Things to Do in Oslo in Winter: The Perfect Sunday Itinerary

Oslo might be known for its sleek design and modern vibe, but in the winter, Norway’s capital takes on a whole new kind of magic—crisp air, snow-dusted streets, and cozy cafés that make you want to linger a little longer.

For us, Oslo was both the starting and ending point of our 12-day winter Norway itinerary and the perfect place to ease into (and out of) Arctic life.

My boyfriend, Tim, and I were traveling with our close friends, Allison and Ryan, on what turned out to be one of our favorite cold-weather adventures ever.

After a long travel day from Houston, we arrived in Oslo on a Sunday afternoon, eager to stretch our legs and officially kick off our Northern Lights–chasing, fjord-hopping trip!

Even though many places were closed—thanks to a mix of winter hours and lingering pandemic restrictions at the time (we visited in February 2022)—we made the most of our time wandering quiet cobblestone streets, taking in fjord views, and watching the city glow beneath a soft winter sunset.

If you’re planning your own Oslo winter itinerary, here’s everything you need to know—from how to get to Oslo and where to stay, to what to do on a Sunday afternoon when much of the city is at rest.

Our Norway adventure took us from Oslo to Kirkenes, Rotsund, Tromsø, Bergen, and Flåm, but each time we returned to the capital, it welcomed us back with that perfect blend of Scandinavian sophistication and cozy Nordic calm.

In winter, snow blankets the city parks, fairy lights twinkle through the early darkness, and Oslo feels both peaceful and alive.

If you’re planning to visit Oslo in winter, especially on a Sunday, don’t worry—while some shops close, the city doesn’t stop.

From world-class museums and scenic viewpoints to serene fjord walks, you’ll find plenty of ways to make the most of your short stay.

If you’re visiting Oslo in winter, be prepared for short days, cold temperatures, and a real Nordic winter experience.

From December through February, temperatures in Oslo typically range from 23°F to 36°F (-5°C to 2°C), though it can dip lower when the wind picks up.

You’ll likely see snow, especially in January and February, when the city and nearby hills transform into a winter wonderland.

A Broad Recommendation: In December, Oslo gets only about 5–6 hours of daylight, but by late February, you’ll have closer to 10 hours—perfect for sightseeing and photographing those golden winter sunsets.

Even in the heart of winter, Oslo has so much to offer—from world-class museums and cozy cafés to scenic viewpoints blanketed in snow.

Many travelers overlook Oslo as just a gateway to the Arctic, but this vibrant capital is worth slowing down for.

If you’re visiting Oslo in the winter, plan your sightseeing around the daylight hours (usually 9 am to 3 pm in December and a bit longer in February when we visited).

Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor adventures.

We had a lovely time walking around, exploring, and soaking in our first real taste of Norway.

Here’s exactly how we spent our Sunday afternoon in Oslo, and why this peaceful Scandinavian city deserves a spot on your winter travel list:

After dropping off our luggage at the Clarion Hotel The Hub, we wandered over to Aker Brygge, one of Oslo’s most scenic waterfront neighborhoods.

Once an industrial shipyard, Aker Brygge is now a lively, modern area filled with shops, restaurants, cafés, and public art, all set against the stunning Oslo Fjord.

Even on a cold winter day, it’s a great place for a leisurely stroll—and if you’re lucky, you might catch the sun peeking through the clouds and reflecting off the icy water.

We loved taking our time here, snapping photos of the harbor, and getting our first real glimpse of Norway’s modern-meets-maritime charm.

Next, we made our way to Akershus Fortress (Akershus Festning)—a 13th-century medieval castle overlooking the Oslo Fjord.

Normally included with the Oslo Pass, we paid the small entrance fee, since we couldn’t use ours that day (it was 100 NOK per adult or around $10 USD at the time but is closer to 150 NOK or $15 now).

Luckily, our friends had their passes (since they got in a day before us) and offered to split the cost, so we each paid half—thanks, guys!

Built in the late 1290s, the fortress once served as both a royal residence and a military stronghold.

Over the centuries, it survived multiple sieges, including attacks by Swedish forces, and later became a prison and military base.

During World War II, it was even used by German forces during their occupation of Norway.

Inside, we explored winding stone staircases, grand banquet halls, a chapel filled with intricate stained glass, and the Royal Mausoleum, the resting place of several Norwegian royals.

