Fun & Unique Things to Do in Oslo in Winter (By a Local)

Fluffy snow, sparkling fairy lights, and fire crackling in the wooden houses. The magic of silence, outdoor winter activities, Christmas markets, and comfort food. Oslo in winter is a magical city. Find out the best things to do in Oslo in winter.

It’s been three years since I’ve been spending winter in Oslo, Norway. Every time I look outside the window in my apartment or when I travel to Norway in winter, I am more and more amazed. Now, it is time for me to share with you why you should visit Norway in the winter and what are the best things to do in Oslo in winter. There are plenty! Be prepared to experience the glittering wonderland of snow ;-)

Is it worth visiting Oslo in winter? Top reasons why it is!

Is Oslo worth visiting in winter? Let me tell you why it really is!

Oslo is not that cold – Oslo winter weather

I get it. You’re probably thinking –Norway is so cold in winter, why would I even go there? Everyone visits Norway in the summer! Well, you don’t want to be everyone, do you? Think a little differently and you’ll discover that winter is one of the best times to visit Norway (if not the best?!). How cold is Oslo in winter? Well, actually, not that cold.

Winter in the Oslo region normally starts in November, after Norway’s autumn season, and lasts up until March. In other parts of Norway, it can come earlier and stay for longer. For example, in Svalbard, in April there is still plenty of snow, but that’s an extreme case.

In winter, Oslo is normally not that cold. All the coastal parts of Norway generally have a milder climate, especially in the west. When you decide to visit Bergen in winter, you might get higher temperatures and more rain than snow. However, if you decide to go more inland/north/to the mountains, you can expect much colder temperatures.

Oslo weather in December can be a bit of a mix, it’s dark and the temperatures don’t go that low. It usually gets brighter and colder in January and February with a proper amount of snow.

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Temperatures in Oslo in winter (November-March):

Average temperatures: 0,7°C to -4,3°C
Min. -15°C, Max. 13°C
Temperatures in Oslo in December: 1°C/-4°C
Temperatures in Oslo in January: 0°C/-5°C
Temperatures in Oslo in February: 1°C/-5°C

The temperatures above are the average values. However, it is not uncommon that they can drop much lower to even -10°C or -15°C. It all depends on the year.

*Map of the best places around Oslo* Do you want to make the most of your trip to Oslo? Explore the amazing surroundings of the Norwegian capital. The map of the best places around Oslo includes 300+ marked places on Google Maps, organized in categories, with details and photos, and unique spots. From the best hikes to the most cozy cafes through camping places, museums, attractions, viewpoints, and more. Save yourself long hours of research and start exploring! Get your map here!

Does Oslo get snow in winter?

We all know that the world climate is changing and it’s very hard to predict the exact weather in the season. For example, last year there was a very long, strong, cold, and full-of-snow winter. Everyone loved it, because of all of the winter outdoor activities, especially skiing.

However, this year we currently have very little snow in Oslo in December and the temperatures are around -4°C. If that happens, and you want to make sure you see the snow, you can just get out of the city for a short winter road trip to discover unique places to visit in Norway in winter and you’ll be sure to see the winter wonderland there.

Whatever the weather decides to be this year, be prepared and wear proper Norway winter clothing when you pack for Oslo in winter. Also, don’t forget about finding a cozy Oslo hotel, close to the city center, so you don’t have to spend too long on public transport.

For the list of the most interesting day trips from Oslo head to the linked post.

Save money in Oslo

Save time and money during your visit to Oslo with the Oslo Pass, which gives you free admission to over 30 attractions and museums, access to great tours, and unlimited travel on the city’s public transportation. Choose between a 24, 48, or 72-hour card here.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Oslo in winter?

Technically, yes, you can see Northern Lights in Oslo in winter. But this happens very rarely and usually, the lights are very faint. It’s nothing similar to what you are able to experience in the north of Norway. So if you really want to see the Northern Lights in Norway, head to Tromso or Alta for that (I explain more details about where to go to see the Northern Lights in this post).

QUICK PLANNING TIPS FOR TRAVEL IN OSLO AND NORWAY

Save time and money with the Oslo Pass
Find the best flights to Norway with Skyscanner.net
Book your accommodation with Booking.com, and find the cheapest and best Oslo hotels here
Find the best car rental deals on Rentalcars
Check the best-rated activities in Norway on Get Your Guide and Viator
Read Norway on a budget travel guide

Norway in winter becomes a fairytale

That’s it. End of the post. Go out and enjoy the winter landscape!

