If you’re looking for where to stay in Oslo, then you’ve come to the right place!
There are many great areas to stay in Oslo. Just set your budget and your destinations.
You’ve probably heard that Oslo is expensive. Even if this is true in comparison to other European destinations, you should not let this discourage you. There are options for every budget.
Norwegian tourism officials know that high hotel prices can put visitors off, which is not good for business. Therefore, you will find fair accommodation in good areas.
When it comes to shopping, eating out and transportation, you might experience a little price shock in some places, but that hasn’t stopped travelers from making Oslo a worldwide destination, even for backpackers.
With that in mind, here are my suggestions to help you decide where to stay in Oslo:
Best places to stay in Oslo
1. Sentrum, the best area for a first stay in Oslo
Sentrum, Oslo’s city center, is located on the main fjord and is a lively district that stretches from Filipstadkaia to the impressive Operahuset, which looks like a cross between an old steamship and the tip of an iceberg.
The main harbor and ferry terminals are located to the south, and the Royal Palace, seat of King Harald V, marks the northern edge.
Sentrum is home to the historic Stortinget, the Norwegian Parliament, surrounded by luxury hotels ideal for diplomats and business travelers. With over 100 hotels in this compact area, there is plenty of choice.
If you want to experience the best of Oslo, you should stay in Sentrum, especially near Stortinget. The area offers chic Scandinavian design in hotels ranging from historic to ultra-modern, including boutique hotels and luxury apartments.
Although Oslo is mostly flat, there are tall hotel towers with breathtaking views of the fjord. The hoteliers here strive to offer their guests a luxurious experience.
Luxury hotels in the center of Oslo offer amenities such as free spa access, gourmet breakfast with Krumkake, fast Wi-Fi and complimentary cocktails.
Long-term rental accommodation in Sentrum is expensive, but modern and has a historic exterior. The hostels here are stylish and more reminiscent of IKEA showrooms, but charge extra for bed linen.
Sentrum is ideal for amenities and attractions, just a few blocks from Karl Johans Gate. There are many cafés, bars, pubs, restaurants, clubs and art galleries in this trendy neighborhood.
If you love architecture, outdoor sculptures and street art, you will enjoy a walk through Oslo’s city center.
Best hotels in Sentrum
- (€€€) 👉 Hotel Continental
- (€€) 👉 Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo
- (€) 👉 Saga Hotel Oslo Central
2. Aker Brygge, the best area for shopping and eating in Oslo
Aker Brygge is a lively harbor area in Sentrum that offers a more affordable option for travelers looking for traditional accommodation.
Near the quay you will find charming boutique hotels and apartments.
There are also long-term rental apartments in modern high-rise buildings with magnificent fjord views, although these are slightly more expensive than those in nearby Sentrum.
A big attraction of staying in Aker Brygge is the abundance of seafood restaurants. Norway is a major exporter of seafood, so you are guaranteed to eat fresh fish here.
This part of Oslo is more cosmopolitan, with excellent ethnic cafés, stores, bars and first-class restaurants.
Don’t miss the Astrup Fearnley Museum and the enchanting Tjuvholmen sculpture park when you stay here.
Best hotels in Aker Brygge
- (€€€) 👉 The Thief
- (€€) 👉 Hotel Oslo Guldsmeden
- (€€) 👉 Baltazar Apartments Tjuvholmen
3. Gamle, a modern residential area in Oslo
The east side of Oslo is very popular with locals and budget travelers, as it is much more affordable than Sentrum and Aker Brygge.
Gamle, to the east of Sentrum, is a sprawling neighborhood that encompasses the remains of the old medieval city.
There are numerous tourist attractions and large parks here, such as the Oslo Opera House, the Botanical Gardens, the Edvard Munch Museum, the Intercultural Museum and a medieval park.
If you live here, you can walk to the University Botanical Garden, which shows how much character landscape architects can add to a city.
Summer is the perfect time to stay in Gamle, as the gardens host numerous festivals and cultural events.
Another advantage of this neighborhood is that the local bars and restaurants are affordable compared to other parts of Oslo.
If you appreciate modern, sleek architecture and clean, organized neighbourhoods, you’ll love Gamle.
Best Hotels in Gamle
- (€€€) 👉 Wright Apartments – Sørenga
- (€€) 👉 Clarion Hotel Oslo
- (€€) 👉 BJØRVIKA APARTMENTS
4. Grunerlokka, the best area in Oslo for families and children
Grunerlokka, a residential area to the northeast of the city center, is ideal for families looking for affordable accommodation. If you want to explore Oslo’s traditional neighborhoods, this is a good starting point.
Once an industrial area, Grunerlokka has only recently opened up to tourists. Here you will find quality accommodation and amenities at prices you will appreciate compared to other parts of Oslo.
Many houses in this area have been carefully renovated and converted into long-term rental apartments, hotels and guesthouses.
Today, Grunerlokka is known as a trendy and cool neighborhood with shopping streets, vintage stores, record stores, cozy cafés, exciting cuisine and some nightlife options.
