Where to Stay in Oslo • A 2024 Guide to 7 TOP Areas

Oslo harbor view with a variety of boats docked near the iconic red brick City Hall building under a clear blue sky.

Norway’s capital is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination, but one of the most common issues that arise when planning your trip is where to stay in Oslo. I am lucky enough to have lived in Norway for almost 2 years and have done the legwork for you! 

The top spot for your stay in Oslo is Sentrum, i.e., Oslo’s city center. Here, you’ll find plenty of attractions, restaurants, and the best selection of Oslo hotels.

Read this post because I’ve rounded up the best places where you can stay that are great for tourists – all you have to do is decide! I also went ahead and manually compared all accommodation options out there and hand-picked the ones with the best rating in each price category – budget, mid range and luxury.

Oslo hotels are quick to sell out, so you’ll want to secure your spot ASAP. Take your pick and make your booking – no time to waste!

If you are in a hurry

Don’t have the time to read the whole post? Here are some great hotels in Oslo city center: 

luxury hotel
A luxurious bedroom featuring an oversized headboard, a neatly made bed with blue and gold bedding, and a matching tufted bench at the foot of the bed on a patterned carpet.

Hotel Bristol

Best luxury hotel in the center

mid-range hotel
Cozy hotel lounge with vintage-inspired furniture, bookshelves, and warm lighting, creating an inviting space for relaxation and socializing.
budget hotel
Modern hotel lobby with abstract art, stylish geometric lighting fixtures, and a neutral color scheme, offering a sleek welcome area for guests.

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:


Here’s a map to help you get a visual of the areas covered in this Oslo neighborhood guide:

A colorful map highlighting the best areas to stay in Oslo, with numbered locations and labels for easy navigation
  1. SENTRUM: for first-timers
  2. FROGNER: for families
  3. AKER BRYGGE: for waterfronts
  4. GAMLE OSLO: for a relaxing vacation
  5. MAJORSTUEN: for shopping
  6. GRUNERLØKKA: for trend seekers
  7. ST. HANSHAUGEN: for outdoor activities

1. Sentrum – where to stay in Oslo for the first time

The Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway, on a sunny day with a clear blue sky, showcasing the grand yellow building and a prominent statue of King Karl Johan on horseback in the foreground.

The city center of Oslo (or, as locals call it, Sentrum) is the best area if it’s your first time visiting the city! Sentrum is the heart of the city and it provides endless options for shopping, dining, and exploring Norwegian culture. 

It definitely comes with the price – the accommodation options have the highest price tag here, but it is also the most exciting area with no shortage of places to go out and things to do. 

The first place you have to visit during your stay in Sentrum is the Royal Palace (map), home of the Norwegian monarch. The palace is situated in Slottsparken, or the Royal Palace Park. After you’re done admiring the Royal Palace, walk around the park and relax among the greenery. 

Then, I suggest you visit one of the many museums! Downtown Oslo has one of the highest concentrations of museums I’ve ever seen! The National Museum is a great place to start – it has an impressive art collection and a lovely cafe. 

Oslo City Hall with historical statues in the foreground, blue skies and fountain, a symbol of the city's architectural heritage and civic pride.

From here, you can move on to Rådhuset, Oslo’s City Hall (map), which is just a few minutes away. Nearby, you’ll also find the Nobel Peace Center, dedicated to the importance of the Nobel Peace Prize and everything it stands for. 

Oslo Sentrum is home to a variety of museums, and you have to visit at least some of them. I recommend checking out the Historical Museum, The Viking Planet, and the Paradox Museum Oslo, each offering a different type of exhibit.

Another must-visit in the Sentrum area is the Akershus Fortress (map), a 13th-century military fort, where you can visit an imposing castle and 2 museums – the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum and Norway’s Resistance Museum

Sentrum is also very well connected – if you’d like to see more of Norway, you can hop on a train from Oslo Central Station and see more of the country. There’s a high-speed train from Oslo to Bergen Station, so that’s definitely a trip worth considering!

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo showcasing an elegant living room with floral couch and vintage decor, a sophisticated bedroom with a stately bed and patterned carpet, and a bright room with balcony overlooking the city skyline.

Just a short walk from the central train station, this hotel will welcome you with bright and comfortable rooms adorned with antique furnishings. Guests are granted free gym and sauna access, and they can also try delicious Norwegian food at Bristol Grill or enjoy live piano music at the Library Bar, a popular meeting spot among the Norwegian elite.

