The best things to do in Oslo in the spring

Oslo, as a good capital, has activities all year round. However, in spring, the city (and the energy of its residents) comes alive, offering a wide range of opportunities to enjoy life like a true Norwegian.

As the winter ends and many of us celebrate overcoming another long season, we are ready to make the most of spring.

For internationals, the transition can be confusing, one day you’re in a parka, and the next you’re watching locals sunbathe in 10C weather. However, there are many activities you can do to embrace this change.

The utepils and uteservering

Spring marks the start of utepils (outdoor beer) and uteservering (outdoor service) season. Norwegians love to spend as much time as possible outside to soak up those precious sunny rays.

Many restaurants, cafés, and bars in Oslo will set up their outside tables, often providing heaters and blankets to enjoy the fresh air.

Early in spring, you’ll notice more Norwegians than foreigners sitting outside since it’s still a bit cold.

If you want to get to know your colleagues better, invite them out on a sunny day for an utepils. It’s the perfect social icebreaker. However, don’t be fooled by the bright sun. Follow the locals and use the blankets that cafés and bars provide.

Great places to find outdoor drinks or food are Grünerløkka and Aker Brygge.

Cherry blossom trees

Between late April and early May, Oslo bursts with white and pink blossoms.

These beautiful trees, including the Japanese Magnolia Kobus, can be seen all over the city, but especially in the eastern part of the city centre. The Tøyen neighbourhood and The Botanical Garden (Botanisk Hage) are the epicentres.

The Oslo municipality has an interactive map of cherry trees in the city, so you can track down the best spots!

This is a peaceful, beautiful, and great plan for a low-cost Sunday stroll.

First swim of the year

Many Norwegians may tell you they had their first swim of the year in January; however, it becomes much more popular in spring as the sun starts to shine.

If you are not used to freezing temperatures, the conditions are much more manageable now, so you can visit the beaches in Oslo for a quick dip.

I really enjoy going to Bygdøy. You can start with a warming walk through the coastal trails and end up at Huk beach (keep in mind that you will find a popular section for families, while another is a well-known nudist beach).

This is also the ideal time to try out the Oslo Fjord saunas. Heat up in a wood-fired sauna and then jump straight into the fjord. The water is still freezing, but the adrenaline rush is the best way to wake up from the winter blues.

The most popular places are SALT and KOK.

Park life

The parks in Oslo are definitely the place to be during spring.

Head to Sofienbergparken or Frognerparken, where you’ll see the return of the picnic and the famous engangsgrill (disposable BBQ). Grilling sausages with family and friends in the sun is a true Norwegian spring tradition.

Forests hikes

Now that the weather is milder, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the woods as hiking is much safer without ice on the trails.

You can head to Nordmarka, or if you want an easier walk, try Sognsvann.

For a panoramic view of the fjord without a long trek, Vettakollen is the place to go.

If you want to find more private and wild places, I recommend Østmarka.

You can explore deep into the forest or visit lakes that are easy to reach by taking the metro to “Bogerud station” and walking for 10 to 20 minutes. It’s a great place to spend the day or even go camping over the weekend.

Culture

You can always visit all the amazing museums found in the capital; however, there are two options that I personally love for the spring season.

First on my list is Kistefos, a fantastic place for art and architecture that is about an hour and fifteen minutes by car from Oslo’s city centre. Their season starts on May 9th.

If you don’t want to travel too far, Henie Onstad Kunstsenter is an architectural gem just 20 to 25 minutes from Oslo. You can see avant-garde exhibitions and the famous Yayoi Kusama room (Hymn of Life).

The centre is right by the fjord and surrounded by beautiful coastal trails.

Yayoi Kusama, Hymn of Life

Yayoi Kusama, Hymn of Life, at the Henie Onstad Kunstsenter, Oslo. Photo by Irene Andrade, The Local.

Kistefos in Norway

Kistefos in Norway. Photo by Patrik Bloudek on Unsplash

Island hopping

When spring arrives, boats to the fjord islands run more often. The Ruter ferries from Aker Brygge to islands like Hovedøya and Gressholmen are part of public transport, so you can use your regular ticket.

This season is especially peaceful as the summer crowds have not arrived yet. You can explore the ruins of the old monastery on Hovedøya or enjoy a quiet bath at Langøyene.

Outdoor markets

Spring is the season for lively outdoor markets. You’ll find them in streets, squares, and even at local schools. As spring goes on, vendors sell fresh produce, flowers, and handmade crafts.

Ice cream time

Now there’s no excuse not to get ice cream. As it is a popular treat among families, all the popular places for tourists and locals have kiosks or shops open.

My favourite spot for a truly delicious (though slightly pricey) experience is Paradis Gelateria.

Norway’s biggest celebration

On top of all this, spring includes Norway’s biggest celebration: May 17th (Constitution Day). If you want to see Oslo at its most festive, this is the day. Time to get your bunad ready!

The best things to do in Oslo in the spring

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