Oslo is on my top five destinations to consider embarking on the next stage of my journey. As a child, I was not fond of Oslo--I found it hard to see the charm of the Norwegian culture in the hustle and bustle of the city. As I have gotten older, my perspective has shifted and I love the accessibility that the city allows from a transportation perspective (the airport has become a great hub for travel) in addition to the balance I can find in seeking out the charm of Norwegian culture with international opportunities. Hoping that you will find these tips and ideas useful to inform your journey to one of my favorites cities, Oslo. They will continue to evolve but if you have questions, reach out.
Here are some of my favorite spots and transportation tools for trips to Oslo (in no particular order):
Operahuset- Norwegian Opera House: https://operaen.no/en/ (I appreciate the design and view of the city)
Mesh- The Nordic Creators' Community (co-working space): http://www.meshnorway.com/ (I love to grab coffee/tea here and work on my laptop or meet other people)
Ruter.no (travel routes for tram, train, etc...): https://ruter.no/en/ (I use Google Maps to get around but if I need to double check, I use Ruter.no).
Google Maps (app): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.maps (I use the Google Maps app to plan my trips when I travel and have not had many issues).
Google Translate (app): https://translate.google.com/ (I download the Norwegian language dictionary to use offline when I am traveling).
Holmenkollen- Norwegian Jump Tower and Museum: https://www.skiforeningen.no/en/holmenkollen/ (I have memories of visiting Holmenkollen with my mom and brother and also from my Fulbright experience)
Astrup Fearnley Museet (Museum): http://www.afmuseet.no/ (I enjoy the location of this museum, the collections, and the view of Aker Brygge).
Det Norske Kongehus (The Royal Palace): http://www.royalcourt.no/seksjon.html?tid=80428&sek=80422 (This is a great place to visit any time of the year but tours are only in the summer. I also recommend visiting the Queen Sonja Art Stable).
Gardemoen (Airport Oslo): https://avinor.no/en/airport/oslo-airport/ (This is the airport I mainly fly in and out of.)
Norwegian (Airline): https://www.norwegian.com/ (I find Norwegian good for flights in Norway and Europe. I also find options from JFK but have had a few issues.)
SAS (Airline): https://www.flysas.com/ (I find flights through SAS that work internationally and also within Norway).
Wideroe (Airline): https://www.wideroe.no/en (I use Wideroe for flights within Norway).
Sixt (Car Rental): https://www.sixt.no/ (I still can't drive stick so Sixt is one of my focal points when I travel).
Radisson Blu Hotel (Airport Hotel): https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-osloairport (This is an airport hotel I use if I have an early flight).
Flytoget Airport Express (Train from Airport): https://flytoget.no/no/ (This is a great service and quick service from the airport to downtown).
Flybussen (Buses): https://www.nor-way.no/en-US/routes/our-routes/flybussen (I sometimes use this from the airport to downtown).
Schwab Bank (Bank account): https://www.schwab.com/public/schwab/banking_lending/checking_account/ (I use Schwab Bank when I travel--I find the ease of using a debit card with a pin, the ability to take-out money without a service fee, and the overall customer service to be great. I try not to use cash in Norway (they are typically a card society now).
Vigelandsparken- The Vigeland Park (sculpture garden): http://www.vigeland.museum.no/ (I visit The Angry Boy (Sinnataggen in Norwegian), The Monolith (Monolitten) and The Wheel of Life (Livshjulet).
OM- Oslo Museum (collection of museums): http://www.oslomuseum.no/oslo-museum/english/ (I enjoy the Bymuseet).
Moxie OsloX (hotel): http://www.moxyoslox.com/ (I stay at this hotel if I am flying out of Oslo and have a car as I appreciate the decorations, simplicity, and culture).
Oslomekaniskeverksted (cafe/bar): https://www.oslomekaniskeverksted.no/ (I feel like time stops when I get to hang out here with friends).
Aker Brygge (shopping, dining, and culture on the water): https://www.akerbrygge.no/english/ (This is one of my favorite places to walk and take photos and meet people for food and beverage).
Munchmuseet- Munch Musuem: http://munchmuseet.no/en/. (I believe this is moving locations but am looking forward to more of Munch's work to be displayed. Seeing Scream is one of the highlights (if it is on display).
Yr.no (weather website): https://www.yr.no/ (This is the best weather website for use in Norway).
https://www.visitoslo.com has great ideas for your next visit. On my list for my next visit:
Mathallen Oslo (food hall): https://mathallenoslo.no/en
The Thief (hotel): https://thethief.com
Stovnertårnet- The Stovner Tower: https://www.visitoslo.com/en/product/?TLp=1259204&Stovnertarnet-apner-i-dag
Blå (bar, entertainment): http://www.blaaoslo.no/
Rope in one trip on a scenic route before getting to Oslo or flying out of Oslo: https://www.nasjonaleturistveger.no/en/routes.