More accommodation in the city center of Oslo

mid-range
Cozy hotel lounge with vintage-inspired furniture, bookshelves, and warm lighting, creating an inviting space for relaxation and socializing.

Conveniently located hotel with spacious rooms and a great on-site restaurant specializing in traditional Norwegian food

budget
Modern hotel lobby with abstract art, stylish geometric lighting fixtures, and a neutral color scheme, offering a sleek welcome area for guests.

This budget hotel is located close to Karl Johan Street and offers both private rooms and beds in shared dormitories

airbnb
A minimalist bedroom with a single white bed, white bedding, a wooden nightstand, and a sleek, modern desk with a classic black chair under a wall-mounted lamp.

A cozy, newly renovated apartment that provides all the necessary amenities and easy access to the central train station


Oslo’s hotels are quick to sell out – especially in this area. So, if there’s no availability for your dates, here are 3 other amazing mid-range Oslo hotels in Sentrum:

  • Park Inn by Radisson Oslo – Just a short walk away from the shops on Karl Johans Gate, this hotel features bright rooms, each with a private bathroom with heated floors, and serves a breakfast buffet each morning.
  • Thon Hotel Vika Atrium – The rooms at the hotel are colorful and have a built-in ventilation system, a refrigerator, and a TV. There’s an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, and the reception is open 24/7 and provides complimentary coffee/tea. 
  • Hotel Verdandi Oslo – Situated near the Royal Palace, the hotel offers a daily buffet breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and nicely decorated rooms with private bathrooms, seating areas, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. 

Things to do in Oslo Sentrum

2. Frogner – where to stay in Oslo for families

Aerial view of Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo showing the radial paths, green landscaping, and the Monolith in the distance.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Oslo on a family trip or looking for something upscale and peaceful, Frogner is your best bet. The neighborhood is situated West of Sentrum (12 min by transport or 25 min walking) and it offers superb views of the Oslo waterfront. 

Frogner is also one of the best neighborhoods for nature lovers. It has plenty of green spaces where you can have a family picnic and many museums to fill in the rest of your stay. 

Frogner is an upscale, wealthy neighborhood made up of expensive apartment buildings and hotels. However, the main attraction is Frognerparken, i.e., Frogner Park (map), a large green space that also houses The Vigeland Park Sculpture Museum (map) – the largest sculpture park in the world!

Within the park, you can also visit the Vigeland Museum and Bymuseet (Oslo City Museum), or you can just walk around and relax. However, I’d suggest you stop by the Monolitten (map), a large and famous sculpture, and snap a photo in front of it. 

Then, you can move on to explore The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, which is actually an open-air collection of Medieval buildings, but there are indoor exhibits, too. Next on your itinerary should be the Kon-Tiki Museum and The Fram Museum, both cool history museums. 

The area around Frogner offers plenty of shopping and high-end restaurants whilst being a little further away from the city center’s hustle and bustle, making it the perfect place to stay for families! Plus, you won’t have trouble finding family-friendly accommodation – let’s take a look at the top picks!

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo: an outdoor rooftop pool with city views, an opulent bedroom with a red velvet sofa, and a well-appointed lobby with hanging greenery and a grand piano.

All the rooms at this 5-star hotel are air-conditioned and feature flat-screen TVs and en suite bathrooms. Guests can order room service, enjoy the daily continental breakfast, or dine at the on-site restaurant. Baby cots are free of charge, while extra beds can be provided upon request and incur an extra charge.

Other accommodation options in Frogner

mid-range
Hotel room with a green botanical wallpaper design, luxurious bedding, and classic furniture, providing a cozy and stylish atmosphere.

A pet-friendly, family-friendly accommodation providing cribs and rollaway beds for a small charge and laundry/ dry cleaning services

budget
Elegant nook with black armchairs and a geometric-patterned wall, giving the space a chic and contemporary feel.

Each of the apartments has a private bathroom and a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals

airbnb
A cozy workspace by a window with a view of European-style architecture, featuring a white modern desk, black chair, and decorative mirror, complemented by indoor greenery.

A spacious apartment that, besides a single and a double bed, offers a toddler bed and a crib

Things to do in Frogner

3. Aker Brygge & Tjuvholmen – best waterfront location

A vintage white ship docked at a harbor with brick buildings in the background, featuring a black and white lighthouse structure on its deck.

