Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oslo in Winter (2026 Guide)

The best things to do in Oslo in winter include exploring its scenic parks, enjoying outdoor winter sports, and experiencing local culture through saunas and guided tours. In winter, Oslo is cold and snowy, with January being the coldest month, making it ideal for winter activities like sledding, skiing, and ice skating. While the Northern Lights are rarely visible in the city due to light pollution, nearby areas like Sognsvann offer better chances. A well-planned Oslo itinerary can include a walking tour in Oslo, visits to iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Vigeland Park, and relaxing at saunas in Oslo such as the floating Bademaschinen. Efficient Oslo airport transfers ensure smooth arrivals, and staying for 2–3 days allows visitors to fully enjoy Oslo winter activities.

What Are Winters Like in Oslo?

Oslo is long, freezing, and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing from November to March. Average winter temperatures range from −4°C to 2°C (24°F to 36°F), with January being the coldest month. Snowfall is common, averaging 40–50 cm per month, creating a picturesque winter landscape ideal for outdoor activities. Despite the cold, Oslo remains vibrant, with locals embracing winter through skiing, sledding, and ice skating. The city experiences short daylight hours, with only about one hour of sunlight in December, increasing to three hours by February. Experiencing the best things to do in Oslo in winter is made even more magical by these snowy and frosty conditions, giving everyday activities a special seasonal charm.

What Is the Coldest Month in Oslo?

January is the coldest month in Oslo, with average temperatures hovering around −1°C (30°F) and minimums dropping to −7°C (19°F). Cold snaps can push temperatures below −10°C (14°F), especially in rural areas north of the city. This makes January an excellent time for winter sports, as snow conditions are optimal for skiing and sledding.

Can I See the Northern Lights in Oslo?

Seeing the Northern Lights in Oslo is very rare due to light pollution and frequent cloud cover. While auroras occasionally appear, they are usually faint and hard to see within the city. For better chances, travelers should head to darker, rural areas like Sognsvann, about 30 minutes from Oslo. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway is between September and March, with peak solar activity in March and September.

To plan your northern lights hunt in more detail, explore this Northern Lights Calendar(2025) guide for month‑by‑month predictions and the best locations.

Is It Worth Going to Oslo in Winter?

Yes, visiting Oslo, especially in winters, is highly rewarding. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering unique experiences like ice skating at Frogner Park, sledding down Korketrekkeren, and exploring illuminated sculpture parks. The local culture embraces winter, with cozy cafés, saunas, and festive markets enhancing the experience. Additionally, winter allows access to popular attractions without summer crowds. Experiencing the best things to do in Oslo in winter is an essential way to immerse yourself in authentic Norwegian traditions and festive charm.

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oslo in Winter

Join a Walking Tour in Oslo

Start your trip with a guided or self-guided walking tour in Oslo to explore landmarks like the Opera House, Royal Palace, and Akershus Fortress. Walking tours provide insider stories about Oslo’s history and vibrant city life, and many operators offer special winter routes showcasing festive lights, cozy cafes, and the best viewpoints for snowy city photos. Taking a tour early in your trip helps you orient yourself and get recommendations from locals on hidden gems to visit.

Visit Vigeland Park

This iconic sculpture park features over 200 artworks by Gustav Vigeland and is stunning under a blanket of snow. Vigeland Park is open and free all year, and in winter, the snow highlights dramatic details in the sculptures, creating an enchanting atmosphere for photography and reflection. It’s also a popular spot for peaceful winter walks, with paths cleared and benches for moments of relaxation amid nature.

Go Sledding at Korketrekkeren

Rent a sledge and enjoy a 2-kilometer ride through snowy forests, accessible via tram (T-bane Line 1) from the city center to Frognerseteren. After an exhilarating downhill run, the metro whisks you back to the top for unlimited descents, making it one of the locals’ favorite Oslo winter activities. Sled rentals include helmets, and the downhill run offers fantastic views of Oslo along the way, with plenty of opportunities for action photos and family fun—just remember to dress warmly and bring waterproof gloves.

Ice Skate in the City

Skating is available at Spikersuppa, Frogner Park, and near the Opera House, with rentals provided at the rinks. Oslo’s city-center ice rinks often host music, seasonal markets, and warming stations with hot drinks, creating a festive atmosphere. Evening skating is especially magical, with decorative lights and a chance to mingle with locals.

