Tucked between the shores of the Oslofjord and hills topped with leafy forests, Oslo is brimming with museums and galleries — and there’s adventure aplenty for lovers of the great outdoors, too. Accommodation options are broad, with everything from simple B&Bs to striking design hotels, fit for a whole range of budgets. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate boutique hideaway with a spa or a stylish city pad in the heart of the action, our pick of the best places to stay in Oslo offers something for everyone.

Famed for its colourful cosmopolitan vibe and sustainable focus, Oslo boasts striking architecture, world-class eateries, chic boutiques and lots of green spaces for soaking up the sunshine. The city centre is small enough to discover on foot or by bicycle, whether you’re catching a show at the Opera House, visiting the Nobel Peace Centre or marvelling at Edvard Munch’s The Scream at The Nasjonalgalleriet.

The forested hills, picturesque lakes and expansive rivers of Oslomarka Forest are just 15 minutes from the city centre by public transport, perfect for hikers, kayakers or eager cyclists. Depending on when you choose to visit, there’s sailing, cross-country skiing and base jumping within easy reach of town, ideal for those looking to fuse a love of nature with a lively cultural scene and buzzing nightlife.

Kickstart your day at one of the city’s superb galleries, venture to the woods for a scenic hike, and catch a late-night gig after a delicious dinner, before retreating to an Art Deco oasis or a romantic wooden villa. Quirky and cool Norwegian design takes centre stage at many of the best places to stay in Oslo — as does a burgeoning culture of locally sourced produce, cooked in inventive, mouth-watering ways. Come for the culture, stay for the food, and soak up the natural wonders which make Oslo so special.

Best places to stay in Oslo

For a City Break

• Grims Grenka is right in the heart of the city. Interiors are stylish and modern, with generous loft rooms and a lively rooftop bar. A perfect base for city explorations.
• Hotel Gabelshus offers simple but smart rooms tucked behind an ivy-clad facade in a residential neighbourhood just ten minutes from the Royal Palace by tram. Especially well-placed for keen shoppers eager to stroll the Aker Brygge markets.
• Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz boasts colourful, well-appointed rooms just moments from museums and many of the main sights. Pick this spot for a central location, an excellent gym, in-room Bose sound systems and a lovely guest lounge ideal for relaxing.
• Saga Hotel is a charming central hotel in a 19th-century building with its own cosy restaurant. Expect chic design featuring sleek modern pieces with bold furnishings. Trendy boutiques and eateries are just a short walk away. Great for stylish couples on a city break!

For a design hotel

• The Thief is named for its special location: on Thief Island, 15 minutes from the centre of Oslo. This is a design hotel at its best, with original art by Warhol, Anthony Gormley and Julian Opie, dramatic public spaces and waterfront views. A haven for art lovers.

For boutique chic

• Oslo Guldsmeden Hotel is a wonderfully cosy boutique hotel set close to the lively harbour. Stylish rooms feature four-poster beds topped with warm furs, and the small Turkish-inspired spa is a dreamy place to unwind. Pick this place for a warm, romantic small-hotel vibe.
• Amerikalinjen is a seriously cool spot with eclectic interiors showcasing quirky Norwegian designers, tucked away in the former Norwegian America Line’s headquarters. Highlights include onsite eateries and the intimate Gustav jazz club. A chic boutique stay.

For classical grandeur

• The Grand Hotel is a striking historic residence which has welcomed guests from all over the world since 1874. The hotel features exquisitely decorated suites and luxurious public spaces behind an imposing facade on Oslo’s grandest street. A real treat!
• Hotel Continental offers a chic fusion of contemporary furnishings and classical design in a grand traditional building. Drink and dine in four bars and restaurants, before unwinding in the luxury of your elegant suite.
• Christiania Teater is a sumptuously decorated hotel housed in a gorgeous old theatre right in the city centre. Think bold velvet fabrics, eclectic Art Deco shapes and a cool, atmospheric vibe. The hip, dramatically-lit bar is the spot for a nightcap.

For foodies

• Lysebu Hotel boasts chic, pared-back rooms with beautiful views of the Norwegian countryside. Stroll the expansive grounds, take a dip in the indoor pool and unwind with superb spa facilities. The real highlights, however, are the gourmet food — made from scratch using local ingredients — and the world-class wine cellar & tasting events.
• Camilla Hus is an intimate hotel with 7 beautifully-appointed rooms brimming with original period features and soothing elegance aplenty. The fabulous classic restaurant, Park 29, is located in Oslo’s oldest wooden-built villa — from 1847. Delicious dishes are inspired by French and Italian cuisine.

For An Apartment Or Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Oslo?

• International visitors can fly into Oslo Airport, 35km northeast of the city centre. Regular express trains, buses and taxis make travel from the airport to the city centre swift and easy.
• Contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• The Oslo tourist season is at its peak in June and July, when the city experiences almost 24 hours of sunlight per day. Plan your trip for May or September to avoid the crowds and make the most of travel offers — though temperatures will be noticeably cooler! This is a hugely popular destination so do book well in advance to avoid missing out.

Still not sure?

• Browse our list of all the best places to stay in Bergen.
• Alternatively, check out our pick of the best places to stay in Norway.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Oslo