The views over Oslo Harbor were spectacular—even under a winter haze.

A Broad Recommendation: Akershus Fortress is still an active military area but open to the public year-round. Hours vary by season, so check the schedule before visiting, especially if you’re planning a winter Oslo itinerary.

On our walk from the fortress toward the Munch Museum, we stopped to admire the Oslo Opera House, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Its sleek, angular architecture makes it appear as though it’s rising right out of the fjord, perfectly blending Oslo’s love for design and nature.

In warmer months, visitors can walk on its sloped roof for panoramic views, but in winter, it’s still worth seeing from the waterfront—especially when dusted with snow or lit up at dusk.

Just before heading to dinner, we caught a soft, pastel sunset over Oslo Fjord—one of those moments that make you stop and take it all in.

Despite the short daylight hours, winter sunsets in Norway are absolutely worth the wait.

The light over the harbor was pink and golden, and naturally, we couldn’t resist a quick photo session.

By the time we reached the Munch Museum, it was closed for the evening (a reminder that Oslo winter hours can be tricky!).

So, we decided to unwind and warm up over dinner at Mantra by Mister India.

We loved this cozy Indian restaurant for its friendly service, hearty curries, and relaxed vibe—exactly what we needed after a full day of travel and exploration.

We lingered over beers, champagne, and flavorful dishes while swapping stories with our friends about the adventures ahead in Northern Norway.

A Broad Recommendation: If you’re visiting Oslo in the winter, book activities and make dinner reservations ahead of time. Many museums, attractions, and restaurants close early or book up quickly, especially on weekends.

Whether you’re exploring the harbor, hiking up to a viewpoint, or browsing Christmas markets, layering is key.

Winter in Oslo is cold, snowy, and sometimes icy—so packing smartly makes all the difference.

Here are some winter essentials you won’t want to forget:

• 🥾 Waterproof insulated boots: Warm, slip-resistant, and ideal for icy streets.
• 👚 Thermal base layers: Lightweight and perfect for layering.
• 🥰 Wool sweaters & fleece mid-layers: For warmth without bulk.
• 🧥 Waterproof parka or down jacket: Windproof and cozy.
• 🧤 Touchscreen gloves, hat, and scarf: You’ll want all three!
• 🧦 Wool socks: The key to warm, happy feet.
• 🔋 Portable phone charger: Batteries drain faster in cold weather.

I personally used all of these items and recommend them for winter adventures—shop my favorites here!

👉 Refer to my full Norway winter packing list for everything I brought on our trip.

When traveling from the U.S. to Norway, Oslo Airport (OSL) is one of the easiest and most affordable international entry points—and a great place to kick off your Norwegian adventure.

We began our winter Norway trip on a Saturday afternoon, flying KLM from Houston (IAH) to Amsterdam (AMS), and then connecting to Oslo.

KLM, a Delta partner, offered the best schedule for us, and their service truly impressed us (our flight attendant was a solid 10/10!).

A Broad Recommendation: On long-haul flights, I set my watch to my destination’s time zone as soon as I board and act as if I’m already there—a little trick that helps reduce jet lag. Since Oslo is 7 hours ahead of Houston, I had dinner on the plane, then tried to sleep right after.

We arrived at Amsterdam Schiphol on time, grabbed a quick coffee during our 2.5-hour layover, and then took a short two-hour flight to Oslo Lufthavn.

Once we landed, we grabbed our luggage and met our pre-booked private transfer, which took us directly to our hotel in the city center.

🚘 Why we booked a transfer: The drive from Oslo Airport to the city center takes about 40 minutes. While trains and buses are cheaper, having a guaranteed, prearranged ride after a long international flight was 100% worth it for peace of mind.

A Broad Recommendation: If you’re traveling internationally in the winter, delays are common, so consider booking a flexible or refundable fare, and always pack winter essentials (like gloves, a scarf, and your toothbrush) in your carry-on in case your luggage gets delayed.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Oslo in the winter, you’ll find plenty of stylish and comfortable options in the city center—many within walking distance of Oslo’s top attractions, restaurants, and public transportation.

We actually stayed in two different hotels during our trip—one at the start of our Norway adventure and another at the end when we returned to Oslo before flying home.

Both were excellent choices that we’d absolutely recommend.

