Where to Stay in Oslo, Norway: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Oslo and wondering where to stay? You’re in the right place! 

We absolutely adore this city because it’s got it all: relaxed vibes, world-class architecture, waterfront views, and (somehow) a full-on forest just a tram ride away. Plus, the people are incredibly friendly, and almost everyone speaks perfect English (which is always a bonus!).

But like any capital city, figuring out the best place to stay can be a bit tricky. We felt the same way on our first visit. But luckily for you, we’ve put together this guide to the best areas and hotels across the city, so you don’t have to waste another minute second-guessing where to stay.

Sound good? Let’s get to it! 

Where to Stay in Oslo map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Oslo

Oslo is surprisingly compact, walkable, and far less hectic compared to most European capitals. And best of all, you’re never too far away from the waterfront or a green space. 

Another major perk is the city’s public transport system, which is incredibly reliable and easy to use. Trams, buses, the T-bane (metro), and even ferries all run on the same ticket, so you can hop around the city without overthinking routes or costs. And after a full day of sightseeing (and yes, you will walk a lot), having that flexibility is a lifesaver.

Where you stay, though, will shape your experience more than you might expect. Oslo’s neighborhoods each have their own personality. Some put you right in the middle of the action, steps from major sights and landmarks. Others offer a quieter, more local feel, with leafy streets, cozy cafés, and endless independent shops to dip in and out of. 

It really comes down to your travel style and the kind of trip you want to have. So to help you find your perfect fit, here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to stay in Oslo:

• Historic City Center (West Sentrum) – Right in the heart of Oslo, this area puts you within easy walking distance of major sights like the Royal Palace and National Museum. For a fantastic mid-range option here, we love the Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo.

• Bjørvika & Oslo S (East Sentrum) – Best for a modern & convenient stay – If you love modern architecture and want ultimate convenience, this is the spot for you, with the Opera House, MUNCH museum, and central station right on your doorstep. If you’re after something stylish and affordable, Comfort Hotel Karl Johan is a great shout.

• Frogner – Best for a quiet & upscale stay – A peaceful, upscale neighborhood known for its elegant buildings and proximity to Vigeland Sculpture Park. The Oslo Guldsmeden is a beautiful boutique hotel here that we absolutely love.

• Grünerløkka – Best for a local & unique atmosphere – This is one of Oslo’s trendiest neighborhoods, packed with independent shops, vintage stores, and a lively café and nightlife scene. The Anker Hotel is a fabulous choice in this upbeat part of the city. 

Where to Stay in Oslo

Histori City Center (West Sentrum) 

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros 

• Walkable to most major attractions
• Excellent selection of restaurants and shops
• Great transport links

Cons

• Can be the most expensive area
• Can be crowded, especially in summer
• Less of a “local” neighborhood feel

The Historic City Center (West Sentrum) is Oslo’s traditional city center, stretching from the Royal Palace down Karl Johans Gate (the city’s main pedestrian street) towards Parliament and the harbour. This is the most well-connected part of the city, and if you stay around here, you’ll be right smack dab in the middle of all the action. 

For first-time visitors, it’s hard to beat this location. Many of Oslo’s biggest highlights are just a short walk away, including the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and Oslo Cathedral. You’ll also have endless cafés, shops, and restaurants lining Karl Johans gate, so there’s always something going on, day or night.

What we love most about this location is just how easy it makes your trip. You can explore a lot on foot, and when you’re ready to go further, there’s always a tram or T-bane station close by. For example, you can walk to the Royal Palace and National Museum, then hop on a tram to explore the trendy streets of Grünerløkka or the waterfront at Aker Brygge. 

Basically, if you want to make the most of your time and have everything within easy reach, this is the perfect place to call home during your trip. 

Hotel Continental – $$$ 

If you’re looking to splurge on something truly special, you can’t do better than the Hotel Continental. 

What we love about this hotel is that all the rooms are individually styled, with carefully chosen artwork that gives each one its own personality. Some of the suites even come with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Oslo Fjord (can you imagine waking up to that view?!). 

Location-wise, you’re right opposite the National Theatre and within easy walking distance of most of the city’s top sights. And the historic Theatercafé is a highlight in itself, serving guests for over a century and still feeling like a true Oslo institution.

