Oslo is tucked in between the hills and the sea and during the summer the locals gravitate down towards the water, where they can sunbathe, eat, drink and generally be beautiful. But that's not to say the waterfront isn't accessible in the winter, in fact the low sunlight and cold days add an extra dimension.
If you want to experience the whole span of seaside life in Oslo then the recently opened Oslo Promenade is a winner. It’s a 9km marked path and covers the center of town, from the rich suburbs of Frogner to the formerly industrial docks on the east. There are 14 posts in all, bright orange industrial containers with information on the area and some old photos. I recommend starting west by Frognerkilen and working your way towards downtown where you can stop for some food or a beer before continuing out past the Opera to Vippetangen and Sørenga. The eastern tip takes you a bit into no-man's land (and up a hill) so most of the time I stop at Sørenga.
This is a great walk in winter but it can be bitterly cold (and windy) by the water so wrap up warm and be sure to stop for a hot chocolate along the way.
Combining exercise with being sightseeing – now you are really a local!
Find your way with 115 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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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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"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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