Flush with its oil spoils, this once humble, overlooked city, enveloped by mountains and fjords, has stepped quietly and confidently into its new cultural era. True to understated Nordic form, wealth has been infused into angular architecture, art, and design projects, mainly appearing along the harbourfront. Highlighting the rich cultural offerings, the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design – Scandinavia’s largest, showcases the incredible designs by German architects Kleihues + Schuwerk, while the Munch Museum by Spanish architect Estudio Herreros captivates with its striking architectural style that mirrors the emotion of Edvard Munch’s infamous artworks.
The art and culture scene has blossomed into parks like Ekebergparken sculpture park, nestled on the city’s forest fringes, alongside a growing roster of festivals hosted by the city throughout the year (including the renowned Oslo Jazz Festival). With historical roots in artistic patronage, even wealthy families supported artists, architects, and musicians in the 18th and 19th centuries, shaping a vibrant creative atmosphere which continues to thrive today. Oslo is a culturally rich destination filled with artistic inspirations and a burgeoning culinary scene, including floating saunas and beautiful nature trails, making it the ideal weekend getaway for those seeking a blend of culture and relaxation.
Some hotels in Oslo hark back to pre-independence in 1905, while others embody Norway’s signature minimalism. However, despite the city’s affluence, there remains a curious absence of beautiful hotels. While tourism accounts for only 4% of the GDP, it’s a subtle reminder for independent or family-run hoteliers to enhance the charming and well-designed boutique experience. Below, we highlight our selections of the best hotels in Oslo: