As you step onto the ferry from Aker Brygge close to the Town Hall, you will quickly feel the nice summer breeze and smell of fresh saltwater. A perfect short little getaway from the noisy and touristy places downtown brings you to a hand full of islands in the skerries of Oslo. During the spring and summer seasons, the schedules of the ferries are quite frequent, docking at several islands. Either you enjoy long and bright pre-summer evenings in May and June or you are visiting during the warmer summer months of July and August, I recommend a stop at Gressholmen.
Here you can explore the lush island, with a nature reserve, several great places to go swimming, sunbathe, and relax on characteristic rock-based beach spots. The heart of the island, restaurant Gressholmen Kro, is only a 5 minutes’ walk from the dock and impossible to miss. It is a perfect place to just sit and relax, drink a cold beer or enjoy some fresh seafood. The restaurant has a simple but complete menu that you can enjoy with the feeling of being accompanied by locals and foreigners that wants to get away from the crowded public Oslo beaches while observing the city from a perfect distance. Memories of a great, bright evening fill you with inspiration as you take in the views of the city harbor line in the ferry on the way back.
During the winter season, the restaurant is closed, but Gressholmen is still worth a visit.
Find your way with 115 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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"...
by
"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!
by
"Klimahuset" is the newest addition to my favorite place in Oslo, the botanical garden. It's an innovative building & a knowledge center for climate change
by
"Mathallen" is Oslo's indoor food market. With close to 30 cafes, eateries and specialty shops under its roof, It hides a lot of treasures for food lovers!
by
"Skyspace" in Ekebergparken, in Oslo, is one of the most unique art experiences I have ever had! Amazing how light & space can play tricks with the mind!
by
These tiny reading sanctuaries are open 24/7 to anyone passionate about books. All the books are cost-free, and usually in good condition.
by
"Nordic Black Theater" goes to show how Oslo is a very multicultural city: this theater and cultural venue specializes in artists from the Global South...
by
"Ullevål Hageby" in Oslo was inspired by the English concept of the Garden City. Originally meant for the working class, today it makes for a cozy walk!
by
"Melahuset" is one of the flagships of Oslo's live music scene and home of the famous Melafestivalen...
by
For over a decade, this Colombian family has been importing long-stemmed roses and coffee beans from Bogotá to Oslo, ensuring optimal quality & freshness.
by
Immerse yourself in the French chocolate craftsmanship, where each bite tells a tale of creativity, and a commitment to redefining the chocolate landscape.
by
"Bogstadgård" is an impressive, historic manor from the 18th c. It combines what I like about Oslo: beautiful architecture, surrounded by forests.
by
115 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 115 Insider Tips