📍 Best for: convenience + city views
💰 Mid-to-luxury range

For our first night in Norway, we stayed at the Clarion Hotel The Hub, one of the best centrally located hotels in Oslo.

It’s right in the heart of the city, just steps from Oslo Central Station, and surrounded by cafés, shops, and restaurants.

The rooms were modern and cozy, and the view from our window was incredible—we could see the city skyline and the snowy rooftops below.

Although we couldn’t check in before 3 pm without a fee, the staff happily stored our luggage for free so we could start exploring right away.

The breakfast buffet is also highly rated, and while we left too early the next morning to enjoy the full spread, we appreciated the small grab-and-go buffet they’d set up for early departures.

📍 Best for: proximity to Oslo Central Station + the Opera House
💰 Mid-range

We wrapped up our 12-day winter Norway itinerary back in Oslo and spent our final night at the Thon Hotel Opera—another excellent Oslo city center hotel.

It’s located right next to the Oslo Opera House and the Central Station, making it super convenient for early flights or train connections.

The rooms are bright and comfortable with views of either the city or the fjord, and the included breakfast buffet was wonderful (even though we had to take ours to-go due to an early departure).

After a full trip through Northern Norway—from Kirkenes and Tromsø to Bergen and Flåm—this hotel was the perfect spot to rest before heading home.

A Broad Recommendation: If it’s your first time in Oslo, stay near Oslo Central Station or Karl Johans Gate for easy access to the attractions and public transit. For something trendier, the Grünerløkka neighborhood is packed with hip cafés and boutiques.

Getting around Oslo in winter is surprisingly easy—even when the city is blanketed in snow. 

Norway’s capital is known for its efficient, clean, and reliable public transport system, which runs smoothly year-round.

Oslo’s trams, buses, ferries, and metro (T-bane) are all part of the same network, operated by Ruter.

You can buy single or 24-hour tickets using the Ruter app or at ticket machines in metro stations. Just remember to purchase before boarding—inspectors do check!

A Broad Recommendation: The 24-hour Ruter ticket is worth it if you’re hopping between museums or neighborhoods. It’s valid across all types of transport within the city.

Oslo’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily explore many attractions on foot—especially around the Opera House, Karl Johans Gate, and Aker Brygge. 

Just watch for icy sidewalks in the winter and wear shoes with good traction.

The easiest way to get between Oslo Airport (OSL) and the city center is the Flytoget Airport Express Train, which takes about 20 minutes and runs every 10–15 minutes.

It’s fast, warm, and incredibly convenient, especially if you’re arriving in winter weather.

A Broad Recommendation: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Vy Regional Train also connects the airport and city center for a few dollars less; it just makes a couple more stops.

Since we didn’t have nearly enough time to explore everything Oslo has to offer, here are a few more attractions we’re saving for our next visit—and ones you might want to add to your own list!

Museums & Cultural Attractions

• Viking Ship Museum (Museum of the Viking Age): Closed for renovations and expected to reopen in 2026, this legendary museum displays the world’s best-preserved Viking ships and artifacts.
• Munch Museum: Dedicated to Norway’s most famous artist, Edvard Munch, this museum hosts The Scream and other masterpieces in a striking, modern building on the Oslo waterfront. (Tip: book tickets early—time slots fill quickly!)
• Norwegian Museum of Cultural History: Norway’s largest open-air museum with 160 historic buildings, including a 13th-century stave church. Indoor exhibits highlight folk art, traditional dress, and Sámi culture.
• Kon-Tiki Museum: Follows explorer Thor Heyerdahl’s famous ocean expeditions. Don’t miss the original Kon-Tiki raft from his 1947 Pacific crossing!
• Holocaust Center: A thought-provoking museum exploring the Holocaust and racism in Norway through films, images, and artifacts. Entry is included with the Oslo Pass.
• Nobel Peace Center: Celebrates the Nobel Peace Prize and its laureates through interactive exhibitions and digital storytelling. I loved visiting the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm, so this is high on my list for next time!

