If you are heading to Norway this year it is likely that you are flying into the capital, Oslo. First of all, I’m sure you’ll be very excited to visit the land of the fjords (and expensive beer). Second of all, you’ll need to find a hotel in Oslo.
This can prove to be easier said than done, as Oslo is a popular destination, and it can get quite expensive if you are visiting in the high season. This is why I’ve curated this list of the best hotels in Oslo for you! After living there for years, and having familiy who still do, I’ve stayed in a bunch of these.
As a Disney Adventure Guide, I also stay in one of these Oslo hotels about 6-7 times every summer!
Whether you are visiting Oslo on a budget, looking for a bit of luxury, or something in between, I know you’ll find a hotel in Oslo that suits your style on this list. I’ve made sure to indicate the price range for each hotel I’ve selected, so some of these are budget hotels, some are moderately priced hotels and some are the best luxury hotels in Oslo.
To be fair, my favorite hotels are all in the luxury range – I just can’t say no to macarons at breakfast!
Quick Oslo Travel Guide
Where to stay: Most people stay in the city center, near the train station (Oslo S) or along the street called Karl Johan (the main pedestrian and shopping street of the city). My favorite hotel in Oslo is Amerikalinjen, dedicated to those crossing the Atlantic to emigrate to America from Norway). Budget options are Citybox and the Anker Hostel, and the Comfort Hotel Grand Central is a good mid-range hotel. Those looking to splurge should stay at the historic Grand Hotel, another one of my personal favorites.
Top activities and tours in Oslo:
- Akershus Fortress (free entry, tours at a cost)
- Oslo Highlights Bike Tour ($46)
- The Fram Museum
- Fjord Cruise on the Oslo fjord ($58)
- Taste of Oslo Food Tour ($131)
Packing for Oslo: In the winter months, Oslo is very cold – so I highly recommend checking out my complete packing guide for winter in Norway. In the summer, Oslo is usually sunny and comfortable, but as always when it comes to packing for Norway; bring layers. Whilst the days are warm, evenings can still be chilly, so a light puffer jacket like this one is key year-round in Norway.
Airport transfer: The most efficient way to get from Oslo to the city center is to travel by train. The airport express Flytoget has an app, and gets you straight to the main train station (Oslo S) in around 20 minutes. There are private transfer services available, perfect for those who want the luxury and convenience of heading straight to a car when arriving – but the drive to the city is actually longer than the train ride.
My Top 3 Picks
These are my top 3 favorite hotels in Oslo (before we dive into the rest).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amerikalinjen
✅ Located in the former Norwegian America line headquarters, dedicated to the history of this
✅ Fantastic Cocktail Bar
✅ Central location right by the train station
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Grand Hotel
✅ Historic Luxury Hotel
✅ Celebrity Choice
✅ Located Right by the Palace and Parliament
Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget
✅ Very Affordable
✅ Basic Amenities
✅ Central Location
Where to stay in Oslo
As you are planning your trip to Oslo, you may want to get a lay of the land on where to stay. The city is located along the bays of the Oslo fjord (the nearest fjord to Oslo). From the fjord, the Akerselva river runs through the city, dividing it into what locals call Oslo East and Oslo West (Oslo øst and Oslo vest).
The city center is located along the waterfront, where you will find highlights such as the Opera House, Akershus Fortress and even Oslo Central Station.
From Oslo Central Station to the Norwegian Palace, the street named Karl Johans Gate goes in a straight line. I recommend visitors to Oslo stay near or along this street, or by the waterfront, in order to be in the city center. It is a pedestrian street, and also the main shopping street in the city.
All the hotels I have listed below are within the vicinity of this area, and are considered central hotels. Of course, if you stay further away from the water front and Karl Johans Gate, you’ll find that hotels are a little cheaper.
However, if you only have one or two days in Oslo (which is what I recommend for anyone planning a trip to Norway), then staying central is an important way to make sure you can explore as much of the city as possible.
There are so many great things to do in Oslo, including some epic museums and even free activities, and all the hotels I recommend below are near the highlights.
