Experience the captivating charm of Oslo in winter through this alternative route, where hidden gems await discovery amidst the city's snowy landscapes and cultural treasures, providing a unique and unforgettable journey off the beaten path.

Winter has always been my favorite season, with its snowy landscapes that look like scenes straight out of Christmas movies. Although Thomas isn’t always thrilled by the cold, I usually manage to convince him to join me on winter trips. So, for the winter of 2018/2019, we chose Oslo — the modern, Nordic capital of Norway — known for its stunning winter scenery and cozy atmosphere. In our previous post  (check it out here), we shared the top must-see sights of Oslo, and now we’re excited to take you further by exploring some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

In this second post, we’ll introduce you to parts of Oslo that many tourists often miss. You’ll find useful tips for skiing in the nearby mountains, perfect for enjoying the winter snow. We’ll also explore vibrant neighborhoods where street art colors the streets, especially the trendy Grünerløkka area, known for its cozy cafés, art galleries, and unique shops. To top it off, we’ll visit the famous Holmenkollen ski jump, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Norway’s deep passion for winter sports. Get ready to dive into the lively culture and quieter corners of Oslo!

GENERAL INFORMATION

Oslo, Norway’s dynamic capital, beautifully blends modern city life with breathtaking natural surroundings, especially captivating during the winter months. While its well-known attractions draw many visitors, venturing beyond them uncovers a more genuine and creative side of the city that often goes unnoticed.

One standout neighborhood is Grünerløkka, a vibrant area famed for its artistic spirit and eclectic charm. Here, colorful street art adorns historic buildings, and inviting cafés, unique boutiques, vintage shops, and artisanal bakeries create the perfect setting to relax and soak in the local vibe. With lively markets, street performers, and an energetic nightlife, Grünerløkka offers a fresh and authentic alternative to the usual tourist spots.

Not far from there is Holmenkollen, renowned for its iconic ski jump and stunning panoramic views of Oslo and the fjord. This area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering world-class skiing, scenic hiking trails, and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking culture, adventure, or a true taste of local life, Oslo’s alternative neighborhoods promise a memorable and enriching experience beyond the typical itinerary.

GRÜNERLOKKA

Our first stop in the vibrant Grünerløkka neighborhood is Ingens gate, a hidden gem tucked quietly along the banks of the Akerselva River. Meaning “Nobody’s Street”; this narrow lane is a colorful showcase of street art, turning its walls into a dynamic open-air gallery filled with creativity. Though a bit off the usual path, Ingens gate is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the creative, bohemian spirit of Grünerløkka firsthand. On Sundays, the street hosts a lively art market where local artists display and sell their unique work, adding even more life and authenticity to this truly special spot.

A bit upriver lies the perfect spot for a lunch break: the Mathallen Oslo. This indoor food market nested in a nice industrial shed combines more than 30 shops, cafes and eateries offering high-quality products from local small-scale producers and also international delicacies. It can be a little overwhelming with the deliciously-smelling options but you won't be disappointed. We chose to have a duck sandwich with mustard in Galopin and it was absolutely delightful. For dessert, try some of the yummy cupcakes from The Cupcake & Pie Co. with coffee to warm up before getting back to the cold.

     | Opening hours - from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. |

| Admission - free of charge |

Once warm and well fed, you can adventure yourself again into the cold to discover two little traditional gems of Oslo. Telthusbakken, which means "tent house", is a street where once the stood a military storage and is just below the medieval church Gamler Aker - the oldest existing building is Oslo. However, what makes this street special is the small colorful wooden houses from the 18th and 19th century which are still inhabited. A large allotment garden area and the romantic Kjærlighetsstien ("The Love Trail") also help to set the bucolic and picturesque mood of this area, making it a perfect getaway from the crowds of tourists of downtown.

If you liked Telthusbakken, then you will love Damstredet. Although 100 meters shorter, this cobblestone street is narrower and has a better perspective due to its curves and greater inclination. The cute little wooden houses from the first half of the 19th century and their colorful facades are the last ingredients to make it so unique you will spend a great load of time trying to get the perfect shot to capture all the delicacy of Damstredet. We liked it better and a stroll around the neighborhood is a lovely way to finish your tour for the day.

HOLMENKOLLEN

You can start this extra day in grand style in one of the world's most visited sports facilities: the very heart of Norwegian skiing tradition, the Holmenkollbakken Ski Jump. Located with a 20-minute subway ride from downtown (line 1, direction Frognerseteren), the story of this sport center starts over 100 years ago when a two-day ski competition brought 12.000 spectators for a 18-km cross country ski race on the first day and a jump of 21 meters on the following day. Though for this first ski jump contest it was just a natural hill with a takeoff ramp built out of show and wood, throughout the years the structure was rebuilt 19 times up to the colossal construction inaugurated in 2010.

