Østlandet, Norway Travel Guide

Discover Østlandet, Norway’s Eastern Gem: A blend of urban charm, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage awaits you in the heart of Norway.

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Østlandet

Østlandet, or Eastern Norway, is a region of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. Nestled between mountains and fjords, this area is known for its diverse attractions ranging from the bustling capital city of Oslo to serene national parks and charming small towns. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a history enthusiast, Østlandet offers something for everyone. Oslo, the capital city, is a perfect starting point for your journey. With its mix of modern architecture and historical sites, Oslo is a city that celebrates the past while embracing the future. Visit the iconic Opera House, the Viking Ship Museum, and the vibrant Aker Brygge waterfront for a taste of Norwegian culture and history. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the city's numerous parks and green spaces, which provide a peaceful retreat from urban life. Beyond the city, Østlandet's natural beauty beckons. Head to the Jotunheimen National Park for some of the best hiking trails in Norway, including the famous Besseggen Ridge. The park is home to Norway's highest peaks and offers stunning views of glaciers, valleys, and lakes. For a more tranquil experience, the Hallingdal and Gudbrandsdal valleys are ideal for scenic drives, cycling, and fishing. Østlandet is also rich in cultural heritage. The region is dotted with historic stave churches, medieval fortresses, and traditional wooden houses. The town of Lillehammer, known for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, features the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum where you can explore Norway's rural history. Additionally, the charming coastal town of Drøbak, with its picturesque streets and Christmas House, offers a delightful day trip from Oslo. Throughout Østlandet, local cuisine and hospitality will enhance your travel experience. Savor traditional Norwegian dishes such as rakfisk (fermented fish), reindeer stew, and freshly baked pastries. The region's many cafes and restaurants offer a chance to relax and enjoy the local flavors while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Østlandet.

Visit during the summer months (June to August) for the best weather and longest days.
Purchase an Oslo Pass for free entry to museums and public transport in the city.
Pack layers and waterproof clothing, as weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
Try to learn a few basic Norwegian phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Top City Travel Guides in Østlandet

The cities of Østlandet, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Oslo

Bergen

Trondheim

Ålesund

Stavanger

Destinations in Østlandet

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Jotunheimen National Park

Bryggen, Bergen

Rauland

Preikestolen

Hardangervidda National Park

Explore Østlandet: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Østlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Låtefossen Waterfall

Experience the stunning beauty of Låtefossen Waterfall, a must-visit natural wonder in Skare, Norway, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.

4.7

Naturhistorisk museum

Explore the Naturhistorisk Museum in Oslo, a captivating journey through the wonders of the natural world, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.

4.6

Trolltunga "Troll's Tongue"

Experience the breathtaking views and adventurous hike at Trolltunga, Norway's iconic Troll's Tongue, a must-see for nature lovers.

4.8

Skjervsfossen Waterfall

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skjervsfossen Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction that showcases Norway's majestic landscapes.

4.7

Best landmarks in Østlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Oslo Opera House

Discover the architectural wonder and cultural heart of Oslo at the stunning Oslo Opera House, where world-class performances meet breathtaking views.

4.7

The Vigeland Park

Explore the breathtaking Vigeland Park in Oslo, a unique open-air museum of over 200 stunning sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, surrounded by nature's beauty.

4.7

Akershus Fortress

Discover the rich history of Norway at Akershus Fortress, a majestic medieval castle offering breathtaking views and cultural insights in the heart of Oslo.

4.5

The Royal Palace

Explore the grandeur of The Royal Palace in Oslo, a stunning castle showcasing Norway's rich royal history and breathtaking architecture.

4.5

Best restaurants in Østlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Den Glade Gris

Savor authentic Norwegian cuisine at Den Glade Gris in Oslo - where tradition meets taste!

4.6

Louise Restaurant & Bar

Experience the essence of Norwegian cuisine at Louise Restaurant & Bar in Oslo – where tradition meets modern dining.

4.3

Lorry Restaurant

Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine in Oslo's vibrant Lorry Restaurant - where tradition meets modern dining.

