Oslo and the northern lights
Going to see the northern lights? Here is why you should stop by Oslo on your way north.
You might be thinking: "Hang on a minute, that photo is not of the northern lights, is it?"
Don't worry, we're not going to pretend Oslo is the go-to destination for northern lights. The image above is simply one of the many magical and colourful sunsets that occur during the winter months in Oslo.
We are, however, going to tell you why you should put Oslo on your itinerary. Chances are, you will have a layover in Oslo on your way north anyway. Why not make a pit stop, either before or after your arctic adventure?
Oslo – prepare for your northern adventure
If you're stopping by Oslo before seeing the northern lights, welcome to Norway! Let Oslo ease you into the particularities of Norwegian culture.
Snow and winter fun
Make sure to make the most of a snow-covered Oslo while you're here!
Get to know Norwegian cuisine
Taste traditional Norwegian flavours such as reindeer meat, brown cheese and other exotic dishes at some of the many excellent restaurants serving Norwegian food in Oslo.
Norwegian nature in the art
Before fjords, mountains, reindeer and auroras could be plastered all over Instagram, they were painted by Norway's most celebrated painters! See works by Erik Werenskiold, Kitty Kielland, Harriet Backer and many more at the National Museum.
Make sure to keep warm
As the famous Norwegian saying goes "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing". You don't want to find yourself freezing your limbs off while waiting for the elusive aurora to appear, now do you?
Make sure to bring proper windbreakers and woollen underclothes. Remember: layers, layers, layers! And wool is the best material to keep warm.
Norwegians are experts at outdoor clothing, so it makes sense to buy your gear in Oslo, if you don't already own any. Check out these great shops:
A city break after the arctic
So your trip to Northern Norway is over, welcome back! Hopefully, your camera roll is full of green and purple lights on a dark night sky! Why not take some time to process all of your incredible experiences by getting to know Oslo.
Where to wind down and relax
After the arctic cold, saunas and spas will really warm you back up. And if it gets too hot in the sauna, you could always jump into the Oslo Fjord.
Sunrise and sunset views
If you've been travelling north of the Arctic Circle in winter, chances are that you may not have seen the sun in a while. Granted, winter days are short in Oslo, but they make for quite spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Find a great viewpoint and catch a colourful display on Oslo's wintery sky. Popular spots are the roof of the Opera, the top of St. Hanshaugen park and Ekeberg.
A little bit of luxury
Treat yourself to some extraordinary hotel nights! Here are some unique hotels in Oslo which are a destination in their own right.
Culture and events
Feel the pulse of the city at one of Oslo's many concerts and shows.