Expect prices to start around €220 per night and climb well above €3,340+ per night for top suites, depending on the season. 

If the Hotel Continental is booked up, the Grand Hotel Oslo is another fantastic luxury option just a few steps away on Karl Johans gate. It’s best known for its rooftop bar and stunning views across Oslo.

Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo – $$ 

If you’re after something stylish without the full luxury price tag, we can’t recommend Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo enough! 

It’s modern, comfortable, and just really easy to settle into. But the real highlight is the breakfast. It’s genuinely one of the best we’ve had with smoothies, local cheeses, made-to-order hot dishes, and yes, incredible waffles (we’re still thinking about them). It’s exactly what you need before a full day of exploring on foot.

There’s also a solid Italian restaurant on-site, plus a well-equipped gym if you need it. And in terms of location, you’re just a short walk from Karl Johans gate and the central station, so getting around within Oslo (or further afield to the forests of “Oslomarka”) is effortless.

Rates typically start from around €165 to €305+ per night, not bad for such a stylish stay in the city center!

Another great mid-range option in the area is the Thon Hotel Slottsparken, which offers apartment-style rooms with kitchens right next to the Royal Palace (perfect if you want to save a bit of money on eating out). 

We also love the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Oslo, which has an indoor pool and some seriously impressive views from its rooftop bar. It’s also just a 5-minute walk from Oslo’s Royal Palace and National Gallery. 

Smarthotel Oslo – $ 

If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly that doesn’t sacrifice style or location, Smarthotel Oslo is worth checking out. 

The rooms are small, but smartly designed, with comfy beds and everything you need for a solid night’s sleep (which is really all you need when you’re out exploring most of the day). You’re also just a short walk from Karl Johans gate, so you’re never too far from the action. Plus, there’s a relaxed bar area on-site that’s perfect for a casual drink before heading out in the evening. 

Rates for this hotel typically start from around €66 to €140+ per night, depending on the season and room type, which is such a steal for a city center location. 

If Smarthotel Oslo is full, Scandic Go, Grensen 20 is another option with a great central location. It’s simple and modern, with everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

Or, if you’re looking for something more traditional, Cochs Pensjonat also offers simple rooms set in a charming historic building right by the Royal Palace Park. It has such a cozy, slightly old-school vibe that feels more local compared to modern chain hotels. 

Bjørvika & Oslo S (East Sentrum) 

BEST FOR A MODERN & CONVENIENT STAY

Pros 

• Ultra-modern architecture
• Excellent transport links (airport train)
• Walkable to the Opera House and MUNCH

Cons

• Fewer traditional restaurants and shops
• Lots of ongoing construction

Bjørvika is one of Oslo’s newest and most exciting areas, set right along the waterfront next to Oslo Central Station (Oslo S). If convenience is high on your list, this is definitely the area for you because you’re just steps away from the main transport hub, including the airport train, which makes late arrivals and early departures SO much easier.

What really makes this area stand out, though, is the architecture. It’s bold, modern, and a little futuristic in places. You’ve got the Oslo Opera House, where you can actually walk up onto the roof for panoramic views of the city (we loved doing this at sunset), the striking MUNCH Museum, and the beautifully designed Deichman Library (honestly, worth popping into even if you’re not a book person). The Barcode skyline also gives the area its distinctive, futuristic edge.

In terms of the vibe, it’s lively and energetic, with waterfront paths, restaurants, and plenty of places to sit and take it all in (we found ourselves lingering here more than expected). The general location makes things easy too, with the historic center just a 15-minute walk away and plenty of public transport right on your doorstep.

Revier – $$$ 

If you’re after something a little different, Revier is such a fun, stylish place to stay in Bjørvika. 

The rooms are modern and thoughtfully designed, with clever little touches that make a difference (and some even come with balconies, which is always a treat). But what really makes this place stand out are the extras. There’s an in-house cinema and film club (honestly, how often do you see that?), a rooftop terrace that’s open year-round with great views, and a really solid restaurant and bar on-site.

It’s tucked into the slightly older Kvadraturen area, right on the edge of Bjørvika, so you get a nice mix of modern surroundings and historic charm. You can expect rates to typically start from around €140 to €265+ per night, depending on the season and room type.

