stockholm or oslo to visit

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Oslo vs Stockholm | 9 Key Differences You Must Know Before You Visit

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If I had to choose between the two Scandinavian cities of Oslo in Norway and Stockholm in Sweden to visit — or even better, to live in — I would be hard-pushed.

To be fair, I used to have a Swedish stepmother for a few years and spent many summers and winters near Stockholm, going to the city also, whereas I have “only” visited Oslo. So, I would probably choose to live in Oslo for a while.

On paper, the cities differ little: They are practically next to each other on the map — if 320 miles apart — but both are great cities with stunning scenery and plenty of nature and inner city delights. The two capitals are modern yet historic, have deep-rooted cultures and traditions, and both lie in northern Europe. They are affected by the midnight sun, making for great fun in summer — but some gloom in winter.

Read on for some good-to-know differences between the cities, but just as many, or more, similarities.

Oslo vs Stockholm: 9 Key Differences

1. location, oslo lies in a fjord.

Oslo lies at the end of the Oslo Fjord, which leads into the Atlantic Ocean, to the south of Norway. Located on the same latitude as Alaska, Oslo is the 3 rd northernmost European capital.

Stockholm Lies In An Archipelago

Stockholm is an equally watery location , spread across 14 islands on the north-western edge of the Baltic Sea, coming in as the 5th northernmost European capital, with Tallinn just pushing between them.

2. Size And Getting Around

Oslo is easier to maneuver.

Oslo and Stockholm are relatively small for capital cities, with Oslo having a population of just above one million. While Oslo city center is easily explored on foot, there are various outlying attractions, such as the Viking Ship Museum (often compared to Stockholm’s Vasa Museum) and the Vigeland Park (see below), which are better reached by public transport, or Hop-on, Hop-off Bus .

Oslo’s International Airport is a marvel of modern technology, with pretty much everything set up so that you can check yourself through, and getting there is convenient and easy with the airport train . Don’t be tempted to take a taxi, it takes ages and costs a small fortune.

Stockholm Is Spread Across 14 Islands

Stockholm is a little larger than Oslo, with 1.5 million inhabitants. I have always found it quite confusing to maneuver, with its many islands connected by some 50+ bridges, making it quite easy to lose your bearings. But Stockholm has an attraction all on its own that helps with this: the Stockholm metro, or Tunnelbana . The metro stations are stunning pieces of art, so taking the easy-to-use metro also doubles as an art gallery visit.

Getting to and from Stockholm’s International Airport is a similar affair, with taxis much more expensive than the airport shuttle train . With the numerous islands making access to the train may be slightly more complicated than in Oslo, there are also shuttle buses that stop in various places across the city.

3. Language And People

More similarities than differences.

Both Swedish and Norwegian are languages derived from the Old Norse language and are very similar to each other — so much so, that if you learn some key phrases and words in one language, chances are they will be understood in the other language as well.

While Norway and Sweden only separated in 1905, and the origin of the people is inherently Viking, the Swedes show more influence from the Germanic sides, while the Norwegians are probably the most Viking-related people of all Scandinavians. That said, like in all major cities, there is a great cosmopolitan mix of people from all around the world, adding to the pot and the overall atmosphere.

4. The Weather

As you can imagine from lying on the same latitude as Alaska, the South of France this is not. That said, with both Oslo and Stockholm lying to the south of their respective countries, you can expect a much more continental climate than in the north of Norway and Sweden. 

Oslo Is More Of A Summer City

Summer is a very special affair in both countries, not only because it has a lovely average temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and more — making it comfortable but not sweltering — but mostly because it is still light at midnight. People tend to be out at all hours in summer, enjoying the watery surroundings, with Oslo having gorgeous little bathing huts along the fjord.

Stockholm Is Good In All Seasons

In summer, Stockholm’s archipelago of some 3,000 small islands becomes the main attraction for visitors and locals. There are festivals and celebrations, enjoying the light, which in winter, is somewhat lacking. That said, I have always loved Stockholm in winter: With the Baltic full of ice floats, and the islands covered in snow, it offers a special kind of magic. But on the whole, if you have the choice, visiting this European city in summer and the months on either side of it is probably the best time for both cities.

5. Attractions To See

Oslo is more modern.

Despite its ancient history, central Oslo’s main draws are essentially its modern architecture, such as the Opera House — which positively encourages you to climb onto its slanted roof, the modern Munch Museum — and the so-called BarCode quarter. The centrally located palace and old town are small, and not quite comparable to other European cities. Instead, the young and hopping Akerhus waterfront location offers quays from where to catch ferries along the fjord , and across to the historic, must-see Viking Museum, plus plenty of restaurants and great shopping. And you can even jump into the fjord from the end of the pier.

Stockholm Is More Colorful

Stockholm’s Gamla Stan is an absolute must-see, with its lovely old, colorful houses and crooked streets. There is the Vasa Museum, with its great ship — even if not as impressive as Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum — and various Royal Palaces. Don’t miss a boat trip around the countless islands that make up Stockholm proper and those of the archipelago just off the coast.

6. Eating Out

Oslo is pricier.

One thing to note straight away is that eating and drinking out is pricey in both Sweden and Norway, but more so in Norway. The Matstreif Food Festival takes place In Oslo in late summer, celebrating all artisan Norwegian produce and taking over the Townhall Square and numerous side streets with huts selling typical and local dishes.

Stockholm Is Slightly More Affordable

There are plenty of typical dishes in either country, but basically, it’s fresh seafood you should be looking for, with maybe a bit of moose or reindeer thrown in the mix. If you are in Stockholm in late summer, don’t miss the annual crayfish party when the entire country goes crazy over freshly harvested shellfish.

7. Unique Things To Do

Oslo is looking into the future.

One of the most unusual and quite wonderful things to see just outside of Oslo is the forest of the Library of the Future. These trees are growing to be made into books in roughly 100 years’ time. Well-known authors have written manuscripts but they will not be published until the library opens in 2114. The manuscripts will be printed on paper from the trees now growing there.

Stockholm Is High-Tech

Also rather futuristic is Stockholm’s unique light installation. Color by Numbers is a tower that is decorated with various colored lights, so nothing new there. But with this one, anyone who has downloaded the app can change the lights to suit their liking. Quite fun on a night out. There are a lot of interesting things to see and so in Stockholm .

8. Day Trips

Oslo’s olympic attraction.

Both Oslo and Stockholm are surrounded by beautiful countryside studded with forests, lakes, and small towns. From Oslo, a main day trip destination is Lillehammer, the site of the 1994 Winter Olympics by the lovely Lake Mjosa, Norway’s largest lake. There is also Gamle Fredrikstad, an old town protected by five forts. Both places are easily reached by train from Oslo.

Stockholm’s Ancient University Town

Stockholm’s main draw is its archipelago, which you can explore by commuter ferry, tourist boat, or longer cruises. Then there is lovely Uppsala, a 30-minute train ride north of Stockholm. Uppsala is an old university town and its Gamla Uppsala, or old town, dates to the 3 rd century. Another must-see is Drottningholm Castle, especially beautiful when covered in snow, but the gardens are lovely in summer too. It’s just a few stops on the Tunnelbana from the city center, so barely a day trip.

9. Lifestyle

Oslo is for outdoor types.

Most Oslo residents live very healthy lifestyles so there is a huge emphasis on outdoor activities and winter sports. Oslo is a walkable city so take part in cardio activities if you’re looking to blend in with the locals. However, a healthy lifestyle and happiness come with a price since Oslo is among the most expensive cities in the world

Since Oslo is one of the greenest cities in Europe, expect fresh and sustainable produce, like all kinds of bread, cheese, and seafood. Foodies in Oslo adore beef hot dogs, lamb and cabbage stew, and large meatballs. Coffee is also a big thing here, with lots of coffee shops and cafes around.

Stockholm Is for Lovers of Diverse Cultures

Stockholm was dubbed the European Capital of Culture and is home to many people from the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Among other things, this has contributed to changes in Swedish cuisine over the years, and Stockholm sees new international restaurants open up regularly. 

For a taste of culture, head to the heart of Stockholm city, known as the Royal National City Park , comprised of townhouses, museums, entertainment venues, and The Royal Palace of Stockholm. The Royal Palace of Stockholm, His Majesty The King’s official residence, is a gem of grandeur and history. With over 600 rooms, it showcases luxuriant interiors, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and regal treasures. The Royal Palace of Stockholm is open to the public, allowing access to various rooms, museums, and exhibitions.

The city is also home to Stockholm University and Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum. This open-air museum was opened in 1891and it showcases the way of life in different parts of Sweden before the industrial era. It is also a zoo.

How About Visiting Both Oslo and Stockholm in One Go?

Oslo or Stockholm? Have you come to a decision? There are so many similarities and yet so many differences. Personally, I would suggest visiting Stockholm in winter , seeing places such as Drottningholm Castle in the snow and the frozen Baltic Sea, and then enjoying the outdoor life in Oslo in summer by eating out on the terraces and taking a boat up and down the fjord, with swimming optional (it does not matter how hot it gets, the water is so cold!) But coming from afar, two trips are usually not an option. So, why not visit Stockholm AND Oslo on one trip?

There are two great options: You can take the high-speed train between the two cities, it takes around 7.5 hours, and the views along the way are wonderful. Or, you could take a ferry from Sandefjord, on the inlet of the Oslo Fjord on the North Sea coast to Stromstad in Sweden, alas on the opposite coast to Stockholm, and then hire a car and embark on a bit of a road trip through the lakes and forests of central Sweden past Orebro to Stockholm. This is a lovely road trip country and very scenic. Win-win.

Is Oslo Colder Than Stockholm?

Yes, it is. Oslo generally has colder weather than Stockholm. Oslo is located further north than Stockholm, which means it is colder on average and has a longer winter season. As a result, Oslo tends to receive more snow than Stockholm.

Is the Train Ride From Oslo to Stockholm Scenic?

The train ride from Oslo to Stockholm is not the most scenic in Scandinavia. However, it will take you through endless pine forests and plenty of pretty lakes. Although there are many more scenic areas, you can say that the drive from Oslo to Stockholm is pleasant. 

Is Stockholm Bigger Than Oslo?

Stockholm has a larger population, but the area of Oslo is bigger by a fraction. Oslo is the most populous city in Norway, while Stockholm city is the most populous urban area in Sweden as well as in Scandinavia.

Is Stockholm Cheaper Than Oslo?

Yes, the cost of living in Stockholm is 11% cheaper than in Oslo, but both cities are ranked 1st in their respective countries. In general, Sweden is considerably cheaper compared to Norway, which is more expensive than most countries in Western Europe.

When to Visit Stockholm and Oslo?

Summer is the best time to go. July and August are the height of the tourist season when all the sightseeing attractions are open and in full swing. In many cases, things don’t kick into gear until summer when Scandinavian schools let out.

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

Oslo Vs. Stockholm: Which Nordic Capital Is Best To Visit?

Having a hard time deciding whether to travel to Oslo or Stockholm? Then you’re definitely in the right place because this detailed comparison will help you decide which Nordic city is better for you!

Both Stockholm and Oslo are some of the greenest cities in Europe, so you can feel good about visiting either one. Residents of both cities are known to be some of the healthiest and most active in Europe, and those aren’t the only similarities between these cities. Keep reading to learn more about Oslo and Stockholm, and see which Nordic capital is ultimately the better fit for you!

Answer: It Depends

Whether you should visit Oslo or Stockholm depends on what you want to do on your trip. Stockholm is the better option for travelers who want to stay in a metropolis full of content. There are more things to do and see in the Swedish capital, particularly for travelers who prefer exploring the urban to the actual jungle.

Oslo, on the other hand, is more suitable for travelers who enjoy exploring outside the city’s borders. The Norwegian capital is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful nature and it offers more things to do to travelers who want to get out of the city and explore its surroundings.

If you want to explore hiking trails and climb mountains in addition to exploring metropolitan attractions, Oslo is the better city for you.

If that still doesn’t narrow it down enough for you, look for answers in the rest of this detailed comparison of Oslo and Stockholm!

Oslo Vs. Stockholm: The Basics

Oslo and Stockholm are quite similar in a way. Both cities feature a similar climate, an excellent network of public transportation, a variety of entertainment venues, and a plethora of interesting sights in and around them. That’s exactly why many people have trouble deciding between the two, especially those who have never visited the Nordics before.

Regardless of which capital you end up visiting, you should expect clean surroundings, a chilly climate, and breathtaking views. Also, English is widely spoken in both these capitals and you shouldn’t have any issues getting around even if you can’t breathe a word of Norwegian/Swedish.

Also, getting around the city is pretty easy whether you’re in Oslo or Stockholm. Both boast a great network of public transportation, so you can quickly travel between different parts of the city. There are countless train and bus lines, as well as ferry routes that will quickly take you to different areas of the cities.

On top of that, both capitals are easily walkable and most of their attractions can be explored on foot.

Oslo Vs. Stockholm: Things To Do

When it comes to top sights and cultural attractions, Stockholm is considered the better option for travelers who want to stay within the metropolitan area. The city just has more landmarks and museums to offer, so it’s definitely the more suitable option for travelers who want a city full of content.

Oslo is bigger than Stockholm by area size, but it’s important to note that a good chunk of Oslo is greenery and waterways. Stockholm has a larger population and more people usually means more ways to stay entertained.

One thing to note is that both these cities offer plenty of opportunities for day trips and exploration outside their urban area. Stockholm is famous for its many islands, and boat tours of the Stockholm archipelago are an excellent way of getting to know the city.

Oslo, on the other hand, is known for stunning nature just outside the city borders. It’s no secret that Norwegians are very healthy – well, they manage to stay so healthy because they enjoy exploring the wilderness outside their cities whether on a bike or on foot.

Oslo Vs. Stockholm: Cost

If cost plays a big part in your decision, Stockholm is the better city for you. It’s significantly cheaper than Oslo, although it’s worth noting that both these cities are pretty expensive when compared to the capitals of Western Europe.

Accommodation, transportation, and food are all more expensive in Oslo. You’ll also pay more for museum tickets, but the upside is that there’s just so much wilderness outside the city that you can discover for free.

The fjords, the panoramic city views, and the stunning untouched nature of Norway can all be discovered on a pretty tight budget. But you’ll need a small fortune to enjoy a fine dining experience in the Norwegian capital, so there’s that.

Stockholm is more affordable than Oslo but it’s by no means a cheap city. It’s still one of the most expensive cities in Europe, so you will still need a rather generous budget if you want to live large in Stockholm. Then again, it’s a bit easier to stick to a tighter budget in the capital city of Sweden , plus there’s also a wide variety of things you can do for free here.

Top Sights In Oslo

Want to know what the best things to do in Oslo are? The following are just some of the most famous attractions in the Norwegian capital.

Munch Museum

Edward Munch remains one of the most famous artists Norway has ever produced. Scream is his signature masterpiece, but unfortunately, it’s not on display at this museum – you’ll need to visit the National Museum in Oslo instead.

At the Munch Museum, you get to see a plethora of other works from this famous artist. The museum’s collection includes more than 28,000 works of art from Edward Munch, as well as the artist’s effects, tools, and a private library.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that even the museum building is a modern work of art. It’s situated across from the Oslo Opera House, and it boasts modern architecture with a classic Scandinavian twist.

Frogner Park And Vigeland Park

Vigeland Park and Museum are situated a bit outside the Oslo city center, but they’re easily accessible by public transport. Vigeland Park is a sculpture park featuring Gustav Vigeland’s famous sculptures and temporary art exhibits. It’s situated within Frogner Park, which boasts a variety of other interesting attractions for tourists.

In addition to Oslo’s famous sculptures, Frogner Park is also home to the Oslo City Museum. The museum exhibit focuses on the development of Oslo , and it’s great for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the Norwegian capital city.

The Vigeland Museum is located just outside Frogner Park in an industrial setting. It boasts a large collection of Gustav Vigeland’s sculptures, drawings, and woodcuts, and it’s an absolute must for all art lovers in Oslo.

Akershus Fortress

Akershus is a waterside fortress that dates back to the 13th century. It was initially built as a royal residence in the city, but the castle has had many functions over the centuries. It was used as a military base, a prison, and today it functions as the temporary office of the Norwegian Prime Minister.

There are two military museums inside the Akershus Castle and they’re definitely worth visiting if you’re interested in military history. One museum boasts an exhibit on the Norweigan resistance in World War II, while the other one is the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum.

It’s worth noting that you’ll need to pay an entrance fee only if you want to visit the museums. Touring the fortress grounds is entirely free, making this a great attraction for all travelers on a tighter budget!

Oslo Opera House

The waterfront Oslo Opera House is an iconic city landmark worth visiting. The landmark building is best known for its modern architecture with geometric shapes and a slanted roof that goes all the way down to the ground. This means that you can (and you should!) easily walk on top of the roof of the building to see a fabulous sunset over the fjord.

It’s worth it to go inside the entertainment venue and see the interior architecture as well. There’s a cafe at the opera house where you can grab some coffee if you like – you’ll fit in along with all the other tourists!

Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History is situated in Bygdøy, a small peninsula just outside the Oslo City Center. Best known for beautiful beaches, leafy hiking trails, and great museums, the peninsula is just one of many reasons why many travelers prefer the scenery of Oslo to that of Stockholm.

The open-air museum is incredible and a must if you’re visiting Oslo. It boasts a large collection of medieval buildings with indoor exhibits on the culture and lifestyle of the people of Oslo throughout the years. You can see how the traditions and culture changed throughout the years along with urban development, but the Gol Stave Church is definitely the most iconic building at the museum.

It’s worth noting that you could easily spend 4-5 hours here if you wanted to see and read absolutely everything. We’d recommend taking an entire day to explore the peninsula with all its mesmerizing viewpoints and museums. In addition to the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, the Viking Ship Museum and the Fram Museum are also situated in Bygdøy.

Viking Ship Museum

Norway has a long and fascinating history of Vikings that is an essential part of the country’s national identity. Learning about Vikings is key if you really want to get to know Norway and the Norwegians, so do not miss out on this absolute gem in Bygdøy.

The museum displays three Viking ships from the 9th century and they’re a fascinating sight. Visitors can also see various artifacts recovered from burial chambers, as well as short films that tell the history of the museum exhibit.

Rådhuset is the Oslo City Hall and it’s one of the most popular landmarks in this coastal city. It is best known for hosting the Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony, but you don’t have to be a Nobel winner to go inside the building.

Guided tours of the Oslo City Hall are available, but honestly, they’re not a must. Sure, if you’ve got plenty of time in the city definitely check out the interior of the building, but if you’re in Oslo for just a few days, there are better ways to spend your time.

The towers and the iconic red brick exterior are the most famous things about Rådhuset anyway, and you can appreciate both without seeing the inside of the building.

Top Sights In Stockholm

Stockholm isn’t short on tourist attractions either, and you can see all its best-known landmarks and museums right here!

Vasa Museum

Vasa is a Swedish warship that sank in the early 17th century. It was salvaged and it’s currently on display at the Vasa Museum, which happens to be one of the most popular things to see in Stockholm.

The Vasa ship sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and it wasn’t recovered until 1961. The museum exhibits tell the story of how the ship was found and salvaged, plus all visitors are allowed to get very close to the ship to examine all the little details.

This is definitely one of the top tourist attractions in Stockholm, but it’s worth noting that the museum shouldn’t be extremely crowded. It’s possible to purchase tickets at the entrance and the lines are usually not very long.

