What to do in Oslo, Norway

Hit the slopes

Not only does Oslo have a burgeoning food and drink scene, watersports and incredible natural scenery, but a 40-minute journey on the 1 Frognerseteren train line will take you straight to Oslo Winter Park. Located in Holmenkollen, it boasts an impressive ski slope that you can spy from the city centre. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a relative rookie, it’s got everything from a beginners’ area to a top-of-the-line snow park, as well 18 runs over a vertical fall of 381 metres. A city where you can go from mountain to beach in a day? Sounds like our kind of party. oslovinterpark.no

Oslo Food Tours

Whether it’s the love-it-or-hate-it brown cheese or reindeer salami, Norwegian cuisine is peppered with unusual ingredients, and a tour with an Oslo native who’s passionate about food is the best way to get to grips with them. We’d recommend Oslo FoodTours.eu’s ‘gourmet’ option, which kicks off in the Mathallen – a factory-turned-food market – before taking you around trendy Grünerløkka to sample everything from sour beers to light bites while your guide talks you through New Nordic Cuisine and Oslo’s history. Be sure to quiz them for their recommendations on where to eat and what to do, and you’ll come away with a whole host of ideas for your trip. About £57. oslo.foodtours.eu

Take to the water

One of the things that sets Oslo apart from most cities is the unfettered access to nature: both fjords and forests lie right on your doorstep. And those fjords mean only one thing: hitting the water, preferably in a kayak. Plan a trip with the pros at Oslo Kayak Tours and you’ll be in safe hands; if you’re pressed for time, opt for the two-to-three hour trip that’ll take you around the small islands and beaches that lie just outside Sjølyst Marina, or go the whole hog with a longer tour that’ll be totally designed around your previous experience and preferences. There are options to go cliff jumping, too, if you’re brave enough. It’s the best way to get a totally different perspective of the city. About £81. oslokayaktours.no

Where to stay in Oslo, Norway

Airbnb

Oslo might not be the cheapest destination, but booking a chic Airbnb is a way to avoid spending a bomb. If you’re a night owl, bag yourself a flat in trendy Grünerløkka – Løkka to locals – and you’ll be right in the heart of the action. If you’re more outdoorsy than outré, look to forested Bygdøy, while in winter, skiers should head north to Holmenkollen for snow-covered slopes. airbnb.com

The Thief

Dark and sexy glamour is the name of the game at The Thief, which down in Oslo’s harbour: expect velvet throws, discrete lighting, perfectly squidgy pillows and a bed so comfortable it feels a bit like lying in a giant pudding. But there’s more to do here than just sleep: there are two rooftop bar/restaurants and a spa if you’re really looking to push the boat out. Oh, and don’t forget the breakfast buffet, bursting with with organic homemade jams, breads and more. From £261.Landgangen 1, 0252. mrandmrssmith.com

Oslo Guldsmeden

This boutique, eco-friendly hotel is a proper home-away-from-home – if your home is lavender-scented and sweetly luxurious. Think goatskin rugs, a roaring fire, snuggly duvets, and rooms [pictured] full of little touches that’ll have you feeling hyggelig in no time. This place prides itself on being about care from the inside out, so make sure you stop by the restaurant for some delicious organic food and drink, including bread that’s made specially by a local bakery. From £85. Parkveien 78, 0254.guldsmedenhotels.com