What makes Oslo so special? Despite being the birthplace of the Nobel Peace Prize or home to some of the world’s most famous museums, Oslo is one of Europe’s most scenic countries. In fact, thanks to the millions of travelers who book flights to Oslo every year, new scenic tours have been established to make sure visitors get to explore every inch of this country. Where else in the world will you find a subway system that runs to the forest, or hiking trails within city limits? Norwegians are proud of their capital city, and they want visitors to be, also.
Among the beauty of Oslo lies a rich history. During the 19th century, Norway and Sweden were governed as one kingdom under Karl Johan. In 1905, Norway separated from Sweden and today, Oslo serves as Norway’s political, economic and cultural capital. Flights to Oslo are packed with government ambassadors, students, scientists, entrepreneurs, and peace-seeking patriarchs. Even Norway’s royal family lives in Oslo. Thanks to the economic windfall it experienced from oil exports, the city’s night scene is bustling crowded cafes, fancy restaurants, packed pubs and sold-out theater shows.
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Oslo has perfect weather for winter sports, cold with lots of snow. Winter days are dark and dusky though, and daytime temperatures are in the teens and 20s (F). Summers are mild with long sunny days. Oslo is far enough south to not have 24 hours of sun in summer, but the nights never get completely dark. Summertime temperatures range from the 50s to low 70s. August is the wettest month and April and May the driest.
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Peak Season:
June, July, and August are peak season in Oslo. The weather is mild and the sun seemingly endless. The attractions have longer opening hours and public transportation runs on more frequent schedules. Oslo flights are packed and hotels book up quickly so plan your Oslo trip in advance if traveling during the summer months.
On May 17 the country celebrates Syttende Mai, Constitution Day, and Norwegians dressed in national costumes crowd the streets.
Off Season:
The darkness in winter produces spectacular displays of the Northern Lights. There are few visitors this time of year, and many attractions are closed, but cheap flights to Oslo can be found. There is still lots of skiing in March and April and the days are not as dark.
Many Norwegians head for the mountains during Easter week, which makes accommodations hard to come by and the cities are nearly closed down.
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An airport bus travels between the Oslo Bus Terminal in downtown and the airport, with night services connecting to every arrival. There is also an Airport Express train and a variety of taxis that go to the city center.
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A compact city, Oslo lends itself well to walking, and it is a pleasurable way to take in the sights. When you are ready for a ride, there is an extensive public transportation system, complete with trams, buses, and a subway. All public transportation runs from 5.30am to midnight, with tickets available from bus drivers or vending machines at stations. Ferries operate on the fjord between April and September.
Discounted passes include the Tourist Ticket, which provides unlimited use over a 24-hour period, and the Oslo Card, which provides unlimited travel and reduced admissions to certain attractions over a three-day period.
Metered taxis are plentiful and can be hailed, called, or picked up at stands typically near shopping centers, city squares, and stations. However, taxis are expensive. During rush hour and in the early hours of the morning, you may need to wait quite a while for a taxi. Registered taxis have their roof lights on when they are available.
The public transportation is so efficient and far-reaching, even to remote areas of the city, that driving is unnecessary. With Oslo’s limited parking, not needing a car is good news.
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- The open-air Norwegian Museum of Cultural History features 155 authentic buildings from different national regions. In 2004, Bygdo Royal Farm merged with the museum and the farmyard, fields and grazing lands are now part of the museum grounds. Indoor exhibits feature Norwegian folk art and dress, Norway’s First Parliament Hall and ... antique toys. The Christmas Fair is Oslo's largest pre-Christmas event. Houses are traditionally decorated and there are more than a hundred stalls selling arts and crafts, foods and seasonal treats.
- Karl Johans gate is the main pedestrian street, which connects the railway station with the Royal Palace. It’s a buzzy street with shops, cafes and lively performance artists.
- The Oslo Domkirke, the city cathedral, dates from 1697 and boasts elaborate stained-glass windows. Concerts and exhibitions are held there and the square is a nice place to rest.
- Aker Brygge was originally a dockyard and an industrial site - operated by Aker Mekaniske Verksted AS. It was rebuilt in the 1980s and now the area boasts offices, shops and restaurants, apartments and marina. Aker Brygge attracts more than six million visitors each year.
- Museums, museums, museums. Oslo seems to have one to suit every interest. These include the Football Museum, Ibsen Museum, Munch Museum, Norwegian Scout Museum, Oslo Fire Museum and Norway's Resistance Museum.
- The Nobel Peace Center, opened in Rådhusplassen in 2005, is where you can learn - through exhibits, films lectures, and interactive installations - about the various Peace Prize Laureates and their activities as well as the history of Alfred Nobel.
- The Vigeland Sculpture Park has a fascinating history with 192 sculptures and more than 600 figures - all full size and modelled - by Gustav Vigeland, the 19th century sculptor. Vigeland also designed the setting and the layout of the grounds.
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