4.1

Seaport Restaurant - Sørenga/Bjørvika

Experience exquisite flavors at Seaport Restaurant in Oslo’s vibrant Sørenga/Bjørvika - where culinary diversity meets stunning waterfront views.

4.5

Best bars in Østlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Scotsman

Experience the lively spirit of Oslo at The Scotsman, a vibrant pub offering delicious food, live music, and sports entertainment in the heart of the city.

4.1

The Dubliner Folk Pub

Experience the vibrant spirit of Ireland at The Dubliner Folk Pub in Oslo, where delicious food meets live music in a cozy setting.

4.3

HIMKOK Storgata Destilleri

Discover HIMKOK Storgata Destilleri, a top cocktail bar in Oslo known for its innovative drinks and vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Sir Winston's Public House

Discover the lively ambiance of Sir Winston's Public House in Oslo, where great food, drinks, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Østlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

BLÅ

Discover BLÅ: Oslo's premier live music venue and beer garden, where unforgettable performances and a vibrant atmosphere come together.

4.4

F6 Cocktailbar

Delve into Oslo's nightlife at F6 Cocktailbar, where exquisite cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Frogner.

4.1

Ingensteds

Immerse yourself in Oslo's vibrant nightlife at Ingensteds, a premier nightclub in Grünerløkka with electrifying music and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

London Pub

Vibrant nightlife awaits at London Pub, Oslo's premier night club featuring a mix of entertainment, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.1

Best shops in Østlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Oslo City

Discover Oslo City, the ultimate shopping destination in the heart of Norway's capital, offering a variety of shops, dining, and entertainment options.

4.1

Storo Storsenter

Discover Storo Storsenter, Oslo's vibrant shopping mall with over 200 stores and diverse dining options for an unforgettable shopping experience.

4.2

Outland

Discover Outland in Oslo: Your ultimate destination for comics, books, and gaming culture.

4.7

Paleet

Explore Paleet, Oslo's vibrant shopping mall featuring a mix of luxury boutiques, popular stores, and delightful dining options!

4.0

Explore Østlandet on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Østlandet, mapped for you.

Østlandet Essentials

Østlandet, the eastern region of Norway, is well-connected and easily accessible. The main international gateway is Oslo Airport (OSL) located in Gardermoen, approximately 50 kilometers north of Oslo. From the airport, you can take the Airport Express Train (Flytoget) which takes about 20 minutes to reach Oslo Central Station. Alternatively, regular trains, buses, and taxis are also available. If you're traveling from other parts of Norway, Østlandet is well-served by an extensive network of trains and buses.
Østlandet has a comprehensive public transportation system, including trains, buses, trams, and ferries. The region is served by Vy, the national railway operator, which connects major cities and towns. In Oslo, the capital, the Ruter system operates buses, trams, and metro lines that make getting around very convenient. For more flexibility, renting a car is a viable option, especially if you plan to explore rural areas and national parks. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available in urban areas.
The official currency of Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common in cities and towns. ATMs are readily available, and you can withdraw cash using international cards. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit smaller towns or rural areas where card payment facilities may be limited.
Østlandet is generally a very safe region for tourists. Norway has low crime rates, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places, and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, 113 for medical emergencies, and 110 for fire services. These numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Hospitals and clinics in Østlandet are well-equipped and provide high-quality care. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Norwegians appreciate practical and comfortable clothing. Avoid overly flashy attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches and religious sites, dress modestly and conduct yourself respectfully. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respect the quiet atmosphere on public transport. Don’t talk loudly or play music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Norwegians value personal space, so avoid overly enthusiastic physical contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'rakfisk' and 'lutefisk'. Don’t leave food on your plate, as it is considered wasteful. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
To experience Østlandet like a local, consider visiting local markets and trying traditional Norwegian foods. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Take advantage of the extensive hiking trails and natural parks. For a unique experience, visit the smaller towns and villages, where you can see traditional Norwegian architecture and way of life. Don’t miss out on exploring the fjords, lakes, and mountains that make this region so picturesque.