Another high-end option in this area is Amerikalinjen, an ultra-stylish boutique hotel in a historic building right next to the central station. It’s best known for its famous NYC-inspired jazz club, which is just as cool as it sounds! 

The Thon Hotel Opera is another solid choice, located right next to the Opera House with great views and easy access to both the waterfront and transport links. With a well-loved breakfast and fresh, modern rooms, it’s an easy place to feel at home in the city.

Comfort Hotel Karl Johan – $$ 

We are big fans of the Comfort Hotel brand, and their Karl Johan location is a perfect example of why. 

The whole place has a fun, social vibe. The rooms are colorful, modern, and comfortable, and there’s a great energy throughout the hotel that makes it feel lively without being overwhelming. One of our favorite touches is the backyard terrace; it’s such a nice spot for a drink in the warmer months. And the breakfast? Always a winner, with a big, varied spread that sets you up perfectly for the day.

This particular hotel is a great fit for solo travelers, couples, or anyone who wants a central, stylish stay without spending a fortune. In terms of pricing, you can expect rates to fall between €28 to €175+ per night. 

If Comfort Hotel Karl Johan is fully booked, the Scandic Oslo City is a solid backup. It’s just 300 feet from Oslo Central Station, so you couldn’t be better placed for getting around the city or catching the airport train. 

Alternatively, BJØRVIKA APARTMENTS is another option, offering fully-equipped apartments perfect for longer stays and family trips. You’ll also have access to a rooftop terrace (hello, skyline views!), and if you don’t feel like cooking, there are plenty of great cafés and restaurants within walking distance.

Citybox Oslo – $ 

Citybox Oslo is another one of our favorite budget-friendly hotel concepts that focuses on the essentials: a comfortable bed, a clean room, and a great location. 

We absolutely loved the self-service check-in (no waiting around!), and the design is everything you’d want from a modern Scandinavian hotel. You’re also right by the central station, which makes getting around the city (or heading to/from the airport) incredibly convenient.

In terms of amenities, there’s no full-service restaurant on-site, but there is a guest kitchen so you can prep your own food and save a bit on eating out. Or, just venture out to one of the many excellent cafés and restaurants that are within walking distance.

You can expect rates for this hotel to range from around €50 to €380+ per night, depending on the season and room type.

If Citybox is full, the Comfort Hotel Xpress Central Station offers a similar experience right next to the station. It’s a great pick if you want something super central and easy to base yourself from. 

K7 Hotel Oslo is another great budget option that operates as a hybrid hotel/hostel, with both private rooms and dorms. Here, you can expect a more social, laid-back vibe that works well for solo travelers or anyone looking to meet people.

Frogner 

BEST FOR A QUIET & UPSCALE STAY

Pros 

• Elegant and peaceful residential vibe
• Home to the beautiful Frogner Park
• Great local cafés and boutiques

Cons

• Further from the city center
• Fewer major tourist attractions
• Nightlife is very limited

If you’re looking for a quieter, more local experience, Frogner is a fantastic area to consider. This is one of Oslo’s most elegant and beautiful residential districts, known for its classic 19th-century apartment buildings and relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. 

We absolutely love this area because you get to experience everyday Oslo life with cozy cafés, peaceful streets, and plenty of independent shops. It’s definitely the kind of place where you can grab a coffee and roam around without a plan! At the same time, you’re just a short tram ride from the city center, so you can still explore all the main attractions (like the Royal Palace and Karl Johans gate) without having to travel too far.

The highlight in Frogner itself is Frogner Park, home to the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park. With over 200 sculptures set across wide green spaces (and free to visit), it’s one of Oslo’s most iconic spots, and somewhere you’ll probably want to visit a couple of times. 

Overall, Frogner is ideal if you want a calm, slightly more upscale base with a strong local feel, while still staying well connected to the rest of the city.

Sommerro – $$$ 

As a hotel, Sommerro is a destination in itself! Housed in a beautifully restored 1930s building, it’s a stunning celebration of Art Deco design (honestly, it’s hard not to stop and admire every detail).

We were absolutely blown away by the attention to detail here. The rooms are gorgeous, and the facilities really are next level. There’s a rooftop pool and sauna (yes, with views), a stunning spa, a private cinema, and a gorgeously decorated restaurant and bar. 

