Despite its small size, Oslo packs a big punch. Nestled between rolling green hills and the deep-blue North Sea, the capital of Norway is a lively, dynamic city with a high-octane vibe that will sweep you away.

Oslo is a great place to go to indulge your artistic and cultural side. The city is brimming with museums that tell the tale of Oslo’s heritage and art galleries that highlight the works of some of the finest contemporary artists in Europe.

With never-ending examples of thought-provoking street art and remarkable statues scattered throughout the city, you don’t have to go far to enjoy the city’s artistic side. In fact, art plays such a huge role that some of the coolest hotels in Oslo even boast onsite art exhibitions and display genuine artwork in the guest rooms.

There are so many fantastic places to stay in Oslo – from family-run boutique inns to peaceful eco-friendly lodges and glamorous five-star hotels. With so many incredible accommodation options, you might find it almost impossible to pick one. So, to help you out, we’ve put together a list of the 12 best hotels in Oslo!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Luxury Hotels in Oslo, Norway

Where to Stay in Oslo, Norway

There are loads of great places to stay in Oslo, whatever kind of vacation you’re looking for. If this is your first time in the city, we recommend staying in Sentrum. This is the center of Oslo, where you’ll find some of the very best things to do, as well as countless cafes, bars, restaurants, stores, and some of the best boutique hotels in Oslo.

Staying in the center of the city can get pretty pricey. If you’re looking for something more affordable, consider Grønland. This cultural area is brimming with stores that specialize in all kinds of international goods, from beautiful Indian clothes to delicious Eastern pastries. It’s also a great place to find budget-friendly accommodation.

For the best nightlife in Oslo, choose Aker Brygge. Once a rundown dockyard, today this part of the city is home to fine dining restaurants, classy cocktail bars, and some of the coolest clubs in the city. Plus, you’ll find some of the very best hotels in Oslo here, too.

Grünerløkka is the trendiest neighborhood in the city that attracts students and artists from all over the world. It boasts incredible street art, bustling art galleries, and unique stores where you can find one-of-a-kind handmade trinkets. It’s slightly north of Sentrum, so you can easily explore all the city’s major attractions if you choose a hotel in this part of town.

The 12 Best Luxury Hotels in Oslo

1. The Thief

The Thief is one of the coolest Oslo hotels. Located in the fashionable neighborhood of Tjuvholmen, right on the water’s edge, the hotel is surrounded by world-class restaurants, independent cafes, and incredible art galleries.

Step inside the hotel, and you’ll discover that the inside is a reflection of the outside. Walls covered in contemporary artwork, stylish rooms appointed with designer furniture, and a top-end restaurant that serves dishes made with fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients all await you.

The Thief Spa is the place to go when you need to unwind. Here you can swim in the cove-like pool area, relax in a Turkish hammam, or pamper yourself with a Moroccan clay treatment. If none of those are quite what you’re looking for, there’s an extensive spa menu loaded with facials, manicures, body treatments, and massages to choose from, too.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Thief Bar. Only open to adults aged 20 and up, this bar invites you to enjoy all kinds of signature cocktails mixed by award-winning bartenders. If you’re visiting during winter, try and grab one of the plush armchairs and cozy up by the fire.

2. Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo

If you want to surround yourself with energy and art, book a room at the Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo. This dazzling design hotel has received multiple awards and is full of bright colors guaranteed to put a smile on your face!

From the geometric print rugs and the butterfly-covered armchairs to the mosaic artwork on the walls and hot pink ties worn by the staff, this hotel looks unlike any other. The guest rooms continue the multicolored artsy theme with eye-catching cushions, stunning throws, and spectacular headboards. 

Start your day the best way possible with a decadent Norwegian breakfast buffet. When lunch or dinner rolls around, check out Brasserie Paleo for a tempting selection of sustainable dishes delivered with such creative presentation that they look like they belong in an art gallery!

If you overindulge a little, there’s a gym with the latest equipment and long opening hours. And to keep you going, you’ll find complimentary coffee available in the lobby throughout the day. 

3. Thon Hotel Cecil

One of the best Oslo hotels for sightseeing, Thon Hotel Cecil enjoys a wonderfully central location in the heart of downtown. With heaps of cafes, bars, restaurants, stores, museums, galleries, and landmarks on your doorstep, you’ll never have to go far to be entertained.

There’s a fantastic selection of rooms to choose from, with everything from standard doubles all the way up to decadent suites. Whichever room you choose, you’ll be treated to ultra-comfy beds with excellent bedding, a large smart TV, and a huge modern bathroom with top-quality toiletries.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, we recommend going all out on one of the suites. They boast fantastic views over Oslo’s main street, stylish lounge areas, and handy Nespresso coffee machines.

