Oslo frequently appears on lists of Europe's most expensive cities, which tends to put off travelers on a tighter budget. The good news is that, with some planning, it is entirely possible to visit Norway's capital without spending a fortune, by making the most of what the city offers for free and choosing carefully where to eat and sleep. Small daily adjustments, such as choosing meals and transport carefully, make a significant difference to the total amount spent over the course of the stay.
Free or nearly free attractions
Much of the best Oslo has to offer costs nothing at all. The Vigeland sculpture park has free entry and can easily fill an entire morning. The same goes for walks along the harbor, through the Bjorvika district and across the roof of the Oslo Opera House, all of which can be enjoyed on foot at no cost. The city's parks are also great places to rest between sightseeing without spending a cent.
Saving on transport
A multi-day transport card tends to pay off for anyone planning to use trams, the metro and buses regularly, and it removes the temptation of relying on taxis. Many of the main attractions are also within walking distance of each other, so it is worth exploring the center and Frogner on foot whenever the weather cooperates.
Eating without overspending
Restaurants in the tourist-heavy center tend to be pricier, but covered food markets and areas further from the main circuit offer much more affordable options. Supermarkets are also great allies for breakfasts, snacks and even simple meals, especially for travelers staying somewhere with a kitchen. A picnic in one of the city's parks is a simple and enjoyable way to save on a meal.
Choosing accommodation wisely
For budget travelers, an apartment with a kitchen usually pays off more than a traditional hotel room, allowing savings on meals throughout the stay. Saga Apartments Oslo is an example of this type of option, offering space to cook and some independence. Those looking for simplicity without giving up a practical location might consider MediInn Hotel Oslo, a more straightforward option for shorter stays.
More money-saving tips
- Use the city's drinking water fountains instead of buying bottled water
- Travel outside the peak summer season to find lower accommodation prices
- Compare apartments and hotels, such as Norwegian Hotels And Apartments, before booking
- Book ahead of time, especially during months of higher demand
Planning ahead
Much of the savings on a trip to Oslo start before you even leave home. Comparing flight and accommodation prices weeks or months in advance usually reveals significant differences, especially outside the summer peak season. Setting an approximate daily budget for meals and activities also helps keep spending balanced throughout the stay, avoiding unpleasant surprises by the end of the trip. A small contingency amount set aside for unexpected costs, such as a sudden weather change or an extra activity, also helps keep the trip stress-free from start to finish.
Planning a trip to Oslo without stretching the budget too thin? Compare the accommodation options available on TravelGuest and find the right balance between price and location.