If you’re looking for a truly special and memorable stay (and you’re ready to splurge a little), this is the place to book. Expect rates to start from around €265 per night, rising to €530+ per night for more premium rooms and peak dates.

For other high-end options nearby, Saga Hotel Oslo is a great boutique pick set in a beautiful historic building within walking distance from the Royal Palace. You’ll also be treated to a generous breakfast spread each morning, one of the standout perks of staying here! 

Hotel Gabelshus is another great shout in the Frogner district (though it leans more traditional), with elegant rooms and old-school charm. It even includes a delicious evening dinner, adding extra value and a cozy, all-inclusive feel to your stay.

Oslo Guldsmeden – $$ 

For our mid-range pick, we absolutely love Oslo Guldsmeden. The whole place has a relaxed, bohemian feel, with thoughtful eco-friendly touches throughout. 

The rooms are super special, with four-poster beds and Balinese-inspired décor; honestly, it feels a little bit like a retreat in the middle of the city. The breakfast is also something we couldn’t not mention—think fresh juices, homemade treats, and plenty of organic goodness. And to top things off, the small spa (with a sauna and steam bath) is perfect for winding down after a day out.

In terms of location, it’s tucked away on a quiet street in Frogner, so it feels peaceful, but you’re still just a short walk from the tram when you want to head into the center! You can expect rates to start from around €175 per night, rising to €350+ per night depending on the season. 

If you’re looking for an apartment-style stay around Frogner, we recommend checking out Frogner House – Bygdøy Allé, which offers modern rooms with a kitchenette, heated floors, and access to a shared laundry room. It’s also in a great location; just an easy 8-minute stroll from both Frogner Park and Vigeland Park.

Frogner House – Skovveien is another option (also part of the Frogner House group), set in a charming Victorian-era building with stylish, apartment-style rooms. From here, you’ll be within walking distance of Oslo’s Royal Palace and about 15 minutes from Frogner Park. 

The Apartments Company – The Sweet – $ 

For a more budget-friendly stay in the upscale Frogner neighborhood, The Apartments Company – The Sweet is a fantastic find. 

This aparthotel offers fully serviced studio apartments in a beautiful, recently renovated building. We were so impressed with the value for money here. The apartments are clean and comfortable, and they come with a small kitchenette, which is perfect for preparing simple meals and saving money on eating out (Oslo can be expensive, so this is a huge plus!). 

The location is also great, in a quiet residential area but still just a short walk from the tram stop and the Royal Palace park. It’s a smart and affordable way to stay in one of Oslo’s most desirable neighborhoods. Rates typically start from around €60 to €75+ per night, depending on the season and room type.

If The Apartments Company – The Sweet is all booked (and they do get booked up quickly!), Scandic Solli is another option. It’s a large, modern hotel on the edge of Frogner with excellent facilities, including a gym and sauna. 

Numa I Topp is also worth checking out, it’s just an 8-minute walk from The Royal Palace and offers a convenient aparthotel-style experience. What’s great about this spot is that there’s also a restaurant on-site, so you can either cook for yourself or keep things easy and dine in.

Grünerløkka 

BEST FOR A LOCAL & UNIQUE ATMOSPHERE

Pros 

• Vibrant, creative, and youthful vibe
• Packed with independent shops and cafés
• Great nightlife and live music scene

Cons

• Can be noisy at night
• Further from the main historic sights

Grünerløkka is easily one of the coolest areas in Oslo. It’s the city’s creative hub, packed with independent shops, vintage stores, fabulous coffee spots, and a food and bar scene that’s lively and super friendly. You’ll also find plenty of street art and small galleries, which really add to that creative, slightly alternative feel. 

What we loved most about this neighborhood, hands down, is the vibe. It’s a little edgy, a little artsy, and full of personality. You can spend hours just wandering around, stopping for coffee, browsing small boutiques, and stumbling across places you didn’t plan to visit (which really is half the fun when exploring a new city).

The Akerselva River also runs right through the neighborhood, which adds a surprisingly peaceful side to it all. There are walking paths, green spaces, and even small waterfalls, so you can easily switch from city buzz to something more relaxed in minutes.

As a district, Grünerløkka is a great fit for younger travelers, food lovers, or anyone looking for something a bit different from the typical city center stay. And while it’s only a short tram or bus ride away from Oslo city center, it really does feel like its own little world—in the best way possible.