ABBA The Museum

The ABBA Museum is one of Stockholm’s most famous museums and the best museum for anyone who is even remotely into pop culture. The band reshaped pop music as we know it today and this interactive exhibit pays homage to their influence.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t a museum in the exact sense of that word because it does not conduct research, it doesn’t have any collections, and it is for profit. It’s more of an interactive exhibit of various items from the lives of the band members, such as the self-playing piano that’s hooked up to Benny’s actual piano. If Benny happens to be playing the piano while you’re at the museum, you’ll see it (and hear it) in person!

Visitors can also see various ABBA costumes, a replica of their recording studio, and some of their instruments. It’s also possible to virtually try on all the different ABBA outfits, so there are plenty of fun and interesting things to see and do at this museum.

Stockholm Archipelago Boat Tour

The city of Stockholm is built on 14 islands, but there are more than 30,000 islands, rocks, and skerries in the Stockholm archipelago. Thanks to excellent interconnectivity with bridges, Stockholm is a walkable city and you can explore most of its attractions on foot.

However, a boat tour of the archipelago is definitely one of the best ways to experience this beautiful city. You’ll get to see parts of Stockholm that you simply can’t reach on foot, plus you’ll experience a beautiful panorama of this great city from the water.

Boat tours usually take around three hours, and they’re available year-round. They are extremely popular in the summer months, so if you happen to visit Stockholm during peak season, make sure to book tickets in advance.

Skansen is a vast open-air museum dedicated to Swedish history. The exhibits at this museum include historic buildings, people in costumes, and even a zoo with Nordic animals. It’s the oldest open-air museum in all of Sweden and it’s definitely a must-see attraction if you’re visiting the Swedish capital.

The museum spans an area of 75 acres, so you can imagine it will take a while to explore all of its best exhibits. Some of the highlights of the Skansen museum include a full replica of the average Swedish town in the 19th century, farmsteads with rare farm animals, and a zoo with native Scandinavian animals.

It’s worth noting that houses were brought from all over the country to this museum, so you’re truly getting to experience life in Sweden through the ages and not just in Stockholm.

Stockholm Royal Palace

The Stockholm Royal Palace is the official residence of the Royal family in Sweden. The Baroque palace is partially open for tours so it is possible to go inside and get a glimpse of how the royals lived. It’s situated in the Stockholm old town and it’s easily accessible from the city center.

The palace is also home to three museums, so plan to spend a few hours here, if you really want to see the entire place. Guided tours of the palace rooms are available for visitors, and they’re a great option if you want to learn more about the history of the building, but also about the functions of different rooms and anecdotal events.

Don’t miss out on the Logården either – the palace park is small, but it’s beautifully landscaped and worth checking out.

Gamla Stan is a compact island in Stockholm that houses the city’s old town. With 17th-century buildings, a plethora of museums, spectacular views, and a variety of landmark buildings, this is easily the part of the city that tourists will be drawn to the most.

Landmark churches, countless museums, and the best Stockholm hotels are all situated in this part of the city. This is where you’ll find the Royal Palace, the Riddarholmen Church, Storkyrkan, the Parliament House, the Nobel Prize Museum, the Stockholm Medieval Museum, and many other attractions.

Gamla Stan is the best place for visitors who want to stay somewhere central in Stockholm, but it’s worth noting that this is also where the priciest accommodation in the city is. Nonetheless, if you want to be within walking distance of all the most iconic historical attractions in the city, this is the place to be.

Kungsträdgården

Kungsträdgården is a vast public park in Stockholm and a very popular hangout place among the locals. In the summer, the park usually hosts open-air concerts and exhibits, but during the winter it’s dominated by a large ice-skating rink that attracts residents of all ages.

Stockholm’s large public park is a popular meeting place in the city, so definitely go there if you want to do some people watching. The park is also home to quite a few cafes, restaurants, and art galleries, so there are plenty of other things to do here, in case you’ve got no interest in observing the locals go about their days.

Although Kungsträdgården is popular year-round, it’s best experienced in the spring when its many cherry blossom trees are in full bloom.

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Oslo for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Stockholm or Oslo?
• Which is Cheaper, Stockholm or Oslo? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Oslo?

• When to Visit Stockholm or Oslo?

Should you visit Stockholm or Oslo?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Stockholm and Oslo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Stockholm is a beautiful, clean, and coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Oslo is a clean, progressive, and park-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Oslo: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Scenic old town
• Fun shopping
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big city activities
• Impressive beauty
• Less popular for shopping
• Less popular with couples

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Oslo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Oslo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). Oslo is famous for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports.

How is Stockholm different from Oslo?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oslo and Stockholm. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stockholm or Oslo?

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Stockholm and Oslo.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

Is the Food Better in Stockholm or Oslo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Stockholm and Oslo offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Stockholm. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Oslo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Stockholm has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Music?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Oslo is not a live music destination.

Stockholm is a world class music destination. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Oslo is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Stockholm offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Oslo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm is notable for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city for its shopping opportunities.

Stockholm is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Families?

Both Stockholm and Oslo are first-rate to visit with kids.

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Oslo is very family-friendly. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Couples?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Stockholm has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

Oslo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm and Oslo are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Stockholm is a good city to visit for backpackers. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Plenty of backpackers visit Oslo. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Students?

Oslo is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Oslo. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Is Stockholm or Oslo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Stockholm and Oslo.

Stockholm has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Oslo can take you anywhere. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Is Stockholm or Oslo a more walkable city?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

Oslo is a very walkable city. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Stockholm Worth Visiting? and Is Oslo Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Stockholm?

How long in stockholm or oslo.

In either Stockholm or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than Oslo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Oslo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Stockholm, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Stockholm than Oslo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Stockholm that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Stockholm than Oslo if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Stockholm.

• How many days in Stockholm or Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay Stockholm 2-7   Oslo   1-5

One day in Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and museums around the city of Oslo. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oslo has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the park-filled big city of Oslo. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm is a beautiful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the progressive city of Oslo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Stockholm or Oslo?

Stockholm is a coastal city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Oslo is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden , The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden , The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway , and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway .

Which place is cheaper, Oslo or Stockholm?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Stockholm Prices Sweden Prices Oslo Prices Norway Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Stockholm $ 167 Oslo $ 136

The average daily cost (per person) in Stockholm is $167, while the average daily cost in Oslo is $136. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Stockholm and Oslo in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Stockholm $ 96 Oslo $ 81
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Stockholm $ 192 Oslo $ 162

Compare Hotels in Stockholm and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Stockholm or Oslo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Stockholm

Hotels in Oslo

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Stockholm $ 20 Oslo $ 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

• Arlanda Airport Bus Transfer Departure: $17
• Train Transfer between City and Arlanda Airport: $21
• Skavsta Airport Bus Transfer: $26
• Private Transfer from Stockholm Port to Bromma Airport BMA: $37
• Private Transfer from Bromma Airport (BMA) to Stockholm Port: $37
• Stockholm City to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
• Stockholm Port to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
• Stockholm Hotels to Nynashamn Cruise Port Private Transfer: $38
• Stockholm Port to Stockholm hotel Arrival Private Transfer: $41
• Stockholm hotel to Stockholm Port Departure Private Transfer: $41
• Private Transfer from Stockholm hotels to Stockholm Cruise Port: $41
• Stockholm to Stockholm Airport (ARN) - Departure Transfer: $49

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:

• Tram Ticket $ 6.59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

• Airport & City Transfers in Trondheim: $131
• Arrival Private Transfer Oslo OSL Airport to Oslo by Business Car: $115
• Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $155
• Departure Private Transfer from Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $114
• Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $106
• Oslo Airport (OSL): Private Transfer to Oslo Cruise Port: $486
• Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Car: $148
• Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo Airport OSL to Oslo City in Business Van: $229
• Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $147
• Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $238
• Oslo Cruise Port to Oslo Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
• Oslo Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Oslo hotels: $129

Is it cheaper to fly into Stockholm or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo and Stockholm change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Stockholm $ 36 Oslo $ 30

Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:

• Breakfast $ 9.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Stockholm.

• Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
• Food Tour: $101
• Stockholm Food Tour: $104
• Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
• From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oslo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Oslo.

• Oslofjord Cruise with Seafood Dinner: $58
• Oslofjord Dinner Cruise on a sailing ship : $61
• Oslo Alternative Culture and Street Food Tour: $74
• Christmas Street Food Tour with Akevitt and Christmas beer : $112
• 3-course Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord: $117
• Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $121

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Stockholm $ 25 Oslo $ 19

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

Here are a few actual costs in Stockholm for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
• First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
• Tour Gratis Estocolmo La Ciudad Vieja Isla los Caballerosen: $4.41
• Central A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• Gamla Stan's Landmarks and legends: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• History and Secrets of Gamla Audio Guided Walking Tour: $6.20
• Stockholm City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
• Stockholm Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
• Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Highlights Tour: $6.95
• Gamla Stan: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Stockholm’s Old City: $6.99
• Walking Tour of Stockholm's City Center: $7.64

Tours and Activities in Oslo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Oslo are as follows:

• Explore Oslo with Passionate Tour Guides: $3.21
• Walking Tour in Oslo in English: $4.41
• Tour a Pie en Oslo en Español: $4.41
• Digging up the Past in Røros: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
• A Self-Guided Tour of Akershus to Kongen Marina Waterfront: $7.99
• An Oslo Waterfront Stroll: Self-paced Audio Tour: $7.99
• Downtown Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
• Oslo Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.02
• Discover Oslo's Heart: Audio Tour Through Time and Beauty: $11
• Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
• The Fram Museum Admission Ticket: $13
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Stockholm $ 26 Oslo $ 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

Also in Stockholm, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
• Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
• Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stockholm and Oslo, we can see that Stockholm is more expensive. And not only is Oslo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Oslo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Oslo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Stockholm would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stockholm than you might in Oslo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Stockholm Expensive? and Is Oslo Expensive? .

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Oslo. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Oslo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Stockholm or Oslo?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Stockholm or Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Oslo. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Oslo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Stockholm is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Oslo. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Stockholm 18°C (64°F)   Oslo   18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Oslo. The autumn months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

Stockholm is around the same temperature as Oslo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Stockholm 8°C (46°F)   Oslo   7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Oslo. It's quite cold in Stockholm in the winter. In the winter, Stockholm is a little warmer than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Oslo averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Oslo. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Stockholm -3°C (27°F)   Oslo   -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oslo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Stockholm is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Oslo. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Stockholm 5°C (41°F)   Oslo   6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Stockholm

Related articles for stockholm, related articles for oslo.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Stockholm vs Oslo: which one should you visit? 

So you fancy a trip to the Nordic countries, but only have the time – or budget – to see one Scandinavian capital. Which should you visit: Stockholm or Oslo?

In our opinion, there are so many reasons to visit both the capital cities of Sweden and Norway. Although Stockholm is more traditionally beautiful, Oslo is stuffed full of world-class museums and interesting contemporary architecture.

But if you really have to choose, we’ve done the comparison for you. So read on to find out which is better: Stockholm or Oslo?

Sightseeing and attractions Culture and history Free things to do Guided tours and experiences Outdoor activities and nature Weather and when to go Accommodation Food and dining Local specialities Nightlife Shopping Getting there Getting around Safety and friendliness Budget and costs Our verdict

Sightseeing and attractions

So, first things first, what can you see and do in Stockholm and Oslo? Well, since both cities are built on the water, taking a boat trip is a no-brainer.

Oslo sits at the top of the Oslofjord, while Stockholm is built on 14 islands and surrounded by thousands more in the Stockholm archipelago. 

If you wanna know which islands to explore in the Stockholm archipelago, see our guide . 

The classic under-the-bridges boat tour in Stockholm shows you the city’s sights from the water and takes in the old town, the waterfront and the royal palaces, and gives you a nice intro to the city from the water.

In Oslo, electric boat trips run round the main sights, including the historic Akershus fortress, the contemporary Munch Museum and the leafy Bygdøy Peninsula.

But overall, we think that Stockholm is the winner for the sight-seeing and attractions.

Culture and history

Both cities are rich in culture and history. Stockholm is probably more historic with its beautiful medieval old town, Gamla Stan, to explore, while Oslo’s main square Stortorvet is home to the city’s 17th-century cathedral.

Stockholm also has some great museums, including the Skansen open-air museum and, of course, the ABBA Museum .

We think, however, Oslo wins out in terms of museums and galleries, with the award-winning Munch Museum, the fascinating open-air Norwegian Folk Museum and the Astrup Fearnley Museet of contemporary art. 

All are free to enter with the Oslo Pass – see our guide to find out if it’s worth buying .

Free things to do

Both Stockholm and Oslo are perfect for just strolling around and admiring the views, the beautiful buildings and the waterfront. 

In Stockholm, the winding streets and narrow alleys of the Gamla Stan are a joy to get lost in, while in summer you can swim in the lakes and in winter you can skate on the frozen ice.

In Oslo, you can visit one of the city’s best-known attractions for free – the open-air Vigeland Park, home to more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. 

Or you can take a free guided walking tour of Oslo – you just tip the guide, if you’ve enjoyed your walk.

For more free and cheap things to do, see guides to Oslo and Stockholm .

Guided tours and experiences

Our favourite Stockholm activity is kayaking round the archipelago. On this full-day trip , you’ll paddle round islands, look out for white-tailed eagles and even take a dip in the sea if you want. 

You can kayak in Oslo too, though personally we think the Oslofjord is best seen from the deck of this classic wooden sailing boat .

But we think Oslo just pips the tours and experiences category with this floating sauna and dip in the Oslofjord – a classic Nordic activity.

Outdoor activities and nature 

Both cities have plenty of outdoor green spaces, parks, islands and beaches, where you can go wild swimming. And it’s easy to get out of both cities into the surrounding countryside.

Oslo is a great option for hiking – we particularly like this hike up Vettakollen mountain along forest trails with great views over the Oslofjord. 

For more ideas for treks, see our guide to the best hikes near Oslo .

But in terms of nature and activities, we think Stockholm is the winner with this full-day wolf and wildlife tracking tour . An experienced guide will take you out into the wilderness in search of wolves and other wild animals.

Weather and when to go

Oslo lies around 260 miles west of Stockholm and a little bit further north. They’re both within the same climate zone, but Oslo tends to be a few degrees colder than Stockholm in both summer and winter.

Oslo also has almost twice as much rainfall as Stockholm, which often falls as snow from December to March.

Average monthly temperatures

Average monthly rainfall (in millimetres), accommodation.

Both cities have good accommodation options, ranging from cheap-and-cheerful hostels to five-star luxury hotels.

They also have their fair share of unusual accommodation too. Fancy a stay in a converted theatre in Oslo anyone? Or a refurbished jumbo jet in Stockholm ?

What we particularly like about Stockholm is that you have the option of staying out on an island, and visiting the city from there. 

Waxholms Hotell on the island of Waxholm, for example, is just an hour by ferry from the centre of the city.

However, Oslo wins a bonus point for having a free campsite on the island of Langøyene in the Oslofjord.

But overall, because accommodation is generally cheaper in Stockholm than in Oslo, we think Stockholm wins the accommodation category

Average price in shoulder season for accommodation

Food and dining.

Both Stockholm and Oslo have some great places to eat from Michelin-starred fine dining places to fun food halls and street markets.

Eksted in Stockholm and Maaemo in Oslo specialise in using local ingredients to prepare innovative New Nordic cuisine dishes.

If these restaurants are beyond your budget, check out the Mathallen food hall in Oslo and Stockholm’s upmarket Östermalms Saluhall  and good-value  Hötorgshallen . 

All have stalls selling an interesting variety of food and dishes at reasonable prices.

For more ideas on affordable food, see our guides to  cheap food in Stockholm  and  how to eat on the cheap in Oslo . 

Local specialties and traditional dishes

Oslo is known for its fresh seafood and Norwegian waffles, topped with sour cream and jam or brown cheese.

However finding genuine Norwegian dishes in Oslo isn’t always easy – see our guide to where to find authentic Norwegian food in Oslo for some tips on where to go.

In Stockholm, hot dogs,  pancakes , pickled herrings and  meatballs  are widely available – see our  guide to Swedish fast food  for tips on the local specialities to look out for.

Or for some expert help, why not sign up for a food walk in Stockholm or Oslo ?

Both cities have decent clubs, bars and nightlife, though a night on town isn’t cheap in either city.

Kicking back with a cocktail in a rooftop bar and admiring the view is a great way to spend the evening. 

The Thief Rooftop bar in Oslo gives great views over to the Holmnekollen hills, and you can check out a whole host of rooftop bars in Stockholm in our guide.

Both cities have big-name summer musical festivals. Stockholm Fields features Doja Cat and The Hives in 2024, while Olso’s Øyafestivalen boasts the likes of Pulp, Loyle Carner and Raye in their 2024 line-up.

Norway is perhaps best known for its traditional knitwear and sweaters. See our guide for the lowdown on how and where to buy a Norwegian sweater . 

Sweden, of course, is the home of Ikea (the country’s biggest branch is just outside Stockholm) and is known for its stylish, minimalist but accessible home furnishings. 

Norway has also embraced the trend for minimalist Nordic design, but its shops tend to be more upmarket and pricey.

So, we think Stockholm is the winner here, simply for the range of shops, and the fact that they’re cheaper!

Click here for more Swedish shops to check out.

Getting there

Both Oslo and Stockholm are easy to get to by plane from the UK and the US, with large international airports that serve most European capitals and a selection of US cities.

However Stockholm has more flights to a bigger variety of cities than Oslo.

There are several daily direct flights from London to both Stockholm and Oslo on British Airways, SAS, Ryanair and Norwegian.

New York is the only US city with direct flights to both Scandinavian capitals (on Norse and SAS) – from other US cities, you’ll have to change planes.

Journey times for direct flights

Train and ferry connections between scandinavian cities.

Once you’re in Scandinavia, it’s easy to travel between Stockholm, Oslo and the other capital cities.

Getting around

Both Oslo and Stockholm have good public transport systems, with trams, trains, buses, a metro system and ferries connecting various parts of the city.

Transport is run by Ruter in Oslo and SL in Stockholm, with tickets valid on all types of public transport in both cities.

Cycling and walking is also easy and fun in both cities, so for ease of getting around we call it a draw.

★ SUGGESTED DISCOUNT

Save with the stockholm pass.

Get up to 50% off at Stockholm's top attractions, including the Vasa Museum, SkyView Stockholm and The Viking Museum, plus discounts on some of the city's best boat trips.

Is the Oslo Pass worth buying?

Read this guide to see how much you could save during your trip!

Safety and friendliness

Neither Norwegians or Swedes have the immediate friendliness of the southern Europeans, but once you get to know them, or after a few drinks, you’ll find them hospitable and friendly.

As in all large cities, pickpocketing and petty crime is always present, but serious crime against tourists in Oslo and Stockholm is rare.

Oslo generally ranks slightly lower than Stockholm in the crime figures but, contrary to what you may think from Nordic crime dramas , both cities are pretty safe.

Budget and costs

So, which city is cheaper to visit – Stockholm or Oslo? We’ve looked at the prices of a few things you may buy on holiday in each city.

As you can see from the table above and from our accommodation table, Stockholm comes out as a cheaper city to visit than Oslo. 

In almost all categories Oslo is about 10 percent more expensive than Stockholm – except for alcohol.

Drinking beer and wine in Oslo will cost you a whopping 25 percent more than in Stockholm. 

So overall, Stockholm wins out on costs.

For more detailed information about prices in each city, see our guides to the  cost of living in Norway  and  Sweden  and  Stockholm prices: what to expect .

Our verdict

Of course, they’re very different cities so which you choose will depend on your likes, what you want to see and do – and, of course, your budget.

If you like picturesque medieval streets and squares, palaces and museums, then Stockholm will appeal. For modern architecture, great art and a lively waterfront, then Oslo is your city.

We started Routes North in Stockholm, so perhaps we’re a bit biased towards the Swedish capital and its beautiful islands. But Oslo is undoubtedly a really cool city too, in a beautiful setting, with fresh air and a more modern, contemporary vibe.

