Oslo
Norway
Backpacking Oslo
Information on Oslo, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
The capital of Norway is surrounded by mountains and sea, this compact, cultured and fun city has a palpable sense of adventure. Oslo is a great destination for backpackers looking for an outdoor and nature oriented travel experience. Travelers go there for the amazing scenery, outdoor sports and activities, and to experience its unique culture and feel. In Oslo is a city where you can go to the beach one day, the mountains the next, and enjoy a day exploring the city after that. In the city itself you can explore one of its many museums and get to know its booming contemporary-art scene at one of its commercial galleries or just marvel at the work of its architects. Oslo is rapidly growing urban metropolis while also being one of the world’s most overwhelmingly green cities. It has earned the honor of being named European Green Capital for 2019, via one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world, excellent and well-patronised public transport, and a real commitment to sustainable food production and green space. The city is blessed with a large number of parks, and the Oslofjord’s waterways and islands are just minutes away from the center, as are the ski slopes and forests of Nordmarka. Oslo’s culinary scene is currently enjoying a revival, and has become a culinary destination in the Nordic’s. This delicious change takes in everything from its hyped up neighborhood coffee scene and fabulous fusion cuisine, to the celebration of traditional favorite such as peel-and-eat shrimp, and, yes, even polse (hot dogs). The city also has a penchant for sushi and pizza, both of which can now compete on the world stage.
Must See
Karl Johan Street - is the main street and where you’ll find the best cafes, shops and restaurants in the city. After checking this street out head to the marina and enjoy the ocean air while exploring more restaurants and bars.
Arkershus Fortress - a medieval fortress originally commissioned in 1299. In World War II, the Germans used the fort to execute dissidents. There is a now a small museum here that highlights the fort’s history.
Viking Museum - This museum is home to the world’s best preserved Viking ships, dating back to the 9th century. It’s also home to the largest Viking burial ship in the world.
Vigeland Sculpture Park - Located in Frogner Park, this unique collection is host to the 212 statues in an open-air setting spanning over 80 acres.
Must Do
Trip to Bergen - Bergen is a beautifully decorated historic city, where backpackers can enjoy great seafood and are close to the mountains and fjords so you can immerse yourself into nature. Bergen is the second largest city in Norway but it still feels like a small, harbor side town. The closest fjords include Sognefjord, the country’s longest and deepest. Nærøyfjorden which is a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the most stunning fjords in the country as well as Hardangerfjord, the 4th largest in the world. We recommend taking a tour which is a great way to spend a day. You can also visit the Folgefonni glaciers which cover over 200 square kilometres and there are nearby ski resorts where you can go for some world-class skiing. If you want to go hiking, Rundemanen Mountain is one of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen. The trails here are easy to moderate and usually take max 3 hours. At the top, you’ll be see spectacular views over the Hordaland Mountains, including its alpine lakes and valleys.
Trip to Tromso - Tromso is situated on the Northernmost tip of mainland Norway. It’s Northern extremity means that it gets 24/7 sun in summer and around the clock darkness in mid winter. Located at the very top of the country, if you happen to visit in the middle of winter you can view the Northern Lights. The city is full of pubs and nights out can be a lot of fun. It’s also a world-famous fishing destination and home to incredible fjords. A few top attractions in Tromso are the Ice Cathedral, the panorama view from Mountain Floya, as well as dog sledding, snowmobiling and of course Northern Lights tours.
Nightlife
There are plenty of bars and pubs in Oslo to ensure you can get a drink or two in. Oslo is lively at night and many Norwegians go out late on Fridays and Saturdays after a pre-party involving drinks at home. So the busiest time to head out is from 10pm and later. Whether it's partying in the established club scene with local DJs or an international indie band, drinking a local beer or sipping akevitt made from foraged spruce or Arctic seaweed, you'll notice that Oslo has a grungier, wild scene and is a city that knows how to have fun.
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