The attractions in Grunerlokka are more scattered than in the center of Oslo, but they are well worth a visit.
The city parks on the east side of the Akerselva River are beautiful, and many of them are right next to Grunerlokka. A visit to these parks offers play and relaxation opportunities for children.
Several hiking trails await travelers, some leading to Sentrum. Even without a sea view, Grunerlokka is one of the best residential areas in Oslo.
Best hotels in Grunerlokka
- (€€) 👉 Quality Hotel Hasle Linie
- (€) 👉 Anker Hotel
- (€) 👉 Scandic Vulkan
5. Frogner, the best area for business travelers in Oslo
Frogner, located northwest of Sentrum, is very popular with business travelers and those considering a move to Norway.
Oslo is known for its many parks, and Frogner Park is one of the most charming city parks in Europe. In terms of size, it can’t compete with New York’s Central Park, but its stunning aesthetics and immaculate cleanliness are impressive.
A stroll through Frogner Park is worthwhile, as there is plenty to see and do: sculptures, ice skating, soccer games, outdoor concerts, art galleries, museums and much more.
Frogner also has good shopping opportunities, especially along Bogstadveien, the town’s main shopping street, and many excellent restaurants.
Highlights in Frogner include the Oslo City Museum, the Viking Ship Museum, the Vigeland Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum and the Norwegian Maritime Museum.
The number of hotels in Frogner is limited, but they are mainly aimed at business people and offer reasonable prices. Due to limited availability, it is advisable to book in advance.
The three-star hotels along Bygdoy Avenue are reasonably priced and conveniently located close to restaurants and cafes in the area. Recently, several large apartment buildings have been converted into rental apartments, offering more traditional accommodation.
Best Hotels in Frogner
- (€€) 👉 Clarion Collection Hotel Gabelshus
- (€) 👉 Frogner House Apartments – Skovveien 8
- (€) 👉 Frogner House Apartments – Bygdøy Allé 53
6. Majorstuen, the best area for nightlife in Oslo
On the west side of Oslo is Majorstuen, an elegant residential and commercial area north of the Royal Palace. The best part of Frogner Park is, as already mentioned, easily accessible from Majorstuen.
If you prefer luxury accommodation in Oslo, Majorstuen is highly recommended.
There are not many hotels here, just a few established chains and some luxury rental apartments. Majorstuen is not ideal for backpackers, unless you can find a good deal in the winter months.
If you want a taste of Oslo’s nightlife, head to Hegdehaugsveien and Solli Plass, which will not disappoint.
Here you will find boutiques, pubs, good restaurants and clubs typical of a cosmopolitan capital.
For families with children, Majorstuen is one of the quieter areas of Oslo and is home to the International Museum of Children’s Art.
Best Hotels in Majorstuen
- (€€) 👉 Thon Hotel Gyldenløve
- (€) 👉 Saga Hotel Oslo; BW Premier Collection
- (€) 👉 The Sweet by The APARTMENTS Company
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Questions about where to stay in Oslo
What are the best areas in Oslo for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors to Oslo, Sentrum is often considered the best area to stay in Oslo. It is the city center and offers a lively atmosphere with easy access to major attractions such as the Royal Palace, the Norwegian Parliament and the famous Opera House. There are a variety of hotels in the area, ranging from luxurious to budget options, so there is something for every traveler. In addition, Sentrum offers convenient access to public transportation, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
Where can I find cheap accommodation in Oslo?
If you are looking for budget accommodation, Gamle is a good choice. This area is known for its affordability compared to other neighborhoods such as Sentrum and Aker Brygge. Gamle has a mix of hotels and hostels, as well as local bars and restaurants offering reasonably priced meals. The neighborhood is rich in cultural attractions, including parks and museums, making it an ideal place for budget-conscious travelers who still want to enjoy the local scene.
What is the best area for families in Oslo?
Grunerlokka is considered the best area for families visiting Oslo. This residential neighborhood offers a relaxed atmosphere with many parks and recreational areas for children. Families can explore the local stores, cafes and restaurants and have access to various outdoor activities. The area is also known for its vibrant community and cultural events, making it an enriching experience for families looking to immerse themselves in the Oslo lifestyle.
Which area is recommended for business travelers in Oslo?
Frogner is highly recommended for business travelers. This neighborhood is known for its professional atmosphere and proximity to several corporate offices. Frogner Park offers a tranquil setting in which to relax after a busy day, and the area has a selection of hotels that cater to business needs such as meeting rooms and high-speed Internet. In addition, Frogner’s location provides easy access to downtown and other major neighborhoods.
What are the best neighborhoods for nightlife in Oslo?
Majorstuen is the premier address for nightlife in Oslo. This neighborhood has a variety of bars, pubs and clubs that cater to different tastes and preferences. The vibrant nightlife in Majorstuen is complemented by its proximity to Frogner Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll before heading out into the night. The area is also known for its fine dining, making it a perfect destination for those who want to experience Oslo nightlife in style.
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