Historic Landmarks

• The Royal Palace: One of Norway’s most important buildings, this is the official residence of Norway’s King and Queen. Tours are available in summer and include the Council Chamber, Banqueting Hall, King Haakon VII’s Suite, and more.
• Oslo Cathedral: A stunning 17th-century church known for its baroque interior that’s still used for royal weddings, state events, and Sunday mass (Tip: guided tours are available but must be booked in advance.)
• Oslo City Hall: The seat of the city government and the site of the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Free to enter and home to the Nordics’ largest carillon—listen for the hourly chimes!
• Akershus Fortress (if not already in your itinerary): A medieval castle overlooking Oslo Fjord that once protected the city from invaders and now houses two museums.

Outdoor Highlights

• Vigeland Sculpture Park: Showcasing more than 200 works by Gustav Vigeland, Norway’s most famous sculptor, this park is beautiful in any season but is especially striking when dusted with snow.
• Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower: The world’s oldest ski museum, located beneath the world-famous ski jump. There are incredible panoramic views from the top, and entry is free with the Oslo Pass.
• University Botanical Garden: Norway’s oldest botanical garden, home to more than 5,500 plant species and two Victorian-style greenhouses, is a quiet, colorful escape in any season.
• Damstredet & Telthusbakken: Two picturesque streets lined with 18th- and 19th-century wooden houses near the medieval Gamle Aker Church. Walk the Kjærlighetsstien (“Love Trail”) nearby for a peaceful, local stroll.

Unique Experiences

Q: Is Oslo worth visiting in winter?

Absolutely! Oslo transforms into a cozy, snow-covered city full of Scandinavian charm.

Many of its top attractions—like the Akershus Fortress, Munch Museum, and Oslo Opera House—are open year-round, and the holiday lights, wintry fjord views, and festive winter atmosphere make it extra special.

Q: What is there to do in Oslo on a Sunday?

Sundays in Oslo are slower-paced—perfect for museum visits, walks through Vigeland Park, or relaxing by the harbor.

Some shops close, but most restaurants, cafés, and cultural attractions remain open (just double check opening hours especially in winter).

Q: What should I wear in Oslo in winter?

Layers are key! Start with thermal base layers, add a warm sweater or fleece, and top it with a waterproof, insulated parka.

Waterproof boots with traction, gloves, a hat, and a scarf are must-haves for staying comfortable while exploring outdoors.

Q: Does it snow in Oslo in winter?

Yes! Snow is common from December through March, adding to the city’s charm.

Just be sure to check local forecasts and pack accordingly, so you’ll be ready to enjoy the winter wonderland.

Q: How many days should I spend in Oslo in winter?

Two to three days is ideal. That gives you enough time to explore the main attractions, enjoy a leisurely fjord walk, try local cuisine, and maybe even take a short day trip before heading north to Kirkenes, Tromsø or Bergen.

Oslo may be one of Europe’s most underrated winter destinations—but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Between its modern architecture, medieval fortresses, and serene waterfront views, the Norwegian capital strikes a rare balance of culture, history, and calm.

For us, Oslo was more than just the start of our 12-day winter Norway itinerary—it was a soft landing into the heart of Scandinavia, a place where modern design meets timeless coziness, and where even a quiet Sunday afternoon can turn into an unforgettable adventure.

If you’re planning your own winter getaway, don’t skip Oslo. Whether you’re exploring its museums, watching the sunset over the fjord, or simply sipping cocoa in a candlelit café, you’ll find that this Nordic capital truly shines in the snow.

👉 Next, we made our way to Kirkenes for our 1-Day Arctic Itinerary and an overnight stay at the Snow Resort Kirkenes—a true bucket-list experience!

Ready to plan the rest of your winter Norway trip? Check out these blog posts for more inspiration and detailed itineraries:

• Snow Resort Kirkenes, Norway: What It’s Really Like to Stay in an Arctic Ice Hotel
• Things to Do in Kirkenes, Norway in Winter: 1-Day Arctic Itinerary + Travel Tips
• Lyngen North Glass Igloo Review: The Best Northern Lights Hotel in Norway
• 3-Day Tromsø Winter Itinerary: Top Things to Do + Northern Lights Guide
• One Day in Bergen, Norway: The Perfect Itinerary & Best Things to Do
• Twenty-Four Hours in Flåm, Norway in the Winter
• Things to Do in Oslo in Winter: The Perfect Sunday Itinerary
• 12-Day Winter Norway Itinerary: See the Northern Lights & Best Winter Destinations
• What to Pack for Norway in Winter: The Ultimate Norway Winter Packing List

Safe travels!

XOXO Sara at Travel A-Broads