Work today, fly tomorrow • December 2013
Seven reasons to hang out in Oslo
As an important maritime city, and the capital of one of Europe’s richest powerhouses, Oslo is a major centre for oil and shipping businesses. But, says Camilla Swift, stay for an extra day or two and you’ll see the city is also blessed with eye-popping scenery, unique sculpture parks and laidback locals
Ekeberg Park
A new sculpture park, funded by art-collector Christian Ringnes of the brewing family, overlooks the city. The 25-hectare Ekeberg Park is free to enter and dotted with amazing artworks (look out for Rodin, Dali and Marc Quinn) and installations. Try the restaurant, too, for its 1920s architecture, panoramic views and classic Scandinavian dishes.
Oslo Vinter Park
Given Norway’s success in the Winter Olympics, it’s no surprise that skiing is a national pastime, but few other cities have pistes on their doorstep. Just 20 minutes from the centre on the Metro to Voksenkollen takes you to Oslo Vinter Park at Tryvann. There are even floodlit runs until 10pm on weekdays in winter.
Museums
Bygdøy, a peninsula on the Western side of Oslo, is home to a whole host of the city’s museums. Highlights include the Fram Museum where you can go on board the world’s strongest polar vessel, Fram, which carried polar explorers, such as Amundsen and Nansen, to the furthest reaches of the earth.
Kaffe og Kake
Kaffe og kake (literally, coffee and cake) is a Norwegian institution – their version of British elevenses. Head to one of Åpent Bakerei’s five cafés for a bowl of freshly ground coffee, and to try some authentic Scandinavian baking for yourself. I recommend kanelboller (cinnamon buns) and skolebrød (a type of sweet roll).
Fantastic Seafood
Situated on the harbour front, and given Norwegians’ love of fish, it’s perhaps little surprise that Oslo offers fantastic seafood. Visit Solsiden on the quay below Akershus Fortress, and tuck into mussels, oysters, scallops and crab all fresh from the sea.
Grünerløkka district
The Grünerløkka district, once working class, is now a trendy, bohemian part of town. Its classic 19th-century architecture, unique shops –selling everything from Norwegian glassware to clothing. Pop into Fru Hagen for a bite to eat, and just watch the world go by.
Cruising the islands
For a relaxed tour of the whole area take a ferry and cruise around the islands dotted throughout Oslofjord. On the public transport ferries you can hop on and off as you like, or choose a guided sightseeing tour. A one-and-a-half hour trip with Båtservice costs NOK180 (around £19).
Be there
BA operate up to five flights a day from London Heathrow to Oslo. Find out how many Avios you need to get there using our Avios calculator
This article has been tagged Destination, Travel Tips