Practical info Oslo, Norway
Getting around the city
Oslo is a relatively small city and parking is at a premium so a car is a bit of a liability. Fortunately, there is an extensive and superbly efficient public transport system involving buses, trams, subway, trains, and ferries. The city is served by 50 bus lines and eight tram routes, all starting from Jerbanetorvet at Oslo S Station. The subway is called the Oslo T-Bane and there are five underground lines covering the city. All public transport runs from 5.30am to midnight, with tickets available from bus drivers or vending machines at stations. The Tourist Ticket allows for unlimited use within 24 hours, while the 1, 2, and 3-day Oslo Pass allows unlimited travel on any form of public transport, and includes free museum admissions and other discounts. Ferries operate on a seasonal basis, between April and September, linking the City Hall to the museum-studded peninsula of Bygdøy. There are also ferry services to the harbour islands. Metered taxis are easy to come by and can be found at ranks near shopping centres, city squares, stations and other gathering points. Cabs can also be ordered by telephone from a central office, or from taxi ranks. Ride-hailing apps like Lyft are available. Much of the city is compact enough to explore on foot.
Time
Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March and the last Sunday in October).
Electricity
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are in use.
Currency
The official currency is the Norwegian Krone (NOK), divided into 100 ore. Larger establishments accept major credit cards. Use of credit cards is widespread, with Eurocard/Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club being the most common. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and major post offices, as well as many hotels and travel agents, although for poorer rates. ATMs are available in all towns and cities.
Communication
The international access code for Norway is +47. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Emergency number
112 (Police); 113 (Ambulance); 110 (Fire).
Travel documents and health
Oslo Airport
Getting to the city
The Airport Express Train and a variety of taxis run between Drammen, Asker, Sandvika, Lysaker, Skøyen, the National Theatre, Oslo S, and Lillestrøm. Buses and shuttles travel to and from the surrounding areas and back to the airport.
Car rental
Car rental companies include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Sixt, and Hertz.
Airport taxi's
Taxis are available to the city centre.
Facilities
Facilities at the airport include banks, bureaux de change, ATMs, left luggage, duty-free shopping, tourist information and a hotel reservation kiosk. Business facilities are available. There is a selection of bars, shops and restaurants.
Parking
Outdoor and indoor parking is available for a fee at Oslo Airport (with outdoor parking the cheaper option).
Internet
Free wifi is provided in two hour sessions.