Oslo City Guide

Local dishes include lamb stew, meatballs, and seafood. International foods are common. Vegetarian and vegan options exist. Late-night food is available mainly near city center.

Oslo offers pubs, cocktail bars, clubs, and live music venues with varied atmospheres.

Strong specialty coffee scene with many independent cafés and roasters.

Tipping is not required but appreciated. Rounding up or 5-10% in restaurants is common. Taxi tips are usually rounding up.

SIM cards can be bought at Oslo Airport kiosks, convenience stores, and carrier shops like Telenor and Telia. eSIMs are widely available online. ID is needed for purchase.

Oslo is very clean with efficient waste management.

Few places open 24/7. Some pharmacies and minimarts have extended hours. After-hours food is limited to central areas.

Supermarkets like Kiwi, Rema 1000, Coop, and Meny offer local and international products. Mathallen market has specialty foods. Most stores open 7 AM to 11 PM weekdays and Saturdays; many close on Sundays.

Most places accept card payments, even for small purchases. Cash use is rare.

ATMs are easy to find across the city in banks and malls. Foreign cards may have fees.

Oslo has international schools like the International School of Oslo and British International School. They teach mainly in English. Apply early due to varying admission and waitlists.

A growing digital nomad community hosts meetups and events with co-living and coworking options.

Most residents live near parks like Frogner and Slottsparken. Green spaces are easily accessible.

Safe and popular running routes include Sognsvann and along the Akerselva river.

Many gyms and martial arts centers are available, including places for BJJ, Muay Thai, and boxing.

Tennis courts and clubs are available with varying surfaces and coaching.

Some padel courts exist, with moderate availability.

Many yoga studios and wellness centers offer drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Facilities offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Krav Maga, and Judo with English instructors.

Ski resorts like Oslo Vinterpark are near the city, with good runs and a season from December to April.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular in the Oslofjord during summer.

Close surf spots are far from Oslo with cold water; surfing is limited near the city.

Diving in Oslofjord is possible but water visibility varies.

Oslo's hospitals and clinics generally have English-speaking staff. The healthcare system is high quality with public and private options. Pharmacies (Apotek) sell OTC meds and some are open 24/7.

Tap water is clean and safe to drink.

The city has many playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and family attractions like Vigeland Park and TusenFryd Amusement Park.

Oslo is very accepting with safe spaces and annual Pride events. Strong anti-discrimination laws are in place.

Pet-friendly parks, vets, and stores are common. Norway's pet import rules are strict.