Transportation in Oslo
Despite its suburbs sprawling over a large area, the centre of Oslo, surrounded by deep forests, is compact and easily accessible on foot. Many sights are gathered in the central so-called Quadrangle district delineated by Akershus Castle, the Cathedral, Øvre Vollgate and Skippergata. There are also many museums on the western peninsula Bygdøy, which is easily reached by bus, or boat from Aker Brygge. The city's main street for shopping and nightlife, Karl Johans gate, runs from the Royal Palace in the west to the central railway station. To the north-west you will find affluent Majorstua and the Vigeland Sculpture Park, and in the south-west, the modern harbourside shopping and nightlife area of Aker Brygge. Head east for the Munch Museum in Tøyen and the multicultural district of Grønland. Arty Grünerløkka is to the north-east of the centre.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Underground
The Oslo underground, or T-Bane, system is the fastest way to get around the city centre. It has six lines, which all pass through Stortinget station in the centre. The network runs from 5.30am to 12.30am.
Tram
For a ride with a view, the tram or trikk is the best mode of transport. Six lines run east to west across the city.
Foot
The central parts of Oslo, where the majority of attractions are, can easily be explored on foot. Walk the entire stretch of Karl Johans gate from the royal palace in the west to the central train station in the east in about 20 minutes.
Bus
Buses are quicker than the trams and go further into the outskirts than the underground. There are 70 routes, many of which start and end at the Oslo Bus Terminal next to the railway station, east of the city centre.
Taxi
Taxis are available throughout the city centre, but expect prices to be high. They cannot be hailed on the street.
Boat
In summer, the best way of getting to museums on the Bygdøy Peninsula is by boat. Ferries depart from Rådhusbrygge (the pier in front of the city hall by the Akershus Castle) at regular intervals during the day from May to October.
Rent your car
Oslo is set on the northern banks of Oslofjord, with several main roads leading to its centre and three ring roads around it. Tolls are charged when driving into the city; foreign-registered cars are invoiced via London-based company EPC. With an Oslo Pass, you can park at municipal car parks.
Transportation Tips
The Oslo Pass tourist card, available for one, two or three days, covers travel on all public transport (except night buses) as well as free admission to museums and discounts on other activities. The pass is sold at tourist offices. Tickets for all forms of public transport are available in machines at underground stations.