Aker Brygge is another great spot for your stay in Oslo and my personal favorite part of the city. Situated on the Oslo waterfront, the area is very trendy, guarantees amazing views, and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. 

Aker Brygge & Tjuvholmen are tiny even combined together so it may be hard to find something available there, definitely book in advance! I recommend this area because it is extremely close to the center (5-10 min walking) and it has some nice views to the waterfront!

This is one of the city’s most modern areas, with trendy cafes and waterfront restaurants dotted along the pedestrian-only zone. The shorefront area is also a great place to start exploring the city’s main attractions because it borders the Sentrum area, home to the most spectacular sights. 

Tjuvholmen is another popular place in Oslo – a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. While here, pay a visit to the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, a contemporary art museum right on the waterfront. I would also recommend wandering through Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park (map) – there are quite a few state-of-the-art sculptures that are worth your time and attention. It’s also a good idea to visit the Tjuvholmen Badeplass (map), a public outdoor bath – the perfect spot to take a dip in the sea!

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo featuring an atmospheric indoor pool with blue lighting, a cozy lounge with warm lighting and plush seating, and a contemporary bedroom with chic decor and large windows.

A luxurious boutique hotel that offers in-room spa treatments, a swimming pool, and a free gym. The Thief has spacious rooms with a built-in sound system and a private balcony. Another perk – all guests get a free entrance to the Astrup Fearnley Museum, and the hotel is a short walk from the Kon Tiki Museum.

More accommodation options in Aker Brygge & Tjuvholmen

mid-range
Hotel lobby with colorful modern furniture on a multicolored rug and large windows offering natural light.

The hotel offers modern rooms with Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs and serves a buffet breakfast every day

budget
Simple and clean dining setting for two with white bedding and a soft-lit bedside lamp on a small table.

At this accommodation, guests can expect complimentary American breakfast and make use of the on-site parking

airbnb
Bright living room with a white sofa, unique antler chandelier, and a glass door leading to the balcony.

A luxurious 1-bedroom apartment with a sea view, and only a short walk from some great shopping opportunities

Things to do in Aker Brygge & Tjuvholmen

4. Gamle Oslo – where to stay in Oslo for a relaxing vacation

Waterfront modern residential buildings at dusk with reflection on calm water and dramatic blue evening sky in the background.

Gamle Oslo, or Gamlebyen, is actually Oslo’s Old Town and borders the Sentrum area. It is 5 km away from the center, but the public transportation in Oslo works amazingly well and if you want to bike, it is only 9 min away (people use bicycles quite often in Norway, there is a great app for bike sharing called Oslobysykkel, check it out!). 

Here, you’ll find quite a few attractions, plenty of restaurants, and parks surrounding the area, which makes this the ideal spot to unwind and relax

During your stay in Gamle Oslo, you absolutely have to visit the Munch Museum. This museum is dedicated to the work of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, and it hosts The Scream, the artist’s most famous painting and one of the most important pieces in modern art. 

The next attraction on your list should be the Operahuset Oslo, or Oslo Opera House, home to the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet; even if you don’t attend a performance, you should definitely visit the building and look into the offered guided tours. 

After seeing the main sights in Gamle Oslo, I suggest you explore the green surfaces. Head to Tøyen, a residential area that’s part of Gamle Oslo, and spend a relaxing day in Tøyen Park. If you happen to visit during summer, you may see one of the festivals held there and attend one of the performances. 

At the opposite end of the neighborhood, you can explore Ekebergparken (map), a sprawling park with numerous walkways, scenic spots, and sculptures. There’s another park nearby – Middelalderparken (map) – that’s right along the waterfront and offers fantastic views of the fjord!

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo: an upscale hotel bar with a marble countertop and dark shelves, a modern bedroom with a blue comforter and accent pillows, and a cozy living area with a red sofa and city views through large windows.

This upscale hotel offers room service and a front desk operating 24/7. Guests can enjoy an eco-friendly buffet breakfast and delicious cocktails at the Shutter Bar, work out in the fitness room, or use the hotel’s business services. The rooms at the Clarion Hotel have Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with media streaming, modern furniture, and comfortable bedding. 

More accommodation options in Gamle Oslo

Mid-range
Contemporary hotel bedroom with a plush white bed, minimalist decor, and a floor lamp providing a warm ambiance next to a window.