Your money will go further in in Stockholm it’s true, but there are plenty of ways that you can visit Oslo without spending a fortune – even more so, if you don’t drink!

So, our advice is to see both if you can – especially as you can travel between the two cities by train in just over five hours.

But, what do you think? Which city do you prefer – Stockholm or Oslo? Leave a comment and tell us what you think about which city is better: Stockholm or Oslo.

See also : Sweden vs Norway: which should you visit? Which are the cheapest Scandinavian countries?

Norwegian boy names: the best male names from Norway

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Oslo vs Stockholm: Which City to Visit?

Last Updated on June 23, 2023

by Emily Marty

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The Scandinavian capitals of Stockholm and Oslo are both popular destinations among tourists worldwide. For those needing to choose between one or the other, the question of Oslo vs Stockholm can be a tricky one. Both cities have their own distinct identities and lots to offer, so how do you choose between the two? 

In general, Oslo is a great option for nature enthusiasts looking for a compact city with easy access to some of Scandinavia’s most dramatic landscapes and nature reserves. On the other hand, Stockholm is great for history buffs looking for a cosmopolitan city break.

If you’re trying to pick which to visit, then read on! In this guide, we’ll be breaking down the major differences between the cities to help you figure out which one you should be heading to on your next Scandi city break. 

Table of Contents

While on the smaller side, Norway’s capital city, Oslo , has plenty to see and do. It’s home to some unique museums, gorgeous nature reserves, is incredibly safe, and is very compact and walkable to boot. 

Accessibility

Oslo is home to two international airports (Gardermoen and Torp) which both have connections across Europe and beyond as well as within Norway . The larger of the two is the Gardermoen airport.

You can also reach Oslo from nearby cities within Norway (such as by the famed Bergen to Oslo train) and even by bus from cities like Gothenburg in Sweden.

Perhaps one of the best parts about visiting Oslo is how simple it is to get around the city. The Olso city centre can easily be traversed on foot, and the rest of the metropolitan area is quickly accessed via the comprehensive public transport network.

Public transit in Oslo consists of trams, buses, ferries, and a metro, with services operating late into the night. If you plan to use a lot of transport in the city, you should consider purchasing an Oslo Pass.

In fact, if you’re planning on sticking predominantly to central Oslo during your trip there, then hiring a car can be more of a hindrance than anything else.

Parking is expensive and isn’t always that easy to come by; besides, the city is so easily navigated via public transport that you’re unlikely to save much time by driving anywhere yourself. 

Affordability

Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and, naturally, this is something that visitors to Oslo certainly notice! 

All the basics, including groceries, eating out, accommodation, drinks, and so on, are considerably costlier in Oslo than they are in Stockholm.

Norway on the whole is more expensive than Sweden, so you can expect to pay more for the same goods even in rural parts of Norway than you likely would in Stockholm city. 

The only real exception to this rule is that public transport prices in Oslo and Stockholm are more or less identical.

This is maybe worth keeping in mind if you plan on using public transport extensively on your holiday and are still weighing up whether to visit Stockholm or Oslo, but, by and large, given how much pricier Oslo is in every other respect, it’s unlikely to make much of a difference. 

Both are home to a number of museums and attractions with free entry. Otherwise, most activities – be they museums, concerts, and so on – are a fair bit pricier in Oslo than they are in Stockholm. 

Things to Do in Oslo

Oslo, as a relatively cosmopolitan, relaxed city, has plenty to offer visitors. While smaller than Stockholm, it boasts a wide range of museums, many of which are fairly unique.

For instance, the Munch museum is dedicated to, well, Munch, the Norsk Folkemuseum is a massive open-air exhibit of traditional ways of living and architecture across the centuries, Vigeland Park is a lovely outdoor sculpture park and there are a number of other museums in the Bygdøy district provide visitors a great opportunity to learn about Norway’s most successful seafarers and navigators. 

It’s worth noting that the famed Viking Ship Museum is currently closed for renovations, so this isn’t something you should be looking forward to visiting if you’re planning a trip to Oslo in the near future.

No visit to Oslo is complete without taking in the Akershus Fortress – also referred to as the Aksrshus Festning in Norwegian. This is one of the top things to see in the city.

Oslo is also home to the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, which is held at Oslo City Hall annually. If you want to learn more Oslo, you can consider  booking a walking tour  or  going on a bike tour.

Fans of metal music are sure to love Oslo, too, thanks to its thriving underground music scene and the impressive number of venues, festivals, and record shops dedicated to heavy music. It’s also known for its craft beer bars and is an ideal destination for enthusiasts of more exotic kinds of alcohol, provided that the prices aren’t too offputting. 

Nature enthusiasts will love Oslo for its proximity to peaceful, relatively unspoilt nature; indeed, the city’s nature reserves, known as the Oslomarka, are largely accessible from the city centre via public transit.

A number of providers also operate cruises along the Oslofjord (Oslo Fjord) from the city, which are a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty and majesty of the Norwegian natural landscape. 

Perhaps one of the most exciting times to visit Oslo is during Norwegian Independence Day, which falls on the 17th of May. Norwegians are, on the whole, deeply patriotic, and the 17th of May is one of the biggest days of the year in Norway.

Many Norwegians take to the streets wearing their regional traditional dress ( bunad ), which is truly a sight to behold (and far less common to see in the other Scandinavian countries, with the exception of the Faroe Islands).

So, if you’re especially interested in immersing yourself in different cultures during your travels, then visiting Oslo during the 17th of May is a fantastic way to do so. Note that it’s also a public holiday, so public transport typically runs a reduced service and not all shops will be open.

Where to Stay in Oslo

Hotell Bondeheimen – Located in the centre of Oslo, this 3-star hotel is perfect for those after a clean and comfortable place to stay in the Norwegian capital. They have many rooms to choose from along with plenty of other great amenities.

Clarion Hotel Oslo – Luxury travellers will love this hip and modern hotel located in the centre of Oslo. Situated close to all Norway’s capital has to offer, they have a range of cool rooms to choose from along with a great location for exploring the city.

Frogner House Apartments – These apartments are great for those who’d like to have their own flat while visiting Oslo. They have several fully-furnished flats to choose from along with an excellent location for seeing the highlights of the city.

K7 Hotel Oslo – This hostel is perfect for those looking to stick to a budget while visiting Oslo. Centrally located, they offer both dorms and private rooms along with good common areas and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Oslo hotels!

The elegant Swedish capital of Stockholm is easily one of Europe’s most alluring cities. A must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts, Stockholm is sure to impress, no matter what you’re into!

Stockholm is home to Arlanda Airport, a large, international airport without countless connections within Sweden and abroad. The Swedish capital is also easily reached from other cities within the country and via ferry from cities such as Tallinn , Riga , Helsinki and more. You can  view schedules here.

Central Stockholm, while larger than Oslo’s downtown area, is still reasonably compact and walkable. Public transport in Stockholm is also excellent; you can navigate the city via its bus, ferry, metro, train, and tram networks. There are also overnight services on Friday and Saturday nights in case you’re planning on going out on the town. 

Just like in Oslo, hiring a car in Stockholm can end up being more trouble than it’s worth. Parking isn’t always that easy to come by in central Stockholm and can also be fairly expensive.

Given that the city is on the smaller side and how reliable and comprehensive its public transit is, you’re unlikely to really need a car unless you want to be able to go on day trips to the surrounding countryside. 

When people consider visiting Oslo or Stockholm, the cost associated with travelling to Sweden and Norway often comes up. To put it simply, neither of these places are what you’d call affordable destinations.

Now, with that being said, on pretty much all counts, the prices in Stockholm tend to be somewhat cheaper than Oslo.

The price of an average meal out in Stockholm, for example, will usually set you back several euros less than what you would expect to pay in Oslo, which means you can fill up on delicious local seafood and other specialities for less than you would in the Norwegian capital.

By the same token, groceries are also more affordable, which is good to keep in mind if you’re planning on catering for part or all of your stay. 

If you like going out or sampling the nightlife of the places you travel to, then you’ll be pleased to know that alcohol is also somewhat cheaper in Stockholm than it is in Oslo.

Consider, for instance, the fact that it’s fairly common for residents of the Norwegian cities on the Swedish border to drive to Sweden to buy groceries and alcohol. Sweden may still be one of the most expensive countries on earth, but it’s all relative! 

Note that, just like in Norway, a major reason for the high cost of alcohol is the hefty government taxes levied on it. If you’d like to drink during your trip to Stockholm but are travelling on a budget, then purchasing your alcohol at the airport will be your best bet, as you can get it duty-free. 

Things to Do in Stockholm

One of Stockholm’s most-visited and iconic attractions is the Vasa Museum. It makes for an incredibly unique experience; the entirety of the Vasa, an enormous 17th-century warship, has been salvaged, restored, and put on display in the museum. You can learn about the history of the ship, as well as the process of retrieving it from the water and restoring it after it sank on its maiden voyage. 

Additionally, Stockholm is home to a number of other world-class museums; there’s the ABBA Museum , which needs no introduction, the open-air museum of Skansen, the photography gallery of Fotografiska , the Swedish History Museum, and a number of other, smaller galleries, too. 

You’ll also want to check out Stockholm’s royal palaces; not only is Sweden’s Royal Palace in Stockholm, but the gorgeous Drottningholm, which is about an hour away from central Stockholm via the metro, is well worth a visit. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, too.

While Oslo is home to Norway’s royal palace, it doesn’t quite match the splendour and charm of Sweden’s castles. 

Gamla Stan is also a must-see; Stockholm’s old town, which is located on its own island, boasts some incredibly distinct architecture and absolutely oozes fairytale charm. You can take this walking tour  or  this bike tour to learn more about this part of the city.

The brightly-coloured buildings of Gamla Stan help it feel cheerful and cosy, even on the dreariest of winter days. This is the perfect place to try some traditional Swedish baked goods, too; the cinnamon buns are to die for!

Cruises of the Stockholm Archipelago are a lovely way to get to see some of the Swedish landscape. The Stockholm Archipelago consists of some 30,000 islands, and a cruise is the perfect opportunity to take in some quintessentially Scandinavian vistas. A number of companies offering cruises operate right out of downtown Stockholm, which is very convenient, too. 

If you want a truly unique insight into Swedish culture during your trip, then you may want to plan to visit Stockholm during Midsummer’s Eve.

Swedish Midsommar is one of the absolute festive highlights of the year; an ancient pagan festival, many of the traditions practised during Midsommar, including dancing and burning bonfires, have remained unchanged for centuries. 

To really take your Midsommar experience to the next level, you can also make the most of the opportunity to try some very Swedish delicacies. Potatoes are typically eaten around this time of year, as are fresh strawberries, Aquavit, and pickled herring (which is certainly not to everyone’s taste!). 

Note that Midsummer’s Day is a public holiday in Sweden, so if you are visiting during this period, expect for public transit to be disrupted to an extent, and for other services to be operating at a limited capacity. 

Where to Stay in Stockholm

Scandic No 53 – A good mid-range option in the centre of Stockholm, this hotel is a great place to rest your head in the Swedish capital. They have several great rooms on offer along with plenty of amenities and an on-site bar.

Downtown Camper by Scandic – This 4-star hotel is perfect for those looking for a bit of luxury while visiting Stockholm. They have lovely and elegant rooms to choose from along with a perfect location for exploring the capital.

Gamla Stan Apartments – These apartments are an excellent choice for those who’d rather have a self-catering option in Stockholm. They have fully-furnished flats to choose from along with an excellent location in the city.

Castanea Old Town Hostel – This hostel is an excellent choice for those looking to cut back on accommodation costs when visiting Stockholm. They have both dorms and private rooms available along with excellent self-catering facilities and common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Stockholm hotels!

Oslo or Stockholm: Which is Better to Visit

Nature enthusiasts will probably want to head to Oslo rather than Stockholm. While Tyresta National Park, the largest nature reserve in the south of Sweden is just 20 kilometres south of Stockholm, Oslo’s nature reserves (Oslomarka) can be accessed directly from the city via public transport. 

And, travellers who would be keen on seeing the most dramatic natural landscapes that the Scandinavian Peninsula has to offer should probably head to Oslo, too; from there, travelling to Norway’s incredible fjords, mountains, and glaciers is relatively straightforward. Typical Swedish landscapes, while beautiful in their own right, are, on the whole, much flatter and less varied. 

If you’re a fan of history or older styles of architecture, you’ll probably want to pick Stockholm over Oslo. The historic district of Gamla Stan truly has to be seen to be believed, and Oslo’s old town, Gamelbyen, while certainly charming and worth seeing in its own right, lacks the same sense of grandeur, with most of its buildings being comparatively much newer, too. 

It’s also worth remembering that Stockholm is the larger and more cosmopolitan of the two cities. There’s a greater diversity of restaurants, bars, museums, and attractions than there is in Oslo. As such, travellers looking for a traditional city break-type holiday will likely find that there’s simply more for them to sink their teeth into in Stockholm. 

Finally, while we wouldn’t call Stockholm the most budget-friendly destination, it’s certainly the better choice if you’re hoping to keep costs as low as possible during your trip. It’s more affordable than Oslo in just about every area, so that should be a pretty major part of the Stockholm vs Oslo debate settled. 

We hope that you find this guide helpful when planning your trip to Oslo or Stockholm. While the two cities have their own unique strengths, you really can’t go wrong with visiting either; they’re both fantastic destinations with plenty to offer. 

Are you trying to choose between these two cities? Have any questions about either city? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect Uppsala Day Trip from Stockholm

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The Ultimate 3 to 4 Days in Stockholm Itinerary

About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

It’s cool to visit both cities but if I had to choose only one, I would choose Stockholm.

I could spend a few days in Stockholm easily. As for Oslo I was “done” in less than 5 hours and that felt like too long. Fortunately, I was only there on a day trip from Gothenburg, Sweden.

Stockholm is a beautiful city with lovely architecture whereas Oslo felt drab to me. The only place I thought was nice in Oslo was the Royal Palace and surrounding royal gardens. A major turn off in Oslo was how incredibly expensive it was: 50% more than Sweden on average for anything.

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Oslo or Stockholm: Which City to Visit

Oslo and Stockholm are two of the most iconic capital cities in Scandinavia. Oslo is known for having many buildings with modern architecture and for being one of the most sustainable cities in the world. Stockholm is known for its beautiful old town and for its incredible waterfronts. If you are trying to decide between Oslo or Stockholm, here is the ultimate guide to which city you should visit.

Table of Contents

Oslo or Stockholm Overview

Oslo is the capital and largest city in Norway. It is known for its modern architecture mixed with the medieval architecture of the older parts of the city. Although Norway is known for being a large exporter of oil and natural gas, Oslo has evolved into one of the greenest cities in the world. It was voted the European Green Capital of 2019. The city is also known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. The population of the city is 693,000.

The city is located at the northern end of the Oslofjord . There are also 40 islands and 343 lakes within Oslo’s city limits. Because of the large number of waterways found here, Oslo has an unusually large area of land compared to the number of people living here. There are also tree-covered hills surrounding much of the city. To the north and northeast of the city, there are many hiking areas to explore as well.

Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden and has one of the most beautiful city centers in all of Europe. The city has a population of 974,000 and a metro population of nearly 2.4 million people. Stockholm was originally founded by the Vikings as a trade route. Nearly 5 million people visit Stockholm each year to see the city’s iconic waterfront and the iconic old town.

Stockholm is located on the eastern coast of Sweden. Spanning 14 different islands, 30% of the city is waterways with another 30% of the city being green spaces and parks. Since the city is so far north, in the summer months it gets 18 hours of daylight and in the winter it only gets 6 hours of daylight. Having so many waterways, Stockholm has many waterfront public areas to enjoy.

Things to See

Frogner Park is a park open to the public for free. It is known for its sculptures and beautiful gardens.

Viking Ship Museum is home to three authentic Viking ships. It also has many other Viking artifacts making it a perfect place to go if you’re intrigued by Viking culture.

Oslo Opera House is a massive opera house located in Central Oslo. The building is known for its striking modern architecture and its large glass windows. There is also a large display of art throughout the building.

The Royal Palace has become a popular tourist attraction since 2002 when it became open to the public to view. The Palace Park is also one of the largest public parks in the city.

Radhuset is the Courthouse that sits right above the main metro station.  The metro station sitting below the surface has some incredible architecture, much of it is exposed bedrock.

Aker Brygge is one of the popular areas for shopping, restaurants, and many forms of entertainment. The area sits on the waterfront and has an industrial feel from the restored commercial buildings.

Akershus Fortress is a large fortress within the city that was formally used to protect the royal residence. It has also been used as a prison, military base, and is now the office of the Prime Minister of Norway.

Gamla Stan is the Old Town of Stockholm. This area is one of the most picturesque areas in the city. Most people who visit Stockholm will make this their first stop during their time in the city.

Vasa Museum is one of the most famous museums in Scandinavia. It houses the Vasa battleship which is a massive wooden ship that sunk in 1628.

The Royal Palace sits on the water’s edge in the center of the city. It is the official residence of the King of Sweden. It is one of the largest palaces in Europe with more than 600 rooms.

City Hall sits kitty-corner to the Old Town along the water’s edge. It is where the Nobel Prize banquet is held every year.

Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish Royal Family. It is just outside of Stockholm but worth a visit if you have the time.

Oslo has long been known for eating the classic Viking diet of cured meat and various forms of potatoes. Norwegian smoked salmon is known to be some of the best in the world. Fiskerit Youngstorget is an excellent place within the city to get the best salmon. Sausages and meatballs are also very popular foods in Oslo. Aquavit is the most well-known liquor to the Norwegian people.

Kjøttboller, or Swedish meatballs, are known around the world which means that you should definitely try some when you come to Stockholm. Seafood also places a large role in the cuisines found here. Crayfish are a favorite in Stockholm, especially during the summer months. Herring is another traditional seafood that is still popular today. Gamla Stan and the area around Hantverkargaten are two of the best area in Stockholm to find an abundance of excellent restaurants.

Getting Around

Between buses, trams, subways, and ferries, Oslo has many options to get around the city . Certain routes within the city are free to the public which is extremely convenient if you are visiting the city. Oslo is also very bike-friendly and, like many cities in Northern Europe, there are bikes to use for the public. You can grab a public bike and ride it for free for the first 45 minutes or you can rent it for the day for less than $6.

The Gamla Stan or the Old Town is extremely walkable. You can see many sights within walking distance. Outside of the Old Town, Stockholm becomes more spread out because is spans 14 islands. The city offers bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams, and ferries as well as public bikes for use. The cheapest way to get around is to invest in one, two, or three day passes to use public transportation. For just over 15 USD you can get a 24-hour pass or for 30 USD you can get a 3-day pass.

Though Oslo is more laid back than other European cities in terms of nightlife, there are still plenty of options for any taste. The city center is where most of the nightlife takes place. In Norway, alcohol is quite expensive at drinking establishments. Because of this, Norwegians do “vorspiel” which are pre-parties so they don’t have to spend so much money when they go out. Nox/Sollihagen is one of the “premier” nightclubs in Oslo but is notorious for long lines and poor service. The Villa and The Club are better options for clubbing.

Stockholm has a thriving nightlife . The Old Town area is known for its pubs and also has nightclubs. Just to the north of the Old Town, on the mainland, is another part of town that is filled with a raging night scene. Some of the best nightclubs in Scandinavia are found here. Some of the best places for nightlife in Stockholm are Slakthuset, Under Bron, and Kraken.