Just kidding. But, to be honest with you, this would be enough to convince me to visit Norway in winter. The whole country is such a pretty place, that just takes my breath away. Think snow-laden trees and glittery hills.

Tourists are gone

We all know that Norway does get a lot of tourists. It is, however, mostly in the summer months. Winter in Norway is a peaceful time, with mainly Norwegians speeding through the cross-country tracks in the forests. If you, like me, love people, but prefer them in small doses, travel to Norway in winter. You’ll have the whole country for yourself (and Norwegians, who are not that many ?)

It’s true, that some of the popular attractions in Norway are closed or impossible to get to in winter (because of the snow and ice). But, hello, there are many more beautiful places to visit.

Even the very popular tourist locations in Norway like Norway in a Nutshell in winter with Aurland and Flam, are peaceful and quiet. Oslo normally gets much quieter during the Christmas period, but apart from that, the city lives its own life, as usual.

Everyone spends time either skiing or warming up indoors, it’s so cozy everywhere. The museums and attractions are usually open even during the Christmas period, but they can have limited opening times. The shops are often closed for a few days.

norway winter travel road trip itinerary - cross country skiing — Cross-country skiing in Norway

You can reach the winter activities and outdoors in minutes

That’s why Oslo is cool – you have plenty of opportunities for Oslo sightseeing in the city and then nature is just around the corner – which you can reach very easily with the metro. Check out this post for the best Oslo hiking trails with panoramic views. Sledding, skiing, and other winter activities are available for everyone and you don’t need a car to get there.

You can dare to be different and try unique things to do in Oslo in winter

Because if everyone goes to Norway in summer, you can be the one going there in winter, right?

The best things to do in Oslo in winter

What to do in Oslo in winter? Plenty of things!

Explore Oslo with a tour

A guided tour can be a fun way of exploring a new city and learning all about it.

Go for a ski!

Cross-country skiing is a national sport in Norway. You will find kilometers and kilometers of perfectly prepared cross-country tracks literally anywhere you go in Norway, including Oslo. In Oslo, you can find more than 2600 km of prepared tracks for cross-country skiing, 90 km of which are lit for the evening tours.

The best places for skiing in the Oslo area are Nordmarka and Østmarka, where you can stop for a break in one of the traditional cabins. Check some of the ski routes here. Useful apps to check ski trails are skisporet.no, and imarka.

The same goes for downhill skiing. In Oslo Winter Park, there are 14 slopes with 6 lifts. There is no better way of indulging in the Norwegian way of living than trying skiing in winter in Norway.

To get to Oslo Winter Park take line 1 to Frognereseteren, get off at the last stop Frognereseteren, and walk up to Tryvann.

Thing to do in Oslo in winter - skis in the mountain cabin

Go sledding

Sledding is NOT just for kids. Not in Norway, at least. One of the best Oslo winter activities available for everyone is sledding. The 2-kilometer sled run in the city is called Korketrekkeren (“the corkscrew”) and lies close to Holmenkollen (where the ski jump is located). The elevation drop of the track is 255 meters. To go back to the top of the route, you can simply take the metro.

It’s a great outdoor adventure for all. SO MUCH fun, you guys! You can ride in Korketrekkeren for free, but to rent the sleds you need to pay between 100-150 NOK per day. If you have one, you can bring your own sled, too.

Check what it looks like in the video:

When you are around, it’s worth paying a visit to the cozy Frognerseteren café and restaurant, located in the picturesque building from 1891. The wooden architecture gives you a feeling that you are somewhere in the mountains. And there are amazing views of the Oslofjorden. Try their famous apple pie and hot chocolate or opt for traditional Norwegian waffles.

To get to Korketrekkeren, take a metro line 1 to Frognereseteren and get off at the last station Frognereseteren.

Watch the World Ski Jumping competition

Oslo in winter often hosts the Ski Jumping World Cup and FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, which take place in the Holmenkollen ski jump. We went there last year to cheer for Polish jumpers and it was so much fun.

