Oslo is a charming harbor city that is proud of its Scandinavian style. A great way to spend a few hours in the downtown area starts at the Oslo Central Train Station. Travelers often encounter this station as it has a wonderful link to and from the International Airport. 

 

Walking out from the Oslo Central Station head south towards the harbor. This is called the ‘Barcode’ neighborhood and has lots of dining options. If you are in the mood for coffee and bakery the best is the Åpent Bakery They have my favorite - Cardamon Rolls - and lots of different preparations of coffee. There is seating inside and outdoors with cheerful service. Peruse their website as they have a dozen other bakeries in the area.

 

Two of the highlights of this harbor neighborhood are the Edvard Munch Museum and the Oslo Opera House . Both of these buildings are brand new and stunning architectural gems. Even if you are not able or interested in seeing an opera or ballet it is designed for visiting. Its stunning design has an apron that slopes down to the bay. Families and individuals can easily walk up the glacier-like ramps with great views of the city. 

 

Nearby is the wonderful Munch Museum. Containing the largest collection of this Nordic impressionist, the museum curates the context and materials used by Munch. His epic “Scream” is surprisingly presented in the variety media in which it was created. There are also rotating special exhibitions that add to its luster. 

 

If you are in the area around lunchtime the Salome Restaurant is a delicious option. It is a stones-throw from the Opera House and if the weather is nice sit outside and enjoy its Venetian fare. Otherwise, there are many lunchtime spots that are easily accessed as well.

 

A short walk (10m blocks) to the west is the towering Akershus Fortress. This medieval castle has guarded the Oslo fjord for hundreds of years. A trek up its slopes is rewarded by a visit to the WWII Resistance Museum. Here you will learn about the brave citizens who threw caution to the wind as they fought bravely against the Nazis occupiers over five years. 

 

If you are looking for a charming location for dinner stop at Cafe Skansen.  It serves authentic Norwegian fare and a warm and ‘hugge’ interior complete with nooks and crannies for dining and a fireplace. 

By now it may be time to head back to the train station. Hopefully you will see Norwegian flags fluttering in the wind along the avenues and streets. On behalf of the citizens of Oslo they are waving farewell and thank you of visiting.