Travel Guide
Storybook Streets & Stunning Fjords: Visit Europe’s Most Underrated Winter Wonderland
Jan
Last Updated
Who says winter isn’t a great time to explore the world?
A majority of travelers seek out island bliss and sun-kissed shores this time of year, but there’s no harm in embracing picturesque winter wonderlands across the globe.
Contrary to popular belief, don’t sleep on Scandinavia’s winter wonders.
Just like fall cloaks vast landscapes with vibrant hues; the same can be said for winter, blanketing Europe’s timeless streets for an extra sense of magic.
While Paris, London, and Christmas market havens such as Vienna remain must-visits, Scandinavia is teeming with wintery gems ranging from historic cities with 1000 islands, Arctic Circle villages boasting green skies, and Oslo, an overlooked capital city that’s ‘hot’ even when it’s cold.
Oslo: A Gateway City Or Main Destination?
If you’re unfamiliar with Oslo, Norway’s capital city, it is where Viking heritage, troll statues, and storybook streets all merge together with a sleek, modern flair to become an incredibly underrated city to visit.
As a three-time visitor myself, I’ve always left impressed by how immaculately clean the city is for such a big size, one of many reasons why it’s great to explore – yes, even during frigid winters.
You never know what you’ll stumble upon in Oslo. One moment, you’re perusing a renowned art piece, then turn a corner to find creepy troll statues locking eyes, all while being magnetized by numerous timeless streets like the Nordre Aker and Grünerløkka districts – good luck pronouncing them.
Oslo is a vibrant city of quirky art and juxtapositions, but there’s no doubt Norway, in general, is a nature lover’s dream.
Travelers generally have a jam-packed Nordic itinerary with such wonders as Tromos, Bergen, and Trondheim, with Oslo often serving as a gateway; hence I’ve been 3 times.
Yes, twice I’ve visited on a stopover, but the first time I visited, Oslo was one of my main destinations, and I enjoyed it so much that I purposely chose my stopovers in Oslo for nostalgia’s sake years later.
Reaching Oslo has gotten easier, even with Norwegian Airlines’ downfall. Norse Atlantic Airways has picked up the slack, now flying to multiple U.S. cities.
Just know there are no sneaking “personal items” as carry-ons. Norse requires all passengers to check in to their flight in person, and all questionable bags will be measured when doing so.
Urban Sauna Boats & Epic Fjord Excursions
Planning ahead for a winter trip in Oslo is key, not just for abiding by Norse’s stringent rules. Obviously, you’ll want to pack some extra layers, but don’t forget your swimsuit either.
No, there’s no need to take a trendy cold plunge; quite the opposite, actually. Oslo’s 5-mile harbor is lined with piping hot fjord saunas and “sauna villages” for some unique ways to stay warm.
Backdropped by Oslo’s pretty cityscape, who can complain?
To level up this experience, you can also book a floating sauna boat of sorts. Every city has its quirks, but Oslo’s quirk is definitely urban sauna-ing.
If you want to check it out, visit KOK Oslo’s website to book ‘sauna rafts’ year-round.
Speaking of boats, and one of which you won’t need swimwear in winter, you gotta check out Norway’s Lord of the Rings-esque fjords, a sight to behold you’ll never forget.
When I visited, I chose to take the adventurous route by taking a train to Bergen, which I highly recommend.
However, there are fjord excursions setting sail directly from Oslo’s Rådhusplassen and Langkaia wharf, such as top-rated Fjord Tours offering 2-hour tours for just $42.
Safe & Luxurious
There are few places in the world you can truly say you’ll feel safe at all hours – Oslo being one of them.
According to Berkshire Hathaway, Norway ranks 8th in the world for safest 2025 destinations, with Oslo playing a big part in that top 10 ranking.
Whether wandering alone or taking public transit, your mind’s alarm bells should stay largely silent, allowing for a more enjoyable trip.
And what’s more enjoyable than treating yourself? Oslo exudes opulence throughout the city, from grand palaces, ritzy name-brand stays, and award-winning fine dining eateries like Statholdergaarden, dating back to the 1600s and rightfully earning a Michelin star.
You can wine and dine with the best of ’em in this arts-driven city with some of the finest masterpieces in the world, like Edvard Munch.
But, the best way to splurge is a posh hotel. According to TripAdvisor, travelers love these 3 the most:
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