A hotel with modern, air-conditioned rooms, a fitness room, an on-site restaurant, and a lobby bar

Budget
Comfortable living room with a large beige sectional sofa, a white coffee table over a textured rug, and a window bringing in natural light.

This sustainable accommodation has a children’s playground, on-site parking, and a charging station for electric vehicles

Airbnb
A small living room with a bed and a table.

A ground-floor apartment with a private entrance, a bathroom, a kitchenette, and access to a shared backyard

Things to do in Gamle Oslo

5. Majorstuen / Majorstua – where to stay in Oslo for shopping

Sculptural fountain at Vigeland Park with multiple bronze figures beneath a tree canopy design against a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds.

The Majorstua neighborhood is situated on the West side of Norway’s capital. It is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Oslo, with many parks, sports facilities, good restaurants, and pubs. It has more of a commercial vibe to it and it is 10 minutes from the city center by public transport (or ~25 walking). 

The Majorstuen neighborhood is home to a good stretch of the Hegdehaugsveien street, which, after crossing Josefine’s gate, changes the name to Bogstadveien – a renowned shopping street. 

If you are planning to do some shopping, check out Valkyrien Mall. If you’re shopping on a budget, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the Vestkanttorvet vintage market (map) that takes place every Saturday. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this market has 100 booths where you can purchase goodies like second-hand clothes and retro home decor. And also, there’s waffles!

Majorstua offers more than just shopping, so if you want to do some traditional touristy things, you should visit the Oslo Transport Museum, which exhibits many cool vintage vehicles and has a cool gift shop where you can get some souvenirs. I’d also recommend a visit to the Kunstnernes Hus art gallery, showcasing contemporary art. 

Please note that if you are traveling in the summer, you will probably need to make your way to the center to enjoy a coffee outside – this area has a lot of restaurants, but mostly all are inside ones. 

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo: a luxurious bedroom with a plush headboard and golden accents, a historic building facade with classical architecture, and an indoor dining area with naturalistic decor and plush seating.

This elegant boutique hotel is located close to the Royal Palace Park and boasts bright rooms decorated in line with Scandinavian design. Each morning, guests are greeted with a fantastic breakfast, and they have round-the-clock access to the cozy lounge at the Saga Hotel. Free parking and Wi-Fi are available on the property. 

More accommodation options in Majorstuen

mid-range
Vibrant living space featuring an ornate orange Victorian-style sofa set against a yellow wall adorned with eclectic paintings.

This 3-star hotel is recognizable for its eclectic design but also offers a free breakfast buffet and gym access

budget
Spacious and bright hotel room with a large bed, grey curtains, and a grey sofa by the window offering a view of the city street.

Situated in a 1900s building, this accommodation has rooms with wooden floors, private or shared bathrooms, and a TV lounge

airbnb
Chic living room with a salmon pink corner couch, wooden coffee table, and framed artwork creating an elegant, vintage atmosphere.

A lovely suite with a living room, kitchen, bedroom, and a private balcony, close to public transport stations

Things to do in Majorstuen

6. Grunerløkka – where to stay in Oslo for the trendiest spots

A busy street scene in Oslo, Norway, with pedestrians, a tram in motion, and colorful buildings lining the road under a cloudy sky.

Grünerløkka has a very convenient location east of the Sentrum area (25 min by transport/10 min by taxi). Historically a working-class district lined with old industrial buildings, Grünerløkka experienced significant change in recent years and is now home to numerous new restaurants, cafés, and cultural venues. These changes are what make this neighborhood have artsy, bohemian vibes

The main artery of the area is the Grünerløkka ‘strip,’ a bustling boulevard dotted with shops, local bars, and street art. Other must-walk streets are Thorvald Meyers Gate and Markveien – you can just walk around or sit in one of the cafes and watch people go about their day – these streets are the absolute best locations for people-watching!

One of the best things about Grunerløkka is that even though it’s extremely popular, it is still quite affordable. If you’re looking for a hip residential area in Oslo, Grunerløkka is the perfect choice. 

One of the ultimate ways to experience the neighborhood is to try as many international foods as possible. The best place to do it? The Oslo Street Food – a hip food court where you can experience cuisines from all over the world. 

