North Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in North, Oslo, Norway with our travel guide. From stunning natural attractions to delicious local cuisine, plan your trip to North with our ultimate itinerary.


North, located in Oslo region in East Norway, is an emerging hub for outdoor adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and foodies alike. From museums that showcase Norway’s rich history to scenic bike routes and hiking trails, there’s something for everyone in North. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do and see to help you plan your unforgettable trip.

Introduction to North

Located in the Oslo region, North is a stunning destination that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural highlights. The region is rich in history, with many museums and historical sites to explore. Moreover, visitors can enjoy a wide array of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. And, the culinary scene in North serves some of the most delicious local dishes and drinks that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

List of Places to Visit in North

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History: This museum is an open-air museum that showcases Norway’s history and culture. Visitors can explore different eras of Norwegian history and see how people lived in the past.

  2. Munch Museum: This museum is home to the largest collection of works by the famous Norwegian expressionist artist, Edvard Munch. Visitors can see several versions of his most famous painting “The Scream.”

  3. Akershus Fortress: Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle and fortress located in the heart of Oslo. It has played an essential role in the country’s history and is now a popular tourist attraction.

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Nordmarka Forest: Nordmarka is a vast forest located next to Oslo, perfect for hiking or cycling. In the winter, the area transforms into a skiing paradise.

  2. Oslo Fjord: Oslo Fjord is a stunning natural landscape characterized by crystal-clear water, rocky islands, and hidden coves. Visitors can take a cruise or a boat tour to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

  3. Sognsvann: Sognsvann is one of the most popular recreational areas in Oslo, famous for its beautiful lake. There are plenty of trails for hiking or cycling and opportunities for fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

  1. Nøklevann: Nøklevann is a popular lake in the Nordmarka forest, with several trails for hiking, biking and skiing.

  2. Tryvann: Tryvann is Oslo’s most popular ski resort and offers several bike trails during the summer. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains while biking.

  3. Grefsenkollen: Grefsenkollen is a popular hiking destination with several trails that offer stunning views of Oslo.

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

  1. Skiing: North offers some of the best skiing spots in Norway, with several ski resorts to choose from.

  2. Kayaking: Visitors can rent a kayak and explore Oslo Fjord at their own pace while enjoying the stunning views.

  3. Food Tours: North’s food scene is incredible, and visitors can take a food tour to sample some of the region’s best foods.

Week-Long Itinerary for North

Day 1: Explore Oslo’s central attraction, such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Royal Palace.

Day 2: Visit the Munch Museum and then have lunch at Mathallen food hall.

Day 3: Take a train to Lillehammer and spend the day exploring this beautiful town.

Day 4: Explore Nordmarka forest, go cycling, and have a picnic next to Nøklevann lake.

Day 5: Take a guided tour of Akershus Fortress and then have dinner at a seafood restaurant at Aker Brygge.

Day 6: Visit Sognsvann lake and take a hike in the surrounding area.

Day 7: Take a day trip to visit the Heddal Stave Church and then enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Oslo Fjord.

Food and Drink Scene of North

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pinnekjøtt: A traditional Norwegian dish of lamb ribs, usually served with boiled potatoes and rutabaga.

  2. Gravlax: A must-try dish for seafood lovers, gravlax is a thinly sliced cured salmon served with rye bread and mustard sauce.

  3. Fårikål: A hearty lamb and cabbage stew that is incredibly popular in Norway during the colder months.

Local Beverages

  1. Aquavit: A traditional Scandinavian liquor made from potatoes and flavored with herbs such as dill and caraway.

  2. Beer: Norway has an excellent beer scene, with several locally produced beers to try, such as Aass and Ægir Brewery.

  3. Coffee: Coffee is an essential part of Norwegian culture and is often enjoyed with a traditional Norwegian cake.

Where to Stay in North: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Thon Hotel Terminus: A centrally located hotel in Oslo with excellent reviews and a friendly staff.

  2. Oslo Vandrerhjem Haraldsheim: A hostel located near Nordmarka’s forest, perfect for outdoor adventurers.

  3. Frogner House Hotel Apartments: These modern and sophisticated apartments are situated in the heart of Oslo.

What to Buy in North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Traditional Norwegian Sweaters: Norwegian sweaters are stylish and perfect for the cold winter months.

  2. Norwegian Cheese: Norway has an incredible cheese scene, with several delicious cheeses such as Jarlsberg and Brunost.

  3. Subtle Norweigan Souvenir: Magnets that have the flag, postcards of the sceneries, or a little figurine of trolls.

Local Culture and Customs of North

Norway has a strong culture of the outdoors. Visitors should expect to see locals engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling regularly. Norwegians are also proud of their culture and history, with a strong emphasis on preserving their heritage.

Best Time to Visit North

The best time to visit North is during the summer months, from May to September. This time of year offers the best weather for outdoor activities and is the best time to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes in the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Do:

  1. Respect Norwegian traditions and customs.

  2. Dress appropriately and be prepared for the weather when participating in outdoor activities.

  3. Enjoy the local cuisine and try new foods.

Don’t:

  1. Be loud or disruptive, especially in public places.

  2. Ignore safety protocols when engaging in outdoor activities.

  3. Tipping is optional and is usually only done in restaurants or cafes.

Safety and Health

Safety in North

Norway as a country is known for its high safety standards. Visitors should keep their valuables safe and be aware of their surroundings when in public places.

Health in North

The healthcare system in Norway is excellent, and visitors should have no issues receiving medical attention if needed. It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies while traveling in Norway.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North

  1. Oslo Gardermoen Airport: The largest airport in Norway located 45 minutes from Oslo’s city center.

  2. Torp Sandefjord Airport: A smaller airport located two hours from Oslo city center.

Bus Stations Near North

  1. Oslo Central Bus Station: The main bus station in Oslo, located in the city center.

  2. Lillehammer Bus Terminal: Located in the center of Lillehammer, this bus terminal offers connections to several destinations in the North region.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train from Oslo Central Station that connects to several destinations in the North region.

How to Get Around in North

The best way to explore North is by public transportation such as buses and trains. Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore the region at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Lillehammer: A beautiful town situated in the mountains and home to the Lillehammer Winter Olympics.

  2. Geilo: A popular ski resort, located in the Hallingdal Valley, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.

  3. Bergen: A stunning coastal town, known for its beautiful architecture and seafood.

Conclusion

North is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or delicious cuisine, North has it all. Plan your itinerary with our comprehensive guide and create unforgettable memories in this stunning region of Norway.

Frescos inside Emanuel Vigeland mausoleum. Emanuel was the younger brother of Gustav famous for the Frogner sculpture park. Frescos inside Emanuel Vigeland mausoleum. Emanuel was the younger brother of Gustav famous for the Frogner sculpture park. The ski jump in Holmenkollen The ski jump in Holmenkollen