They normally start in Oslo in February or March. The Holmenkollen ski jump is also worth a visit even if there is no competition held on. There are amazing views from there to the city and it’s cool to see the size of it in real life.

To get to Holmenkollen, take metro line 1 to Frognereseteren and get off at Holmenkollen station.

things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway in winter with ski jumping competition

Try ice skating

Ice skating in Oslo is very popular with several ice rinks open throughout the season. The main one is Spikersuppa in Oslo city center, next to the National Theatre. There is also a big ice rink with music and rentals at Frogner Stadium, next to Vigeland Park.

When the waters and lakes freeze over, and you are adventurous enough, you can try ice skating there. Just make sure that it’s safe – the ice should be at least 10 cm thick. In Oslo, the popular lakes for ice skating are Maridalsvannet, Bogstadvannet, Østensjøvannet, Sognsvann, and Nøklevann.

For the latest list of Oslo ice skating rinks, as well as where and how to ice skate on the frozen lakes and fjord in a safe way – check this post about ice skating in Oslo and Norway.

Walk on the sea

Ever wanted to walk on water? In Oslo, in winter you can. When the sea in the fjord freezes it is possible to walk on it or to do cross-country skiing. The popular place is in Sandvika, where you can walk around Kalvøya island. Just make sure it is safe enough, as otherwise, it’s very dangerous. There are normally signs and local announcements.

Always confirm that it is safe, and, preferably, do it only when you can see others with more experience. I tried it the first time on our weekend trip to Helsinki in winter and it was fun!

Walk on the frozen sea, things to do in oslo in winter, Norway

Warm up in the sauna and cool down in the Oslofjord

After a long winter walk in Oslo, you can soothe your muscles and warm up your body in the wood-burning sauna in Oslo. The tradition originating from Finland is quickly spreading also in Norway. The first time when I tried the social sauna experience and swimming in the frozen sea was during our winter weekend in Helsinki. I was excited to find out that a similar experience is possible also in the Norwegian capital. As a guest of the SALT sauna, I had a chance to try it out.

SALT is a nomadic art project located right by the waters of the Oslofjord. It can be easily spotted by the distinctive pyramidal constructions called “hejser”. The project includes art and culture events, concerts, discussions, access to food facilities, and several saunas.

There are three different saunas to choose from. We’ve visited one of the world’s largest saunas, called Ardna, where you can book a 3-hour session. On Fridays and Saturdays, there is live music by the city’s DJs.

There is also a bar where you can buy a selection of drinks. With the ticket to the sauna, you have access to the small barrel sauna located outside and the cold water tubs. The tickets are 195 NOK per person.

Things to do in Oslo in winter - visit barrel sauna

Things to do in Oslo in winter - visit SALT sauna

One of the things to do in Oslo in winter is swimming in the Oslofjord in winter — Swimming in the Oslofjord in winter

Things to do in Oslo in winter - inside of the SALT sauna in Oslo — Inside of the SALT sauna, Oslo

Explore the local Christmas markets

They say that the best Christmas markets in Europe are in Germany, but isn’t Scandinavia a motherland of Christmas? There is always snow here in winter and Santa Claus lives on the North Pole, so close to Svalbard. Visiting Christmas markets in Oslo is one of the best things to do in Oslo in December.

In the weeks before Christmas, Christmas markets are happening every day. Norwegian Christmas markets are full of lights, traditional Norwegian winter clothes, woolen sweaters, gloves or socks, yummy comfort food, mulled wine, and fireplaces. It’s also a perfect spot to pick up some Norwegian gifts or souvenirs to take back home.

The most famous Christmas market in Oslo is the Christmas Market in Spikersuppa, also known as a winter wonderland in Oslo. You can find it in the city center along the Karl Johans Gate with a Ferris wheel, fireplaces, and many many stalls.

Then, there is Youngstorget with big heated traditional tents called lavvus, traditionally used by Sami people in Scandinavia. My favorite one is in Bærums Verk, where you can enjoy little shops located in the old houses from the 17th century, along with the beautifully decorated paths by the river.

For a longer description of all Christmas Markets in Oslo and opening times, click here.