When is the best time to visit Østlandet?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Østlandet

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Østlandet. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHei
  [hay]
- GoodbyeHa det
  [hah deh]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [nai]
- Please/You're welcomeVær så snill/Ingen årsak
  [vair so snill/eeng-eh or-sahk]
- Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [oon-sheel]
- How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-dahn har doo deh]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Og du?
  [bra. oh doo?]
- Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [snah-ker doo eng-elsk?]
- I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yai for-store ik-keh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, vær så snill
  [yai vil yair-neh seh meh-nyen, vair so snill]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yai spee-ser ik-keh shutt]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skawl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, vær så snill
  [yai vil yair-neh beh-tah-leh, vair so snill]
- Help!Hjelp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå bort!
  [goh bort]
- Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring po-li-teet]
- Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en leh-geh]
- I'm lostJeg er tapt
  [yai air ta-pt]
- I'm illJeg er syk
  [yai air seek]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gjerne kjøpe...
  [yai vil yair-neh shoo-peh...]
- I'm just lookingJeg ser bare
  [yai ser bar-eh]
- How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [vor myeh koster deh?]
- That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh air for deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [kan doo sen-keh pree-sen?]
- What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [vah air klohk-ah?]
- It's one o'clockDen er ett
  [den air ett]
- Half past (10)Halv (ti)
  [halv (tee)]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- AfternoonEttermiddag
  [ett-er-mid-dahg]
- EveningKveld
  [kveld]
- YesterdayI går
  [ee gor]
- TodayI dag
  [ee dahg]
- TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-gen]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Hvor er en...?
  [vor air en...?]
- What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [vah air ah-dres-sen?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [kan doo vee-seh mai (poh kar-teht)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [nor gorr nes-teh (boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [en bee-lett (til ....)]

History of Østlandet

Østlandet, the heartland of Norway, played a significant role during the Viking Age (800-1066 AD). This region was a central point for Viking expeditions, with its strategic location allowing for easy access to both the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Key historical sites such as Kaupang, Norway’s first known town, and the Gokstad and Oseberg Viking ship burials near Tønsberg, illustrate the area’s importance in Viking society.
In the 10th and 11th centuries, Østlandet was pivotal in the Christianization of Norway. King Olaf II, also known as Saint Olaf, played a crucial role in converting the region. His efforts culminated in the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030, which, although outside Østlandet, had significant repercussions here. St. Olaf's legacy is immortalized in Nidaros Cathedral and various local churches across Østlandet.
During the Middle Ages, Østlandet flourished as a trade hub, significantly influenced by the Hanseatic League. The city of Oslo emerged as a central trading post, benefiting from its proximity to the Akershus Fortress. This period saw the rise of commerce and the establishment of a network that linked Østlandet with major European trade routes.
The late 14th century marked the beginning of the Kalmar Union, which united the kingdoms of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under a single monarch. Østlandet, with Oslo as its pivotal city, experienced political and social transformations during this period. The union influenced local governance and culture, fostering a blend of Scandinavian traditions.
Following the Napoleonic Wars, the Treaty of Kiel in 1814 resulted in Norway being ceded from Denmark to Sweden. Østlandet’s political landscape shifted as it became part of the Swedish-Norwegian Union. This period saw significant infrastructural development, including the construction of railways and modernization of cities like Oslo.
The peaceful dissolution of the union between Norway and Sweden in 1905 was a landmark event for Østlandet. The region celebrated newfound independence, and Oslo became the official capital of a fully sovereign Norway. This event fostered a strong sense of national identity and pride among the inhabitants of Østlandet.
Østlandet, like the rest of Norway, faced significant challenges during the German occupation in World War II. Oslo was a focal point of resistance activities, and the region endured hardships such as rationing and curfews. The liberation in 1945 marked a period of rebuilding and modernization, with Østlandet emerging stronger and more resilient.
Today, Østlandet is a vibrant and dynamic region, blending its rich historical legacy with contemporary culture. Oslo, as the capital city, is a hub of political, economic, and cultural activity. The region boasts numerous museums, historical sites, and cultural festivals that celebrate its storied past and dynamic present.