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!
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Take your culinary exploration a step further with gourmet items like Russian caviar, truffle-infused products, French pâté, snails, or Japanese tea.
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What sets Lakrids by Bülow apart from traditional licorice is the innovative range of flavors that have captured the hearts of connoisseurs worldwide.
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"Too Good to Go" is an app in Oslo where you can go pick up unsold produce in a surprise bag from bakeries, juiceries, cheese shops and more!
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"Way Down South" in Oslo is a south-state barbeque restaurant at one of the best locations in the city. The food is great, but I come here for the vibe...
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"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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"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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"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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"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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115 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 115 Insider Tips from our local Spotters