A lot of art, a lot of music, and a lot of fun are just some phrases that can be used to describe Oslo. Since a huge part of Oslo’s identity is its passion for music, there’s an abundance of different clubs and venues that offer concerts of different genres and live music from local and international musicians. There are plenty of places to stay in Oslo as well, including hotels and vacation rentals. Before retiring to the comfort of your accommodation, however, be sure immerse yourself with Oslo’s attractions that highlight Norway’s history and art scene. Whether you prefer somewhere quiet and intimate or somewhere loud and energetic, there is a huge variety of places where you can head out and have fun. So here are some of the best things to do in Oslo, Norway.
1. Chill out at Magic Ice Bar
Chill out at the Ice Bar located in Magic Ice Oslo– literally. As soon as you enter, you will receive a poncho and gloves to wear because you’ll be surrounded by nothing but ice. Even their special signature drink is served in a glass made out of ice. Aside from being surrounded by ice seats and ice walls, there are also ice sculptures shaped like famous artworks made by Norwegian artists. Don’t miss out on this cool place.
Magic Ice Bar
Address: Kristian IV’s gate 12, 0164 Oslo, Norway
Website: Magic Ice Bar
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 5pm - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 12am
Price: 250 NOK (26 USD)
2. Make yourself cozy at Eight
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Eight is a casual rooftop bar where you can hang out with your family friends while overlooking the view of the city. Sit back and pick from a list of coffee, wine, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. Music will be playing in the background to set the bar’s mood. There are also indoor seats for those who are more comfortable sitting under a shade. Witness a place where people of all forms and ages come together and have fun without having to worry about the bar getting overcrowded. Get the full laidback experience here at Eight.
Eight
Address: Karl Johans gate 27, 0159 Oslo, Norway
Website: Eight
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 12am; Fri: 2pm - 1am; Sat: 2pm - 2am (closed on Sun)
3. Experience a night at Gamla
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Hei fininger Å si at vi har savnet de blide fjesene deres den siste tiden, er livets underdrivelse... Goddamn så godt...
Posted by Gamla Beat Bar on Friday, May 28, 2021
Gamla is Oslo’s longest-serving performance venue where all kinds of artists used to play and continue to play. Watch live acts of different genres such as jazz, rock and roll, and more. It was renovated in 2018 to give way for clubbing and more areas for visitors to enjoy. Gamla is open to those who wish to reminisce on the history and evolution of the concert place or younger ones who are simply curious about it.
Gamla
Address: Grensen 1, 0159 Oslo, Norway
Website: Gamla
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 12pm - 1am; Thu - Sat: 12pm - 3am (closed on Sun & Mon)
4. Learn about Norway's history at Akershus Fortress
Visiting Akershus Fortress is one of the best things to do in Oslo as it allows you to learn about Norway’s history. Akershus Fortress and Akershus Castle was built around the 1300s. Up until now, the castle has still restored elegant banquet halls, the Royal Mausoleum, and even a church containing the royal sarcophagi. The compound around the castle is open to the public, while the castle is admission-free and includes audio-guides. Learn about Norway’s history starting from the 1300s to the present. Afterwards, you can lounge around the area outside of the castle and relax while looking at the beautiful scenery.
Akershus Fortress
Address: 0150 Oslo, Norway
Website: Akershus Fortress
Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 70 NOK (7 USD) for adults; 50 NOK (5 USD) for students; 30 NOK (3 USD) for children
5. Visit Oslo Opera House
Oslo Opera House is one of Norway’s most famous landmarks known for its elaborate and beautiful design. You’re welcome to walk on its marble roof and bask in a different view of Oslo. Aside from that, there are three different stages, public rooms, and halls, for performances by renowned artists such as the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. You can catch plays, concerts, and other shows in the open air. Oslo Opera House is a symbol of art and elegance.