• Lillehammer is a small city directly north of Oslo. It is best known for holding the Winter Olympics in 1994. It also has a beautiful setting and is known for its wooden buildings.
• TusenFryd is Norway’s largest amusement park. It is located just 20km south of Oslo which makes it perfect for a day trip.
• Oslo Fjord Cruise : You can take a 2-hour cruise through the fjord around Oslo. There are guided tours where you can see beautiful waterfront homes and spectacular sights.

The closest major Scandinavian city from Oslo would be Copenhagen , which would definitely be worth a visit if you have the time.

• Sigtuna is Sweden’s oldest city, founded in 980 AD by the Vikings.
• Gripssholm Castle is located only 60km from Stockholm in the town of Mariedred. It was used as a residence of the Royal Family until 1809.
• Uppsala is a city to the north of Stockholm. It is known for the University of Uppsala which was founded in 1477. It is also known for its beautiful Cathedral of Uppsala.

If you’re really feeling adventurous, there is a 17-hour ferry connecting Stockholm and Helsinki .

Oslo and Stockholm are two very influential Nordic cities, known around the world for being extremely beautiful. Both cities are rather expensive compared to many other major cities in Europe. Depending on how much time you have to explore might be the deciding factor for you. There is quite a bit more to see in Stockholm so you will want to spend at least 3 days there. Oslo is a smaller city and you can see most of the sights in 2 days, but if you are there for the nature, you will want to spend much more time.

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Oslo vs Stockholm: The Ultimate Travel Comparison

Can’t decide between traveling to Oslo or Stockholm for your next trip? We’ve got you covered!

The capitals of Norway and Sweden, have been appealing destinations for decades. These two Scandinavian countries may seem similar, but there are lots of differences that make each unique and special for a European vacation.

Stockholm offers the most comprehensive experiences in metropolitan culture, food, sights and activity, while Oslo can be a good choice for travelers looking for outdoorsy activities and venturing further out from the city. Both cities have impeccable weather, clean environments, tons of attractions, and accommodations to fit any budget.

That’s the way-too-short answer, so we’ve put together a full, in-depth comparison to to help you determine which city best fits into your travel plans.

Oslo was first founded in 1040 during the Viking Age and originally called Anslo. This trade port and capital city changed names and hands over centuries, but the most recent update was made in 1948 when Oslo merged with the city of Aker to create the giant municipality we know today.

Stockholm is the most populous city in all of Scandinavia. It was established in 1252, but people have resided in this archipelago since the Stone Age. The city is comprised of a chain of fourteen islands along the Baltic Sea.

Oslo residents are some of Norway’s healthiest people. And that’s a pretty big accomplishment considering that most of Norway’s residents live very healthy lifestyles. Walking, biking and hiking are all very common activities in Norway with an emphasis on outdoor activities to get your blood pumping. Oslo is compact and easily maneuverable, and is also one of the greenest cities in Europe, featuring forests and coastal shores.

If you’re looking to blend in with the natives, expect to walk most places, along with taking part in cardio activities like skiing, snowshoeing, swimming and hiking in the surrounding natural habitat of the city. Dark colored clothing, no matter the season, is always fashionable here.

Since Oslo is a coastal city, a lot of the food you’ll eat on your trip will involve fresh seafood and local sustainable produce, breads and cheeses. Coffee is also a big staple here, with lots of coffee shops and cafes available for your daily (or twice daily) caffeine fix. Popular meals in Oslo include beef hot dogs, lamb and cabbage stew, and large meatballs.

Stockholm is deemed Europe’s Capital of Culture and is home to many international demographics from the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Stockholm is also one of the greenest cities in the world, taking home the “European Green Capital Award” before any other European city. Residents take all matters of earth preservation and pollution prevention seriously.

This is extremely apparent in the heart of the city, known as the Royal National City Park . This area is comprised of town houses, four palaces, many museums and entertainment venues, and home to Stockholm University. Stockholm is also a dedicated bike city, where nearly 70,000 residents hit the streets in designated bike lanes commuting back and forth to work.

Swedish cuisine has changed over the years, and Stockholm sees new international restaurants open up regularly. But nothing beats comforting Swedish meatballs in cream sauce with potato puree and lingonberry jam on a cold day. Another great traditional meal is pyttipanna, minced meat, onion and potato topped with a fried egg.

Things to Do

Oslo has so many things you can do to occupy your time that we can’t list them all. But some of the most notable and best ways to experience Oslo is to go on a tour of the city or take a fjord cruise. These yacht charters and guided boat tours often last for 1.5 – 3 hours and include food and beverage as part of the trip.

Another great option all year round is Oslo’s SNO – an indoor winter sports facility. The arena is equipped with downhill ski slopes, a ski park with jumps and stunts, cross-country track and ice climbing wall. For those not interested in skiing, there are restaurants, shops and a gym available, too.

The Oslo Pass is a cool perk offered to guests visiting the city. The small fee for the pass is worth the great benefits you’ll get for having it while traveling in Oslo. You’ll get deals on tours, restaurants and sightseeing, plus you can get free admission to most museums, attractions, and transportation.

Stockholm has 57 bridges connecting all of it’s waterways. Because the city is so focused on the water, we highly recommend touring it on an archipelago cruise. These tours will open your eyes to the world of Stockholm while traveling seaside and can last anywhere from one to two hours.

Children will especially have fun in Stockholm, with it’s many different adventuring and entertainment establishments meant specifically for kids. Lots of these attractions, city parks like Humlegarden and museums like the National History Museum , have many educational opportunities under the disguise of fun playgrounds and interactive stations.

The coastal city takes pride in it’s clean and pure water and most free activities will involve dipping your toes in the cool waterways. Hellasgarden is great for swimming and fishing, but you can also jump in the water right in the middle of town. Kayaking tours and exploration is also encouraged along Stockholm archipelago.

Attractions

Oslo is home to the royal family of Norway who reside in the Royal Palace at one end of Karl Johans gate . The Palace is open to visitors in the summer where you can see parts of the castle and the “Where Queens Meet” exhibit. Oscarshall Summer Palace outside Oslo city center is also available to tour in the summer. The Palace Park which surrounds the castle is always open to guests.

Akershus Fortress is the historic home of Norway’s royalty, now serving as the office of the Prime Minister. This historic fortress dates back to the late 1200s and currently allows tourists to visit it’s storied halls during the summer. The museum teaches guests about Norway’s military and religious history with Akershus as the base.

Holmenkollen is the destination for avid skiers and those seeking to learn more about Norway’s 4000 year history of snow sports. The ski jump on property is one of the most famous in the world and is home to the Winter Cup Biathlon. Holmenkollen’s tower also allows visitors to get a unique view of Oslo’s city skyline.

Stockholm ‘s royal family presides in the Royal Palace in Drottningholm , which is Europe’s largest castle with a total of 600 rooms. The tours are extravagant, allowing visitors to see five museums in total, including the Treasury, the Armory and the Royal Stable.

Stockholm’s City Hall is one of the most recognizable buildings in Sweden, featuring three distinct golden crowns atop three spires. The location is significant, known as the site for the annual Nobel Prize ball and banquet. It’s open for tours while also operating as an office for local politicians and government officials.

The Stockholm Pass is similar to Oslo’s city pass, allowing you free admission to most museum and attractions throughout the city. Included is the new The Viking World exhibit inside the Swedish History Museum, which showcases the largest historical collection of Viking relics and artifacts.

Museums and Cultural Exhibits

Oslo has almost the most museums of any European city, so it’s difficult to focus on just one. But perhaps the best to visit in a short trip are the Munch Museum and Museum of Oslo . Munch Museum is a celebration of art with a focus on Edvard Munch, creator of the famous Scream painting. The Museum of Oslo contains a 1,000 year history of Oslo in 10 different settings.

Vigeland Sculpture Park is the world’s largest sculpture collection. Each of the sculptures are naked human forms with varying expressions to promote deep thought and inner reflection. Vigeland Museum is an extension of the sculpture park, showcasing Gustav Vigeland’s own sculptures, artworks and working process.

The Viking Ship Museum is one of Oslo’s most famous museums which houses ancient Viking artifacts and original in-tact ships. These displays are comprised of relics from the Oslo fjord and surrounding Norwegian coastline. A great perk for purchasing a ticket to the Viking Ship Museum is that you can also get free admission to the Historical Museum in the same day.

Stockholm has nearly 100 museums, ranking it at the top for most museums in one city. Skansen , the first open-air museum, is considered a must-see. It’s located in the Royal Djurgarden and is the celebration spot of Sweden’s biggest festivals. There’s also a zoo inside the property, making this a great family attraction.

Vasa Museum is by far the most visited non-art museum in Scandinavia, featuring the Vasa ship as it’s prized attraction. The Vasa is the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship and is in impeccable condition for it’s age. In addition to the ship in all it’s restored glory, the museum has many other artifacts from that time period and a restaurant for guests.

ABBA Museum is beloved by many fans and contains every possible item of memorabilia from the 1970’s pop band. Everything from costumes and instruments to concert tickets and magazine stories is on display here. You can even record your own performance, virtually try on stage costumes and mix your own music in a fun environment.

Events and Festivals

Oslo is home to the Nobel Peace Prize which awards one deserving individual annually on December 10. The Nobel Peace Center is the location for this annual award, while the Grand Hotel Oslo is the party venue and selected accommodation for all in attendance.

Consitution Day is Norway’s annual independence day celebration and the capital city of Oslo hosts some of the biggest events. It takes place on May 17 each year and is celebrated with an enormous parade and concert.

Christmas or “Jul” is a huge festive season in Norway with an annual Christmas market held in Oslo’s city square. Restaurants will celebrate with special meals and drinks. Easter is also widely celebrated for more than a week in Norway. Children will exchange eggs and candy and adults will plan long vacations during this time.

Stockholm celebrates Midsummer’s Eve (National Day) in late June in every park and garden across Sweden. Families gather from lunchtime till midnight to sing, dance and raise maypoles in the air to recognize the Summer Solstice – the longest day of the year. Flower crowns are worn by many and the festivities usually last through the weekend.

Midwinter is also celebrated on Lucia Day December 13 , when children will dress in white robes and sing songs of St. Lucia, the bearer of light and warmth during cold Winter days. Walpurgisnacht is the celebration of the Spring season, dating back to the Viking Age. Giant bonfires are built to ward off evil spirits and welcome the season of life and growth.

ASICS Stockholm Marathon is said to be one of the biggest and most famous marathons in the world. Runners from all over the globe gather to race every June in Stockholm and have been doing so since 1979. The track takes runners around the city twice on a fairly flat surface.

Accommodations

Oslo has varying architectural styles, ranging from German influence and Neoclassism to Functionalist or Modernist design. One of the most beautiful and notable hotels in the center of town is Grand Hotel Oslo .

This 145 year old building is the annual venue of the Nobel Peace Prize banquet, located on Karl Johans Gate between the Parliament building and the Royal Palace. This gorgeously grandiose hotel is intricately decorated with richly detailed fabrics and averages $250 up to $450++ per night.

Other hotels in the area range in price and grandeur. The Thief is located right on the water and has very modernized amenities and design . Each room has it’s own private balcony and the lobby has a bar and nightclub, charging guests about $375 per night. Cheaper yet charming hotels, like Hotel Christiania and Frogner House Apartments go for around $175 per night.

Stockholm has many unique accommodations available to guests at all price points. Some cheaper options may be located farther outside the city, but transportation is so efficient here, you won’t mind the distance. Everything from modern luxuries to rickety house boats are options for visitors – and we suggest trying something unusual for your stay in “the Venice of the north”.

Grand Hotel Stockholm is a popular site for celebrities and high profile officials, situated across from the Royal Palace. If you prefer an historical building in the center of town, try the Miss Clara by Nobis. Both have their own restaurants and bars open to guests and cost about $200 – $400 per night.

More unique accommodations like the Af Chapman & Skeppsholmen Hostel are right on the water (right in the water, we should say). This fully functional and well-stocked boat sits in the channel off of Old Town and runs $50 – $75 per night. While more luxurious vacations can be had on castle property, such as the Akeshofs Slott . This gorgeous location is extremely close to the city center and Bromma airport.

Weather & Seasons

Both Oslo and Sweden are coastal cities and have similar weather and environment. They fall under the same climate category called “humid continental climate”, which means that summers are warm and winters are cold. Though winters can be less cold than other continental cities due to the humid ocean air influencing the coastline.

You can expect to experience the seasons in all their splendor in both locations. Spring will be rainy and warm, Summer will be hot, Fall will be colorful and cool and Winter will be mostly snowy and cold. The biggest similarity is the sunshine – both will have nearly 18 hours of sunlight in the Summer and will have only around 4 hours of sunlight in the Winter.

Living Permanently

One unique tidbit about both of these cities is that nearly every inhabitant in Oslo and Stockholm knows English. English speakers will almost never have trouble asking for directions or ordering their food at a restaurant in these cities, as most residents know English just as well as their native language.

Oslo is considered the “Beta World City”, as it’s residents have some of the best quality of life in the world. But a healthy lifestyle and happiness comes with a price – Oslo is also the fourth most expensive city in the world. The housing market is fairly standard compared to other European countries, but goods and services are far more expensive.

Oslo City Government is run on a parliamentary system where representatives are elected by popular vote every four years. The Prime Minister serves as the head, while the Mayor of Oslo is seen as a more ceremonial position. The most widely represented parties in Oslo are the Conservative (liberal-conservative) and Labour (social democratic) parties.

Oslo has 15 different boroughs that residents call home; each with their own amenities and style. The 2021 census determined that Oslo currently has nearly 700,000 residents. This capital city is the maritime center for Norway and also has a thriving business culture and economy.

Stockholm is home to over 1 million residents and the layout of the city is approximately 60% waterways and green areas. The city is divided into different districts, with each district council responsible for it’s own schools and government services. The Norrmalm district in Stockholm City Center is Sweden’s largest business and shopping district.

Stockholm’s Municipal Council is made up of 101 elected officials that work together with a Mayor and 12 Vice Mayors, which are each responsible for a different department within the city. The Council also elects 13 chairs to the City Executive Board, which makes final decisions on matters presented by the Council.

With the decline in heavy industrial work, Stockholm is one of the world’s cleanest cities. Residents typically work in the service industry and more recently in the high technology industry. Stockholm is also Sweden’s financial center and is home to the world’s largest fiber-optic network.

The Verdict

There are so many similarities between these two Scandinavian cities that it’s easy to find yourself in a battle of choices. Both offer impeccable weather throughout the seasons, have very clean and health-conscious environments, have dozens of museums and loads of accommodations to fit any budget. If you need to make a final decision, we’d categorize them this way:

CHOOSE OSLO : If you’re into skiing, winter sports or hiking. The surrounding forests and many winter parks and skiing locations make this a great place for not only sightseeing, but also exercise and activity. We’d also suggest choosing Oslo for the magnificent landscape of fjords and waterways, or for celebrating the Christian holidays of Christmas or Easter.

CHOOSE STOCKHOLM : If you enjoy swimming, fishing and boating. The archipelago and winding waterways through the city make for a beautiful oceanic setting, where you can just dip your toes or dive in head first. We’d also suggest choosing Stockholm for the delicious plethora of food choices and to visit the brilliantly appointed Royal Palace.

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Oslo vs. Stockholm

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Howdy! It looks like you’re done packing up your stuff for an exciting getaway. The easygoing vibe in this beautiful region of Scandinavia was able to draw you in. It’s time to visit the most amazing cities in Norway and Sweden.

Oslo and Stockholm are capital cities where you can appreciate art, food, music, and history. These two are known for their exceptional beauty that attracts so many tourists each year. There’s something about the look and energy of European cities that make people feel so optimistic.

The metropolitan culture in Oslo and Stockholm makes their nightlife so interesting. Despite their modern backdrop, the roots and unique identities of the two are still intact. If you stop and look around, these two cities’ traditional side is strong and easy to spot.

Come and visit these wonderful destinations on the northern side of Europe. Don’t miss the chance of having an excellent and unforgettable vacation. Oslo and Stockholm are places where you can just chill out and forget about your worries for a bit.

The city of Oslo. It is Norway’s most populated area and economic center. Locals are so proud of their roots. They affectionately nicknamed their home “The Tiger City”. Formerly known as Christiana (Kristiana), Oslo is a popular tourist destination.

Compared to other Scandinavian cities, Oslo’s buildings are more contemporary. But despite its modern look, its strong identity is still alive and kicking. One of the best things to do while you’re taking a nice break is to try out some local food.

You’ll notice the impressive architectural designs in Oslo’s cityscape photos. The city is also famous for seafood. There are so many restaurants that serve the best seafood dishes in Northern Europe. People are lining up for the satisfying taste of fresh, iodine-rich food in this city.

Nightlife in Oslo is the most vibrant among other Scandinavian cities. This is where tourists let themselves loose and celebrate life through art, music, and a couple of drinks. If you want to party until dawn while you’re in Norway, Oslo is more than excited to welcome you.

What Makes Oslo Unique

Ekebergrestauranten.

You’ve made your way to Oslo and one of the best ways to start your vacation is by eating good food. Ekebergrestauranten (Ekeberg Restaurant ) is a place where you can enjoy a super delicious meal. While chowing down on a special Norwegian dish, your eyes can also feast on the wonderful view.

The restaurant is on the hillside that overlooks the downtown area of Oslo. You wonder what is so special about this building. It has a simple and unassuming outer appearance. But this hillside restaurant looks super classy on the inside.

Ekebergrestauranten is very precious to the city of Oslo. Established in 1929, it was once the city’s most visited dancing restaurant. It went through years of restoration before reopening to resume its operations in 2005.

Ekeberg Restaurant is ready to accommodate people who want a top-notch dining experience in Oslo. No one’s going to feel out of place because you can have meat or vegetarian meals. But the superstars of this cool restaurant’s menu are traditional Norwegian seafood dishes.

Some of their best dishes are smoked salmon sandwiches, fish soup, duck leg confit, and salt-baked beetroot. Give yourself a treat by getting a taste of authentic Norwegian food. The beautiful view of the city is going to make your meal even better.

Fill your famished tummy with the best stuff in Norwegian cuisine and marvel at Oslo’s beauty. This cozy resto is open from 12 pm to 11 pm every day. Before digging in, you can also take pictures of your meal’s super classy presentation.

Vigeland Sculpture Park

At the center of Frogner Park (Frognerparken), you’ll find different sculptures made by Gustav Vigeland. Tourists call this spot in Frogner the Vigeland Sculpture Park / Vigeland park.  The eye-catching works of the renowned Norwegian sculptor will make you appreciate art even more.

The different expressions and poses display the complexity and craziness of human existence. There are more than 200 sculptures inside the park and these works stand out. They’re all made by the talented hands of the same artist from 1924 to 1943.

You can tell how dedicated he was to his craft. His creative streak was only ended by old age and death. Vigeland Park looks like an open-air museum. Most of the sculptures look quirky but you can instantly tell that the weirdness was very intentional.

The works that would grab your attention are The Monolith, The Sundial, Dancing Young Woman, and Angry Boy. You’ll notice that the characters in this park are in the nude. Vigeland’s main reason for this artistic choice is to make his sculpture timeless.

You can say that his works will never be confined to a specific period or trend. In a way, his works do symbolize freedom. If you’re a curious and free-spirited kind of person, you’re going to have fun in Vigeland Park. Let the unique and thought-provoking sculptures show you the artistic side of Oslo.

There’s a café at its entrance where you can buy souvenir items and enjoy a warm cup of coffee. If you’re on your way to Frogner Park, you won’t have a hard time finding Mr. Vigeland’s sculptures. This park is always open and the entrance is free. Check this one out and have fun exploring.

Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

Oslo is a city that celebrates the uniqueness of Norwegian culture. You can learn more about Norway’s rich history and traditions by visiting its Cultural History Museum. Here you’ll find the nation’s most treasured objects with strong ties to its identity.

Museums always give a clear and unique perspective to visitors who are willing to learn. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History can do that with ease. Each item in the exhibit will take you to Norway’s past so you can catch a glimpse of its interesting history.

The folks of Oslo are going to show you how proud they are of their roots. Without a doubt, they’ll be pleased to know that you are interested to know their home’s story. The pieces inside the museum are great conversation starters. You can meet new friends while taking a tour.

The extensive collection includes items that came from different regions of Norway. Indoors, you’ll find furniture, clothing, handicraft, and silverware from past centuries. The outer area is an open-area museum where old but culturally significant buildings stand.

You can also watch different performances that celebrate Norway’s traditions. 160 buildings emphasize the different facets of life in each region. You can say that these old-fashioned structures are very postcard-worthy. You’ll be taking photos in no time.

If you want to travel through time and learn more about Norway, this place is for you. The museum is a beautiful and family-friendly attraction, so check this one out. There’s also a gift shop and a café where you can wrap a tour up with souvenirs and food.

From guided tours to traditional performances, you’re going to have a very fun experience here. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History is open every day from 11 am to 4 pm. Tickets will cost you 13 to 17 USD. Seniors will get a discount while visitors who are below 18 can enter the museum for free.

Oslo Opera House

Your eyes cannot miss the unique and striking design of a 21st-century building in Oslo’s harbor. The Oslo Opera House is Norway’s national theater and the home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. This massive structure covers an area of 49,000 m² (530,000 ft²) and it has 1,100 rooms inside.

This opera house’s contemporary design was made by Snøhetta architectural firm. The said firm got the gig after winning the contest held by the Norwegian legislature. Its construction was completed in 2007 and opened in 2008. Since its opening, the place has become a regular venue for different performances.

Different art projects were commissioned to help decorate the outer and inner areas of this opera house. Guests gather here to watch the musical and theatrical performances of Norway’s best talents. You can also take guided tours to see the inner parts of the attraction.

The top and center of the performance hall look beautiful when the massive chandelier’s lights are on. Looking at it will remind you of a full moon that shines brightly. If you’re a fan of music and dance numbers that highlight the classical side of Norway, the opera house of Oslo is a great destination for you.

Visitors are allowed to go to this building’s rooftop which gives everyone a chance to see the beautiful view from the top. The best time to hang out on the opera house’s roof is during sunset. Watch the sunlight give the city a very picturesque lighting before the day ends.

This place allows everyone to witness and enjoy Norway’s rich culture. The people who run this attraction prioritize the comfort and satisfaction of their guests. So they offer special parking spaces for disabled guests. You can also find a gift shop and a restaurant in the Oslo Opera House.

Give your vacation a classy twist by going to the Oslo Opera House. Guided tours are available from September to April but hours may vary depending on the season. Ticket prices and discounts would depend on a guest’s age, seat location, and the type of performance he/she would be watching.

Stockholm is one of the most wholesome cities in Northern Europe. It’s a wonderful destination for anyone who is looking for a nice and relaxing vacation in the Scandinavian region. Stockholm’s attractions won’t hold back in giving you a super fun experience.

There are plenty of gift shops, museums, and cafés where you can give yourself and your loved one a memorable treat. The happy faces that you’re going to see will add a very healthy dose of optimism to your trip. This positive energy is so contagious that you’ll find yourself smiling as well in no time.

Stockholm’s clean surroundings will surely have a calming effect on you and everyone. The city has taken good care of its traditions and rich culture. That’s why the old buildings are still around to enhance and emphasize how beautiful the place is.

The locals are going to greet you with enthusiasm and they’d be super happy to have you as a guest. If you want to take a break so that you can have a fun trip somewhere in Europe, Stockholm is a great choice. Let the good times roll and make yourself feel happy and comfortable while roaming around the streets of this awesome city.

What Makes Stockholm Unique

Vasa museum.

The Vasa Museum is a maritime museum located in Djurgården Island, Stockholm. It was established in 1990 and it has more than a million visitors each year. This is a Scandinavian attraction where you can find a 17th-century Swedish warship called Vasa or Wasa.

Its voyage was very short and it almost became a forgotten ship. The installed bronze cannons gave it a stronger, more intimidating look as a maritime weapon. Though it sank in 1628, the ship maintained its form through the salvaging efforts of Anders Franzén in the 1950s.

The ship is the main star of the museum but there are more shops and archeological finds to see. This attraction is focused on Sweden’s maritime excellence during the 17th century. The other ships on display are Finngrundett, Bernhard Ingelsson, Sankt Erik, and Spica.

If historical ships do fascinate you, this is a great place for a history enthusiast like you. The Vasa Museum will let you take a peek at Sweden’s past maritime adventures. Aside from ships, the exhibit also includes other items like old leather boots and sculptures.

Its walls are decorated by artworks and maps that follow a very 1600s theme. There are audio and video presentations that enhance the experience of taking a tour.  Another awesome thing is you can have free access to Wi-Fi! If you’re hungry after the tour, there’s a restaurant where you can eat a very pleasant meal.

How about some warship-inspired souvenirs? You can buy super nice items in this museum’s gift shop. A ticket for a tour will cost you 28 USD. Guests who are 18 and below can enter the museum for free. The Vasa Museum is open every day from 10 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon.

A lot of tourists enjoy the experience of visiting an amusement park while on vacation. Despite its smaller area, Gröna Lund is a place that doesn’t hold back in entertaining its guests. So if you’re looking for a fun time in Stockholm, this one is a very neat place for recreation.

It is smaller compared to other theme parks because of its location in the center of Stockholm. The Gröna Lund theme park was first opened in 1883 and gave countless fun moments to visitors for 139 years. It’s the oldest amusement park in Sweden. While your feet and eyes wander, you’ll notice the pretty and old-fashioned look of this tourist spot.

Are you ready for a thrilling ride? There are 31 rides inside Sweden’s oldest amusement park. 8 of them are different types of roller coasters. The names of these coasters are Insane, Jetline, Kvasten, Monster, Nyckelpigan, Tuff-Tuff Tåget, Twister, and Vilda Musen.

Attractions like Blue Train, Eclipse, Flying Carpet, and House of Nightmares can also give you a thrilling experience. If roller coasters are too scary for you, there are less intimidating rides that you can try out. Circus Carousel, Flying Elephants, Fun House, Little Paris Wheel and Mini Bumper Cars are kid-friendly rides.

Gröna Lund is a popular venue for pop and rock concerts so music fans gather here to enjoy great songs. One of the biggest concerts that happened here was attended by a large crowd. In 1980, reggae legend Bob Marley performed in front of 32,000 people.

Considering this amusement park’s size, that’s a very impressive number. If you’re looking for some adrenaline rush while you’re on a summer break in Stockholm, make your way to Gröna Lund. It’s such a fun and special place to visit.

The entrance fee is 10 USD. The Åkband ticket option lets you have unlimited rides in one day for 30 USD. Gröna Lund is open to visitors from April to September. This park’s peak season is summer and it’s open from 10 am to 11 pm.

Nobel Prize Museum

The Nobel Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in the world. The recipients of this award are major contributors in the fields of science and art. People who took the lead in promoting peace and other humanitarian acts are being recognized as well.

In Stockholm, the former Stock Exchange Building has turned into a museum that focuses on Nobel Prize history. It was opened in 2001. Inside, you’re going to see a long list of names who dedicated their lives to improving the world.

The museum showcases the people who won the prize and their contributions to humankind. A few of this prestigious award’s winners are Adolf von Baeyer, Bob Dylan, Malala Yousafzai, and Marie Curie.

Adolf von Baeyer was a German chemist known for his discovery of phthalein dyes. Bob Dylan is a prolific songwriter who inspired music listeners through his poetic lyrics.

Marie Curie was the one who discovered radium and polonium and dedicated her life to finding cancer treatments. During the age when only a few women were involved in scientific research, Curie was able to stand out. She showed the world that gender doesn’t have the power to stop anyone from creating great things.

Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist known for her female education advocacy. Like Marie Curie, Yousafzai is another example of a woman who tried her best to improve the world.

If you want to know more about the greatest minds who made the world a better place, this museum is a cool destination. Inside the museum, the exhibit will show you photographs of the winners. Information about their contributions are on display.

Touring this museum is a great way to show your appreciation for fellow human beings who worked for a better tomorrow. If you want to take a relaxing and educational trip to Stockholm, The Nobel Prize Museum is a place that you can visit.

Get inspired and keep your faith in humanity strong by booking a tour. The ticket for admission costs 8 to 13 USD. The Nobel Prize Museum is open every day from 11 to 5 pm.

Go back in time to see the old version of Stockholm by going to Gamla Stan (The Old Town). Officially known as Staden Mellan Broarna (Town Between the Bridges), it is among the city’s best attractions. So if you want to have a relaxing stroll while you’re in Stockholm, Gamla Stan is the perfect spot for you.

This is where you can experience the old-fashioned and colorful side of the city. The narrow alleyways and the colorful paint of the buildings in Gamla Stan will make you feel like you’re in a movie set. There are shops where you can buy delicious treats and gift items.

Don’t forget to take a lot of pleasant pictures because this old town’s beauty is captivating. Gamla Stan’s best spots are Stortorget, Mårten Trotzigs Alley, Slottsbacken, and Stockholm Cathedral. The houses, shops, church, and public square look so appealing and they never fail to attract visitors.

Take a walk along the streets of Gamla Stan and see the unique and vibrant side of Stockholm. Visit a gift shop, eat good food, and enjoy the visual treat that surrounds you. This is a nice destination for visitors who are fascinated by things that came from the 17th to 18th century.

Stockholm or Oslo – Which Is Better?

Oslo and Stockholm are awesome vacation spots for tourists who are excited about a Northern Europe adventure. If you want to visit a more contemporary city, Oslo is a great choice. But if you’re looking for a traditional trip and a fuller Scandinavian experience, Stockholm is the city for you.

The cost of visiting Stockholm is also cheaper compared to a vacation in Oslo. Foodies will have a better experience in Stockholm. The people in both cities are very nice. You can make new friends. Have a wholesome and super amazing time with them.

Oslo is a good destination but there are more fun things to do in the city of Stockholm. The cheaper expenses and richer culture of the city will make you want to go back for another trip in the future. Oslo and Stockholm are wonderful destinations and you should visit both of them if you can.

Stockholm is the winning city for this round. Despite being traditional, it is a very exciting place. Though there are also fun things in Oslo, Stockholm is a slightly better destination.

Oslo to Stockholm Distance

The distance between Oslo and Stockholm is 258 miles (416 km). Oslo is in the southeastern part of Norway while Stockholm is in the southeastern part of Sweden. You can travel the said distance by bus, plane, or train.

Oslo to Stockholm

You need to go east to travel from Oslo to Stockholm. Covering the distance between them by land would take you at least 6 hours and a few minutes. The fastest way to travel from one city to the other is by plane.

Stockholm to Oslo by Ferry

There are no direct ferry trips from Stockholm to Oslo and vice versa. Though there’s a ferry route from Sweden to Norway, it doesn’t include the cities of Oslo and Stockholm. The only available route for a ferry ride is the Sandefjord to Stromstad route.

Train From Stockholm to Oslo

You can board a train that will take you from Stockholm to Oslo. Stockholm Central Station and Oslo Central Station are the train stations that connect the two cities. A train journey usually takes 6 hours and the average ticket price is 56 USD.

Stockholm to Oslo by Direct Train

Four direct trains travel from Stockholm to Oslo every day. Tickets can range from 56 to 103 USD or higher depending on the train and ticket type. Pricier ticket options include wider seats, meals, Wi-Fi, and power sockets.

Stockholm to Oslo by Night Train

There are no night trains that directly travel from Stockholm to Oslo. That makes traveling by train at night less convenient and time-consuming. Train rides aren’t always recommended if you’re going from Stockholm to Oslo during the wee hours.

If a regular trip takes 6 hours, going for a train ride at night could take 12 hours. A night trip would make you change trains and board a bus to get to Oslo. Taking a direct train ride during regular hours is a less tiring option.

Stockholm to Oslo Train Scenery

The train ride from Stockholm to Oslo is not as scenic compared to other Scandinavian train routes. You can spot a few pleasant spots along the way like pines and lakes. But most places that you’ll see along the ride are plain-looking areas of land.

Oslo to Stockholm Train Cost

The cost of a train ride can range from 56 to 103 USD depending on the ticket type. Other ticket options are more expensive because of more spacious seats and extra services. SJ trains do offer economy and business class tickets.

Distance From Oslo to Stockholm by Train

The Oslo Central Station and Stockholm Central Station are 258 miles (416 km) apart. You can board a train that will take you directly to Stockholm during regular hours. There are 4 train departures for the Oslo to Stockholm route each day.

Oslo to Stockholm Train Time

The average duration of a direct train ride from Oslo to Stockholm is 6 hours. If you’re making a few stops or changing trains in the middle, the journey might even take 8 hours. At night, the limited availability of trains could make your trip 12 hours long.

Driving From Stockholm to Oslo

Driving from Stockholm to Oslo takes 6 to 7 hours under normal traffic conditions. You’re going to cover a distance of 329 miles (530 km). You can make your way to Oslo via the E18 motorway. The speed limit for this highway is 68 miles per hour (110 km/h).

Best Way to Travel From Stockholm to Oslo

The best ways to travel from Stockholm, Sweden, to Oslo, Norway, are by plane and by train. Flying is the fastest option as well. A direct train trip takes 6 hours while a single flight usually takes an hour and a few minutes.

If you are willing to go on a road trip, you can also drive a car from Stockholm to Oslo. A direct drive can take 6 to 7 hours. You can make a few stops in the middle of the trip and the best spots are Fredrikstad Tourist Office Old Town and Örebro Castle.

The cheapest way to Oslo is riding a bus. Bus fare only costs 20 to 40 USD.  A direct bus ride is going to take 7 hours and 20 minutes before reaching the nearest bus station in Oslo.

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Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen – which city is the best?

Did you know that Scandinavia actually is home to some of the best European cities? When it comes to outstanding city trips in Europe, the Scandinavian cities are high up on the list and promise all you need for an unforgettable experience. The most popular cities are for sure Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo – all three capitals of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. And all three offer a completely different experience. But which one is actually the best? Which city is most worth a visit and fits best into your dreams of a perfect city trip? Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen – which city is the best? This guide compares the three destinations and helps you make your choice. 

Introducing Stockholm 

Welcome to Sweden´s capital. Stockholm is known as a lively city and the perfect mixture of the big city life and nature. It is Scandinavia´s second biggest city and built on 14 islands, which is also the reason why it is known as the “Venice of the North”. The Stockholm archipelago is your gateway to stunning nature and sea views. 

Your time in Stockholm can be filled with museum visits, a visit to the Royal Palace and of course a stroll through Gamla Stan, the historical old town of the city. Stockholm is more laid-back and time for a traditional Swedish fika is an absolute must – the motto during this city trip: take time for a break. 

Click here to get a full list of the best things to do in Stockholm. 

Vibe check Stockholm and what to expect:

Introducing Oslo

Oslo is Norway´s capital and located in the very south of the country. With a special combination of urban lifestyle, modern architecture and stunning fjord views, Oslo is on almost any traveller´s list who plans a trip through Norway. Compared to Stockholm or Copenhagen, the city is much more modern and less characterized by picturesque old buildings. But that might be exactly what makes Oslo so special. The modern opera house is somehow the face of the city and offers some of the best views. Enjoy a walk through the city, visit the Royal Palace, go shopping or hop on a boat cruise through the impressive Oslo Fjord. The city will already give you a short glimpse of the country´s beauty and for sure creates the desire to explore more. 

Click here to get a full list of the best things to do in Oslo. 

Vibe check Oslo and what to expect:

Introducing Copenhagen

And last but not least: welcome to Copenhagen, the heart of Denmark! For some travellers, Copenhagen is high up on the list of favorite cities in Europe. And with a good reason: Copenhagen really is a place to fall in love with. Not only the city center is worth a visit, but basically every street is full of stunning houses. Stroll through the streets, visit Nyhavn and the Amalienborg Palace and taste the Danish specialties in the cute cafés and bakeries. Places like Christiania, the riverside and the famous mermaid statue are must-dos for any trip to Copenhagen. Shopping and fashion lovers will have a blast with the unique street style and the countless fashion boutiques. 

Click here to get a full list of the best things to do in Copenhagen

Vibe check Copenhagen and what to expect:

Why stockholm could be your best choice .

Stockholm is for the ABBA fans, the royal fans and those travellers who love the Swedish lifestyle. Have a fika at least twice a day and stroll along the riverside. The Stockholm archipelago is also a must do on your visit and will give you more insights into the beauty of the country. If you love museums, this is your place to be. Visit the ABBA museum or the Vasa museum and hop on the SL boats to experience a different kind of transportation. 

Stockholm is a great destination if you plan to visit Sweden anyways. You can fly into the capital and spend a day or two walking around and diving into the city life. 

Why Oslo could be your best choice 

As already mentioned, Oslo is the more modern city of the three. If you cannot get enough of architecture and love to stroll around and admire the different building styles. Concerning that, Oslo really has it all. From historic buildings to modern houses.

Also, if you are a nightlife lover, Oslo might be your best choice. The city is an absolute party hotspot for the Norwegians and during the summertime you can already enjoy a beer during the afternoon hours by the waterfront. Or actually, why not start with a glass of wine at midday? You will slowly discover the very laid-back lifestyle of the locals and that is exactly what makes Oslo so special. 

Oslo is your best choice if you like to combine a city trip with some moments in nature. You feel like getting out of the city rush quite fast? Olso has your back. The fjord is not far and some quiet and green places can easily be reached from the city center. When you book a boat trip out on the fjord, it feels like entering a whole different world and the city is far away. Norway´s nature is just a step away which is why a city trip to Oslo gives you a bit of everything.

And not to forget: Oslo is the best choice for all travellers who love the winter sports. The city is home to the Holmenkollen and skiing areas are actually not far away. 

Why Copenhagen could be your best choice 

Copenhagen is for the young travellers. It is full of life and has this young vibrant atmosphere. The city is all about streetstyle, having fun and living in the moment. If you love the aesthetics of a city, Copenhagen is your best shot. Basically, every street is worth a picture and you will ask yourself one question at least four times a day: should I move here? (yes, promise that is actually going to happen).

Among all three cities, Copenhagen offers the biggest variety of things to do. From walking around, shopping and having a drink on the river to seeing a different perspective in Christiania or enjoying the delicious foods in cafés and restaurants. In Copenhagen, boredom is simply not existing and any kind of traveller will find its very own highlight. 

Also, Copenhagen is close to Sweden and if you are planning to travel the South of Sweden you can plan some exciting day trips. Click here to learn more about it. 

Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen: which is the best choice?

In the end, this is a personal recommendation. You might disagree and fall in love with a different city. But to sum it up, the by comparing Stockholm vs. Olso vs. Copenhagen, Copenhagen really stands out. It is the city with the most positive atmosphere, the best things to do and the highest potential for an unforgettable city trip. Followed by Olso which offers quite a diverse experience and allows you to explore some Norwegian landscapes in the fjord. And last but not least, Stockholm. The Swedish capital ends the list of Stockholm vs. Oslo vs. Copenhagen. But make sure to not miss out on it.

Which city was your favorite in the end?

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The Ultimate Scandinavian Itinerary: Oslo, Stockholm and Helsinki

By Helene Sula

The twinkle lights pierced the night sky, and my feet crunched in the snow. I pursed my lips over my paper cup of glogg as I glanced around at the stalls filled with wool sweaters, sizzling donuts, and Christmas knick-knacks. I felt the warm wine euphorically course through my body and warm me up from the inside out.

