As you will quickly discover with most other areas in Norway, Scandinavia in general has a very friendly acceptance of the gay and lesbian lifestyle. This toleration of the culture is also very evident in Oslo, the country’s capital city. The Kalmar Union established between Denmark and Sweden in 1397 created the birth of the city as well as the nation, but in 1814, it came under exclusive Swedish control. Additionally, Norway elected its own king and declared its independence in 1905.
Oslo gay areas are fairly centrally located in between the Royal Palace and the railway station, and there are numerous bars and restaurants catering to the gay and lesbian audience. The museum of the artist Edvard Munch, the open air folk museum, the Vigelands Sculpture Park, and the Viking ship museum are all excellent reasons to visit and explore the city of Oslo, but there are so many other attractions and events that you can explore in order to truly the sample the flavor of the city.
The larger gay and lesbian communities are well entrenched in this Scandinavian city compared to others, making it one of the most tolerant European cities for that lifestyle. Although the city is divided into several different segments, you will quickly discover that the area surrounding Karl Johan Street witnesses the larger tourist crowds. However, if a quieter, less crowded atmosphere is what you are craving then the more intimate, smaller bars of the Grönland district and Grünerlokka are what you need to explore.
Whether it is the culture, the gourmet cuisine, or the many shopping venues that the city holds, there is something here for every member of the gay and/or lesbian community to enjoy. Here are some categories for your agenda when you visit Oslo as well as a few attractions or events in each that are the most commonly recommended for visiting gays and lesbians.
Guided Tours
The Full Day Grand Tour of Oslo – nicknamed “the Grandfather of all Guided Tours” in Oslo, this the most interesting 7-8 hours you can spend seeing this spectacular city. The Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Norwegian Folk Museum, Polarship Farm, Vigeland Park, and the Viking ships are all featured on this tour so remember to pack your camera.
The 3 Natural Phenomena of Scandinavia – truly an amazing aspect of nature within the Arctic Circle, you will no doubt be held in awe of the Midnight Sun in Scandinavia, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), and the Polar Nights in Scandinavia in general.
Gay and Lesbian Nightlife
Gay and lesbian couples alike will find numerous bars and restaurants to explore and even capture a few intimate moments together away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Make sure you visit both Bobs Pub and Ett Glass for the best nightlife experiences possible in the city.
Photo of Vigeland Sculpture Park, Oslo, Norway by PIXistenz
Topic: Tips and Ideas |
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Tags: gay travel, Northern Europe
About the author
Anita Choudhary is a freelance writer and travel blogger based in New Delhi, India. She loves to travel and has traveled extensively in India. Exploring new places, reading and writing are her hobbies.
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