Scandic Adventure

Such a pretty city x

How to get there?

The two hour flight to Oslo can be pretty cheap with Ryanair, we managed to get our return tickets for just €40 each! The airport Ryanair flies into (Rygge) isn't the main airport, but getting to the city from there is pretty handy. You can get a free bus from the airport to the train station, and you'll be in the heart of the city in less than an hour. (Top tip - get the coffee on the train, it's delish!)

Is it as expensive as people are saying?

Everyone and their granny told me I was crazy going to Oslo, because it's so expensive! And yes it's pricey, but like I said the flights were cheap, our hotel was reasonable and the only transport we used was that train getting to and from the airport. But be prepared to pay about €10 for a pint or bottle and about €14/€15 for a decent cocktail! In saying all of that, by the time you're finished reading this you won't mind spending a bit more then usual :)

Accommodation

We stayed in the Scandic Victoria hotel, which is a lovely hotel just off one of Oslo's main shopping street (Karl Johans Gate). We paid about €120 per night and that included an amazing buffet breakfast each day. The breakfast hall had every food imaginable, and we made sure to fill our bellies before we headed out for the day! I'd actually recommend the hotel for the breakfast alone! Our room was standard but comfortable with a nice big bed (and a duvet each!!!!), brilliant shower, mini fridge and TV. The hotel is on a quite street,but within walking distance of everything.

All the food!!!

What to get up to...

Oslo has so much to offer for such a small city. First of all the city itself is absolutely stunning, the modern buildings fit in perfectly with the old architecture, the cobbled streets give the city an old school feel, and there's something to see or do around every corner. We managed to fit in so much over the weekend including visiting The Royal Palace, The Noble Prize Center, The Opera House, The National Gallery as well as strolling down the marina and of course stopping by a few bars and restaurants.

The Royal Palace

The Opera House

The National Gallery

The Marina

Not only was the city fabulous by day, it was just as beautiful by night. Unfortunately there was no Northern Lights for us to see, but all the shops, bars, hotels and restaurants did their best to brighten up the city for us. Literally every street is lined with fairy lights, lanterns and candles!

Food & Drink

Whatever tickles your fancy Olso has it, whether it's sushi, Italian, seafood, pizza or taco's, there'll be a restaurant for you! The marina area alone is one of the prettiest areas with countless bars and restaurants. And even though Oslo is cold every bar has a covered outdoor terrace,heaters in every corner and blankets on every seat.

On our first night we were recommended two cocktail bars, Himkok and Botaniske. Both were absolutely amazing! Himkok is just a door on the street that you'd easily walk past (Google map that shit) but once inside it opens up to a four floor cocktail bar/ barber shop with amazing cocktails on tap.

 

 Botaniske was a good bit smaller but quite unique! All the cocktail had a plant/herb ingredient, but don't let that put you off, they were amazing!

What to wear

While I was there (early November) Oslo was pretty chilly and rainy so wrapping up is essential! I got away with a coat and a light scarf but if you're going any later in the year you'll definitely need more layers! And let me tell you, the people of Norway certainly know how to dress themselves, the men over there look like they've just stepped off the catwalk!

I could go on and on about such a wonderful city but I'd be here all day! But if I can say one thing, it's go to Oslo! Save your pennies and you'll have plenty of money to visit by next Christmas, and you might just see me there because I'm already planning on going back!

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