Oslo's tourist centre is very compact and small, and most accommodation offers are concentrated there.
However, some large hotels can be found on the outskirts near motorways, conference centres, stadiums or universities. They may have lower prices, but transport to the centre can take more than 35 minutes.
Where to stay in Oslo
Oslo is one of the safest cities in the world and you won't find any bad neighbourhoods here.
The best, but also most expensive, accommodation is in the centre, which can be bounded by the main station and the Opera House on one side and the Royal Palace and Aker brygge promenade on the other.
If you are heading to Oslo mainly for hiking or skiing, ideally stay in the Holmenkollen area.
Cheap hotels
If your goal is to really pay as little as possible for your accommodation, look for these hotels. We list hotels with decent ratings and a separate room.
Expect the lowest off-season prices between 110 eur and 150 eur per night.
- K7 Hotel Oslo *** - cheapest hotel located right in the centre, 3 minutes walk from the train station or the opera
- Super Stay Hotel *** - very simple and cheap hotel a few steps from Tøyen metro station (5 minutes to the centre)
- Comfort Hotel Xpress Youngstorget *** - popular hotel with good value for money and location in a quiet part of the centre 15 minutes walk from the station
Hotels of well-known chains
Most hotels in the city centre are mid-range, but prices tend to be considerably higher than in other European capitals, ranging from 170 eur.
We would recommend these well rated hotels with good locations.
- Park Inn by Radisson Oslo *** - Excellent location between Akershus Fortress and the Town Hall
- Thon Hotel Ullevaal Stadion **** - the stadium is not only suitable for football fans, it is a 5-minute walk from the metro station (then 12 minutes to the centre) in close proximity to shops and cafes
Hotels near ski resorts
Athletes and skiers should look for accommodation especially in the Holmenkollen area, where you will find these great hotels:
- Scandic Holmenkollen Park **** - the stylish hotel of a well-known Scandinavian chain is just a few minutes' walk from the Holmenkollen ski jump
- Lysebu Hotel ***** - a great 5-star hotel at very reasonable prices in a quiet area with breathtaking views. The Voksenkollen underground station, where the walking and cross-country skiing trails start, is a 5-minute walk away.
Prices
The hotel prices are in line with the general price level in Norway, expect to pay around 175 eur per night in a 3* hotel and from 200 eur in a better 4* hotel.
If you don't need private accommodation, a significantly cheaper option is a shared room in a hostel, of which Oslo offers plenty. An acceptable compromise is a private room with a shared bathroom near the centre, with prices around 110 eur per night.
In the more distant parts of Oslo, prices are more or less similar, but you can find more budget-friendly deals around 140 eur in a private room or apartment. You'll spend more time on public transport, but if you plan to get a day ticket anyway, you won't spend any extra money.
Are prices lower when booking in advance?
Yes. The earlier you book your accommodation in Oslo, the cheaper it will be. Prices increase gradually from about 2 months before your planned stay.
The cheapest accommodation in Oslo tends to be in November, January, February and March.
