Travel Talk with Ed Finn

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Saturday, 28 February 2026 - 11 minutes

A Perfect Weekend in Oslo

With a brand new direct Aer Lingus flight from Dublin this summer, Norway’s capital is having a serious moment — cutting-edge museums, buzzing food scene, fjord swims, floating sauna boats and long Nordic evenings full of energy.  Here is Ed's perfect weekend recommendation for Oslo
 

Day One

Morning: Fjord First

In Oslo, everything begins with the fjord. Start with a two-hour electric cruise with Brim Explorer, gliding silently past forested islands, hidden beaches and colourful summer cabins. As the modern Opera House and glass towers fade behind you, guides bring the city’s maritime story to life.

Before boarding, stroll past Aker Brygge and grab a coffee and cinnamon-dusted pastry at Kveitemjøl Bakery. If you’re nearby on the hour, listen for the 49-bell carillon at City Hall — it’s Oslo’s soundtrack.

Afternoon: Harbour Life & Culture

Back ashore, follow the Harbour Promenade. Walk right up onto the sloping roof of the Opera House and peer through its vast windows — you might catch rehearsals in action.

Stop at SALT for casual street-food style lunch, and if you’re brave, book one of its floating saunas.

Then dive into culture at the MUNCH Museum — bold, immersive and brilliantly curated. Head to the top floor for sweeping views towards the Holmenkollen ski jump.

Cool off at Sørenga Seawater Pool, Oslo’s summer hangout — part swimming spot, part social scene.

Evening: Grünerløkka Energy

Grünerløkka is Oslo after dark — natural wine bars, tiny candlelit restaurants and relaxed Scandi cool. No need for rigid plans; many spots keep space for walk-ins.

For late-night vibes, try Himkok (consistently ranked among the world’s best bars) or check out Becco for vinyl DJ sessions. Prefer variety? Mathallen food hall stays lively into the evening.

Day Two

Morning: Sauna or Sculpture

If you haven’t sauna-d yet, this is your moment. Book a floating fjord sauna, bring swimwear and two towels, and embrace the Nordic ritual — whatever the weather.

In winter, ride the Korketrekkeren toboggan run — a 2km downhill thrill reachable by metro.
In warmer months, wander through Frogner Park and the iconic Vigeland Sculpture Park.

Afternoon: Art & Ideas

The National Museum — the largest in the Nordics — blends classic masters with Sámi art and bold contemporary works.

Then head to Bjørvika’s Deichman Library to discover one of Oslo’s most poetic concepts: The Future Library — 100 manuscripts, sealed and unread for 100 years.

Final Night: Michelin or Rooftop Views

Oslo punches well above its weight with 11 Michelin stars. Kontrast, Hyde, Sabi Omakase or À L’aise all deliver beautifully restrained, ingredient-driven tasting menus in intimate settings.

For something more relaxed, try Plah & Ahaan’s Thai-Nordic fusion in Frogner.

Finish at Eero, the rooftop bar at Amerikalinjen Hotel, looking out over the city lights and the dark blue fjord.

Where to Stay

Stylish & Central
Amerikalinjen — heritage glamour, cool bars, rooftop views.

Contemporary & Creative
Clarion Hotel The Hub — modern art, rooftop herb garden, and Marcus Samuelsson’s Nordic fusion restaurant.

Oslo isn’t the quiet capital it once was. It’s creative, confident and deeply connected to nature — and with a new direct Aer Lingus flight from Dublin, it’s never been easier to discover.

Flights - www.aerlingus.com

Tourism Info - www.visitoslo.com & www.visitnorway.com 

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