Exotic Vacation in Oslo: 5 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Gamle Oslo

Must-try foods in Gamle Oslo

• Fårikål
  FårikålThe national dish of Norway, this hearty mutton and cabbage stew is traditionally seasoned with whole black peppercorns and salt, then simmered until tender. While historically an autumn dish, it is a staple at traditional Gamle Oslo spots like Asylet, where it’s served with boiled potatoes in a rustic 18th-century setting.
• Brunost (Brown Cheese) on Vaffel
  Brunost (Brown Cheese) on VaffelA quintessential Norwegian snack, this involves heart-shaped waffles topped with thin slices of Gudbrandsdalsost (caramelized whey cheese). In Gamle Oslo, you can find this iconic pairing at local harbor-side kiosks and the SALT cultural hub, often served with a dollop of sour cream and jam.
• Rakfisk
  RakfiskFermented trout that has been salted and aged for several months, resulting in a pungent, savory flavor. It is a delicacy typically served raw on lefse (flatbread) with red onion, sour cream, and almond potatoes. It remains a seasonal must-try at traditional eateries in the Grønland and Bjørvika areas during the winter months.
• Pinnekjøtt
  PinnekjøttSalted and dried lamb ribs that are steamed over birch branches, giving the meat a distinct woody aroma. Traditionally a Christmas dish, it is widely available in Gamle Oslo’s traditional restaurants throughout the winter of 2026, served with mashed rutabaga and a side of 'vossakorv' sausage.
• New Nordic Seafood
  New Nordic SeafoodGamle Oslo is home to the world-renowned Maaemo, where 'interesting' takes on local seafood like mahogany clams and langoustines are served. For 2026, the trend continues with hyper-local, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the Oslofjord, presented with avant-garde fermentation techniques.
• Pølse i Lompe
  Pølse i LompeThe 'original' Norwegian street food. It consists of a hot dog wrapped in a 'lompe' (a soft potato flatbread) instead of a bun. While found at every Narvesen, the best way to experience it is at the iconic Syverkiosken, the last traditional hot dog stand near the district, often customized with shrimp salad or crispy onions.

Trip guide

• About Gamle Oslo
  About Gamle OsloGamle Oslo, a borough in the eastern part of Norway’s capital, serves as the site of the city’s original urban settlement founded by King Harald Hardråde around 1050. The district contains the medieval town, known as Gamlebyen, which remained the center of the city until a fire in 1624 led to the relocation of the town center.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Gamle Oslo is from June to August when mild temperatures and long daylight hours are ideal for exploring ruins and outdoor cafes. While winter offers a cozy atmosphere, many historical sites are less accessible due to snow and sub-zero temperatures. To avoid the peak summer crowds and higher prices, consider the shoulder months of May or September for pleasant walking weather and a more local feel.
• Getting around
  Getting around Gamle Oslo

  • Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) and Public Transit As the city's main transport hub located on the edge of the district, Oslo S provides immediate access via all subway lines (T-bane), regional trains, and the Flytoget airport express.
  • Tram Lines 13, 18, and 19 The blue city trams offer frequent service directly through the heart of Gamle Oslo, connecting the historic ruins of Middelalderparken and the trendy Munch Museum area to the rest of the city center.
  • Walking and City Biking The district is highly pedestrianized and compact; visitors can easily navigate the cobblestone streets of the Old Town or use the extensive Oslo Bysykkel bike-sharing network found at numerous local docking stations.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the Ruter app to purchase digital tickets for the extensive tram and bus network that connects Gamle Oslo to the city center.
  • Signal your server clearly with eye contact or a small wave when you are ready to pay, as it is considered impolite for staff to bring the bill unprompted.
  • Exercise normal safety precautions in the multicultural Grønland area by staying aware of your surroundings at night and sticking to well-lit main streets.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Gamle Oslo

  • MUNCH Triennale 2026: The museum's major contemporary art event, 'Almost Unreal', continues into early 2026, exploring virtual vs. real spaces through immersive installations.
  • Oslo Science City Openings: Completion of Norway's largest Life Sciences building, a massive 66,000-square-meter hub for research and innovation in the Gaustadbekkdalen area.
• Visit Oslo↗
  Visit OsloThe official travel guide to Oslo provides comprehensive visitor information for the city, including the borough of Frogner and its famous Frogner Park.