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- Destinations
- Europe
- Norway
- Oslo
Oslo
Legends of heroes, trolls and princesses roaming the countryside
outside this charming city attract many travellers looking for a
Scandinavian holiday. Oslo, situated at the end of a 70-mile
(110km) long fjord, is Norway's capital and its largest city, rich
in culture and folklore with a fascinating Viking history.
Oslo is an eclectic mix of old medieval buildings, churches and
modern architecture, sitting among the green trees and extending
forests that form the natural balance of nature and civilization.
Around the city there are numerous museums, art galleries and
places of interest, especially the Edvard Munch Museum and the
Norwegian Folk Museum on the sought after Bygdøy Peninsula. Other
attractions include Vigeland Park with its interesting collection
of sculptures, and the medieval Akershus Fortress dominating the
seafront.
Although Oslo has small population compared to other European
capital cities, it retains a true vibrancy about it. The city
centre is filled with restaurants, bars, cafes, clubs and theatres
and has a very cosmopolitan feel to it with street artists hanging
around the main street, Karl Johans Gate. Oslo is renowned as a
city of culture and the City Hall hosts the annual awarding of the
Nobel Peace Prize.
Information & Facts
Climate
Although well into the northern latitudes, Oslo's climate is
fairly temperate thanks to warm air being wafted across the
Atlantic from the Gulf Stream. Summer weather in Oslo is mild and
pleasant, with frequent hot spells, and plenty of long sunny days.
In winter temperatures hover just above or below freezing. Snow is
plentiful in winter, making the city a great winter sports venue,
and rainfall is spread across the year, the rainiest month being
August.
Getting Around
Oslo is a relatively small city and parking is at a premium so a
car is a bit of a liability. Fortunately there is an extensive and
superbly efficient public transport system involving buses, trams,
subway, trains and ferries, operated by Oslo Sporveier. The city is
served by 50 bus lines and eight tram routes, all starting from
Jerbanetorvet at Oslo S Station. The subway is called the Oslo
T-Bane and there are five underground lines covering the city. All
public transport runs from 5.30am to midnight, with tickets
available from bus drivers or vending machines at stations. The
Tourist Ticket allows for unlimited use within 24 hours, while the
1, 2, and 3-day Oslo Card allows unlimited travel on any form of
public transport, and includes free museum admissions and other
discounts. Ferries operate on a seasonal basis, between April and
September, linking the City Hall to the museum-studded island of
Bygdøy. There are also ferry services to the harbour islands.
Metered taxis are easy to come by, and can be found at ranks near
shopping centres, city squares, stations and other gathering
points. Cabs can also be ordered by telephone from a central
office, or from taxi ranks.
Language
Norwegian is the official language, but English is widely
understood.
Money
The official currency is Norwegian Krone (NOK) divided into 100
ore. Larger establishments accept major credit cards and travellers
cheques. Use of credit cards is widespread, with
Eurocard/Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club the
most common. Visitors should be aware that credit cards are
generally not accepted as a means of payment in Norwegian
supermarkets and petrol stations. Foreign currency and travellers
cheques can be exchanged at banks and major post offices, as well
as many hotels and travel agents, although for poorer rates. ATMs
are available in all towns and cities.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March
and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October).