This ultimate Scandinavia itinerary shares the classic sights and some of the best these destinations have to offer. This guide focuses on the capital cities: Oslo in Norway, Stockholm in Sweden, Helsinki in Finland, and even pond hops to Tallinn in Estonia.

See the beautiful homes from around these countries, get a history of the architecture, keep warm in the sauna, and lastly, find Santa. This 10-day route through Northern Europe is a unique experience in Europe.

When to travel in Scandinavia

Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought the northern parts of Europe would leave such a profound impression on me. Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia were on my bucket list for a long time, and I finally got to visit them.

I went in December , right before Christmas. Although it was cold, the added snow made it feel a bit more magical. If you'd like to escape the heat, going in the summer is also a wonderful time. You will find ideal climate in the summer months, but a true winter wonderland November through February.

Length of Time to Travel Scandinavia

I went for 10 days and covered Norway, Sweden, Finland, and even popped over to Estonia. If you have extra time I suggest going to Copenhagen, Denmark. If you still have more time you can head farther north to Lapland to experience the true outdoor sights of Scandinavia. For this itinerary, I focused mostly on the more urban parts of the region. I hit up the capitals of each country which were buzzing with things to do, traditional food, and lots of great museums.

How to Travel Through Scandinavia

I flew into Oslo from Frankfurt, Germany. I did have to switch planes in Copenhagen, but I found relatively inexpensive flights. We took a train from Oslo, Norway to Stockholm, Sweden which I highly recommend. It was very scenic and looks like a painted winter landscape out of the comfortable train window.

From Stockholm to Helsinki we took a short plane ride. This was easy, inexpensive, and you can find flights occurring all times of the day. Here's how I find great prices on flights .

Lastly, we took a magnificent boat ride from Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia. I couldn't recommend this more. The boat ride was inexpensive but absolutely lovely. It's only a few hours to ride the boat, and you'll find restaurants, bars, shopping, and lush lounges throughout the ship.

Oslo, Norway

The first stop of the trip was Oslo. Norway’s capital and cultural hub, founded in 1040, is often regarded as the winter capital of the world. It's had a rough history: suffering 14 fires and ruled for 300 years by Denmark and Sweden. The last fire, in 1624, was the most detrimental and destroyed the entire city. Oslo was rebuilt closer to Akershus Fortress under King Christian IV’s reign and called Christiania in his honor. In 1925, they reverted to the old Norse name, Oslo, meaning “the city by the river”.

Oslo is Norway’s biggest city with a population of 1 million people. Since the city’s Port (Port of Oslo, or Oslo Havn) is the country’s leading cargo and ferry port, 6.5 million people pass through here annually.

Karl Johans Gate , named after King Charles III John, and the most famous street in the center of the city, is comprised of a few older streets. It connects the Oslo Central Station and the Central Palace, and it’s full of shops and tourist attractions, the most notable being the National Theater.

Oslo will simply fascinate you because it is surrounded with lots of city squares filled with greenery, scenic streets, fountains, parks, and lakes. In the middle of one such a large park, there is a chocolate cottage in the likes of the one from Hansel and Gretel.

The city’s architecture balances the old and the new styles of buildings. In the main street, you'll see the National Theater , the National Gallery , Parliament , and the Royal Palace .  The center of the city is beautiful and very lively as it's full of bars with musicians and interesting shops.

A short walk through the center to the shore, and you’ll find the Aker Brygge. It's named after the Aker River and is now a modern neighborhood filled with fantastic buildings and installations. On Aker Brygge Street, there is the Nobel Peace Prize Museum . Interestingly enough, the award for the Nobel Peace Prize is the only Nobel Prize not given in Sweden because, at the beginning of the century, it was considered that Sweden was too aggressive and it would be inappropriate to award the Nobel Peace Prize there.

The town center of Oslo is quiet and welcoming. Oslo has numerous tunnels under the city, where the Oslo Metro and many of the motorways pass through.

As you may notice, we aren’t halfway through the article but have already mentioned the names of two kings. They might’ve had power back then, however, royalty are just figureheads nowadays.

The Akershus Fortress , a royal castle that once protected Norwegians from Swedes, has beautiful harbor views. The building is currently a temporary seat of the Prime minister of Norway. Opposite of the fortress is a neighborhood with shops and restaurants, perfect to spend an afternoon there.

Where to Stay in Oslo

In Oslo, we stayed at the lovely Frogner House apartments. We had ease of access to most of Oslo’s famous places, and a fully-equipped kitchen where we cooked meals and lounged in luxury away from the cold. We instantly felt right at home.

The perfectly pink building is within walking distance from public transportation, restaurants, and shops.

Our particular place had two bedrooms, as well as a pull-out couch, and a kitchen. There were also two bathrooms which were especially nice since we were traveling with friends. Everyone had their own space to get ready but a common area to hang out.

There was even a washer and dryer which I'm finding increasingly important since I try to pack as minimally as possible. Frogner House has absolutely everything you need for having the best stay in Oslo.

On the first day, we visited the Christmas market in Spikersuppa . Going to the Christmas fair in the Norwegian National Museum is a very popular tradition among residents and tourists of the capital alike. The Christmas Fair has more than a hundred tiny wood houses where you buy local handicrafts, Christmas decorations, cakes, and other treats. The cafes in the museum are decorated in a holiday style and serve coffee, gingerbread, and other Norwegian Christmas specialties.

It’s easy to feel the Christmas spirit in the very center of Oslo, where natives and visitors can spend quality time eating Christmas delicacies buying ornaments, artwork, and handicrafts, or ice-skating in the Spikersuppa rink. Spikersuppa is full of stalls and tents, illuminated and decorated for Christmas.

Since I was there during Christmas time, I got to know their customs, such as children dressing up, giving gifts and singing on Santa Lucia Day. Mistletoe can be found everywhere because to Norwegians it is a sacred plant, used to heal and provide good luck.

Sometime in the 1300s, rice was introduced to the country, and they started making rice porridge. December is when they love to eat “ risengrynsgrøt ,” rice porridge with a hidden almond. The legend says that whoever gets the almond will marry first.

Christmas is a magical time but, luckily, Oslo has a lot more to offer. In its center, there is the National Gallery (temporarily closed until 2020, be sure to check opening hours) which showcases the rest of Norway’s cultural soul. It includes the works of art from the master European painters – Edvard Munch, El Greco, Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, and Pablo Picasso.

In the Gallery you'll find Munch's most famous painting: The Scream. What I enjoyed so much was how few people crowded around the painting. If you've ever been to the Louvre in Paris, the Mona Lisa is bombarded with tourists. So much so, it's hard to get a good look. This is not the case in Oslo. You can contemplate in your own space and get some great pictures.

If you didn't get enough of Munch, head over to the Munch Museum for even more of his works.

Another architectural sighting is the Oslo Cathedral , a 12-century medieval church. A quaint lane near the church will lead you to the Aker river. The Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen neighborhoods were once powered by a series of mills from the river.

After all, that walking a great place to grab a bite to eat is Mathallen Food Hall . Showcasing some of the best regional dishes, as well as tastes from beyond, this is a nice place to eat and relax.

We started the day with a walking tour. The Opera House is built on the once-gritty industrial zone and frequently used for outdoor concerts. It opened in 2008 and won several international architectural awards and tried for Guinness book of world record for the largest choir. The edifice itself looks like an iceberg rising from the sea, and people can interact with the design by walking on the roof.

Oslo’s City Hall is a building made between 1931 and 1950 from red brick and represents the working class. The Hall houses the city council and the city administration. It also hosts The Nobel Peace Prize ceremony every December.

The Parliament building (aka Storting building) is a masterpiece designed by Emil Victor Langlet, a Swedish architect. It was completed in 1866 and today houses the seat of Storting. A pair of lions in front of the building guards the parliament and were made by a prisoner in the Akershus Fortress.

To feel more of the European charm, we visited the Grand Café Oslo on the Karl Johans Gate, an acclaimed restaurant that Henrik Ibsen once frequented. Near the Café, there is The Grand Hotel, where Peace Prize winners and pop stars often stay. The glass on the first floor is bulletproof! It hosts the Nobel Peace Prize banquet annually.

We took a stroll through Frogner park or Vigeland park , also called the Sculpture park, because it is the world’s largest park where you can find the works of art of a single artist. The park is located in the western part of Oslo and features over 200 slightly eccentric but beautiful monumental sculptures of Gustav Vigeland, a Norwegian sculptor who left a lasting mark on Norwegian cultural heritage. The park covers a total of 45 hectares and contains masterpieces showcasing the human body though life stages. In addition to sculptures within the Vigeland Park, there is also the beautiful 18th-century castle, Frogner Castle.

If you want to escape city life and want to spend some time in nature, just take the metro to the last station and find yourself in a beautiful natural environment. Marka , the forest that covers the vast mountainous area in the hinterland of Oslo, hides numerous lakes and streams in dense forests lurking on cycling and hiking trails.

We opted to head to the famous ski jump, Holmenkollbakken . Here you'll also find a fabulous restaurant and a great place to get warmed up and have a drink.

Situated on a fjord, with idyllic views of the water and islands to the south and the mountains to the north Oslo feels as if you're in the countryside and a big city at the same time. Today we museum hopped: visiting the Norwegian Folk Museum, Viking Ship Museum, the Fram Museum, and the Kon-Tiki Museum.

Make sure to look around near the museums as the surrounding areas are absolutely beautiful.

The Norwegian Folk Museum , or the Museum of Cultural History, shows how Norwegians lived from 1500 to the present day. It is an open-air museum, meaning you walk by the beautiful wooden houses and can peak inside each one to discover how people lived. It was particularly picturesque all covered in snow.

Next, take the boat or tram to the Bygdøy peninsula and discover the museums that tell the maritime history of Norway. You'll find the Viking Ship Museum, Fram, and Kon-Tiki museum.

The Viking Ship Museum showcases the three best-preserved ships in the world dating back to the 800s. Part of the Museum of Cultural History of Oslo, you can find out how and why the Vikings took to the ocean. Viking chieftains were buried on their ships together with their belongings which is why we have well preserved ships to this day.

The Museum reveals the story of the discovery of ships Gokstad, Oseberg and Tune, and small boats, sleds, beautiful wagons, tools, textiles and household utensils used at the time of the Vikings. You'll find the ships in pristine conditions since they were encased in watertight and airtight mud.

The Fram Museum is yet another museum dedicated to the exploration of Norwegians on ships. This one shares the history of the Norwegian polar exploration. Inside, you can enter the boat and get a feel for what life was truly like aboard the ship.

Also in the museum, you'll find the Gjøa ship, which carried Roald Amundsen along the Northwest Passage over three years up to 1906. You'll need some time in this museum since it is quite large.

The Kon-Tiki Museum , on the other hand, tells you the story of the Kon-Tiki expedition and houses maps and vessels from the famous journey. Kon-Tiki was a raft on which the Norwegian scientist and researcher Thor Heyerdahl sailed with five other men in 1947 from Callao, Peru on the west coast of South America to the Raroia reef (islands or the archipelago of Tuamotu in France Polynesia). He aimed to prove that people from South America could have settled Polynesia. So he created a boat using wood and materials from the area and successfully sailed to Polynesia. I found this museum extremely interesting and entertaining.

We packed up our stuff and headed for an early morning train for our next capital: Stockholm.

Stockholm, Sweden

It's not just about ABBA, but it's important you know the songs.

Stockholm is home to 2 million people and embraces modern innovation. The mid-15th-century Stockholm was a small trading place, with between five and six thousand inhabitants. During the 15th century, Sweden was united with Denmark and Norway in the Kalmar Union. The 19th century meant fast industrialization and a huge annual birthrate. Today, Stockholm is one of the fastest growing European cities. It is also the only city that has received the status of the “green capital” from the European Union.

But it's not just about modernization. The old town, Gamla Stan, is one of the best preserved medieval city centers on the continent and the birthplace of Stockholm in 1252.

Here you will see the narrowest street in Sweden or learn something new about the Nobel Prize awarded in the City Hall. It is a birthplace of Alfred Nobel, and a city made up of 14 islands that are connected by bridges.

Another famous personality of Stockholm is Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden, Sweden’s king at the beginning of the 17th century. He is credited to strengthening The Swedish Empire. The Gustav Adolf's Square named in his honor is the public square in the center of Stockholm.

The second legendary place to visit if you’re into shopping is Norrmalm , a business and shopping center located around the Sergels square.

While there are many lovely things to see in Stockholm, don't forget to take some time to play in the snow!

Where to Stay in Stockholm

On my very first trip to Sweden, I headed to Malmo and stayed at one of my all-time favorite hotels in Europe, Story. When I saw there was a Story Hotel in Stockholm I knew I needed to stay here.

I was thrilled to find a cool ambiance with attention to detail. The hotel has a hip restaurant that's often busy with tourists and residents alike. The rooms are cozy, and the location to the city center is ideal.

One of my favorite parts of staying at Story Hotels is the advanced technology. You can easily hook up your phone or laptop to watch a movie, listen to music, or look through the pictures you snapped that day. The hotel also provides complimentary breakfast and drinks in your room.

The simple but stylish rooms in Story Hotel are modern and comfortable. You'll find everything you need including many wall outlets (something I find increasingly important in my hotel stays!), full-size bath products, including conditioner (again, important!), and spacious rooms.

It's really a toss up on what I like best about Story Hotel : the extremely helpful staff or the incredible breakfast buffet. I can't choose.

The staff truly made the stay worthwhile by giving us detailed recommendations on places to eat (my favorite restaurant of the trip was their recommendation) and off-the-beaten-path things to do.

In the morning I got up bright and early for the sumptuous feast of breads, meats, cheeses, teas, coffee, spreads, and cookies (YES!) that were provided every day. The trendy breakfast area is complete with purple velvet couches and chairs. It's so cozy, you might not want to leave.

Of course, Story Hotel is in the city center and located just minutes from the tram. I truly couldn't recommend Story Hotels more.

Day 4 – Stockholm

Start things off right by visiting the Versailles of Sweden, Drottningholm Palace . It’s the private residence of the Swedish royal family, located in Drottningholm on the island of Lovö in the municipality of Ekerö in Stockholm. It was originally built at the end of the 16th century as a residence of the royal court. Today, it is a great tourist attraction, and its broader area with the Chinese pavilion and park is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition to the ornate rooms in the palace, there is beautiful clothing from the period.

I preferred the Royal Palace of Stockholm which is the King's official residence and also a place where you can see the crown jewels and ornate rooms.

We had fika (Swedish word for having a coffee with a pastry, most frequently a cinnamon bun while having a friendly chat) and headed to the Christmas market. Located in the old part of town, the Christmas market has been held since 1915. At about forty stalls you can find indigenous Swedish products. In addition to the great selection of high-end handicrafts, you can also find a lot of Swedish delicacies to taste as you walk between stalls.  Just be aware they do not serve alcohol here, you have to go indoors for that.

The market is on the Stortorget , the oldest square in Stockholm located on the Gamla Stan . Thousands of tourists frequent the square each year, and it’s famous for the brightly-colored tall medieval buildings and bars.

Stortorget’s history is harrowing since in 1520, 90 people were executed here by Danish forces. This was known as the “Swedish Bloodbath” since blood was running through the streets. Seeing the blood run through the streets was supposed to discourage all others from misbehaving. Creepy.

Don't forget to check out the animals they have on site here!

If you're hungry, check out the market, Östermalm Food Hall for counters packed with traditional Swedish cuisine.

Day 5 – Stockholm

After the exhausting first day, we knew we needed the energy to explore more of Stockholm. The second day started with a typical Swedish breakfast –  smörgås (an open-faced sandwich) with ham, a bowl of Muesli and coffee.

We went to see the Nordic Museum that exhibits the life and the customs of the people in this region. For as little as 140 SEK ($15.50) you’ll see how the Swedes lived in the past. The entrance fee covers the free audio guide. Make sure to check out the Northern Lights exhibit here as well.

You'll also find the culture and history of the Sami people, the indigenous people of Sweden.

Museum of Modern Art is another museum of Stockholm, on the island of Skeppsholmen, in which you can see the art of the most important modern and contemporary artists, such as Matisse, Picasso, Louise Bourgeois etc. The walk to the Museum of Modern Art takes you through a park overlooking the sea with the architecture of Stockholm. For lovers of contemporary art, I recommend visiting Bonniers Konsthall, Galleries Andersson and CFHILL.

We went to the Museum of Photography , aka Fotografiska , where you can see contemporary photography artists’ works. I absolutely loved this museum. As you've probably noticed, we went to a LOT of museums. But this one was a bit different. Each exhibit was different from the next. I was transfixed by the ethereal images on display and the story each one shared.

The Fotografiska is also a great place to have a drink and get a good view of the city.

The Swedes work hard but might play even harder. They nicknamed Wednesday “Little Saturday” because this is when people start drinking after hours. We headed to the hip neighborhood of Vasastan for drinks and a marvel at the unique architecture around this area. We found a great bar with well priced drinks and funky decor at Bara Enkelt .

I loved walking around this city to see the beautiful architecture!

As for dinner, head to Knut for traditional Sami cuisine. The Sami are the indigenous people to Scandinavia and many still herd reindeer, create unique craftwork, and still speak the Sami language. This was my favorite meal of the trip. You'll find typical dishes such as reindeer, char, and even moose sausage. The dishes were inventive and delicious and the atmosphere here was cozy and refined. I highly recommend trying the flatbread pizza!

Day 6 – Stockholm

We started the day with a tour of City Hall . The Hall is similar to the Oslo City Hall by the red bricks used to construct the building. Made up of eight million bricks, it's notable for holding the Nobel Prize Banquet in the Blue Hall each year.

The Hall is located on the Kungsholmen Island and houses the municipal council, as well as the Nobel Prize banquet. It took 12 years (from 1911-1923) to build the Hall, but despite being built in the 1900s, it has an old architectural style and looks like Italian Renaissance because the architects didn’t want to make it stand out.

The tower is 106 meters tall and made to be taller than the tower in Copenhagen, Denmark (with a height of 105 meters). Although the Swedes and the Danes look like good friends to most of us, their rivalry goes back to the times of the Kalmar Union in the 14th century. However, most of the younger folks consider being culturally and historically linked and therefore refer to each other as broderfolk , “brother people”.

The Blue Hall in the City Hall is the largest of the three and 250 other banquets are held here annually. It has a blue marble floor and it can surprisingly fit 1,350 people – I was shocked when I guessed 300. They do this by setting up the room very specifically with a set number of centimeters allotted to each guest.

The staircase in the Hall is specifically designed for people to walk up and down the stairs in heels. The architect’s wife tried out all different designs of steps because she knew people would be walking up and down for the Nobel prize ceremony.

The Golden Hall is the second largest hall and it is decorated with more than 18 million pieces of gold mosaic. Almost every Swedish citizen could have two stones of 24-karat gold each. The image below depicts the Queen of Lake Mälaren as she sits in the center of the world, the East and West to her left and right.

Now that you've learned some historic importance it's time to get our cultural groove on at the one and only ABBA museum . This interactive museum shares the history and sound from arguably the most famous musical group to ever come out of Sweden.

There are a few other notable places to visit in Stockholm. The Royal Armory, where the artifacts of Swedish military and royalty are held. If you’re more of a nature lover, make sure to visit the Sculpture park – Millesgården in Lidingö, only 15 minutes from downtown Stockholm. It was once home to artists Carl and Olga Milles and now a tourist attraction with sculptures, flowerbeds, fountains and a gallery.

Another place for nature lovers is Royal Djurgården, a protected national park on an island of the same name in the central Stockholm. There you can find historical buildings and monuments, as well as museums and galleries. There is the amusement park Gröna Lund, an open-air museum and ZOO Skansen, and a couple of yacht harbors. The island is full of extensive stretches of forest and meadows where you can take a walk and relax from the city noise.

A great place for dinner is Meatballs for the People . Serving traditional Swedish meatballs in a relaxed atmosphere with a good price you can't go wrong. If you're looking for more upscale, try Prinsen for Swedish fine dining.

From nature, through history to fun and life, it's a city I really enjoyed and I can’t wait to go back.

Helsinki, Finland

It's not just about saunas, but it's a huge part of the culture and one thing you must do in Helsinki. Finland has a population of 5 million, yet has over 3 million saunas! Although the inhabitants of the capital city of Finland are freezing in the winter months, Helsinki, or as they call it “ the white city of the north” , is by far the most beautiful for a visit during winter. Modern cafes and exquisite saunas are at every turn, so you’ll have no problem getting warm.

Helsinki is home to more than one million people and is located on the banks of the Gulf of Bothnia. Finland's geographical position between Sweden and Russia largely determined the fate of the country. Finns didn't gain independence until 1917, so their freedom is relatively new.

Helsinki distinguishes itself from other European capitals for two reasons: the natural beauties and the extremely clear street network, which was formed by two main urban designers, Johan Albrecht Ehrenström and Carl Ludvig Engel, leading to the functionalist style of construction. Helsinki was founded in the 16th century as a counterbalance to Tallinn , the capital of Estonia. Today, it has grown into a real metropolis.

Just like London, Helsinki has its own Ferris wheel, where you can enjoy the panorama of the whole city. The ride lasts 12 minutes, and costs as much in Euros. Near the wheel, there is the Orthodox Cathedral Uspenski , which was designed by the Russian architect Aleksey Gornostayev, and was decorated in the Byzantine and Slavic style.

Another cathedral worth seeing is certainly the Helsinki Cathedral , which stands proudly in stark white contrast to the somewhat gray day. This is Carl Ludvig Engel's grand neoclassical cathedral, topped with a green dome.

This pocket-sized European city is known for technology and design. So get on some warm clothing to stroll the streets!

Where to Stay in Helsinki

If you want a truly unique and cool experience then stay in the former jail – Hotel Katajanokka . This modern and surprisingly comfortable hotel makes for a perfect hotel stay. Located near the city center, you'll find a tram stop just steps from the hotel. Despite once housing inmates, there are luxury details, an incredible buffet spread, and even a sauna! The rooms are spacious with beautiful velvet curtains that make the perfect blackout shades- excellent for a good night's rest.

The breakfast buffet is delicious and offers some traditional Finnish cuisine. Located downstairs, you'll find exposed bricks and an intimate setting to enjoy your first meal of the day.

Make sure to walk around the hotel and find an old cell along with pictures on the wall of how it used to look. It's pretty shocking how modern and lovely a former county prison can be! Extensive restoration work took place to turn the hotel into a premier place for guests to stay.

Hotel Katajanokka is a comfortable and stylish hotel with a unique flair. I especially loved reading the stories of famous prisoners in jail.

The staff was helpful and explained that we could privately use the sauna whenever we chose. The sauna is open on designated days for free, but we wanted to use it on our own. It was such a treat to feel the heat, then step out in the snowy evening. Hotel Katajanokka is an excellent place to experience Helsinki and escape the ordinary.

Day 7 – Helsinki

Walking through the streets of Helsinki is a distinct and charming atmosphere. The architecture is a mixture of modern and Scandinavian as well as industrial. There's a sense of “cool” when you're seeing the sites of Helsinki.  The Presidential Palace looks and feels Russian. It was designed by Pehr Gransted at the beginning of the 19th century. Today the Finns use it for presidential functions and receptions. The palace is in the old part of the town, so you can find Helsinki City Hall and Market Hall in the proximity.

It is worth visiting both the Museum of Design, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art. Both host a number of valuable exhibits that will not disappoint you.

Since it was Christmas time, we wandered the snow-covered streets and experienced the lovely Christmas market in front of the Helsinki Cathedral . Despite the lack of sun this time of year, the city is bustling with jubilation. Grab a cup of glögi, mulled wine, and look up at the Christmas lights on Aleksanterinkatu Street . Despite the cold people are out and about to make the most of “ pikkujoulu “, aka, little Christmas.

You'll find the market in the heart of town with many stalls selling handicrafts and food. But you MUST try the donuts. Sincerely, these hot and tasty treats were the best donuts I've had in my life! You'll also find a traditional sauna right at the market. It was so much fun to see people come out of the steamy sauna and walk, barefoot, for a glass of something strong.

There are many traditions surrounding the Christmas season that you can find out more about here . And of course, be on the look out for Santa!

Day 8 – Tallinn, Estonia

How to get from helsinki to tallinn.

Tallinn was named the best Christmas market of 2019 ! Knowing this information and the ease to get from Helsinki to Estonia, we had to make the voyage. We were pleasantly surprised by the beautiful ship that carried us from port to port. Loaded with passengers from Finland looking to score some deals on liquor, beer, wine, and gifts, we joined the Finns on board the boat. It was a surprisingly luxurious boat with shops, restaurants, and lounge areas.

See my full guide to the Tallinn Christmas market here!

What to do in Tallinn

Beautiful and well preserved, Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, a small country located in the north of Europe. It is the farthest country in the Baltic region, so I prefer to put it along with the Scandinavian countries. Here you won’t find dragons, witches, princesses, queens, and similar fairy-tale creatures, but girls and young men dressed in medieval clothes, behaving exceptionally kind and friendly.

With more than 5,000 years of history, Tallinn is one of the oldest cities in Northern Europe. First mentioned in 1219 and a merchant paradise from the 14th to the 16th century, the city is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. From the 13th century until the Nazi occupation, the city was known as Reval.

The city is tiny, so most of the major sights can be seen within a day.

The city is famous for the old medieval and Gothic houses, like the Three Sisters and the Three Brothers houses. The houses are rich in decoration and filled with motifs of three-leaf clovers, fake windows (so as not to have to pay steep taxes on windows!), and sloping roofs.

Since it was a day trip, we visited the Christmas market then took a fun walking tour . This was a bit different than a traditional walking tour in that they dressed up in costume and pretended they were from back in the day during the merchant times. They not only showed us the top sights but told us a rich and colorful history in stories.

The main entrance of the town is through the city gates, Viru , with the two towers that remain of the old medieval fortification. We walked to the Hellemann tower, a 14th-century tower that today hosts exhibitions. We went up the Town Wall Walkway to see the beautiful view overlooking the city.

At the end of the Viru street, there is Olde Hansa , a medieval-style restaurant. There you can try medieval local specialties, such as wild boar sausage. Near the restaurant and next to the Town Hall Square is the Town Hall, the oldest city hall in all of the Scandinavia and Baltics, completed in 1404. This is now the site of the famous Christmas market.

In the downtown of Tallinn is St. Olaf's Church – for a brief time this was the tallest building in Europe. It is dedicated to King Olaf II of Norway and built somewhere around the 12th century. The height of the tower was 115-125 meters but it got hit by lightning about 10 times. Because of this, the whole church burned down three times in the past. After the rebuilding, the tower now measures 123.8 meters. People used to climb up to this tower and walk back and forth on a tight rope!

Behind the corner of the city square, you will see the medieval Lutheran church of the Holy Spirit , with an engraved clock from the 17th century. A walk through the narrow stone streets of the old town and you can visit the three main churches: St. Mary’s Cathedral , Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral , and St. Nicholas’ church .

We enjoyed the picturesque street of Lühike jalg , but stopped briefly at the very beginning of the street and entered the Danish King’s Garden, a little courtyard surrounded by medieval city walls and statues of the three monks.

Another famous place we visited was the Great Guild Hall , built in 1550 for merchants in the historical Town Center. This Gothic building now houses the Estonian History Museum.

After the tour we ventured over to Vabamu – The Museum of Occupations and Freedom, which is dedicated to the Soviet Union period in Estonia’s history. While this is an important historic time, the museum itself was not well laid out and a bit hard to follow.

For dinner, we went to Väike Restaurant and tried some of the extraordinary Estonian delicacies. This is one of the top-rated restaurants in Estonia but the prices are very reasonable. Food was hearty and delicious.

We ended the day by experiencing the magic at the lovely Christmas market , taking place right in front of Town Hall . I recommend going here to buy a traditional wool sweater, like I did, and listen to the music and performers on stage.

See the Tallinn Christmas market guide here.

Day 9 – Helsinki

Back in Helsinki, it was time to see what else we could discover. The old town is known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. Although modernized by functionalism, Helsinki retained some of its glorious works of art, such as the Central Railway Station, the University of Helsinki building, and Kallio church, a Lutheran church that serves both as a church and a concert venue.

We headed to the Market Square (Kauppatori) which stands right next to the Baltic Sea. Here you can find traditional Finnish food and souvenirs. We ate indoors at the Old Market Hall which has been serving visitors since 1889.

Next, it was time to warm up in the sauna right next to the Baltic Sea! The Allas Sea Pool is a marine spa in the heart of the city. Experience the true Finnish culture by jumping into the freezing water and warming up in the sauna.

If you have time, be sure to go to the island under the protection of UNESCO, Suomenlinna , which has played an important role in observing enemy ships in history. You can see the 18th-century sea fortress as well as the lovely nature. The Swedes began building the fortress to defend against the Russians and today it is a famous tourist spot. The tour costs 10 euros.

It is worth visiting both the Museum of Design , as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art. Both host a number of valuable exhibits that will not disappoint.

However, the best place to see Finnish design is at the Helsinki Central Library , also called Oodi. It is an energy-efficient work of art with glass, steel and wooden structures in the northern part of the city. It's a marvelous work of art with striking glass windows, a wooden facade, and comfortable chairs. Of course, you can read a book, but you can also host an event, and even use the 3D printer!

Day 10 – Helsinki and Fly Home

Ending the trip at one of the coolest spots in Helsinki, the Temppeliaukio Church , aka Church of the Rock. Build by Timo and Tumo Suomalainen in the 1960s, the church was carved out and built directly into the ancient rock. Inside you’ll find a stunning interior with a shallow circular dome made of copper and beautiful, natural granite walls.

If you have extra time, stroll over to Esplanadi park , known as Espa. The popular urban park was designed by Carl Ludwig Engel, who also made the Engles Theater (the first theater in the city) in the park itself.

More time? Add Copenhagen

If you have a few extra days and you'd like to experience more of Scandinavia I recommend going to Denmark's capital, Copenhagen . This vibrant city is full of life and there's plenty to do!

No matter where you go in Scandinavia there is an abundance of things to see, do, and experience. It's easy to travel from place to place, take day trips, or just relax like a traditional Scandinavian.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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Should I visit Oslo or Stockholm? - Stockholm Forum

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Should I visit Oslo or Stockholm?

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Where is your trip to? 36 hours isn't a very long time, so my answer would probably differ depending on your main destination.

It seems from what I'm told that the scenery is better in Oslo but that there is more to do in Stockholm . I'm tending towards Stockholm which also seems to have better priced hotels.

There is nothing wrong with Oslo but it does not compare to Stockholm in beauty nor activities.

Just what I was told by someone who travels a lot. I think he was particularly taken by the fjords.

A beautiful, unique city, with lots to see and do.

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Stockholm or Oslo?

We will be starting our trip with a few days in either Oslo or Stockholm? Preferences and why? We are game for any activities, just want a feel for the city, we always do a walking tour to learn the history. We will probably be there at the end of August, not sure on dates yet. We are 50 and 20, mom and daughter. Thanks.

Stockholm is far more beautiful and the one I would recommend. The old town (Gamla Stan) is fantastic. I also enjoyed the Vasa Museum and cruising around the islands (the city is set on 11 islands). It's really stunning. Oslo is nice and has some nice things to do but can't compare in my humble opinion.

What does the rest of your trip involve? That could guide the recommendations.

I prefer Oslo myself, mainly for it's parks and sort-of- small-town feel, but I only spent a few hours in Stockholm.

i thought the VASA museum was a highlight for me. But if youre not into boats, then you may not care.

Since youre going to both, to me the question is moot.

If you can get less expensive flights in/out of one particular place i would look at that option.

happy trails.

I like Oslo, but I love Stockholm. Stockholm is a beautiful city and it is just stunning on a sunny, summer day. the city is on 14 islands, surrounded by water (both the Baltic and Lake Mälaren) with lots of beautiful parks. Don't miss the Vasa Museum which I think is one of the best museums in the world. The story of how the ship sunk on its maiden voyage in the 1600s and was raised in the 1960s is fascinating. Also, make sure to take a tour of Stadshuset (the City Hall) which hosts the Nobel Prize dinner each December 10th and walk around Gamla Stan, the old town. The Stockholm Card is usually a good value.

I admit to being a bit biased. I lived in Stockholm for more than two years. I've only visited Oslo twice.

We really loved Oslo! Stockholm was good, but not a match to Oslo. There are the Viking ship museum , Norwegian Folk Museum, Kon Tiki museum, Maritime Museum and others, on Bygdoy peninsula. A cruise on the fjord is wonderful- especially a late afternoon one. We especially enjoyed the Vigeland sculpture park. You can take a train up to a silver mine for a day trip, too. Plenty of other day trips that we didn't have time for. It is a very walkable city as well. And CLEAN!!!!

Oslo has some charm and interesting attractions but Stockholm is far better in the charm department as well as things to do and see.

If you can only do one, Stockholm is the more diverse and comes with more obvious beauty. Also the weather tends to be better there.

I really enjoyed the museums in Oslo (Munch, various ship museums, etc), but was cool to the city itself. I was less taken with the specific "attractions" in Stockholm (although the Vasa was great), but loved the vibe of the city itself. That's just one person's opinion, from July 2003.

I agree, if you post the rest of your itinerary, that would influence my recommendation. You can't go "wrong" with either one.

You should also know that, while Stockholm isn't "cheap," it's definitely less expensive than Oslo. If you are on the fence in every other way, maybe that will be the deciding factor.

Thanks everyone for your input, looks like Stockholm has a slight edge over Oslo. Couldn't have decided without you!

I'd go with Stockholm over Oslo. Stockholm has more to see, set nicely on a series of islands, and is much more convenient to add side trips to Helsinki and/or Tallinn (which take you through the archipelago).

Oslo is more out of the way. It has a some good sights but isn't really convenient to anywhere (other than Norway).

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31 Best Stops Between Oslo and Stockholm

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How long is the drive from Oslo to Stockholm?

The direct drive from Oslo to Stockholm is 329 mi (530 km) , and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 27 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Oslo to Stockholm, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Uppsala , as well as top places to visit like Fredrikstad ferry port and Fredrikstad Tourist Office Old Town, or the ever-popular Galleri F15.

Top city between Oslo and Stockholm

Best stops along oslo to stockholm drive, galleri f15.

Fredrikstad ferry port

Fredrikstad Tourist Office Old Town

Kosterhavet national park, nordbytjernet.

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Østfoldbadet

Nordby shoppingcenter, fredriksten fortress, läckö castle, motala motor museum, gustavsvik resorts ab, örebro castle.

Fagersta Västanfors hembygdsgård

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Vallby friluftsmuseum

Munktell Museum

Sala silver mine, kokpunkten actionbad, gårdsjö älgpark i heby ab, arsenalen - swedish tank museum, the dream park, gripsholm castle, tropical greenhouse.

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Uppsala Cathedral

Gamla uppsala, tom tits experiment, strandvillan's café, stockholm quality outlet, top searches in stockholm, other popular road trips from oslo, explore nearby places.

• Saltsjo-Duvnas
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• Saltsjobaden
• Gustavsberg
• Upplands-Vasby
• Vasterhaninge

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Stockholm throughout the year

• Stockholm in January
• Stockholm in February
• Stockholm in March
• Stockholm in April
• Stockholm in May
• Stockholm in June
• Stockholm in July
• Stockholm in August
• Stockholm in September
• Stockholm in October
• Stockholm in November
• Stockholm in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Stockholm?

Get inspired for your trip to Stockholm with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Stockholm Itinerary
• 2-Day Stockholm Itinerary
• 3-Day Stockholm Itinerary
• 4-Day Stockholm Itinerary
• 5-Day Stockholm Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from oslo to stockholm.

Yes! You can drive from Oslo to Stockholm.

How far is Stockholm from Oslo by car?

The drive from Oslo to Stockholm is 329 miles (530 km).

How long does it take to drive from Oslo to Stockholm?

Driving from Oslo to Stockholm should take you 6 hrs 27 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Oslo to Stockholm?

Gas from Oslo to Stockholm would cost around $29 to $67 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Oslo to Stockholm?

You could check out Fredrikstad ferry port and Fredrikstad Tourist Office Old Town, or the always popular Galleri F15!

What are the best cities to visit between Oslo and Stockholm?

People love visiting Uppsala, among others.

What's the weather like in Oslo?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Oslo in January
• Weather in Oslo in February
• Weather in Oslo in March
• Weather in Oslo in April
• Weather in Oslo in May
• Weather in Oslo in June
• Weather in Oslo in July
• Weather in Oslo in August
• Weather in Oslo in September
• Weather in Oslo in October
• Weather in Oslo in November
• Weather in Oslo in December

What are some other road trips from Oslo?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Oslo.

• Oslo to London drive
• Oslo to Paris drive
• Oslo to Berlin drive
• Oslo to Rome drive
• Oslo to Amsterdam drive
• Oslo to Copenhagen drive
• Oslo to Barcelona drive
• Oslo to Stockholm drive
• Oslo to Prague drive
• Oslo to Vienna drive
• Oslo to Budapest drive
• Oslo to Florence drive
• Oslo to St. Petersburg drive
• Oslo to Edinburgh drive
• Oslo to Milan drive
• Oslo to Venice drive
• Oslo to Dublin drive
• Oslo to Brussels drive
• Oslo to Munich drive
• Oslo to Hamburg drive
• Oslo to Moscow drive
• Oslo to Bergen drive
• Oslo to Krakow drive
• Oslo to Helsinki drive
• Oslo to Tallinn drive
• Oslo to Gothenburg drive
• Oslo to Naples drive
• Oslo to Turin drive
• Oslo to Warsaw drive

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How to go from Oslo to Stockholm

The capitals of Norway and Sweden sit almost directly in line with each other across the great Scandinavian Peninsula. One, Oslo, is nestled at the base of its own wild fjord, sporting glistening modern architecture and enthralling museums dedicated to the age of the Vikings. The other, Stockholm, is anchored on the fairy-tale Gamla Stan district, where cobbled alleys weave past coffeeshops, leading out to islands filled with meatball eateries and royal palaces.

If you can’t decide which to visit, why not just do both? This guide has all the know-how you’ll need to travel between them, with info on the cheapest, the fastest, and the comfiest modes of transport.

Oslo to Stockholm by high-speed train

Time – Around 5 hours Price – From $37.50 Comfort – 5/5

SJ (Swedish rail) run as many as five separate daily services from Oslo to Stockholm. They make use of the quick and stylish X2 trains (also known as X2000 models). That means you’ll hit speeds of up to 200 kph on the line, making it possible to complete the whole hop across the heart of Scandinavia in as little as 4h50. That said, most connections take around five hours or a tad over. All you have to do is focus on the routes that don’t involve changes when you come to book on 12Go.co .

The X2 trains are the crème de la crème of the Swedish railway network. On the outside, they have a chic and edgy chrome and silver finish that makes them look like something out of a James Bond film. Inside, there are uber-comfy seats spread between 1st Class and 2nd Class carriages, all with plugs and WiFi as standard. There’s also an excellent onboard catering car. Windows, meanwhile, are large to make the most of the excellent view…

There are oodles of eye-wateringly wonderful views on offer out of the window from the train as you go from Oslo to Stockholm.