Jul Vinterland Oslo, things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway winter

Christmas market Oslo, the best things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway

Baerums Verk Christmas market, Oslo, things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway winter

Visit top Oslo attractions

All of the things to see in Oslo are open in winter (except for the Christmas period) and some of them look even better with snow and frost. Some of the highlights include:

Vigeland Sculpture Park is probably the most famous park in Oslo. It displays the works of Gustav Vigeland and is also home to the Vigeland Museum. The park looks very special in the frosty weather, with all the famous sculptures covered in snow. There is free entrance to the park, the museum is ticketed.
Oslo museums give you a chance to warm up if the temperatures outside suddenly drop. A Viking Ship Museum is worth a visit with its collections of the world’s best-preserved Viking ships. Moreover, stop by the Fram Museum – home to the world’s strongest polar vessel and a very interesting exhibition about Polar history.
Oslo Opera House – is an example of the fine modern architecture in Oslo. It’s free to enter for everyone and also free (or even encouraged) to walk on the roof.
Akershus Festning – the Oslo fortress is also a medieval castle, which has been used as a military base and a prison. It offers great views of the Oslofjord and Aker Brygge. The grounds are free to enter but to get inside the building and the museum you need a ticket.
Ekeberg Sculpture Park – is another famous sculpture park in Oslo. It’s located on the small hill at Ekeberg and offers panoramic views of the city. Free entrance.

Vigeland Sculpture Park, Oslo, things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway — Vigeland Sculpture Park, Oslo

Vigeland Park, Oslo, things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway — Vigeland Park, Oslo

Watch the late sunrise and early sunset

If you are a sunrise lover like me but don’t like waking up super early (also like me), you are in for a treat in Norway in winter! The days in winter are much shorter with the late sunrises normally happening around 9 am in the Oslo area to even midnight in Tromsø and the north (until it gets completely dark).

It’s a perfect time for photographers with several hours of the “golden hour” and the beautiful colors of the winter sky. The best places for admiring the Oslo fjord at sunrise and sunset are Holmenkollen, Ekeberg Park, and Akershus Festning.

Winter sunset in Oslo, what to do in Oslo in winter — Winter sunset, Oslo

Get cozy in the mountain cabin

Nothing sounds cozier than sitting by a fireplace in the traditional wooden Norwegian cabin hidden among the snowy mountains. With their long winters, Norwegians have learned perfectly how to make this time of the year the coziest of all. The houses are full of light, candles, and fireplaces. The fairy lights twinkle at night brightening up the snowy landscape.

After an active day out in the snow, you can warm up by the fire with a glass of traditional steamy Glogg and listen to the old stories about the trolls… There are many mountain cabins (called hytte in Norway) around and in Oslo, especially in Nordmarka and Østmarka. Many of them are accessible through DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) membership and offer cheap accommodation in Oslo. You can find more details here.

For a list of the best cabins in Norway check this post!

Oslo Nordmarka, things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway winter — Oslo Nordmarka

Go for a hike/walk

Hiking in Oslo? Well, it’s more like a mountain walk, but there are plenty of opportunities to get closer to nature even if you don’t cross-country ski. Nordmarka and Østmarka have plenty of trails.

For a very easy winter walk head to Sognsvann, which is accessible by the subway. You can walk around the lake and stop for a waffle in the cabin. However, beware of the cross-country skiers, and stay out of their way.

Another cool winter hike is a walk up to Kolsåstoppen Hill. I’ve done it both in winter and in the summer, and the views are amazing both times. If you don’t have experience in winter hiking, don’t do it. For more information about Oslo hiking trails with the best views – check here.

Oslofjorden view, things to do in Oslo in winter, Norway — View of the Oslo Fjord from Kolsåstoppen

Try Norwegian comfort food

Through centuries of dealing with cold and dark weather in winter in Norway, Norwegians perfected their comfort food. It’s mostly based on meat, potatoes (and waffles!), but it’s tasty and filling. For a quick cheap snack go to Narvesen shop, where you can get a cheap coffee and a hot dog.

Grünerløkka area in Oslo has a big restaurant and pub scene for all budgets. You can also find there a Mathallen – a big hall with different food stalls and small restaurants.

Very popular are reasonably priced and very tasty burger places like Illegal Burger and Munchies. They are both really good and it’s hard to choose which one is better ;-) The most touristy eating places are located in Aker Brygge. Locals tend to avoid those, but we do go there sometimes for a drink with a view. Prices are not cheap, though.

