Oslo

Oslo: Scandinavia's Cool Capital – Your Budget-Friendly Fjord Adventure!

Discover Viking History, Cutting-Edge Architecture & Lush Nature

Prepare to be captivated by Oslo, Norway's vibrant and innovative capital! Nestled at the head of a stunning fjord, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, Oslo seamlessly blends sleek modern design with rich Viking heritage and a profound connection to nature. While Scandinavia often carries a reputation for being expensive, "Holiday Budgets" travellers will be thrilled to discover that Oslo offers an incredibly diverse and accessible experience, proving that a sophisticated Nordic adventure doesn't have to break the bank.


Imagine walking on the roof of an opera house, exploring a park filled with incredible sculptures, or taking a ferry to a tranquil island in the fjord – all in one incredible trip! Oslo is a city that delights all your senses, offering a kaleidoscope of artistic treasures, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights that will leave you utterly refreshed. Whether you're a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, a design admirer, or simply someone looking for an affordable yet enriching European city break, Oslo promises an engaging adventure that proves its unique blend of urban cool and natural beauty is within everyone's reach.

Latest Offers - Hurry Up limited availability

Getting There from the UK

Getting to Oslo from the UK is very straightforward, with numerous direct flights available:


  • Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL): This is the main international airport, served by Norwegian, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), British Airways, Ryanair, and others from major UK airports like London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), London Stansted (STN), Manchester (MAN), Edinburgh (EDI), and more.
  • Oslo Torp Airport (TRF): A smaller airport, primarily used by low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air. It's located further south of Oslo (about 1.5-2 hours by bus/train), so factor in transfer time and cost when comparing flight prices.
  • Flight Duration: Direct flights typically take around 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes.

Visa Information for UK Travellers

Good news for British passport holders! You generally do not need a visa to enter Norway (and therefore Oslo) for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.


  • Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry and have been issued within the last 10 years. It should also have at least two blank pages for stamps.
  • Schengen Area: Norway is part of the Schengen Area. This means the 90-day limit applies to your total stay across all Schengen countries.
  • EES/ETIAS (Future): From around mid-2025, UK citizens will need to register for EES (Entry/Exit System) upon entry to the Schengen Area, and then apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travel. This is not a visa but a pre-travel authorisation. Keep an eye on FCDO advice for precise implementation dates.

Currency Information

The official currency of Oslo, and Norway, is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). It is subdivided into 100 øre (though øre coins are rarely used now).


  • Denominations: Banknotes come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 Kroner. Coins are 1, 5, 10, and 20 Kroner.
  • Card vs. Cash: Norway is a highly cashless society. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are universally accepted, even for small purchases. You might go your entire trip without needing cash. However, having a small amount of cash can be useful for very minor purchases or emergencies.
  • ATMs: ATMs (Minibank) are widely available throughout the city.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included, but it's customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants and cafes.

Language Lowdown: Hallo, Oslo!

The official language of Oslo is Norwegian. However, you'll be delighted to know that English is incredibly widely spoken and understood throughout Oslo, especially by younger generations and in all tourist-facing establishments (hotels, restaurants, shops, museums). Norwegians are generally highly proficient in English. Nevertheless, learning a few basic Norwegian phrases is a polite gesture and will be genuinely appreciated by locals.

Here are a few useful phrases to charm the Oslo locals:


  • Hello: Hallo (hah-loh) / Hei (hey)
  • Thank you: Takk (tahk)
  • Please: Vær så snill (vair soh snill)
  • Yes: Ja (yah)
  • No: Nei (nye)
  • Excuse me/Sorry: Unnskyld (oon-sheel)

Oslo's Outstanding Outings: Must-See & Must-Do!

Get ready for striking art, stunning nature, and unique architecture!

Vigeland Sculpture Park (Frogner Park): A Human Epic in Bronze!

01

One of Oslo's absolute must-sees, and it's completely free! This vast sculpture park within Frogner Park showcases over 200 bronze and granite works by Gustav Vigeland, depicting the human life cycle. It's a powerful and thought-provoking collection, perfect for a long, reflective stroll. Go in the late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.

02

Oslo Opera House & Harbour Promenade: Architectural Gem with a View!

Walk on water... or rather, walk on the roof of the Oslo Opera House! This striking, modern building slopes directly into the fjord, allowing visitors to walk all the way onto its roof for fantastic panoramic views of the city, the harbour, and the surrounding islands. Entry to the building and walking on the roof is free! Afterwards, stroll along the developing Harbour Promenade, passing by the new Munch Museum and the stunning Deichman Bjørvika (main library), both architectural marvels.

03

Akershus Fortress: History by the Fjord!

Explore the grounds of Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and royal residence that dates back to the late 13th century. Perched overlooking the Oslofjord, its grounds are free to explore and offer fantastic views. Wander through its ancient courtyards, enjoy a picnic, and soak in centuries of Norwegian history. (Some museums within the fortress require entry fees).

04

Ferry to the Fjord Islands & Bygdøy Peninsula: Island Hopping & Viking Lore!

Hop on a local ferry (included in your public transport ticket!) from Aker Brygge to explore the charming islands of the Oslofjord, like Hovedøya or Gressholmen, perfect for a picnic and a swim (if you're brave enough for the cold water!). Alternatively, take a short ferry (also included) to the Bygdøy Peninsula, home to several excellent (though paid) museums like the Fram Museum (polar exploration), Kon-Tiki Museum (Thor Heyerdahl's expeditions), and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (open-air museum). The peninsula itself is beautiful for walking and cycling.

Oslo: Your Cool Nordic Adventure, On a Budget!

Oslo is a city that truly surprises and delights, offering a captivating blend of cutting-edge design, deep historical roots, and an incredible connection to nature. For the "Holiday Budgets" traveller, Oslo is a fantastic revelation, proving that an enriching and unforgettable Nordic adventure is not only possible but wonderfully affordable. From its iconic opera house to its serene fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Oslo promises a journey of discovery and unforgettable moments.


So, pack your layers, your reusable water bottle, and your "Holiday Budgets" savvy – Oslo is waiting to reveal its unique charm to you. Get ready to fall in love with its innovative spirit, its stunning landscapes, and its countless captivating moments. Your Norwegian adventure, perfectly tailored for your budget, awaits!