On the Scene Oslo: Locals Talk About the Latest Trends in Their City

Over the last 20 to 30 years, Oslo has undergone enormous changes. A completely new district by the fjord has emerged: Bjørvika. Here, you will find the beautiful Opera House and the towering Munch Museum, which finally gives Norway's most famous painter, Edvard Munch, the enormous museum he deserves. Among his other great paintings, you will be able to study several editions of his world-famous painting "The Scream." Bjørvika is also home to a fantastic new public library that is well worth a visit, not only for its unique architecture.

As the Oslofjord is now cleaner than it has been in many, many years, there are a number of public bathing areas along the water. They are particularly popular in the summer, but are used all year round. In the winter, ice swimmers often use one of the many saunas located along the fjord, some of which are on floats.

Oslo Is Surrounded by Forests 

However, Oslo's finest asset is the forests surrounding the city itself. Nordmarka, with its paths, gravel roads, and many lakes, is easy to reach by subway or bus and encircles the city like a crescent. For a short excursion, you can stroll around the popular Sognsvann, a trip of just over three kilometers. If you want a longer walk, the possibilities are almost endless. There are cabins available in many places in the forest for rent overnight if you want a real excursion. In my nearly 50 years as an Oslo resident, I have encountered a number of animals on my walks in the forest, including foxes, moose, deer, martens, otters, and a bustling birdlife.

Why Anne Holt Lives in the Grünerløkka Neighborhood

To me, Oslo is at its best where there is no city! But when you want to return to urban life, you have to take the route through Grünerløkka. This is an old working-class district from the late 19th century that is now bustling with modern life. Here, you will find small shops, bars, and other nightlife, as well as countless restaurants with food from all over the world. I have lived in "Løkka" for 26 years and am delighted to live a stone's throw from what I consider the city's nicest restaurant: Le Benjamin at Søndre gate 6. It's a French-style bistro at its best. My personal favorite is their crayfish.

And by the way, that's a good tip when you visit Oslo: if the restaurant offers fish or other seafood, order it! Even though we have lived off oil production since the '70s, we were once a nation of fishermen. So, we know seafood.

About

Anne Holt was born in Larvik in 1958 and has lived in Oslo for around 50 years. A law graduate, she briefly served as Norway's Minister of Justice in the 1990s. She published her first crime novel, "Blind Goddess," in 1993, and to date, she has sold around 12 million books worldwide. Her latest crime novel, "Twelve Untamed Horses," is the twelfth volume in the popular series featuring investigator Hanne Wilhelmsen.

Exploring Oslo – More Tips From the Lufthansa Editorial Team

1. Saunas by the Fjord: Even if you don't plan on swimming, it's worth taking a stroll along the promenade from Bjørvika to Aker Brygge. Public saunas like KOK Oslo or Oslo Badstuforening offer spontaneous sessions, with a direct plunge into the sea for those who are brave enough.
2. Quick Escape to Nature: Take metro line 5 to Sognsvann. The circular trail around the lake of the same name takes about an hour and is easy to walk, even in winter. Those who want to go further will find well-marked hiking routes leading towards Ullevålseter.
3. Culinary break at Mathallen in Vulkan: Combine your stroll through Grünerløkka with a detour to Mathallen in the Vulkan district along the Akerselva River. In the covered market hall, more than 30 stalls offer Norwegian and international specialties – perfect for an indulgent break between boutique shopping, bar hopping, and your evening plans.