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, and you can 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 and colorful markets to tranquil parks. Whether you want to wander historic streets, sample the local cuisine or just relax by the waterfront, Oslo with kids 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 tour of Norway, but of course the city is also excellent as a city trip destination.

Also read: Winter tour of Norway with kids.

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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 the 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.

Book your stay in Att | Kvadraturen here

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!

Are you looking for a more affordable option? Then Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget is a great choice.

Book your stay at Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget here

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 purchased our tickets in advance online through GetyourGuide.com

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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.

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 to the opera house! Yes, you heard that right. This isn’t just a venue for classical music fans; it’s also a fantastic 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.

Almost as iconic as the opera house in Sydney!

Other fun activities in Oslo with kids

Oslo has a lot more fun things to offer for families. Here are some additional 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). Here, children can admire real Viking ships and learn about the lives and adventures of these legendary warriors.

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 three museums mentioned above are all located on the Bygdøy peninsula. Fun fact: in the summer months, a ferry sails from Aker Brygge to this peninsula. During the rest of the year, it can be reached by public transport.

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 absolute must-sees.

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 houses 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.

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

The Oslo Pass gives you access to more than 30 museums and attractions in Oslo, along with free travel on public transportation, including buses, streetcars, subways, and ferries within the city limits. The Oslo Pass is available for various time periods, ranging from 24 to 72 hours.

Tip: Also read our blog about Copenhagen with kids, another fun Scandinavian city!

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