Oslo with children
16 tips for a visit to the Norwegian capital
Welcome to Oslo, the cool capital of Norway! Here, the modern vibe mixes with centuries-old traditions, allowing you to enjoy both the vibrant city atmosphere and the breathtaking nature surrounding it. Oslo is a city full of surprises, where you can find everything from world-class museums to cozy cafes, colorful markets, and tranquil parks. Whether you want to wander historic streets, sample local cuisine, or just relax by the waterfront, Oslo has something for everyone. So come on, be enchanted by Oslo’s laid-back charm and discover all the cool spots this city has to offer!”
We visited Oslo during a wonderful trip through Norway, but of course the city is also excellent as a city trip destination.
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Everything you need to know for your trip to Oslo with kids
Flight time
Flight time to Oslo can vary depending on your departure location. In general, a direct flight from, for example, Amsterdam to Oslo takes about 2 hours.
Climate
Oslo has a temperate maritime climate, which means that temperatures are relatively mild. Summers are generally pleasant, with average temperatures around 20-25°C, while winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common in the winter months, making the Oslo area a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts
Best travel time
The best time to visit Oslo is during the summer months, from June through August, when days are long and temperatures are pleasant. This is also peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Oslo in the spring or fall, when the weather can still be pleasant and there are fewer tourists. We visited Oslo in winter and were very lucky with the weather; there was fresh snow, the sun was shining, and it was around 3 degrees Celsius. You need some luck, but even in winter, Oslo can be a wonderful destination.
Currency
The currency in Norway is the Norwegian krone, abbreviated as NOK.
Hotels in Oslo with children
In center of Oslo, there are many nice child-friendly hotels. We stayed in Att I Kvadraturen, which was the perfect base for our Oslo adventures.
We stayed in the beautiful (and super spacious!) family room. The room had its own kitchen and dining table, something we always really appreciate during a vacation. After a long day in the city, we could prepare our own meals, and the kids could play freely.
Breakfast at Revier Oslo was included in our stay. We enjoyed a delicious à la carte menu with pancakes and oatmeal. What a wonderful start to the day!
Oslo is not an inexpensive city. But if you’re looking for more affordable alternatives, Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget, Bob W Oslo Sentralen, and Citybox Osloare great options.
Oslo Paradox Museum with children
Our first stop during our day in Oslo with kids was the Oslo Paradox Museum, a fascinating experience for both adults and children. Exploring illusions and perceptions was both fun and educational. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as tickets are slightly more expensive at the box office. We bought our tickets in advance online through GetyourGuide.com
The Vigeland Park in Oslo with children
We took the streetcar to Vigeland Park, where we were greeted by a collection of intriguing statues. For our children, the sculptures’ bare buttocks were hilarious. It’s a must-do if you’re in Oslo with kids.
About Vigeland Park
Vigeland Park is home to an extensive collection of sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, a renowned Norwegian sculptor. The park features more than 200 sculptures, each depicting various emotions and human experiences.
The showpiece of the park is the Monolith, a gigantic tower made of granite that stands 14 meters tall. This impressive sculpture depicts a tangle of human figures intertwined in a spiral of life and death, love and sorrow.
Along the central axis of the park, you will find the Bridge, adorned with life-size sculptures depicting different stages of life, and the Fountain, a beautiful work of art surrounded by playful children.
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Nature and playground
In addition to its artistic splendor, Vigeland Park also offers peace and serenity. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a relaxing walk in nature. At the entrance, there is a large free playground – super fun!
Practical information
The park is free to enter year-round and easily accessible by public transportation.
Climb the Oslo Opera House with kids
From the park take the streetcar towards the opera house! Yes, you heard right. This is not only a place for classical music fans, it is also a great place for a family adventure.
This building is like a giant slide for your imagination. You can walk along the water, and if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can even climb the sloping roof. And you know what the best part is? The view from up there is incredible! You get a stunning panorama of Oslo, making it perfect for a fun family photo.
Other fun activities in Oslo with kids
Oslo has so much more to offer for families. Here are a few more tips:
Visit the Royal Palace
Get a glimpse of royal life by visiting Oslo’s majestic Royal Palace. You can watch the changing of the guard and take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful palace gardens.
Vikingskiphuset
Step back in time and discover the fascinating world of the Vikings at the Vikingskiphuset (Viking Ship Museum). Hier kunnen kinderen echte Vikingsschepen bewonderen en leren over het leven en de avonturen van deze legendarische krijgers.
Norsk Folkemuseum
Visit the Norsk Folkemuseum and immerse yourself in Norway’s rich culture and traditions. Here, children can explore historic buildings, try traditional crafts, and even take a ride in an authentic horse-drawn streetcar.
The Fram Museum
Take your children on an exciting journey to the polar regions at the Fram Museum. Here, they can explore real expedition boats and learn about the brave explorers who ventured into the icy wilderness.