When to book your Oslo Hotel
Depending on what time of year you visit Norway, you don’t want to be in a situation where your preferred hotel is sold out. In the summer months, especially, hotel prices go up alongside the popularity of the hotels.
This means that from May to August, hotel rooms can sell out.
My advice for anyone traveling to Norway (not just Oslo, but also Bergen, Tromsø or anywhere else) is to book your accommodation as soon as you know your travel dates. When booking through sites such as Booking.com you often have free cancellation, which makes it easier to book early.
The Best Hotels in Oslo, Norway
Keep reading for the final list of my favorite hotels in Oslo – I hope you end up booking one of them and that you love it as much as me!
#1 Amerikalinjen
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | 💰 BUDGET: Luxury | 📍 LOCATION: Jernbanetorget 2 | ✅ Book it!
This has been my favorite hotel in Oslo ever since I stayed there whilst researching for my book (if you didn’t know, I am the author of Moon Norway!).
The entire hotel is like stepping back in time to the days when Norwegians set sail across the Atlantic. It is located in the former headquarters of the Norwegian America Line, who operated ships sailing between Oslo and New York!
Amerikalinjen was the Norwegian nickname for the route, literally translating to “the America line”. So, if you have Norwegian heritage in your family, chances are your ancestors would have walked through the halls of the Amerikalinjen lobby!
The rooms are not just spacious and luxurious – they’re like a time capsule filled with artifacts from those epic voyages. Plus, you can kick back in their cozy library and do some good old-fashioned people-watching after a hectic day.
And let’s not forget their cocktail bar Pier 42, the Atlas restaurant, and the jazz club Gustav – it’s like New York right here in Oslo! The cocktail bar is named after Pier 42 in New York, where the America Line ships would dock. The concept is heavily focused on contrasts, and they serve cocktails inspired by the differences between Oslo and New York, which I think is really cool.
The breakfast was the best! There were many varieties and everything was perfectly made and tasty! The hotel location was excellent; it was very easy to navigate around. The bed was very comfortable, highly recommended for the first time visitors.
Helen, March 2024 (read more reviews)
#2 Grand Hotel Oslo
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 💰 BUDGET: Luxury | 📍 LOCATION: Karl Johans Gate 31 | ✅ Book it!
An institution of Oslo, the Grand has been at its location along Karl Johans Gate since 1874. The hotel is an absolute classic, and the hotel I am lucky enough to stay at about once a week every summer.
I love a historic hotel, and I also love knowing all the history found in these hallways. This is where the Nobel Peace Price winners stay when they come to Norway to accept their award. Additionally, the hotel is popular amongst the rich and famous, and international stars usually stay here.
One time I even stayed here at the same time as Bruce Springsteen! I never saw him, but fans were flocked outside hoping to spot him.
The Grand cafe on the first floor is not just old, but the famous hangout of many Norwegian writers and poets – making it worth a visit on its own. When you stay at the Grand, breakfast is served at the Grand Cafe, and you join the ranks of the likes of Henrik Ibsen and Edvard Munch.
The hotel boasts of old-school luxury, without being intruding or “too much” in any way. The staff and service here are truly top-notch, and in 2014, the Rolling Stones stayed there for 10 days without anyone finding out until their last day, when Mick Jagger himself posted about it on Instagram.
If you want classic luxury, AND be right in the city center (you can literally see the Norwegian Parliament from the lobby, and the Royal Palace is just up the street), this is the hotel for you.
THE PLACE TO STAY! Room was very big, the facilities amazing. We had a bathroom very big and comfortable, all the essentials, very good quality. Though location is central, our room was quiet and had great city views. Breakfast was on the expensive side but AMAZING, very much worth it!!! Variety, tastiness all sorts of options.
Argentine, November 2023 (Read more reviews)
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#3 Comfort Hotel Express Youngstorget
⭐️ RATING: 3/5 Stars | 💰 BUDGET: Budget Friendly | 📍 LOCATION: Møllergata 26 | ✅ Book it!
This hotel focuses on all the basics, making it a great alternative for budget travel in Norway. It is based within walking distance of everything in central Oslo, and has a fun, colorful design.
