This is a very hyped-up area in Oslo. It promises to be this place to hang out in cools cafes,…read morebars, and restaurants. I guess its interesting but it all seems just a little too much contrived. Basically, Grünerløkka is this one very long street. Yes, there are tons of places where you can grab a drink or a meal. And yes, in the evening this place can get pretty full of both the local crowd and the, "Looking for something Oslo-ish," travelers. So, it serves its purpose. But, it's just really not that much fun. Some of the bars get way too crowded awhile others are just empty and looking for customers. That's the paradox of this area. This street does have few shops that are pretty interesting. So, it is worth the visit. Just don't have too high of expectations. I'm not saying anything negative about this area, you just need to know what to expect.

You want to see the true part of Oslo? Then local neighborhood, Grünerløkka has everything you'd…read moreexpect of a vibrant urban environment. Speciality shops, the best coffee shops in town, the food court Mathallen, and plenty of restaurants, pubs & cafe's. The list is too long to complete, but it's truly a really cool, vibrant part of town, no matter when you are there. And it's a very short walk from your hotel.

Out of all the islands surrounding Oslo this is the closest one to get to by ferry. The boat leaves…read morefrom Akker Brygge (directly across the Nobel Peace Prize museum), and the ticket of the ferry is the same price as a bus ticket / included in your weekly pass if you have one. The ride takes less than 10 mins and the boats come often. As for the island, it's pretty big and there are a couple sand areas to chill. Water is well uhm - warm for Scandinavian standards - but being used to Egyptian and Caribbean beaches definitely colder that I am used to :D Still recommended on sunny gorgeous days.

We took a mini cruise through the Oslofjord using the public ferries…read more Hovedoya was one of the main islands that had its own direct ferry as well as a stop over on the other ferry lines. Having more frequent stops meant we could hop off and walk around and get back on and continue with our "cruise". No additional fare needed since we had the Oslo Pass. The island itself was quite beautiful with a path surrounded by trees. We passed by a cafe and ruins of a monastery which was undergoing some repairs. There was a beach but we skipped since it started raining. Would try to come back again in nicer weather to spend more time and escape the city of Oslo.

My relatives and parents wanted to take a stroll in a small public park. My cousin mentioned that…read moresvartdalsparken is very scenic and beautiful. We went through a small path that lead us to the entrance. There were picnic tables and lots of kids/families in the area. Once we went through the front, starts a small trail which is scenic. You might want to wear tennis shoes-you are entering a hiking trail that is not paved. There are small ponds you will pass. I believe at 1.5 miles you cross this bridge with a beautiful waterfall and an old abandoned building, which is worth the hike. These woods/hike is not strenuous, but I suggest you wear the proper footwear.

Slottsparken was one of my favorite green spaces in Oslo. The park surrounding the Royal Palace is…read morebeautifully maintained, with wide walking paths, mature trees, flower beds, and plenty of peaceful spots to relax. I enjoyed taking a slow walk through the grounds and admiring the elegant landscape design. Even though it is located in the heart of the city, the atmosphere feels calm and refreshing. The views of the palace from different angles are excellent, and the entire area is perfect for both sightseeing and relaxation. A wonderful place that combines nature, history, and royal elegance.

This is yet another great park in the center of Oslo. It is perfectly situated in the city so that…read moreyou can take a nice stroll as you are trying to get to your destination. It is so peaceful and beautiful.