There’s plenty to see and do in Grünerløkka, so if you don’t know where to head next, I’ll direct you to The Botanical Garden, an indoor/outdoor garden with plenty of plants from all over the world. While you’re visiting the Botanical Garden, make sure to stop by The Viking Garden (map), which shows how the Vikings used to grow and take care of their plants. 

Once you’re done exploring these gardens, it’s time to move to the Natural History Museum (also situated within the Botanical Gardens complex). In this museum, you can see various exhibits on geology, zoology, and botany – it’s perfect for nature lovers!

You can spend a relaxing afternoon at Sofienberg Park (map) or head to Torshov, a district just north of Grünerløkka, and enjoy the landscape of Torshov Park (map). The Torshov district is also a good spot to roam the streets and get a feel of the local culture. 

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo: a minimalist bedroom with wooden accents and large windows, a dining area with modern wooden tables and red pendant lights, and a casual seating area with neutral-toned furniture and dotted wall panels.

Guests at this hotel can look forward to a full breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and access to a gym and a conference center. The front desk is open 24/7, and you can turn to the friendly staff for anything you may need or want. Each of the rooms at this hotel has heated floors and a dedicated, laptop-friendly workspace.

More accommodation options in Grunerløkka

mid-range
Hotel lounge area with a white couch, decorative pillows, a modern fireplace, and wall art, creating a welcoming space for guests.

In a convenient location near a train station, this hotel has an on-site bar/lounge and offers a laundry service

budget
Modern hotel room with a large bed set against a grey accent wall with two windows offering a city view, and a simple work desk with a chair.

A modern, pet-friendly hotel with a rooftop terrace, coffee shop, and an arcade/game room

airbnb
Elegant studio apartment with a grey round dining table, red velvet sofa, and a bed in the background, with a modern chandelier overhead.

This newly-renovated 1-room apartment consists of a cozy living area, a functional kitchen, 2 beds, and a modern bathroom

Things to do in Grunerløkka

  • Stroll along the Akerselva River
  • Stop by the Sunday flea market at Birkelunden Public Park (map)
  • Snap some photos of the Peer Gynt Sculpture Park (map)
  • Book a private walking tour of Grünerløkka

7. St. Hanshaugen – where to stay for outdoor activities

Public park scene with people relaxing by a fountain and pond, with a classic white building featuring a clock tower in the background, amidst lush green trees.

St. Hanshaugen is a residential area north of Sentrum that offers hilltop views of Oslo and the fjord and has plenty of green surfaces, ideal for outdoor activities. 

Even though St. Hanshaugen St. Hanshaugen Park doesn’t have as many attractions as some of the other areas, it’s close to the city center, so you can easily reach the top sights (it is located on the North of the city center and it will take you about 7 min by car/13 min by bike to reach the center). Plus, it provides quite a few opportunities for outdoor recreation, and there are good accommodation options and some great spots where you can relax; overall, it’s a great choice!

Besides all the open-air spaces, there are quite a few restaurants, cafes, and bakeries if you need a place to get inside for a bit. 

St. Hanshaugen Park (map) is the main landmark in the area; within the park, you’ll find gym equipment – great for a workout session – and come across concert venues and lovely cafes. Close to the park, you’ll find Bislett Stadion, which hosts a variety of sports events, from athletics to football games.

Right next to the stadium, there’s the Bislet Bad & Trening, a spa facility with a gym and an indoor pool that also offers yoga classes. If you’re feeling hungry after all the physical activity, Café Laundromat is close by, and it’s a very unique spot – it’s a cafe/restaurant that also houses a library and has a functional laundromat where you can wash your clothes!

Yet another thing you cannot miss in St. Hanshaugen is Oslo Reptile Park, home to many different wildlife reptiles. From there, you can go ahead and pay a visit to 22. juli-Senteret, a museum featuring exhibits that honor the victims of the 2011 terrorist attacks. 

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo: the exterior of the Savoy Hotel with its neon sign, a serene bedroom with blue bedding and simple decor, and a luxurious hotel lounge with opulent furnishings and large globe lighting.

The rooms at the Hotel Savoy are comfortable and decorated in minimalist style, each with a private bathroom, a work desk, and a flat-screen TV. All guests are entitled to a complimentary light meal each evening during their stay, but they can also try affordable gourmet dishes at the restaurant on site, Restaurant Eik. 

More accommodation options in St. Hanshaugen

Mid-range
Minimalist hotel room with a comfortable double bed, soft lighting, and a large window, promising a restful stay for visitors.

