Oslo City Break Guide
If you’re looking to go on holiday this year and not sure where to go, why not consider Oslo? The third largest city in Scandinavia, Oslo is one of the largest capitals in the world, with much of the metropolitan area covered by forest. Oslo, has all the modern conveniences, but it’s still a city in touch with nature. There has been a settlement here for over a thousand years since it was founded by King Harald Hardåde in 1048 and it became the capital of Norway in 1300. It’s almost amphitheatre-like in design, with the city centre close to the Oslo fjord and all the districts, both commercial and residential, reaching out from the centre in all directions. It may be a long way north, but the climate in Oslo is reasonably temperate. Warm air from the Gulf Stream allows the summers to be mild and pleasant with long, frequently hot sunny days. In the winter, temperatures generally hover above freezing and with snow generally in plentiful supply, it is a perfect venue for winter sports.
The Norwegians like to think of their largest city as the world’s winter capital and it’s not difficult to see why. For example, the Oslo Winter Park is only 30 minutes from the city centre and is a haven of activities for all ages.
Ski-ing and Skating
There’s alpine skiing, snowboarding and telemark skiing with special facilities for novices and children, although many of the local youngsters look like they’ve been on the slopes all their lives. If snow is ever, literally, thin on the ground, a powerful snow cannon ensures snow throughout the winter and spring.
The Spikersuppa skating rink is in the heart of the city centre, much as skating is in the heart of its people. It’s free to use although there is a rental charge for the use of skates. Stalls sell coffee, popcorn, hot dogs and other refreshments and it’s also a spot where Oslo people meet and socialise.
Viking Long Boats
If keeping your feet steady on the ground is more for you, shopping in Oslo is a positive delight. There are independent boutiques selling articles from the genteel to the plain outrageous and the charming antique shops bring Viking history to your fingertips. Oslo is an all year round tourist experience. There are over 50 museums in the city, which embrace all aspects of Nordic life, culture art and literature, but for a real sense of history, the Viking Ships Museum is a must. Where else would you get a chance to see three elegantly preserved large Viking ships along with textiles, jewellery and weapons so intrinsic to Viking life? It will not disappoint and you’ll leave enriched by the experience.
No summer visit would be complete without a visit to the Vigeland Sculpture Park so named after its creator Gustav Vigeland. Let your mind wander as you encounter over 200 bronze, granite and cast iron sculptures and enjoy these artistic creations as they touch your soul.
Island Hopping
For some of us a holiday isn’t a holiday without a spot of island hopping, so head for the ferry and the Oslofjord will do the rest. The great thing about this city is that the tourist activities are all popular with the local people themselves. Enjoy the ferry journey on the blue, calm stillness that is the fjord and then relax with a book or a picnic on an island just minutes from the city centre. There’s a really good service between the six different islands, each with its own history, character and charm.
The Botanical Garden is, in a word, beautiful. Its Palm House features exotic plants from around the world and the Scent Garden provides a stunning array of different aromas to both stimulate and inspire. The Arboretum and main garden offer a retreat from the stresses of city life as well as a range of over 1800 flowers, trees and shrubs.
City Life at Aker Brygge Wharf
Throughout the summer months, the Aker Brygge Wharf is teeming with people both day and night. The site of an old shipyard, it’s now home to a shopping mall, apartments, bars and restaurants, as well as the sea-front boardwalk. Take in a film here or visit the theatre, or just watch the sun go down on one of Europe’s finest capitals.
A good way to experience all the city has to offer is by purchasing the Oslo Pass. Get one for 24, 48 or 72 hours and you’ll get free entry to over 30 attractions, free public transport, free walking tours and much more, as well as discounted rates in shops, restaurants and other venues. The Oslo people are proud of their city and want you to see why the Norwegian capital is a popular destination for city breaks.