Weekend breaks in Oslo

Norwegians treasure their free time, and can often be found enjoying the outdoors. Many Norwegians have holiday homes in the mountains, on the coast, or both. Plenty also have boats.

Weekends are a great time to enjoy those luxuries with family or friends, or even alone. If you're invited to a colleague’s hytte (cabin), it's an honour and a privilege that should not be passed up on.

There are so many choices of what to do and where to go on weekend breaks. It's best to leave before 3pm on a Friday in order to avoid traffic, as there are only a few major roads leaving the city. Trains and buses are another possibility and reach most places.

Weekend breaks from Oslo

Nordmarka

Spend the weekend hiking through this wild, forested park and stop to camp along the way, in tents or at any of the numerous cabins dotted throughout the park. In summer, hiking, biking and picnics are popular here, while it's a fantastic spot for sledging and skiing in the colder months.

Tønsberg and Verdens Ende

An hour west of Oslo on the coast lies Tønsberg, a city popular for its great weather, laid-back lifestyle and Nøtterøy golf course. Verdens Ende ('the end of the world') lies at the southern tip of the island of Tjøme, 16 miles (26km) south of Tønsberg. This outcropping is well known for its beautiful scenery, small islands, fishing, swimming and dramatic views.

Risør

Risør is a picturesque, whitewashed city within the limits of Sørlandet, the southern region of Norway, which stretches down to the tip of the country. This traditional fishing village is a regional capital of arts and crafts. It is inhabited by fishermen and artists and has several galleries, theatres and small inns. It features a wooden boat festival which is staged in the first week of August every year.

Sweden

The Swedish border is only an hour and a half's drive from Oslo, and Norwegians frequently drive to Svinesund on a harrytur (a quick shopping trip over the border). With Swedish grocery prices 20 to 30 percent below Norwegian prices, it makes financial sense to make the trip, even after paying for gas. 

Past the border is the western city of Gothenburg, with many attractions, such as Liseberg Amusement Park. Sweden’s western coastline and archipelago is also known for its natural beauty and great sailing.

Denmark

Copenhagen and Frederikkshavn are just a ferry ride away. Ferries leave the Oslo harbours daily, and weekend or day trips are popular. Some ferry companies have special offers during the low season, and on holidays they offer themed crossings. Lodgings range from simple to luxury. You can also reach Denmark by bus or train from the Oslo Jernbanetorget.