WHY OSLO?
Oslo is the ultimate open-air capital with pretty beaches and parks, 19th-century architecture and long classical vistas. The city has terrific art museums, a fine opera house and great fish restaurants. It is also only a few minutes drive from the mountains, where you can hike in summer - much like Oslo's own inhabitants. And whatever you do, don't miss Munch-museet, which hosts some of Edward Munch's most impressive and important paintings.
MUNCH-MUSEET
Tøyengata 53, Oslo (00 47 22 673 774; www.munch.museum.no).
WHERE TO STAY
The glorious Grand Hotel in the middle of town is the place to see and be seen. The rooms are elegant and stylish, as is the service, and the location cannot be beaten. Plus, it was at the Grand Hotel café that Ibsen, Munch and other Norwegian intellectuals ate, drank and were merry at the turn of the last century, too.
GRAND HOTEL
Karl Johans gate 31, Oslo (00 47 22 429 390; www.grand.no).
FURTHER AFIELD
Hire a car and escape to the Oslo fjord beside the capital, which has plenty of beaches, natural marinas and islands for you to see. If you would rather escape the sun, drive towards Norway's inland wilderness of pine forests and secluded lakes instead.
MORE INFORMATION
Read all about Oslo CNTraveller.com's city guide. |