Unlimited hot drinks are available all day and night in the lobby. If you need something a bit more substantial, a generous breakfast buffet is served each morning, and a delicious a la carte dinner is available during the evenings from Monday through Thursday.

4. Amerikalinjen

Amerikalinjen is an effortlessly cool hotel with absolutely tons going on. Whether you want to relax and do as little as possible or get involved and join in on the fun that never stops, this hotel is the perfect choice.

Discover your new favorite drink at the New York-inspired Pier 42 bar or listen to live jazz music at the Gustav club. If you prefer humor over music, you’ll love the hotel’s comedy nights which are performed in both Norwegian and English. 

The Little Bakery is one of the best places in Oslo to get freshly baked and filled bagels. Or, for something a bit more sophisticated, check out Atlas Brasserie, where you’ll discover a menu inspired by international flavors with a timeless Norwegian influence.

Make sure you visit Haven at least once during your stay. A peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of Oslo, this courtyard is where you can unwind and order dishes from the hotel’s restaurant in lush, green surroundings.

If you don’t want to leave your room, make a Floating Bartender request, and someone will arrive at your door with a cabinet of spirits, ready to mix you whatever you desire! 

5. Grand Hotel

If only the best will do, make a reservation at the Grand Hotel, which is easily one of the best hotels in Oslo. Ideally positioned on Karl Johan street in the center of the city, the hotel is surrounded by things to do, places to eat, and landmarks to check out.

The rooms here are some of the most incredible we’ve ever seen. The most basic rooms are huge and boast a chic design complemented by king-size beds, sofa beds, Nespresso machines, and street or courtyard views. But for a truly memorable stay, we suggest you book one of the suites.

Each suite is entirely unique and features all kinds of amazing extras, such as dining rooms with designer furniture, beautifully decorated focal walls, remarkable floor-to-ceiling windows, and rooftop terraces.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in historic surroundings at Grand Cafe. During the evening, return to your hotel and treat your taste buds to a continental menu with a Nordic twist at Palmen Restaurant.

For something a little lighter, try the bar-style food with a fine glass of wine at Othilia. If you prefer a stunning view while you sip, head up to the rooftop, order a cocktail at Eight, and soak up the views.

6. Hotel Bristol

Hotel Bristol is a unique Oslo hotel that will completely blow you away. Infused with unashamed luxury and opulent decadence, this hotel is the best choice if you enjoy the finer things in life.

Here you’ll find a wonderful array of standard rooms that come with sumptuous beds, high-end coffee machines, and state-of-the-art Bose music systems. Elegantly appointed, these rooms feature thick textiles, soft carpets, and quality furniture. Take a peek in the bathrooms, and you’ll discover luxurious L’Occitane toiletries.

For an extra-special stay, consider booking one of the suites. Named after famous people from all across Europe who have previously stayed at the hotel, these rooms are kitted out with the very best furnishings, fabrics, and decorations. They also include a five-star turndown service.

Add into the mix the traditional Norwegian food at Bristol Grill, the top-notch drinks at Bristol Bar, and the fancy afternoon tea at Vinterhaven & Bibliotekbaren, and you may never want to leave!

7. Clarion Hotel The Hub

Just steps away from the Central Station, Clarion Hotel The Hub is ideally positioned whether you want to whiz around Oslo on public transport or explore the surrounding cities. If you don’t want to go that far, you’ll find plenty of attractions, shopping opportunities, and dining options within walking distance.

With a grand total of 810 guest rooms, the hotel is absolutely huge. Each room boasts innovative technology, including 55-inch smart TVs, coffee machines, high-speed Wi-Fi access, and a modern media hub.

All rooms also feature luxury duvet and pillow sets, as well as luxury Rituals toiletries in the bathrooms. Upgrade to one of the superior rooms, and you’ll get your own balcony or terrace with panoramic views of the city.

Head to the rooftop to check out GrowHub – the largest rooftop garden and field in the Nordics. Then head downstairs to Norda or Hub Bar, where you can sample the rooftop veggies yourself! Don’t miss the chance to nibble on Oslo raw cakes and sip organic tea at Afternoon Partea.

8. Hotel Continental

A five-star hotel that has been run by the same family for four generations, Hotel Continental is one of the most extravagant and unique hotels in Oslo. The hotel’s one-of-a-kind genuine art collection, fascinating history, and elegant atmosphere make it a place unlike any other.

