A Business Travel Guide to Oslo

Staying in Oslo, Norway

Oslo is Norway’s Viking Age capital. Consistently ranked top in Europe for best quality of life, Oslo has earnt its reputation with good healthcare, impressive surrounding landscapes, and a blend of modern urban life with beloved nods to a rich heritage. Increasingly popular as a destination for corporate travel, Oslo is the governmental and trade centre of Norway. Its coastal geography makes it an important centre for maritime trade, and this progressive city is a great place for entrepreneurs and startups.

For business travellers, Oslo is a well-loved destination for both work and play – read our business travel guide to Oslo for all the basics you need to know before you arrive.

Visiting Oslo - Key Information

Weather in Oslo

Oslo enjoys some of Norway’s warmest summers and, like many European countries, the warmest months are between May and September. Winters are classically Scandinavian: long, snowy and very cold. Expect the most rain in August and the most snow in January, so pack a good winter coat and an umbrella accordingly!

Currency in Oslo

Norwegian Kroner (NOK)

Norway is more trade-unionised than other countries around the world, which means minimum living wage agreements are comparatively higher. Traditionally this has meant tipping in Norway isn’t quite as common or expected, but certainly wouldn’t be insulting or unwelcome. Discretionary tipping for good service in restaurants is more common in larger cities like Oslo, but will likely be in the form of adding gratuity to a card payment as cash is used less and less.

Health & Well-being in Oslo

Thanks to its cold climate, Norwegians are keen skiers and can be found at all times during the day and night heading to the slopes during snowy months. You can get to Nordmarka, a large forest region near Oslo, on the metro where you can ski, bike, hike, or jog throughout the year. There’s no end of outdoor activity options – the annual Oslo marathon, for example, is a major event in the city – but if the gym and exercise classes are more your thing, you won’t struggle to find one.

Data in Oslo

Prepaid SIM cards can be more expensive to buy once you’re in Oslo, but if you do opt to purchase on arrival then Telenor is known for the best coverage and can be purchased at convenience stores like 7 Eleven. The alternative is ordering an e-SIM which some corporate travellers might prefer.

A Norwegian D-number is a temporary social security number that you’d need for extended stays in Oslo – it gives you access to basic services, and it can be hard to get a data plan with a Norwegian provider without one. If you’re relocating but don’t have a D-number yet, Mycall is a good option to get you started with a monthly SIM.

Plug Type: Type F

Cuisine in Oslo

Norwegian cuisine consists of a lot of seafood thanks to its coastal location, so expect plenty of good quality fish caught locally and served as fresh as it gets. Smoked salmon, caviar and shellfish can be found at either gourmet and Michelin-star restaurants or smaller, more casual eateries. Hot dogs, hearty stews, and meatballs are also famous in Norway, but there’s lots to choose from for vegetarians and vegans, too.

Business travellers in Oslo must try Norwegian’s iconic brown cheese while you’re there, and a drink of the spirit of Scandinavia, aquavit.

Speaking the Language in Oslo, Norway

The Norwegian pronunciation might take a little getting used to, but practice makes perfect! Try out these basic phrases before you set off, then learning from the locals once you’re there is the best way to really get to grips with it.

Hello = Hallo

Thank you = Takk

Excuse me = Unnskyld meg

Yes = Ja

No = Nei

Nice to meet you = Hyggelig å møte deg

Where is ___? = Hvor er ___?

How much does this cost? = Hvor mye koster dette?

My name is ___, what’s your name? = Mitt navn er ___, hva heter du?

Transport in Oslo - Getting Around Oslo, Norway

Many locals and visitors opt for walking or cycling as the city is fairly small, but the Oslo public transport system is efficient for when you need a quicker journey. Buses, trams, underground and local trains, and ferries are all included in one ticketing system and can be managed on the Ruter app.

Prices vary and are discounted for seniors, students and children – single tickets are valid for extra journeys started within one hour from first use. The Oslo Pass is a good option for cost-efficient sight-seeing during your trip, it gets you free travel in Zone 1, as well as free admission to city attractions and discounts at restaurants/services.

Trains in Oslo are mostly used to get out of the city and connect with the rest of Norway, but the tram (trikk) service is reliable for travelling throughout the city centre. It’s reliable and can take you on the narrower streets where buses may not reach.

The metro (T-bane) is a popular method for commuters as it connects the centre to the city’s suburbs, it’s also the fastest way to travel throughout the city. Tickets for the T-bane must be purchased before you board and scanned when you enter the station. Remember to stand on the right and walk on the left when using escalators in metro stations!

Buses are regular (some lines have departures every five minutes) and take you to certain attractions that can’t be reached by other transport. You can purchase tickets when you get onboard, but these tickets will be more expensive so you’re still better off buying in advance.

Oslo Map

Now that you’ve brushed up on all the basics for your next business trip to Oslo, browse our full collection of Oslo serviced apartments and get in touch today for your corporate serviced accommodation requirements. Our team of experts are on hand to support you every step of the booking journey - from sourcing the best apartment options for your enquiry, to providing 24/7 phone assistance for any requests while in-house.