An eco-friendly hotel with underfloor heating, an organic breakfast with both hot and cold dishes, and a 24/7 reception

Budget
Hotel lounge with retro leather chairs, patterned textiles, and a grand piano, setting a sophisticated and musical atmosphere.

A modern hotel with small, but bright and soundproof rooms and a furnished terrace where you can have breakfast

Airbnb
Spacious living room with a large gray sectional sofa, minimalist decor, and a large abstract painting adding a splash of color.

A private apartment with a spacious living room, a separate kitchen, a private parking spot, and shared laundry facilities

Things to do in St. Hanshaugen

  • Walk along the cobbled streets of Damstredet and Telthusbakken (map)
  • Stop for coffee at the Fuglen espresso bar
  • Check out the architecture of St. Olav’s Catholic Cathedral (map)
👑 Luxury price:€200
💵 Mid-range hotel:€150
🛏️ Budget:€110
📍 Best area:Sentrum
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:Hotel Bristol
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:Hotell Bondeheimen
👛 Best budget hotel:K7 Hotel Oslo

BONUS 1: Best apartments in Oslo

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo: a chic living room with a large portrait painting and grey sofa, a bedroom with a patterned headboard and elegant light fixture, and a comfortable seating area with vintage chairs and modern TV.

If you plan on staying in Oslo City for a longer period of time or you’re traveling with a bunch of your family and friends, renting an apartment is a great option. If you find yourself in a similar situation, check out the best Oslo apartments you can stay in on your visit to this wonderful city. 

  • numa l Topp Apartments – If you’re looking for upscale, family-friendly accommodation, this 4-star aparthotel is the ultimate choice for you. You’ll enjoy various amenities at this apartment while being just a few minutes away from the Royal Palace Park. 
  • The Apartments Company – Majorstuen – Each of these apartments has a dedicated seating area, a kitchen with a dishwasher, and bedrooms stocked with linens and towels – no need to bring anything. On-site parking is provided for all guests at these apartments. 
  • Entire condo in Sentrum – Conveniently located near the Oslo Opera House and the train station, this studio has a living room with a comfy sofa bed and a bedroom with a spacious double bed. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances, while the bathroom boasts Italian marble surfaces. 
  • Alexis & Borg Suite – This apartment is decorated in an elegant and exclusive style and provides its guests with complimentary tea and coffee. The bathroom has luxury amenities like underfloor heating and a towel warmer, while the bedroom/living room features a flat-screen TV with Netflix. 

BONUS 2: Hotels near the Oslo airport

Interior of Oslo Gardermoen Airport with clear signage, modern architectural design, and passengers navigating the travel hub.

The Oslo Airport, Gardermoen, is situated 35 km (22 miles) northeast of Oslo City. There are plenty of great hotels in the Gardermoen area, and it’s a good idea to stay here if you’re only in Oslo for a night (or a weekend)! Scroll down for my list of the ultimate Oslo airport hotels!

  • Radisson Blu Airport Hotel ($$$) – The pet-friendly Radisson Blu Airport Hotel offers clean rooms with comfortable beds. The hotel is actually connected to the airport, so you’ll have easy access to your gate when leaving Oslo.
  • Thon Hotel Gardermoen ($$) – This eco-friendly hotel is a bit further away from the airport, but guests can commission an airport shuttle for a surcharge. A buffet breakfast is served daily, and everyone gets free access to the on-site fitness center. 
  • Comfort Hotel RunWay ($) – An affordable accommodation with a garden, terrace, playground, and sauna. The hotel provides dry cleaning and laundry services, Wi-Fi free of charge, a 24/7 front desk, and concierge services. 

BONUS 3: Best hostels in Oslo

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Oslo: a room with twin beds against a creative shutter headboard, a kitchenette with a dining area and modern appliances, and a living area with minimalistic decor and indoor plants.

Oslo is one of the more expensive cities in Europe, so accommodation prices tend to be on the higher end, even the more affordable options. Although I recommend a budget-friendly option for each of the recommended areas, those prices can still be high for some travelers.

So, I decided to make a list of the top Oslo hostels so people traveling on a tight budget will still have a good place to stay in Oslo. Just keep in mind that these hostels are a bit far from the center; I ordered them by distance, starting with the one closest to the heart of the city.