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo – $$$ 

While technically just outside Grünerløkka, the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel is easily the top luxury pick on this side of the city. 

As Norway’s tallest building, the hotel offers absolutely spectacular views over the city and the Oslofjord. If you choose to stay here, expect to be blown away by the views from the top-floor gym and pool (it’s as good as it sounds!). In terms of location, the hotel is situated right next to the central station, so it’s incredibly convenient for getting around.

For pricing, you’re typically looking at around €135 to €265+ per night for higher-end rooms. 

Another great high-end option nearby is Thon Hotel Spectrum, which is known for its amazing breakfast and certified eco-friendly status. It’s an easy, no-stress choice that ticks all the right boxes.

Anker Hotel – $$ 

For a great-value stay right on the edge of Grünerløkka, we recommend the Anker Hotel for its spacious rooms and great location. 

Downstairs, there’s a lobby bar and even a small garden area (a nice bonus if the weather’s behaving!). You’re also just a 15-minute walk from the city center, and with trams and buses right outside, getting around couldn’t be easier. 

It’s a great balance of price, comfort, and location, perfect if you want to explore both Grünerløkka and the rest of Oslo without spending too much. In terms of pricing, rates typically start from around €85 to €175+ per night, not too bad considering the location and overall quality of the rooms. 

If the Anker Hotel is full, the Scandic Vulkan is another excellent mid-range option located right next to the Mathallen food hall—perfect for our fellow foodie travelers! You can even rent a bike for free, making it easy to explore Oslo like a true local.

MAYA Apartments – Carl Berner is also worth checking out, with its family-friendly apartments in a quiet residential area just a short tram ride from Grünerløkka. Another perk about this property is that you’re just a short 10-minute walk away from Norway’s oldest botanical garden. 

Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget – $ 

Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget is easily one of our favorite budget hotels in Oslo. It’s set in the lively Youngstorget area, right between the city center and Grünerløkka, so you get the best of both worlds.

The whole place has a fun, modern feel, with lots of services and amenities (like a laundromat). There’s no traditional restaurant, but the 24/7 lobby shop is surprisingly handy for grabbing snacks, drinks, or a quick bite (especially after a late night out). The rooms are compact, but stylish and comfortable, perfect for a short stay!

Prices usually begin at around €70 per night and can go up to €175+ for higher-end rooms or peak dates.

Top Activities to do in Oslo

Now that you’ve picked your ideal area and hotel, it’s time to start planning your time in Oslo! This city is easy to explore and packed with unique experiences, from scenic fjords to vibrant neighborhoods. Here are a few activities we think are absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.

• See Oslo by bike – This cycling tour is hands-down one of the best ways to get your bearings. We loved cruising past major sights like Karl Johans Gate with a local guide and exploring cool areas like Aker Brygge at a relaxed, easy pace.

• Cruise the Oslo Fjord – This electric fjord cruise was such a peaceful experience. Gliding almost silently across the water while taking in views of the islands made it feel incredibly calm and unique.

• Take a sightseeing bus tour – Prefer something more laid-back? This 3-hour sightseeing tour hits key spots like Vigeland Park and Holmenkollen, with sweeping views over the city and fjord along the way.

• Taste your way through Oslo – Oslo’s food scene surprised us in the best way! This food tour let us sample everything from local cheeses and cured meats to seafood and Norwegian waffles—definitely come hungry.

• Experience Norway’s landscapes on a day trip – This private fjord and Flåm Railway tour is unforgettable. From cruising through dramatic fjords to riding one of the world’s most scenic train routes, it’s truly a bucket-list experience.

Thanks for reading!

Oslo is a city that really grows on you, with its mix of modern architecture, waterfront walks, and easy escapes into nature just minutes from the center. Where you stay can shape your entire experience here, whether that means being in the heart of the action, by the harbor, or in a quieter, more local neighborhood. No matter your travel style or budget, there’s a spot in Oslo that will feel just right—and once you find it, everything else about your trip tends to fall into place.

Before you pack those bags, take a look at our other Europe travel guides here for more tips, itineraries, and inspiration. We’ve packed them with everything you need to make the most of your time and hopefully fall in love with Oslo just like we did. We’ve also picked out a few of our favorite travel guides below to help you plan your next adventure!

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