Here you can treat your taste buds to the decadent offering of five bars and restaurants which dish up everything from creative cocktails to five-course tasting menus. If you don’t want to leave your room, 24-hour room service is always an option.

Each of the 151 rooms is entirely unique and highly acclaimed for its quality furnishings, stunning decor, and hand-selected artwork. The Standard Double room is ideal for a short stay and includes a smart TV with Apple TV and Chromecast, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a contemporary bathroom with Molten Brown toiletries.

For an extra-special treat, we recommend splashing out on the Boman Suite. This stunning corner suite is on the 8th floor and boasts a private balcony with incredible views. You’ll find fresh flowers upon arrival, as well as a gorgeous bathroom with double sinks and a free-standing soaking tub.

9. Hotel Christiania Teater

A special Oslo boutique hotel that combines modern creature comforts with over a century of history, Hotel Christiania Teater is perfect if you want to have the best of both worlds.

Tucked in between the National Theater and Stortinget, the hotel is set inside a listed building that was once a theater and office. The grand entrance gives you a hint at the immense quality and stunning design of the rooms you’ll find within.

Decorated with beautiful wallpaper, soft fabrics, and deluxe color palettes, the rooms will make you feel like royalty! The most basic rooms include modern TVs, minibars, Wi-Fi access, and rainwater showers in the bathroom. Upgrade to one of the suites, and you’ll be treated to an even more decadently designed room on one of the top floors with great views.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, there’s a huge selection of wines available at the Wine Bar, plus amazing gourmet pizzas made fresh in Restaurant Teatro. One of the most interesting things about the hotel is that it is completely cash-free. All payments are made via debit or credit card.

10. Clarion Hotel Oslo

When it comes to where to stay in Oslo, it’s tough to beat the Clarion Hotel Oslo. Located in the beating heart of Bjørvika, one of the city’s most up-and-coming and exciting neighborhoods, the hotel is in a great position for sightseeing. The Munch museum and the Oslo Opera House are just steps away.

The rooms here are ideal if you’re staying for just a few days. Each one comes with a 55-inch smart TV, a bed with luxury bedding, and a large bathroom with Rituals toiletries. For longer stays, we recommend booking one of the Junior Suites.

These rooms are much larger and feature a huge bed and plump pillows, a separate stylish lounge space, and great views over Dronning Eufemias gate through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

One of the best things about the Clarion Hotel Oslo is that it boasts its own art gallery. In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibitions and events are held throughout the year, highlighting the work of local artists. 

11. Oslo Guldsmeden

If you’re looking for somewhere a little out of the ordinary to stay in the city, consider Oslo Guldsmeden. This eco-friendly boutique hotel is set just outside the center and is surrounded by all kinds of cool and trendy bars, restaurants, galleries, and stores.

Decorated in Guldsmeden’s unique style, the guest rooms at this hotel feature wooden four-poster beds, faux-fur cushions and throws, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi access, and contemporary bathrooms with iLoveEcoEssentials products. 

The small and cozy spa is the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Here you can pamper yourself with a dry or infrared sauna, enjoy a steam bath, or even soak in the oversized tub decorated with flickering candles.

Although there are plenty of places to eat nearby, we definitely recommend having breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant. Here you’ll find a tempting a la carte menu bursting with fresh, seasonal, and organic goodies. Everything is made from scratch and it all tastes amazing!

The hotel has great public transport connections. You can hop on a train, subway, or ferry within minutes, making it a fantastic place to base yourself. 

Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com

12. Karl Johan Hotel

Hidden away inside a magnificent 19th-century building on Oslo’s main street is the Karl Johan Hotel. Thanks to its excellent location, there’s a neverending selection of things to do and places to see in the immediate area.

The rooms here are incredible. Appointed with giant comfy beds, blackout curtains, air conditioning, and soft lighting to set the mood. Pops of burnt orange provide a cheery contrast to the neutral gray color palette.

If you’re traveling as a large group, you’ve got to check out the hotel’s suite. Located on the corner of the building, the huge suite is suitable for up to eight guests and boasts panoramic windows, a French balcony with fantastic views, a stylish dining area, and large TVs in all the individual bedrooms.

Restaurant Ekman is a wonderful place to start your day. Here you can dig into an immense breakfast buffet below a dazzling glass ceiling. There’s also the lobby bar where you can wake up with a strong cup of coffee or chill out with a fine glass of wine.

That completes our list of the 12 best Oslo hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Oslo? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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