Yep, the scenery is wonderful. The first step takes you over the Norway-Sweden border before pushing on past the bucolic lake lands of Arvika (keep the eyes peeled for wild elk in the woodlands there!). Then comes the sprawling vista of Lake Vänern, where the most adventure-hungry travelers might want to break up their trip to explore the amazing city of Karlstad, surrounding castles, and all the remote islets on the water. Towards the end, you’ll move through enchanting Örebro and skirt the edge of forested Mälaren Lake before arriving into Stockholm.

Given the comfort levels and the scenery, you might think that trains between Oslo and Stockholm would be heavy on the wallet. But you can get great deals on SJ’s X2s, so long as you book at least 60 days prior to traveling (when fares can fall to something like $32.50 per person). Also bear in mind that there have been sporadic repairs and upgrades happening on the line continuously since 2016, so it’s normal to see the high-speed services replaced by slower IC trains.

Oslo to Stockholm by plane

Time – 55 minutes (flight only) Price – $50+ Comfort – 4/5

Airlines are the main competitors to the swish SJ X2000 trains on the route from Oslo to Stockholm. There are two main carriers that offer regular direct connections from town to town: SAS and Norwegian. The first is the joint flag carrier of all the Scandinavian nations, while the latter is a more budget-orientated flier. There can be up to 22 departures per day out of Oslo, each taking between 55 minutes and an hour to complete the whole ride in the air.

Flying is fast, taking you from Oslo to Stockholm after just 60 minutes in the air.

Of course, total journey times will be far longer than that if you’re planning to go from city centre to city centre. The time it takes to reach Oslo Airport (OSL), check your bags and go through security also needs to be added into the mix, as does the transfer into the heart of Stockholm on the far side. Thanks to a convenient urban train link costing around 80 NOK ($8.50), you can get to the terminals in Norway in around 25 minutes. A high-speed train also waits to take passengers into Stockholm after landing at big Arlanda Airport – that takes around 20 minutes. The upshot? Journeys will rarely be more than four hours in total.

Pricing for the planes is similar to the trains in that rates increase as you near that departure date. A good deal on a direct flight between these cities is around the $50 mark. To be in with a shout of scoring those prices, we’d recommend heading to 12Go.co and buying tickets at least 60 days in advance. Also bear in mind that you might need to pay a surcharge to add on checked baggage here.

Oslo to Stockholm by bus

Time – 7 hours+ Price – From $27 Comfort – 3/5

It’s no secret that the Scandinavian nations aren’t the cheapest on the planet. So, to save extra krona for your fika coffee breaks in Stockholm, it might be a good idea to cut the cost of the trip into town. Cue the bus. With prices starting at a wallet-friendly $27 for those who book in advance using 12Go.co , there’s hardly a more affordable way to travel between the capitals than this. Thankfully, European operator Flixbus now has up to four direct links per day, taking around just 7-7.5 hours to get you from A to B.

So, what’s the catch? Well…the bus probably won’t be quite as comfortable as the trains, and it’s never going to give flying a run for its money when it comes to speed. Still, you will find good recline on the seats and onboard plugs and WiFi as standard in the Flixbus fleet. What’s more, some departures let you travel through the night, letting you save even more on the cost of a hotel. The buses collect passengers at the interchange on Schweigaards Gate in Oslo and drop off at the bustling Stockholm Cityterminalen in the heart of modern Stockholm.

The hop from Oslo to Stockholm is one that will take you right across the heart of Scandinavia. You can choose to do it by land, to see the rolling forests and wild lakes that separate the two great capitals. Or, you can hit the skies and get stuck into sightseeing in the enthralling Gamla Stan old town as soon as possible. Your choice.

Oslo to Stockholm FAQ

Take the bus to save cash on the road from Oslo to Stockholm. With prices that can be as low as $27 per person, it’s surely the mode of transport that will leave more in the wallet for visiting the ABBA museum and whatnot. But remember: The best deals are always on offer in advance, so get searching for tickets as soon as you can using 12Go.co to keep costs low.

There’s no quicker way to trade the cutting-edge architecture of Oslo for the bohemian bars of Stockholm than by flying. From wheels up to landing, you’re looking at less than one hour in the air, which means trips of about four hours in total. The best deals with flights are usually on offer on 12Go.co around 60-90 days before departure.

For us, it has to be the train. It might take around five hours, but it’s an amazing adventure through the wild midriff of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Glimpses of huge lakes and endless forests are on offer, and you could even break up the trip to see Lake Vänern and centuries-old castles as you go.

Yes. SJ (the national Swedish rail company) offers direct connections on their fancy X2000 locomotives. They are comfy and quick, and do a little tilting on the line to hit speeds of 200 kph. What’s more, the views are nothing short of incredible, encompassing meadows, lake districts and ancient forests aplenty.

The cost of the train from Oslo to Stockholm varies. It starts cheap and increases as you approach the day of travel. Early-bird rates are usually in the region of $37.50, which you can score by searching on 12Go.co for tickets around 60 days before you want to go.

Oh yes! It’s a breathtaking journey through the wild landscapes that lie at the heart of northern Europe. Lakes whiz by the window, including Lake Vänern (one of the largest on the continent). You’ll see rolling pine and spruce forests where elk herds trample. And there are quaint Swedish villages and towns to boot. It’s definitely a trip to savour.

Both have their pros. For example, flying is faster. It can see you touch ground in Sweden only 55 minutes after leaving behind Oslo Airport. On the flip side, the trains are comfier and more scenic, offering a glimpse of the stunning countryside and rural backcountry that separates the North Sea from the Baltic Sea.

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Urban Abroad

Urban Planning and Travel Blog

Copenhagen vs Stockholm

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When comparing Copenhagen vs Stockholm, which city should you visit?

The two most popular of the Scandinavian tourist-centric cities, Copenhagen and Stockholm have many differences and similarities.

Table of Contents

If you’re looking for the ideal city break, however, there’s really no comparison to other cities within the Nordic vicinity.

Both are seen as sustainable travel destinations and the two are the best when it comes to spending time as a visitor, so why not living?

The Danish city of Copenhagen has been the world’s epicenter for carbon neutrality and eco-conscious living, whilst Stockholm is the island city with an archipelago of 50 bridges.

Cobbled streets, salted fish, and beautiful blonde people populate these two iconic cities, but which one should you visit?

Which is better, the Swede or the Dane spot? We’re here to find out!

The cheapest international schools, brightly colored harbor-front terraced houses, and some of the world’s best pastries.

There really is very little to love and enjoy when it comes to visiting or living in Denmark’s capital.

There’s a lot to see and do here, but it’s honestly a serious contender for the best place to move to if you ever decide to move to a country that has English as a common second language.

Why go to Copenhagen?

Rosenborg Castle is one of the great hidden wonders of the Nordics, but it isn’t the only reason thousands of visitors come from all over the world every year.

Nyhavn, the 17th-century harbor, is the most iconic and picturesque spot in the whole country.

Lined with wooden ships, modern boats, multi-colored terraced houses, and incredible restaurants, this port is a must-see.

You’ll find that this is one of the most popular spots too. The Botanical Gardens act as the oasis in the center of Copenhagen.

It’s got the largest Danish collection of flora, including more than 13,000 plant species spread over ten hectares and housed in a complex of historic 19th-century greenhouses.

If you’ve read Rick Steves’s Snapshot Copenhagen you may already be familiar with some of these amazing sights dotted around the city.

The Cisternerne operates as a venue for exhibitions and events—but it’s the space itself that is the permanent exhibit and primary attraction.

Once a subterranean reservoir filled with 16 million liters of water, the cistern is occupied by an unconventional museum.

Cost of Living in Copenhagen

According to expatistan.com the cost of living in Copenhagen is 11% more expensive than in Stockholm.

However, according to mylifeiselsewhere.com , restaurants are exceedingly more expensive in Copenhagen.

Like, double the prices more expensive. When it comes to groceries, Copenhagen is around 25% more expensive.

For public transport, Copenhagen is quite cheap compared to Stockholm, with fuel prices slightly cheaper too.

For house prices, children’s education and childminders, clothing and anything else you could ever consider when moving to a new place is more expensive in Copenhagen.

Unfortunately, this makes Copenhagen one of the most expensive places to live in the world.

According to the cost of living index’ on numbeo.com Copenhagen sits at 15th whilst Stockholm sits at 37th.

Interestingly, there are 5 Norwegian cities and 2 Danish in the top 20, with Stockholm being Sweden’s highest entrant on the index.

Weather in Copenhagen

In terms of climate and weather, Copenhagen is a special case for Scandinavia. It’s one of the warmer of the Nordics since it’s within a moderate temperature range.

It’s still slightly lower than that of Britain’s, but Copenhagen can often be seen as a sunny getaway for the northerners and Swedish.

Copenhagen isn’t worth visiting in the winter months if you have a disposition against colder climates.

Although hotel prices might be lower… From November through to March, it’s rare to see temperatures reach highs of 7 or 8 Celsius.

However, the Summer months see some much warmer temperatures between the likes of 18 and 22 Celsius.

This is the ideal time to visit the city as well as the rest of the country.

Is Copenhagen Safe?

According to the UK Government: Crime levels are generally low!

However…

Pickpockets and bag snatchers operate in crowded areas mainly around the central and most crowded areas of Copenhagen.

Be aware that thieves can use a variety of methods to distract you, particularly when getting on and off crowded public transport.

Even the safest countries have crime problems.

We like to carry a Pacsafe (or an equivalent style backpack) when exploring cities like Copenhagen to help conceal any valuables.

This Scandinavian nation has recently experienced a rise in gang violence. These altercations are centered in the enclave of Nørrebro in northwest Copenhagen. See this guide to safety in Copenhagen for more info.

A spate of shootings has taken place due to the rivalry between the Loyal to Familia gang from Blågårds Plads in Nørrebro and Brothas from Mjølner Park in the outer Nørrebro area.

It is unlikely to come across gang issues as a tourist, but the locals are aware of the happenings. Keep your wits about you, and you’ll be fine.

Will you be traveling to Copenhagen soon? Pick up a Copenhagen City Card to get access to free or discounted entrance to major attractions.

The Venice of the north is one of the best-kept secrets in European city breaks. Many dream of a night at Bank Hotel (one of many luxury stays).

The first thing that you notice about the city is just what a spectacular natural setting it has, set on hundreds of islands in an Icey cold lagoon.

The Gamla Stan is where you find the most beautiful architecture, characterized by yellow buildings and cobbled streets.

Weather in Stockholm

December, January, and February are literally the frozen months of the year. Average highs for this period is 1-2 Celsius, so you know it’s serious. However, July can see highs of 24 Celsius in Stockholm.

July also has the highest levels of precipitation due to the regulation of pressure.

Stockholm’s location just south of the 60th parallel north means that the number of daylight hours is relatively small during winter.

This can be about six hours, while in June and the first half of July, the nights are relatively short, with a full 18 hours of daylight.

Around the summer solstice, the sun never reaches further below the horizon than 7.3 degrees.

When you go anywhere within the vicinity of Stockholm or north of the region, expect cold climates necessitating many layers and Gillet wearing.

If you are not tolerant of the low temperatures, it’s actually warmer in Stockholm during the Summer months on average than in Copenhagen.

Why Go To Stockholm?

Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, not just in Europe.

It has some of the most beautiful people in the world too, which isn’t just a stereotype.

Stockholm’s metropolitan area is one of the fastest-growing regions in Europe, and its population is expected to number 2.5 million by 2024.

The city is made up of 14 islands, where the freshwater Lake Mälaren flows out beautifully into the Baltic, and along them are the 30,000 islands of the Stockholm Archipelago; All of which are accessible by ferry.

Stockholm is unique for its different architectural styles, from 17th-century Baroque buildings and grand masterpieces to contemporary minimalistic structures and historic wooden cottages.

Walking tours and hop-on/hop-off buses run throughout the city too, so you can book before the start of your trip.

Is Stockholm Expensive for Tourists?

A lot of tourists skip Stockholm on their trip to the Nordics or the great Swedish nation because it’s expensive.

There’s no denying that Stockholm is pricey compared to other cities around Europe, specifically with the cost of restaurants and bars.

However, Stockholm can be pricey depending on if you choose to go the typical route, but by following a few simple tips, you can drastically cut the price of your visit to make the city much more affordable.

There are many cheap or free walking tours, as well as free museums and galleries such as:

• The Museum of Modern Arts
• The Ethnography Museum
• Museum of Natural History
• National Museum of Sweden
• The Swedish History Museum
• The Maritime Museum
• The Museum of Medieval Stockholm
• National Library of Sweden

Stockholm also has a huge choice of hostels that can be as cheap as £10 per night for a shared room or £35 per night for a private room.

Is Stockholm safe?

It is no secret that Stockholm, as well as Sweden as a whole, has long been seen as a calming place with a largely relaxed population.

Stockholm is a city that has a deep history of war and oppression just like other countries surrounding it, but it doesn’t reflect in the day-to-day of the present era.

Even newspapers outside the country rarely carry articles about major incidents or issues.

Due to these reasons, Stockholm is one of the safest major cities in Europe and the world. It is a city with a tremendously low crime rate and one where both residents and tourists feel safe most of the time.

The 2017 Safe City Index ranked it as the third-safest city in the world with under five million inhabitants.

It also placed Stockholm in the top 10 worldwide in terms of personal security, infrastructure, security, and health security.

Even the World Economic Forum’s ‘Tourist Survey’ placed Stockholm as the 19th most secure city in the world for tourists to travel to, and many of the countries ahead of Sweden included the likes of Luxembourg and Iceland.

Don’t arrive in Stockholm without reserving your All-Inclusive City Pass which allows you to visit more than 45 attractions in the city.

Copenhagen vs Stockholm: Conclusion

Essentially, Stockholm is both the cheapest and safest city out of the two, but it doesn’t make it the ideal place to visit.

Copenhagen has all the makings of being the next big digital nomad spot, whilst Stockholm remains difficult to navigate on a budget (even if it is possible).

If we had to pick one city, it would be Stockholm.

This doesn’t discount Copenhagen by any stretch, however, as many could argue that Copenhagen has better food and better weather conditions.

What do you think? Do some research and book your trip today!

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How to Travel from Stockholm to Oslo by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Whether you're enjoying the midnight sun of Nordic summer nights or chasing the aurora borealis in the dead of winter, a trip through Scandinavia isn't complete without visiting the Swedish and Norwegian capitals, Stockholm and Oslo. While both cities share cultural and linguistic roots, each also has its own unique personality. You'll have to explore them both to see what Stockholm and Oslo truly have to offer.

The fastest way to get from one to the other is by plane, which is a quick one-hour flight that's generally inexpensive. Flying, however, means missing out on all of the mind-blowing scenery between them. Taking the train, a bus, or driving your own car are the only ways to experience the endless woodland, beautiful lakes, and charming Swedish villages that dot the landscape. The train is potentially the cheapest way to travel to Oslo, but you'll need to book tickets early.

How to Get from Stockholm to Oslo

• Train: 6 hours, from $20
• Flight: 1 hour, from $45
• Bus: 7 hours, 30 minutes, from $28
• Car: 6 hours, 325 miles (522 kilometers)

High-speed trains started running between Stockholm and Oslo in 2015, completing the long journey in a swift four and a half hours. However, rail modernization projects have put the high-speed trains on a halt until at least the end of 2021. You can still take a direct train from Stockholm to Oslo in the meantime, but it now takes six hours.

Tickets are purchased on Sweden's national rail service, SJ , and prices start at $20 if you book far enough in advance. Unfortunately, they rapidly rise in price as your travel date gets closer, and last-minute tickets can set you back up to $75. Tickets tend to be cheaper on weekdays, so if you're flexible on your travel dates, look around for the days and times with the cheapest rates.

If you plan to continue traveling by train—perhaps to Copenhagen or other Northern European destinations—it may be worth getting the Eurail Pass, allowing you to travel a set number of days on trains across the continent.

You can get from Stockholm to Oslo with a quick and direct one-hour flight. These flights depart several times daily, most offered by SAS and Norwegian . Even when you take into account the time it takes to get to and from the airport, go through security, and wait at your gate, flying is still significantly faster than any of the other methods of transportation. It can also be one of the most affordable, with last-minute tickets being even cheaper than the train.

Pay close attention to the fine print of your flight details before booking, as the cheapest tickets usually come from low-cost airlines with strict rules and few amenities. Some airlines charge extra even for flying with a carry-on bag, so add up all of your costs and fees before making your purchase.

The most budget-friendly option is the bus, especially if you're making last-minute plans. The trip from Stockholm to Oslo is direct through FlixBus , but the ride is an arduous seven and a half hours. You can choose a morning or early afternoon bus that gets you to Oslo in the evening, which lets you enjoy the roadside scenery by daylight but forces you to lose an entire day of your trip seated on a bus. The other option is an overnight bus, but it arrives in Oslo at 5:45 a.m., potentially leaving you stranded outside while you wait for the city to wake up.

Tickets for the bus start at $28, which is often not much cheaper than the train or a flight if you're buying in advance. However, it's not uncommon to find even same-day bus tickets for $28—assuming it isn't a holiday weekend or other high-demand time—when train and plane prices have already skyrocketed.

If you're traveling with a group and can split the cost of car rental and gas, then driving to Oslo is not only an affordable option but also the most liberating, giving you the freedom to explore the Swedish countryside as you please. The total trip takes about six hours if you drive without stopping, but if you don't plan to stop you might as well take the bus. Make a road trip out of your drive and visit some of the towns along the route, such as Karlstad, which is about halfway between the two cities and sits on the shore of Lake Vänern, the largest lake in the entire European Union.

Norway uses a toll system on its highways that automatically charges the driver based on the license plate, and there are no manned booths to pay in cash. If you're renting a car in Norway, the rental company will normally take care of it and add the tolls to your final bill. But if you're renting a car in Sweden and driving to Norway, you'll need to register the vehicle with Euro Parking Collection .

It's also important to know that rental companies will often charge a hefty fee if you drop off a car in a different country from where you picked it up, so keep that in mind if you aren't planning to return to Stockholm.

What to See in Oslo

Oslo is Norway's capital and largest city, and the best way to get a sense of the city is to take a  guided tour of the main sites , especially if you're there for a short amount of time and need to fit in as many landmarks as you possibly can. Highlights of Oslo include Viking ships that you can board, the massive Vigeland Park, and a museum dedicated to Edvard Munch with his famous "The Scream" painting. What people love most about Oslo, however, is found just outside the city limits. If you have the time, get out of the city and explore Norway's natural beauty, whether you go on a hike, take a boat ride through the fjords, or head out farther toward the glaciers. You won't find landscapes like these anywhere else.

Border Control

Sweden and Norway are both members of the Schengen Zone, meaning that even though you are crossing an international border, you should be able to travel between them without any type of border control. You'll still need your passport to purchase transportation tickets or rent a car, but when you're crossing into Norway, there shouldn't be any long lines or agents checking ID. Sweden isn't quite as lax as its neighbor, and you'll likely be asked to show your passport if crossing the border into Sweden.

It's a little over six hours to drive from Stockholm to Oslo, not including stops.

Tickets booked far enough in advance can be as low as $20. The closer to your trip date you buy them, the more expensive they are, with last-minute tickets costing $75.

The flight is only one hour, with several flights departing each day.

A Guide to Airports in Scandinavia

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

How to Travel from Copenhagen to Oslo by Train, Bus, Car, Plane, and Ferry

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