When you think of Norway, what immediately comes to mind?
Northern Lights, Dog Sledding, Fjords, Polskas, and Vikings
These are no-brainers. But what about giant inflatable balloons? That's what I remember most from my recent trip to Oslo. Larger than life animals emblazoned with a powerful daily mantra.
HUG LIFE. It's really that simple.
Norway's capital exceeded my expectations from the get go. It is charming, thriving, expanding, and full of these "hug life" moments.
Hug Life Moment #1. Sailing along Oslo's turquoise fjord on a clear day with my favorite libation.
Hug Life Moment #2. Suntanning in front of Oslo's Opera House contemplating my next jet-setting adventure.
Doesn't this remind you of that "Grease" movie scene before Sandy's epic transformation? Can't wait to unleash my inner rockstar just like Sandy did.
Hug Life Moment #3. Seeing world famous art up close.
Edvard Munch's "The Scream" painting is quite stunning. Visit the National Gallery to experience your own wow moment.
Hug Life Moment #4. Hopping on a bus, train, and ferry to Fredrikstad - 90km South of Oslo.
According to VisitOslo.com, Old Town Fredrikstad is "the best preserved fortress town in Scandinavia". This charming place boasts 18th century buildings, 17th century fortifications, and the Gamlebyen Miniature Railroad museum. I love their Saturday flea markets!
Hug Life Moment #5. Giggling with kids while GIANT BUBBLES OF HAPPINESS surround me.
Hug Life Moment #6. Devouring sea salt caramel gelato during a Norwegian heat wave along Aker Brygge.
Hug Life Moment #7: Enjoying a glass of Barbera on my birthday while finding joy at the Oslo Opera House.
Hug Life Moment #8: Discovering all facets of Oslo with carefree abandon.
No worries. No timelines. Just untethered freedom to explore landmarks and museums throughout the city center.
Hug Life Moment #9: Norwegian cultural immersion on Bygdoy.
The coolest museums are on Bygdoy. Experience Norwegian history, Viking ships, and ancient artifacts at the Vikingskipshuset, Norsk Folkemuseum, Norsk Maritimt Museum, and FRAM.
Tomorrow is never guaranteed. Embrace life every single second regardless of where you are in the world. Oslo was full of life, especially during summer months when tourists and locals co-mingle throughout this bustling city.
Looking for recommendations? I've outlined various hotspots below.
Top Tourist Attractions
Oslo Sentralstasjon - Oslo Central Station
Storting - Parliament
Royal Palace
Akershus Fortress
Oslo Opera House
Oslo City Hall
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Promenades - Shopping and Dining
Aker Brygge
Karl Johans Gate
Muesums
Bygdoy
FRAM
Vikingskipshuset - Viking Ship Museum
Norsk Folkemuseum - Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
Norsk Maritimt Museum - Norwegian Maritime Museum
Oslo City Center
Astrud Fearnley Museum
National Gallery - "The Scream" painting
Resources
Photo Gallery: To access my photo highlights, click here.
Oslo Pass: I highly recommend purchasing the Oslo Pass, which grants free access to museums, free transportation within zones 1 and 2, discounts at select restaurants, and free hop on, hop off ferry rides with purchase of the 72-hour pass. I downloaded the Oslo Pass app beforehand, purchased the pass, and activated it.
Airport Transportation: FLYTOGET is the easiest and fastest way to get to and from Oslo's Gardermoen airport to Oslo Sentralstasjon (Oslo S). Takes roughly 20 minutes each way and costs approximately 190 NOK ($24 USD)
Hotel Recommendation: Thon Hotel Opera is conveniently located next to Oslo Sentralstasjon and within walking distance of the Opera House and most tourist sites.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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