Sofienberg, just a 2-minute walk from Tøyen metro station, one can find the most magical park in Oslo: "The Botanical Garden"...
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"Territoriet" in Oslo is a small and intimate wine bar that makes me feel like I'm sitting in my own living room - just with one of 400 different wines!
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115 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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