Weather/Climate
Oslo is sometimes referred to as the winter capital of Europe, but don't let this fact trick you into imagining it like the North Pole.The climate in Oslo is semi-continental. The winters are indeed quite chilling, with average temperatures around and below 0°C. Anyway, the summers are pleasantly warm, and the temperatures reach up to 20°C - 25°C.
The best time to Visit Oslo (in case you're not into winter sports) is the summertime - from June to August. Then you can also experience the famous "white nights" natural phenomenon when it doesn't get completely dark even at midnight.
Crime & Safety
If you ask a Norwegian person living outside Oslo, they will tell you that Oslo is a dangerous place to be in. The thing is, other cities in Norway have a 0% crime rate, while Oslo has a slightly higher crime rate.Yet it still is one of the safest European capitals, with around 85% safety index. Most of the crime is theft-related. Pickpocketing usually happens in crowded shopping areas or around the Central Railway Station.
Hospitals & Pharmacies
A European Health Insurance Card ensures state-provided healthcare in Norway at a reduced cost.The Oslo Emergency Ward in Storgata is open 24/7. You can also call them anytime at (+47) 116117. If you need an ambulance or any medical assistance call 113.
24/7 pharmacies are present all around the city. One of them is placed directly next to the Emergency Ward.
Public Toilets
There are public toilets around some of the most crowded train stations, such as Oslo S (The Central railway Station) and Nationaltheatret.You can also find public toilets around the major sightseeing locations in the city, although most of them are paid. Always be prepared with a credit or debit card, because they are the primary payment method, and cash is often not accepted.
Internet/WiFi
Recent reports show that Norway has the second-fastest speed in the world and the fastest internet in Europe.If you plan to use mostly wi-fi, keep in mind that there are around 65 thousand free wi-fi spots in Oslo. You can download the Wiman app to access a free map with all those spots and connect automatically to free wi-fi.
You can also use your mobile data at no extra cost since Norway is a Go Roam in Europe destination.
Can you drink the tap water
The tap water in Norway is not only safe for drinking, but also of excellent quality. You can safely drink tap water in Oslo as well as any other part of the country unless there is an emergency and state authorities advise something else.Speaking Norwegian
The primary spoken language in Oslo and all through Norway is Norwegian. It's closely related to the closely akin to Danish, Swedish and Islandic languages, so people from these countries usually communicate successfully in Norwegian while staying in Oslo. The other official language of the country is Sami, but it is mostly used by the population of the northern parts of Norway.Anyway, English is also spoken in the Norwegian capital, and you will rarely have to deal with non-English speaking staff in hotels, restaurants, cafeterias or touristic landmarks in Oslo.
Tourist Card - Oslo Pass
The tourist card of Oslo is called Oslo Pass.It gives you access to 30 museums and attractions in Oslo, free entry to outdoor swimming pools, free walking tours, discounts on sightseeing, Tusenfryd Amusement Park, climbing, ski rental and concert tickets. It also guarantees special offers in many restaurants, shops, entertainment and leisure venues.
Oslo Pass ensures free travel on all public transport, ferries between the Oslo Fjord islands included.
Tourists can choose between one-day, two-day and three-day Oslo Pass, which have different prices for children, adults and seniors.
An Oslo Pass can be purchased in every tourist office and hotel in the city.