A Weekend Escape To Oslo, Norway - Updated 2024

The Thief Hotel (from USD 412)

A fantastic hotel you should stay at is The Thief. Known as Norway’s most luxurious hotel, it made Condé Nast Traveller Gold List in 2018. The 5-star hotel is located along the harbor within walking distance to many shops, restaurants, and ferries. Here you will wake up every morning to views of the Oslofjord or the Oslo archipelago. The name of the hotel comes from the history of the area. During the 18th century, Tjuvholmen (Thief Islet) was an area where pirates and thieves were executed. During the summer months, you can enjoy the rooftop bar with stunning views of the city and the Fjord. The Foodbar restaurant inside the hotel is warm and elegant. You will be delighted with excellent food prepared by their head chef, who has worked in several Michelin starred restaurants. Escape the city and get some pampering during your stay in The Thief Spa. Additionally, the fully equipped gym allows you to keep to your fitness routine.

The Oslo Opera House

After checking into your hotel and getting to know the city a little, get tickets to a show at the opera house. The Oslo Opera House is located on the Oslofjord in the central part of the city known as the Bjørvika neighborhood. It is home to the National Opera and Ballet. Covered in white marble and granite, the massive building appears to rise out of the water like an iceberg. The building was designed so it could be used inside and outside. You can walk up the sides of the building to the roof and enjoy the beautiful views. Additionally, the outdoor space has been used for concerts holding up to 8000 people.

The stunning Opera house has over 40 productions on the repertoire. They include Opera performances, Ballet, and sometimes concerts including the orchestra. Guided tours of the building are also available.

Campo De Fiori Restaurante

After going to the opera house, have dinner at Campo De Fiori. Campo de ‘Fiori is a traditional Italian restaurant located on Josefinesgate in Oslo. It is a place where you can experience authentic Italian food. The upbeat atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel like they have known you for years, from the first time you walk through the door. Enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio area or inside where you can watch dishes being prepared in the open kitchen.

The Italian chefs have collected recipes and products from Italy to harmonize their inspiration of time-honored Italian cuisine. Carefully selected wines from some of Italy’s best vineyards fill the wine cellar at the restaurant.

Reservations are recommended.

Pedro's Wine Bar

After dinner at Campo De Fiorihead just up the street, on the other side of the block, to Pedro’s Wine Bar for a nightcap. The intimate setting is a great place to end the evening. Don’t worry if wine is not your drink of choice, they have a wide selection of cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. The tiny wine bar has six indoor tables of various sizes and two outdoor tables.

If you are unable to get there in the evening for a nightcap, go early for lunch or light bites. They use as many organic products as possible and also grow some fresh herbs in the bar. Alternately, you can go and enjoy Sunday Brunch and try one of their Mimosas. They have their own personal twist to the traditional drink.

Nordiva Tours

After you enjoy your breakfast at the hotel, go on a walking tour. Because Oslo is more than 1000 years old, there are a lot of things to learn about the city; the good, the bad, and the legends. You can decide for yourself if these stories are true or not. Nordiva Tours has several tours for you to choose from. I recommend the Oslo city highlights walking tour or the Myths and Legends of Oslo tour. If you’re a foodie you can try their new walking food tour. For those who prefer to be on the water, they also have boat tours available. Most of their tours range between two and three hours.

À L'aise Restaurant

End your stay with dinner at the luxurious À L'aise Restaurant. The Danish co-owner and chef has extensive experience working with 1 and 3 Michelin Star restaurants in England and Denmark. Now in Norway, Ulrik Jepsen has spent the last two years as the chef at Engø Gård in Tjøme. The modern and elegant dining room is decorated in neutral tones with speckles of color throughout. The French-inspired kitchen only uses the best and freshest ingredients available. Thus, leads to a seasonal menu. I highly recommend the Taste Menu along with the Wine Menu. It is the perfect pairing along with the ability to try several exquisite dishes.