Tag: travel tips

Oslo is a compact city, which means that you’re never really that far from the city centre or attractions regardless of which hotel you choose. And there is plenty to choose from – although global chains such as Hilton, Hyatt, Sofitel or Marriott are missing. Here are our top pics for a great stay in downtown Oslo.

1. The Thief – The trendy luxury design hotel

   When rockstars come to Oslo, they stay at The Thief. It’s the flagship hotel of the Nordic Choice hotel chain and uniquely located in Tjuvholmen (the name literally stands for “the thief islet”, hence the name), and was opened in 2013.

   Dark colours, design details and light, wooden floors are the trademarks of this trendy hotel, and they have a nice lobby bar that is popular not only among hotel quests but locals alike. If you happen to visit the hotel during the summer, a visit up to the rooftop terrace is a must – the views are breathtaking. The hotel also has a high-end spa with a swimming pool. There is also a hotel restaurant, but for dinner you’ll find several excellent options within a few minutes walking distance in the Aker Brygge area.
   Landgangen 1, 0252 Oslo

2. The Grand hotel – The symbol of classical luxury hotel

   This hotel, which received a full face lift a couple of years ago, represents classical continental 5-star glamour. The hotel is managed by Scandic, a large Nordic hotel chain, and regularly hosts state heads, celebrities and even Nobel Peace Prize winners. The Grand hotel is located on Karl Johans Gate, perhaps the best known street to visitors. The hotel faces the Norwegian Parliament building and has a fantastic location for anyone looking to explore the city by foot or the public transport.

   The Stortinget tube station is just one minute away, and the luxury shopping district, Promenaden, within 3 minutes walking distance. If you’re looking for a hotel with a spa and a swimming pool, you’ll enjoy the Artesia Spa at the Grand Hotel. There is a rooftop bar (Eight) with a view towards the Parliament, a restaurant (Palmen) and a lobby bar (Othilia).
   Karl Johans gate 31, 0159 Oslo

   

3. Carlton Hotel Guldsmeden Oslo – The cozy hidden gem

   For some reason, this charming boutique hotel is not among the first you’ll see mentioned in conventional travel guides, however it’s a lovely hotel with a great location.

   Perhaps the first thing you’ll notice about this hotel is the unique style, and those who care for the environment will appreciate the hotel’s throughout dedication to sustainability (and the breakfast is organic). If you have an eye for details, you’ll enjoy staying at Guldsmeden. This hotel is what you get when you combine cosy with luxury. The location is in Vika just behind Aker Brygge, with some 5 mins walk to the Astrup Fearnley museum.
   Parkveien 78, 0254 Oslo.

4. Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo

   While not a 5-star hotel, Rosenkrantz is a regular at the top of list of the best hotels in Oslo. And it’s no wonder: it’s a solid 4-star hotel with a great location in the heart of the city (across from the Court House), a fresh, colourful design, good service and perhaps the best hotel breakfast in town in the restaurant Paleo.

   It’s the small touches that make this hotel a tough competition for 5-star hotels: free coffee and often also bakery products in the reception area, protein bars for gym guests, free (simple) dinner and even hand lotion in the reception area restrooms (we have an eye for details).  There is no room service, but there are plenty of restaurants, bars, kiosks and cafes around the hotel. Thon hotels is a Norwegian-owned hotel chain, and here is a fun fact: the owner, Olav Thon, is still very visible despite his 90+ years.
   Rosenkrantz’ gate 1, 0159 Oslo. 

   

5. Hotel Continental Oslo

   Just like the Grand Holte, the hotel Continental is located smack in the middle of the city center. In addition to having many of the attractions, shopping and culture around the corner, you’ll find a tram stop, a bus stop and a tube station across the street.

   A classical 5-star luxury hotel, the Continental hotel hosts one of the top restaurants in the city: Eik Annen Etage. The food and beverage offering doesn’t stop there though: on the ground floor you’ll find restaurant and cafe Theatercafeen (their weekend brunch is highly recommended, but only served a couple of months a year) and lobby bar Bar Boman, which is popular among the locals as well.

   Most of the hotel rooms, including the suites, have recently been fully refurbished. This hotel has a guest garage, which is convenient if you are planning to get around by a rental.
   Stortingsgaten 24/26, 0117 Oslo.