Winter in Oslo

Tobogganing

Korketrekkeren is Oslo's most popular toboggan run, and it's not without reason. The slope is located near Holmenkollen and is a two-kilometer-long adventure with speed and a thrilling stomach drop! The track goes from Frognerseteren to Midtstuen. It's easy to take the subway there, and sleds can be borrowed from The Toboggan Association.

After the sledding trip, you can warm up at Café Seterstua with hot cocoa and apple cake.

Of course, there are also several other sledding opportunities in Oslo. Head out to the forest or get creative in some of the city's snow-covered parks.

Stovner Tower

Stovner Tower is Norway's longest tower. It's an observation tower, an attraction in itself, a meeting point, a monument, and also a kind of trail, with its 265 meters to the top - even though the top is only 15 meters above the ground. Bring a thermos with something warm to drink and enjoy the view of the snow-covered landscape. Perhaps you'll catch a colorful sunset as a bonus.

Holmenkollen and The Rose Castle

In Holmenkollen, a perfect winter day awaits where you can dine at the restaurant, visit the Ski Museum, and use it as a starting point for skiing trips in the woods, toboggan rides in Korketrekkeren, and fun in Oslo's largest alpine center.

Nearby, you'll also find the popular attraction, The Rose Castle. An art installation aimed at telling the story of the occupation of Norway and the fundamental principles of democracy, the rule of law, and humanism. The installation becomes even more magical when covered in snow. You can warm up in The Rose Castle's Great Hall, where you can purchase hot and cold drinks, freshly baked waffles, cinnamon buns, and more.

Many cross-country skiing opportunities

Did you know that there are over 2600 kilometers of cross-country ski trails in Oslo? Several of these trails are illuminated, allowing you to enjoy the cozy evening atmosphere in the woods.

Best of all? One of these trails is right outside Topcamp Bogstad. You can practically put on your skis in the cabin and go directly onto the trail. The possibilities in the woods around Oslo are endless, but here are some recommended starting points to begin your skiing adventure, from Visit Oslo.

• Subway line 1 to Midtstuen, Holmenkollen, Voksenkollen, or Frognerseteren
• Subway line 3 to Skullerud or Mortensrud
• Subway line 5 to Sognsvann

In addition to fantastic cross-country ski trails, the city also offers complete alpine centers: Kirkerudbakken Ski Center, Varingskollen Alpine Center, Oslo Ski Center Grefsenkollen, and Skimore Oslo - the city's largest, with 14 slopes, 6 lifts, a halfpipe, and one of the largest terrain parks in Norway.

Exciting indoor activities

If it gets too cold outside, it can be nice to seek some indoor-activities. Oslo offers many exciting ones – just take your pick!

Oslo Reptile Park has lizards, snakes, crocodiles, spiders, scorpions, insects, and more. "Fangene på Fortet" is the place where you can bring friends or family for a fun day of problem-solving and challenges. For more speed and excitement, the trampoline park Rush, Oslo Climbing Park, and the activity center Megazone are the perfect destinations.

Sauna

There are many benefits to ice bathing, but the best one is the fun and social aspect of it. Bring your friends for a chilly delight. Along the waterfront between Sørenga and Tjuvholmen, there are several saunas by the water. Kok, Oslo Fjord Spa, and SALT are some examples.

Shopping and Christmas Market

Embark on a winter shopping spree or do your Christmas shopping. In Oslo, you'll find everything you need. Many of the exclusive stores are located in Nedre Slottsgate. There are various shops of different scales at Aker Brygge, in Bogstadveien, and on Karl Johans gate. In Grünerløkka, you'll discover numerous shops amidst hip coffee shops and trendy bars. The shopping centers Oslo City and Byporten are located by Oslo Central Station. At Paleet, Eger, and Steen & Strøm, you'll find stores in higher price ranges.

By all means, don't miss the charming Christmas market, right in the heart of the city. You'll find stalls with warm mulled wine, food and sweets, as well as local produce, wool, souvenirs, and much more. There's even a Ferris wheel that offers a panoramic view of the entire area.

Ice skating

Ice skating in the city center is a pleasant and atmospheric activity. The skating rink is for everyone, and admission is free. If you don't have your own skates, you can rent them for only 200 Norwegian kroner. When your toes and fingers get cold, you can stroll into one of the cafes, bakeries, or restaurants in the area to find warmth and something delicious to eat or drink.

Enjoy the museums and cultural scene

You can pick and choose, depending on your mood. Make sure to visit the Opera House, Deichman Bjørvika, and the new Munch Museum. Feel free to explore the Technical Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Norwegian Folk Museum, and the Natural History Museum as well. The National Museum, the Astrup Fearnley Museum, and the Henie Onstad Art Center offer enriching experiences for art enthusiasts.

Vigeland Park and Akershus Fortress are outdoor venues that can be both beautiful and atmospheric in winter. With fewer people and nice weather, it can become quite magical.

The capital also hosts a plethora of theater performances, shows, and concerts. Keep an eye on Visit Oslo's event calendar.