You’ll find free WiFi and comfortable beds, and if you want anything extra – simply pay for it. It is like a low-cost airline! The extras can be anything from room-cleaning to extra towels.
It really is as simple as it gets. I stayed there for the first time in early 2017 and absolutely loved how easy the experience was. The lobby has a great coffee bar and lounge for a ‘grab and go’ breakfast!
It is also worth mentioning that there is a Comfort Hotel (not Xpress) at Børsparken as well, just on the other side of Karl Johans Gate (past Amerikalinjen). Just in case their Youngstorget location is fully booked.
This lovely hotel is also very central, and just a short walk from Karl Johan; which I’ve mentioned is the main shopping street in Oslo. Some rooms have lovely views of the city’s rooftops, and the windows face the Oslo Stock Market. The hotel has free WiFi, and the lobby offers computers to use free of charge for guests.
I stayed here with my mum when we ran the 10k at the Oslo Marathon, and we really enjoyed it (especially watching the marathon runners go past our window!). The breakfast in particular was great, with lots of healthy options!
Good value for money. The room is clean and a good size for the price. Check in and check out process was easy. Good location.
Yusef, March 2024 (Read More Reviews)
#4 Scandic Byporten
⭐️ RATING: 3/5 Stars | 💰 BUDGET: Mid-range | 📍 LOCATION: Jernbanetorget 6 | ✅ Book it!
Scandic Byporten is a great hotel in Oslo to stay at, and I often opt to stay here when I am catching an early flight (or am arriving late). The main reason for this is that it is practically located “in” the train station.
It is not literally in the train station, but the buildings are adjoined, so you can access the hotel from your train without going outside. If you are catching an early flight, the walk from breakfast to the Airport Express is as short as it can get.
They also have an amazing breakfast overlooking one of the busiest squares in Oslo, making it great for some early morning people watching. This is my other favorite thing about the hotel. Sitting along the windows high above everyone bustling off to work or school or wherever they are going is such a great way to start the day.
I used to stay here several times a year before moving to Oslo, as the drive from my village to Oslo airport is 6 hours long. Instead of driving through the night, I would stay at one of my favorite hotels in Oslo, get a good night’s sleep and show up bright and early for my flight the next morning.
I think we made the best choice when it comes to the hotel for our stay. We travelled in Oslo for Christmas and we stayed there for a week. The hotel is literally next to the train station but it’s so quiet. Coming out of the station and in snowy Oslo, being next to the station and near the port for the museums and restaurants was very comfortable for us. The room, could have been a bit bigger and include a wardrobe but that’s minor. Breakfast is served in the Egon restaurant and the variety is big and quality is good!
Zoe, January 2024 (Read more reviews)
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#5 Clarion Hotel Bastion
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | 💰 BUDGET: Mid-range | 📍 LOCATION: Skippergaten 7 | ✅ Book it!
This is a charming boutique hotel situated in the heart of Oslo, ideal for travelers seeking cost-effective dining options.
In addition to their delightful breakfast spread, they also provide a tempting evening buffet daily, which truly enhances the overall experience of staying at this hotel in Oslo. It also makes it perfect (as mentioned) for those wanting to travel Oslo on a budget (read my full guide to budget-friendly Oslo here).
The family rooms are not only spacious but also creatively designed, making it one of the top choices for families with children looking for a kid-friendly accommodation in Oslo. Moreover, the evening meal they serve comes in handy when your little ones need a bedtime snack, and each family room boasts uniquely themed kids’ rooms.
During my recent stay, I had the pleasure of experiencing the jungle-themed bed in one of their family rooms – a delightful touch that added an extra element of fun to my visit!
Grat value for the price. Breakfast and dinner buffet was just great for that value. Staff was also very helpful and nice.
Slavomir, March 2024 (Read more reviews)
#6 The Thief
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 💰 BUDGET: Luxury | 📍 LOCATION: Landgangen 1 | ✅ Book it!
