The capital and largest Norwegian city is Oslo as well as being the 3rd largest of all the cities in Scandinavia. The city is also Norway’s demographic, economic, and political center and is surrounded by some of the most spectacular rural landscape found anywhere in Scandinavia which is why it is such a popular tourist and vacation destination. The peak tourist season is always the Oslo summer, when the days are very long and the temperatures are mild. Winter is another story, so be prepared for the weather no matter when you visit.
There are numerous reasons for visiting Oslo such as the architecture, events, culture, history, and even winter sporting events should you want to take a cold weather vacation. However, for many tourists as well as the locals, it is the rich Scandinavian cuisine that holds the allure for the visitor. From delectable entrées to decadent desserts and pastries, there is something to satisfy every palate.
We have taken the liberty of listing our recommendations for the top 5 places to eat in Oslo and are hopeful that you will be able to experience them all when you visit the city.
Statholdergaarden – Mediterranean, Scandinavian, and seafood are the ticket at this top rated restaurant which is situated in the heart of the city. The historical and romantic surroundings combined with the excellent menu provide all the atmosphere you need when dining out for the evening.
Solsiden – Our #2 pick of the top 5 is renowned for its crab, crayfish, lobster, mussels, oysters, scallops, and shrimp. Their “plateau de fruits de mer” (plate of the fruits of the sea) is the prominent feature of this restaurant – a mountainous display of seafood that your meal is generated from.
De Fem Stuer - For those of you who are famished and have no problem with splurging on your meal, this restaurant is just what the doctor ordered. The 7-course menu is a culinary adventure through the world of food and wine. But beware it comes with quite a price tag.
Palace Grill – an international and Scandinavian fusion of excellent cuisine. The Palace Grill is a tiny venue compared to most and you never know what the entrée for the evening is, other than quite possibly the best you have ever eaten. Be prepared for crowds throughout the evening and a long wait at times before you are seated.
Grefsenkollen Restaurant – Another 5-star restaurant situated in the heart of Oslo, this is the ideal setting for a couple’s romantic dinner. The food is excellent, reasonably priced, and the service is nothing short of excellence. Despite the difference in language, you will immediately learn why the express “Bon Apetit” came into being.
Best Hotels in Oslo
- Quality Airport Hotel Gardermoen – 3-star hotel in Jessheim Oslo with a guest rating of 8.8 and rooms starting from € 112.4/£ 95.5/$ 139.2
- Anker Hotel Oslo – 3-star hotel in Oslo with rooms starting from € 74.5/£ 63.3/$ 92.2 and a guest rating of 7.1
- First Hotel Millennium - 4-star hotel in Oslo with a guest rating of 7.3 and rooms starting from € 106.8/£ 90.7/$ 132.2
Picture of a chocolate sherben by afloden.
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