Winter, especially before Christmas is also a time for traditional Norwegian Christmas food. You can find it in several restaurants around the city. The staples include rakfisk, lutefisk (fermented fish), and pinnekjøtt (dried lamb).

Take an ice bath

Ice swimming and ice bathing have become very popular activities to do in Oslo in winter in recent years. Even without a sauna, it’s a great way to boost your immune system and give yourself energy. Just make sure you do it safely!

Go for an adventurous winter road trip in Norway

When you have a few more days to spend in Oslo and around, you can explore the nearby area. Summer road trips are accessible to everyone. Winter road trips in Norway are only for the brave ones.

The winter driving in Norway can be challenging but is doable and the mesmerizing views of the snow-capped pine trees and dramatic mountains are worth it. Just don’t try it without a proper winter driving experience.

Try dog sledding

Another fun activity to do in Norway in winter is dog sledding. Make sure you choose a company that treats their dogs well. We’ve tried dog sledding in Norway near Oslo and loved it. The best part? Dogs loved it too ;-)

dog sledding in Norway , Oslo, Husky tours

Where to stay in Oslo?

Oslo accommodation ranges from cheap (uh hmm, I should rather say “cheap“) through modern to very expensive. But generally is on the pricey side. If you want to do it on a budget side, try couchsurfing.com, hostels, or DNT cabins. For more info on where to stay in Oslo click the highlighted link.

Here are a few recommendations for hotels in Oslo for different budgets:

$ Saga Poshtel Oslo Central – one of the cheaper hotels, located in Oslo city center with beds starting from € 39 and very high reviews. Check prices and availability.

$$ Oslo Guldsmeden – eco-friendly hotel with Balinese decor and organic breakfast (so delicious, yum) is one of the best hotels in Oslo. I stayed there for several days on one of my work visits and loved it. It offers a spa and a relaxing atmosphere. The lounge downstairs is a great area to chill out and the whole place is beautifully decorated. You can feel like staying at someone’s very nice home, not the hotel. Highly recommended. Check prices and availability.

$$$ Thief Hotel – if you want to treat yourself, that’s the place. I haven’t had a chance to stay there yet, but my boyfriend visited it and the interior looks amazing. The location is perfect, too – in the heart of the most expensive Oslo area, Aker Brygge, just by the waters of the Oslo Fjord and a few steps from many pubs and restaurants. There’s also a spa a gym, and Nespresso machines in the rooms (!). Check prices and availability.

Visiting Aker Brygge, Oslo, overlooking Oslo Fjord is one of the things to do in Oslo in wither — Aker Brygge, Oslo, overlooking Oslo Fjord

While you are in Oslo why not venture a bit further out to experience a few other cool things to do in Norway in winter?

Other things to do in Norway in winter

Go on a snowmobile tour

In winter you can go on a snowmobile adventure in Norway. The best ones are in Svalbard, but you can also find them in other parts of Norway, such as Tromsø or Alta. The drive on the sea ice and getting close to the dramatic glaciers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you are lucky you can even spot the polar bears on the way.

Chase the Northern Lights

The winter in Norway is a time of darkness. And that means a higher chance of spotting the Aurora. Staring into the black night sky illuminated by the Northern Lights in Norway should be on everyone’s bucket list. The best time to visit Norway for Northern Lights is in winter.

Stay in the ice hotel

Every year in winter in Norway and around the whole of Scandinavia, special hotels are being built. The ice hotels, that you can find in northern Norway in Alta are made entirely from snow and ice. They feature several bedrooms, ice bars, ice chapels, and ice artwork. It takes about five weeks of hard work to have a hotel ready.

The prices of the stay are not cheap, but in this case, you pay for the unique experience rather than just for a room. Check the prices, availability, and hotel pictures here.

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norway winter travel road trip itinerary - Scandinavian architecture in Nesbyen — Scandinavian architecture in Nesbyen

Would you like to visit Oslo and Norway in winter? Do you know any more reasons why winter might be the best time to go to Norway or what else to do in Oslo in winter? Let me know in the comments!

Fun & Unique Things to Do in Oslo in Winter (By a Local)

Is it worth visiting Oslo in winter? Top reasons why it is!