The Thief is one of the most luxurious hotels in Oslo, and it sure lives up to its high-end reputation. From their rooftop bar you can enjoy an (expensive) mojito and beautiful views of Aker Brygge and the Oslo fjord. My favorite drink here is the bellini, and I dare say it is worth the price tag!
Known to be perhaps the most expensive hotel in Oslo, you get what you pay for at this luxurious location. The Thief is named for its location on the docks of Oslo, where thieves were previously executed. So there’s a little bit of history mixed in with this modern hotel.
The interior is grand and luxurious, and all guests at the Thief gain free entry to the Astrup Fearnley Museum next door. The museum has also equipped the hotel with its art. If you are not staying here, a visit to the rooftop bar The Thief Roof is worth it for the view alone.
The above-mentioned rooftop bar is open from April to September. On cold evenings they cover the roof with see-through walls and a pergola-style ceiling, and put out heating lamps to keep you warm. It is very Norwegian to insist on sitting outside even when it’s freezing – so you won’t be alone.
The reception staff were super friendly they made my stay wonderful. they were super helpful and professional. the location was exceptional and everything was close by a walking distance. there were multiple options of cafes and restaurants available around the hotel to choose from.
Hayofa, March 2024 (Read more reviews)
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Honorable Mentions
Below are a few more Oslo hotels that either didn’t quite make the list or that I am yet to stay at.
- Sommerro – Sommerro opened last year and I am dying to stay there. It is a 5-star luxury hotel boasting world-class service and “celebrity treatment”, and I have heard great things.
- Scandic Holmenkollen Park – Nestled near the famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump, this hotel offers panoramic views of the city.
- Clarion Hotel The Hub – A modern hotel near Oslo Central Station, known for its stylish design and top-notch facilities. I have only visited the bar a few times, but all Clarion hotels in Norway are great!
- Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel – Norway’s tallest hotel, offering sleek rooms and a sky bar with breathtaking city views. I have stayed here when going to concerts at Oslo Spektrum, just a stone’s throw from the front doors.
- Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz – A colorful and centrally located hotel, with a great breakfast!
FAQs About Oslo Accommodation
Below are some frequently asked questions I have gotten about hotels and accommodation in Oslo. I have done my best to answer them, but feel free to leave a comment if you have any more questions.
Along the waterfront or near Karl Johans Gate is considered central Oslo, and is the best area to stay for visitors.
I recommend no more than 2 days in Oslo before heading to the fjords or up north in Norway.
It is recommended to book your hotel in Oslo in advance through trusted platforms like Booking.com or directly on the hotel’s website for the best deals and availability.
Yes, 2 full days is enough in Oslo.
Central Oslo (along Karl Johans Gate) and the waterfront (near Aker Brygge) are the best neighborhoods to stay for tourists. However, It is also nice to stay around Grünerløkka and even Frogner.
Tipping in Norway is not mandatory or expected, but if you leave a small tip for exceptional service in hotels and restaurants it will be appreciated.
For tourists visiting Oslo, popular areas to stay include the city center around Karl Johans Gate, Grünerløkka for a trendy vibe, and Frogner known for its museums and parks.
Many hotels in Oslo include breakfast in the room rate, offering a variety of options from continental to traditional Norwegian breakfast.
Final Thoughts
As you plan your visit to Oslo, remember that where you stay can shape your entire experience. The best hotels in Oslo offer more than just a place to rest; they provide a glimpse into the city’s culture and lifestyle. Whether you prefer luxurious accommodations or cozy boutique hotels, Oslo has something for every traveler.
Now that you know the top hotel options in Oslo, it’s time to bring your trip to life. Explore my Oslo itineraries to make the most of your time in this vibrant city!
4 comments
Thank you for the list. I’d love to visit Oslo someday to see the northern lights, that’s my dream
I’m glad you liked it, Velyz! I hope you get to experience them someday! 🙂
I’d really like to get to Norway in the next few years. A lot of my ancestors are from there and would love to see some of my distant relatives that are still around there!
-Rachel @ Backcountry Petite
I hope you get a chance to go, Rachel! That’s really cool, you should definitely go back to your ‘roots’ then! 🙂