Oslo Opera House
Address: Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo, Norway
Website: Oslo Opera House
Opening hours: Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
Price: Depends on the show
6. Walk along Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park
If you like looking at art while walking around or if you simply want a quick getaway from your daily routine, Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park is open to everyone. The park features art pieces made by multiple outstanding international contemporary artists. Stretch your legs while learning about the artists and their works or lounge around the grass and have a picnic. There are lots of things you can do in what seems like a simple park. Plus, it’s convenient for anyone who wants to find some peace of mind without having to go far away from the urban setting. Just sit back and relax as you watch the sunset over the horizon.
Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park
Address: Strandpromenaden 2, 0252 Oslo, Norway
Website: Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park
7. Catch up with friends at Bettola
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Guess who’s back? It feels almost unreal to be allowed to open and have our dear guests back just like on the picture...
Posted by Bettola on Tuesday, May 25, 2021
Bettola is an Italian-inspired cocktail bar with a vintage vibe, making it a good spot to catch up with your friends. Grab a beer or two or choose from their list of traditional and experimental cocktails. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for their daily drink menu. There are couches and seats on the outdoor terrace. But if you want to watch bartenders create your cocktail in front of your eyes, then it’s better to sit at the bar. From the moment you enter until you have to leave, Bettola will feel like a home away from home.
Bettola
Address: Trondheimsveien 2, 0560 Oslo, Norway
Website: Bettola
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5pm - 12:30am; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 3:30am (closed on Sun)
8. Party at The Villa Oslo Dancing
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If your ideal night out consists of jumping and dancing to loud music, then The Villa Oslo Dancing is the perfect place for you. There are two floors with DJs that play only the best of dubstep, electro, rock, and other experimental and upbeat music. Since it’s a popular venue for club-goers, make sure to send an email to be put on the guest list. There are tables and sitting areas placed everywhere if you want to take a break from dancing and just talk. To top it all off, the prices of their drinks are quite affordable. You’ll be guaranteed to have a fun-filled night with good drinks, good music, and good company. Due to government regulations, The Villa is temporarily closed.
The Villa Oslo Dancing
Address: Møllergata 23, 0179 Oslo, Norway
Website: The Villa Oslo Dancing
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 11pm - 3am (closed from Sun - Thu)
9. Grab a beer at Crow Bar & Brewery
Crow Bar & Brewery is Oslo’s biggest brewery pub composed of two floors at your service. The first floor is the highlight of the place and serves only the best quality of beers. Their menu contains a number of beer on tap, bottled beer, and homemade beer kept in a special tank to keep its freshness. Once you’ve gotten the perfect drink, head on upstairs to choose a snack that will go with your beer. Drinking beer and eating snacks may not sound like the most exciting night, but it’s a refreshing experience for those who are tired from the everyday hustle and bustle of life.
Crow Bar & Brewery
Address: Torggata 32, 0183 Oslo, Norway
Website: Crow Bar & Brewery
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 3pm - 3am; Sat: 1pm - 3am
10. Attend a concert at the National Jazz Scene
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Ivan Mazuze Band with guests // International Jazz Day Photo: Kerstin Siemonsen
Posted by Nasjonal jazzscene on Saturday, May 1, 2021
National Jazz Scene is the go-to performance stage of well-known Norwegian and international jazz artists. Discover and listen to high-quality jazz music while drinking beer or wine. If you’re lucky enough, you might even get to meet the musicians after the concert. The venue can seat up to 250 people but always remember to arrive early to secure a spot. The best way to end your day is with some good music and good vibes.
National Jazz Scene
Address: Karl Johans gate 35, 0162 Oslo, Norway
Website: National Jazz Scene
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 7pm - 1am; Fri - Sat: 8pm - 1:30am (closed on Sun)
Price: Season tickets cost 1300 NOK (137 USD) and 800 NOK (84 USD) for students
The beauty of variety in Oslo
It doesn’t matter if you plan to spend the night making memories with your friends or just unwinding by yourself, you’ll still have a great time in Oslo. You can choose to spend a little on yourself to try a new experience and you can also just explore different parts of Oslo for free. Be sure to check out some things to buy in Oslo while you’re here. Whatever you want to do, it’s now or never!
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