The above three museums are all located on the peninsula Bygdøy. Fun: in the summer months, a ferry sails from Aker brygge to this peninsula. In the other months it can be reached by public transport.
To the beach in Oslo with kids (Huk Beach)
Did you know you can actually go to the beach in Oslo? Huk Beach, like the three museums mentioned above, is located on the Bygdøy Peninsula and is a great spot to relax. It’s perfect on warm days, with sand, grassy areas, and shallow water for the kids to enjoy.
Ekebergparken in Oslo with kids
Ekebergparken is one of the best places in Oslo for families, yet many people overlook it. It combines nature, art, and a large playground. Kids can climb and play while you enjoy the view of the city. Modern art installations are scattered throughout the park, making the walk even more interesting.
Tip: Combine it with a picnic – it’s a lovely spot to unwind.
Boat tour of the Oslofjord
A boat tour of the Oslofjord is possibly the best way to explore Oslo from the water. You’ll sail past small islands, colorful houses, and take in the stunning views. Tip: Opt for a short 2-hour cruise, perfect for families with kids. Click here to book your boat tour in advance.
TusenFryd Amusement Park near Oslo
About 20 minutes from Oslo, you’ll find TusenFryd, the largest amusement park in Norway. With roller coasters, water attractions, and kids’ zones, it’s a perfect day trip for families. Especially fun for kids aged 6 and up. Check out more here.
Swimming and Sauna in the Oslofjord with kids
For a unique experience in Oslo, you can swim in the fjord, often combined with a floating sauna. Throughout the harbor, you’ll find various saunas where you can take a refreshing dip. This is a fun and typically Scandinavian activity, especially for older kids. For more info, check out KOK’s website.
Finally, don’t forget to sample a cinnamon roll at one of the city’s many bakeries. And if you still have time to spare: the nature around Oslo is fantastic and definitely worth exploring.
Fun restaurants in Oslo with kids
Oslo is known for its vibrant culinary scene and diverse dining options. For families looking for kid-friendly restaurants, Vippa and Mathallen are highly recommended.
Vippa
Vippa is a lively food court located on Oslo’s picturesque harbor. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of food stalls and trucks offering a wide range of dishes, from local delicacies to international favorites. With a relaxed atmosphere and spacious seating, Vippa is the perfect place for a casual meal with the family.
What makes Vippa truly special is its emphasis on sustainability and community. Many of the stalls use local and organic ingredients, and regular events are held to celebrate local culture and crafts.
Mathallen Oslo
If you’re looking for a world-class culinary experience, Mathallen Oslo is the place to be. This indoor market hall features an array of artisan food stores, delis and restaurants, where you can discover the flavors of Norway and the world.
For families, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from traditional Norwegian dishes to exotic flavors from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Norwegian meal or a quick bite to eat on the go, you’ll find it all at Mathallen Oslo
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Practical tips for Oslo with children
Public transportation
If you’re using public transportation, the Ruter App is a must-have. This handy app provides real-time information on routes and departure times. You can’t buy tickets on public transport, but you can easily purchase them through the app, allowing you to travel around Oslo effortlessly and make the most of your time.
The Oslo Pass
With the Oslo Pass, you get access to over 30 museums and attractions in Oslo, as well as free public transport, including buses, trams, metro, and ferries within the city limits. The Oslo Pass is available for different time periods, ranging from 24 hours to 72 hours.
Tip: Also read our blog about Copenhagen with kids, another fun Scandinavian city!
Frequently Asked Questions about Oslo with Kids
Yes, Oslo is a great destination for young children. The city is clean, easy to navigate, and has many green parks and playgrounds. The attractions are relatively close to each other, and the public transportation system is well-organized.
With young children, the Vigeland Park (with playground), the Opera House, and a short boat trip on the Oslofjord are great options. There are also many playgrounds scattered around the city.
For older children, the Paradox Museum, the Fram Museum, and a visit to the fjord (such as swimming or a boat tour) are highly recommended. A day trip to the TusenFryd amusement park is also popular.
In bad weather, museums are the best option. Consider the Paradox Museum, Fram Museum, and Norsk Folkemuseum. These are both educational and fun for kids.
For a trip to Oslo with children, 2 to 3 days is ideal. This allows enough time to see the main highlights and also plan some relaxing activities, like a boat trip or park visit.
Yes, Oslo is known to be an expensive city, especially for hotels, food, and drinks. However, many activities, such as parks and playgrounds, are free.
Yes, Oslo is accessible with a stroller. The city has wide sidewalks and good public transport. However, keep in mind there are some hills and elevation changes.
Book your family vacation to Oslo
You can easily find family-friendly accommodations in Oslo through Booking.com, and the cheapest flights can be found with Skyscanner. For fun excursions, boat tours, and activities, check out GetYourGuide.com.
Still exploring options for a family-friendly holiday? On our homepage, you’ll find an overview of popular destinations for families.