Explore the Deichman Library

This modern library near the Opera House offers a warm retreat with cafes and panoramic views. Beyond books, the Deichman Library features innovative architecture, interactive exhibitions, and regular cultural events or film screenings. Settle in with a hot beverage and watch boats glide across the fjord, or explore dedicated spaces for graphic novels, multimedia, and children’s activities.

Try Skiing Around Oslo

Cross-country skiing is possible in Vigeland Park, while Skimore Oslo offers alpine slopes just 20 minutes from the city. Public transport brings you right to the slopes, and rental shops ensure you have the right gear for your skill level. Oslo's proximity to Oslomarka woodland trails means even beginners can enjoy the serenity of snowy forests and groomed tracks within a few minutes of the city.

Relax in Saunas in Oslo

Experience Norway’s sauna culture at floating saunas in Oslo like Bademaschinen, located near the Opera House. Oslo’s urban saunas often pair heat therapy with breathtaking fjord views, and many offer cold-water plunges straight from the dock—a refreshing contrast that locals swear by for winter wellbeing. Sauna events sometimes include music nights or themed gatherings, making them both relaxing and social experiences.

Visit the Holmenkollen Ski Museum

Learn about 4,000 years of skiing history and enjoy panoramic views of Oslo from the famous ski jump. The Holmenkollen Ski Museum offers hands-on exhibits, seasonal events, and stories from the Winter Olympics hosted at the venue. For a unique thrill, venture up the ski jump tower for sweeping winter vistas and even try the ski jump simulator for an adrenaline rush.

Take a Winter Fjord Cruise

A scenic boat tour offers breathtaking views of the Oslofjord’s icy landscape, winding between islands and shoreline villages. Winter cruises feature heated cabins, local guides narrating the area’s Viking lore, and opportunities to spot seabirds or seals basking on snowy rocks. It’s a peaceful way to experience Oslo’s natural beauty while staying warm and comfortable onboard.

Warm Up at Grefsenkollen

Share a meal around an outdoor fire pit at Grefsenkollen, complete with grilled bread and mulled apple juice, while overlooking panoramic views of the city lights and snowy hills. The hilltop restaurant offers delicious Norwegian comfort food, and the inviting atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for sunset dinners. Grefsenkollen is easily reached by local bus and offers plenty of winter charm for both couples and groups. Discovering these hidden corners is one of the best things to do in Oslo in winter for foodies and nature lovers alike.

Oslo Winter Itinerary Example

A 3-day Oslo itinerary could include:

• Day 1: Walking tour covering the Opera House, Royal Palace, and Karl Johan’s Gate, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
• Day 2: Morning visit to Vigeland Park, afternoon ice skating at Frogner Park, and evening at a sauna like Bademaschinen.
• Day 3: Day trip to Korketrekkeren for sledding, followed by a fjord cruise and visit to the Holmenkollen Ski Museum.

If you have more than 3 days and want to explore more of Norway in Bergen, Tromsø, follow this Norway in 8 Days itinerary for a ready-made extended route.

How Long to Stay in Oslo?

A stay of 2–3 days is ideal to experience the best things to do in Oslo in winter without feeling rushed. This allows time for major attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences like saunas and museums.

Oslo Travel Tips

• Pre-book a private transfer for smooth pick and drop to your hotel or;
• Use public transport like the Flytoget train, which connects Gardermoen Airport to the city in 20 minutes.
• Dress in layers with thermal clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly.
• Purchase the Oslo Pass for free entry to museums and public transport.
• Book sauna sessions in advance, especially on weekends.

Experience the Best Things to Do in Oslo in Winter: Book Your Tours and Transfers Today!

Oslo in winter offers a magical blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and cozy urban escapes. Whether you're exploring snowy parks, enjoying Oslo winter activities, or relaxing in saunas in Oslo, the city has something for every traveler. Plan your trip with a well-structured Oslo itinerary, and don’t forget to book your Oslo airport transfers and tours in advance. Ready to experience the magic of Oslo? Book your tours and transfers today to secure the best experiences!