  • Anker Hostel – Situated in Grünerløkka, the hostel is just a 15-minute walk away from Karl Johans Gate and other important attractions. The Anker Hostel offers accommodation in spacious rooms, each with its own bathroom and kitchen. 
  • Central City Apartments – Even though this option is slightly lower-rated than my other recommendations, it provides excellent value for money. Located in Gamle Oslo, it’s close to all the main sights and has an on-site bar and restaurant. 
  • HI Oslo Haraldsheim – In the Grefsen neighborhood, 4 km (2.4 miles) from the center, the hostel has private rooms and shared dormitories, a fully-equipped shared kitchen, a garden with BBQ facilities, and a library with a billiards table. 

Practical tips about staying in Oslo 

Early evening street scene in Oslo with trams on the move, highlighting urban transport amidst the charming backdrop of city life.
  • You don’t really need a car while in Oslo – the transportation system works like a clock and if you are traveling in the summer, I can highly recommend using a bike sharing subscription app called bysykkel
  • The public transport system is called Ruter and has one ticketing system, i.e., you need just one ticket to use all buses, trams, subways, trains, and even ferries. Purchase the ticket for Zone 1 and get the Ruter app to find routes and travel options – you’ll get everywhere in no time! 
  • Summer and actually winter (ski season) is the high season for Norway, so make sure to book your accommodation in advance then!
  • Another area that is my notable mention is Grønland. This part of the city also warrants a visit, mostly because of Grønlands Torg, a large shopping area where you’ll find vendors selling fresh produce, clothing shops and lovely restaurants. 
  • If you still haven’t found a place that would tick all the boxes, check Bygdøy peninsula. It is home to many museums that are worth a visit. I recommend you start with the Viking Ship Museum, where you can see original Viking ships – fun for the whole family. Plus, Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum has the best-preserved collection of Viking ships and other items!

FAQs about where to stay in Oslo

Elevated view of Oslo's waterfront architecture showcasing modern residential buildings and docked boats with the cityscape in the background.

💯 What is the best area to stay in Oslo?

The best area for your stay in Oslo is Sentrum, the central part of Oslo. Here, you’ll find the city’s main attractions, including the Royal Palace Park, City Hall, and the National Gallery, and there are plenty of amazing Oslo hotels, for example, the Hotel Bristol.

😎 What is the coolest neighborhood in Oslo?

The coolest Oslo neighborhood is Grunerløkka due to its trendy cafes, live music venues, and the lively Birkelunden Public Park. The best accommodation options in this area are the Quality Hotel Hasle Linie and the Anker Hotel

⏳ How many days in Oslo is enough?

For your stay in Oslo, you’ll need between 2 and 3 days. This should be enough time to see the main sights and experience the city’s culture.

🤔 Which is better, Oslo or Bergen?

If you want the quintessential Norwegian experience and easy access to the top sights, Oslo is the ultimate place to be. However, if you want to see the fjords, Bergen is the better option, so make sure to look into these amazing spots for a Bergen stay

🗓️ What is the best month to visit Oslo?

The best months to visit Oslo are between May and August, i.e., during the summer season. The weather is nice and pleasant, and you can spend plenty of time outdoors. 

⏳ Where to stay in Oslo for one night?

If you have only one night in Oslo, I recommend staying in Sentrum, either at Hotel Bristol or at Hotell Bondeheimen. During your brief stay, some of the places to avoid in Oslo are the areas around Hausmanns Gate and Brugata, especially after dark. 

Conclusion 

The Oslo Opera House at twilight, its contemporary architecture illuminated and reflecting in the calm waters in front of it.

That’s it, guys! Here’s the complete Oslo neighborhood guide! I hope it helps you and the best neighborhoods and hotels in the city and decide where to stay in Oslo. 

If you haven’t chosen something already, here are my absolute top 2 hotel recommendations for a stay in Sentrum, Oslo: 

  • Hotel Bristol – An elegant hotel with antique furniture and an amazing restaurant
  • Hotell Bondeheimen – a lovely hotel with modern rooms and a fitness center

I hope you like the country I called home for a while and you will continue your trip further to see more of what Norway can offer (spoiler alert – a lot!). We have quite some posts about Norway, you can see the whole list here

Feel free to leave me a comment if you have any questions about your trip to Norway!

Have a great trip,

Kate 


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colorful street scene from Oslo, Norway

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an image of Oslo's skyline at night reflecting in the water and the aurora borealis in the sky.

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