Oslo
Oslo is the capital of Norway, and it is also the most populous city in this beautiful Scandinavian country (click here to read more articles about Oslo). For centuries, the Norwegian population have been considered some of the most hospitable people on Earth, making Oslo the perfect place to enjoy a Norwegian getaway.
Fun Facts about Oslo
- Oslo is an old city that was founded in 1000 AD.
- The “city limits” measure about 454 square kilometers, but remarkably, more than half of its area is composed of forest.
- Norway is home to the Royal Palace, occupied by King Harald V and Queen Sonya.
- The city is situated at the very end of the Oslofjord, a chain of more than 40 islands that stretches more than 60 miles. (check out more wonders in Norway – listed on UNESCO’s world heritage sites!)
- Although Oslo is in southern Norway, it shares a latitude marker with Alaska in the US and St. Petersburg in Moscow, some of the coldest habitable places on the planet.
- A popular saying among Norwegians – “There is no bad weather. There are only bad clothes.”
- The United Nations claims that Oslo (and Norway in general) is the best place in the world to live. It has the lowest unemployment rate and highest Human Development Index worldwide.
Oslo’s Main Claim to Fame
There is no one reason why tourists continue to flock to Oslo year after year, but if you ask them what they remember most, they will almost always reply, “the people.” Experts agree that the high quality of life here leads to some of the happiest residents in the world, and tourists remark that the people of Oslo are some of the most accepting and hospitable. Tourists are also quite excited to discover the “Oslo Pass”, which allows free travel on various forms of public transportation, free parking, and admission into many museums and other sight attractions.
Accommodations, Restaurants, and Attractions
Norway is home to hundreds of hotels ranging from upscale to rustic. The Soria Moria Hotel is located in the countryside, which can provide you with a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of the city proper. It offers a pool, sauna, and a small lake, and despite its upscale atmosphere, it feels cozy and home-like. For those on a budget, the Thon Hotel, located in the central part of the city, gives you a toned-down (yet clean and warm) experience with fewer services that will not break the bank.
When you get hungry, you won’t want to miss Maaemo, which is the only Norwegian restaurant to have received three! Michelin stars. The gorgeous view is entrancing, and the food is all organic, natural, and local. If you want an upscale experience that is 100% Norwegian, this is the place to go. If you need something a little friendlier on the wallet, Mogador is a great place to go. Here, you’ll find a variety of Norwegian classics, a beautiful atmosphere, and an affordable menu.
While you’re in Oslo, there are some things that you will definitely want to do. The Fram Polar Ship Museum is a one-of-a-kind display, and it is perfectly suited for those traveling with children. There’s also the Viking Ship museum, which allows you to see boats that are hundreds of years old. The variety of fjords are sights you don’t want to miss; the sheer cliff faces and the sparkling waters are simply breathtaking. Finally, you can visit the Akershus Castle and Fortress, reminiscent of the Middle Ages.