It also hosts the oldest Skiing Museum of the world which tells more than 4.000 years story of this national passion (since Stone Age and also Viking times). The museum is open 365 days, the opening hours can be seen here and price is 150 NOK per person (around 15 EUR). If you visit Oslo in early March, do not miss the annual Holmenkollen Ski Festival.

Even if you are not a sports fan, we promise you Holmenkollen is still worth visiting. Besides the amazing nature all around it, the location offers an astonishing view to Oslo in clear days due its location on a hilltop. Other nice feature of this area is the Holmenkollen Kapell, a chapel rebuilt in the early 1990's with new stave church features in massive planks and clip walls which bring a very Nordic vibe and contrast with the white snow all around it. If none of these has convinced you yet, the residential neighborhood of this area is one of the cutest winter scenarios you will ever see with the colorful houses and pine trees on the background. 

Travel Essentials

GETTING THERE

Arriving at Oslo is convenient with two main airports. Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), located 50 kilometers northeast of the city, serves as the primary international hub, offering direct flights from various destinations. Travelers can reach the city center from Gardermoen via the Airport Express Train (Flytoget), completing the journey in 20-30 minutes. Additionally, Oslo Torp Airport (TRF), situated about 115 kilometers south of Oslo, caters mainly to low-cost carriers and charter flights.

Norway's extensive rail network connects Oslo to major European cities. Oslo Central Station (Oslo Sentralstasjon) acts as a pivotal transportation hub, providing domestic and international train services. From neighboring Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark, travelers can enjoy seamless train journeys to Oslo. Notably, from Bergen, renowned for its fjords, travelers can embark on a scenic train ride to Oslo, taking approximately 6-7 hours.

Long-distance bus services offer convenient travel options to Oslo from neighboring countries such as Sweden and Denmark. The Oslo Bus Terminal (Oslo Bussterminal) serves as the city's main bus station, conveniently located adjacent to Oslo Central Station.

STAYING THERE

In Oslo, where the cost of living is high, finding a comfortable yet reasonably priced accommodation is essential. During our visit, we enjoyed our stay at the Forenom Serviced Apartments Oslo Royal Park. Priced at 123 EUR per night, the apartments offered clean and comfortable rooms, along with a prime location just a 5-minute walk from the Royal Palace and main attractions. Another excellent choice is the Scandic Oslo Hotel, known for its pleasant ambiance and convenient location near the train station. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet included in the price, making it a great value option. For those seeking a more local experience, neighborhoods like Grünerløkka and Frogner offer a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Grünerløkka is particularly known for its trendy vibe and artistic flair, while Frogner boasts upscale boutiques and green spaces.

EATING THERE

Oslo's culinary scene boasts a variety of dining options, but it's important to be mindful that eating out in Norway tends to be quite expensive. Here are some noteworthy eateries to consider, along with price indications:

• Illegal Burger: Indulge in gourmet burgers at Illegal Burger, where creative toppings and juicy patties are the norm. Burger meals typically range from 15 to 20 EUR, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the unique flavor combinations.
• Syverkiosken: For a taste of traditional Norwegian snacks, Syverkiosken is a must-visit. Enjoy savory hot dogs and other quick bites for around 5 to 10 EUR, offering a budget-friendly option for a quick meal on the go.
• Godt Brød Grünerløkka: Satisfy your craving for freshly baked goods at Godt Brød Grünerløkka, known for its delicious bread, pastries, and sandwiches. Prices vary depending on your selection, but expect to spend around 5 to 15 EUR for a satisfying meal or snack.
• Dalat Cafe: Experience the flavors of Vietnam at Dalat Cafe, serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine including pho, banh mi, and spring rolls. Prices range from 10 to 20 EUR, offering affordable options for those craving Vietnamese flavors in Oslo.
• Fiskeriet Youngstorget: A popular spot for seafood enthusiasts, Fiskeriet Youngstorget offers a selection of fresh fish dishes, such as fish and chips or seafood platters. Expect to pay between 20 and 30 EUR for main courses, reflecting the quality and freshness of the seafood.

While dining out in Oslo may require a bit of budgeting, these places offer quality food and dining experiences worth the investment.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Exploring Oslo's alternative neighborhoods has been an unforgettable journey. From the artistic charm of Grünerløkka to the outdoor adventures in Holmenkollen, we've discovered the city's hidden treasures. Despite the winter chill, Oslo's vibrant energy and warm atmosphere have left a lasting impression. Want to discover more about Oslo?! Check out here our post about the 12 best things to do when in Oslo! Until next time, happy travels!

Tags: Norway