Trust the Norwegians to find beauty in contradiction. A city entirely comfortable within its paradoxical skin, Oslo is a dynamic blend of natural beauty, peak cutting-edge cultural movements and a lot of reflective architecture which is undoubtedly the city’s pride (with a dusting of Viking flair).   

Oslo will impress the most seasoned, or even miserable, of travellers with its twin-edged welcome. On the one hand, it’s a trendy metropolis; on the other, it drips with history and long-established culture. But be duly warned: you’ll likely leave with a much lighter bank balance.

Our first freebie tip: ‘matpakke’. It’s a term any visitor will embrace quickly while finding themselves nestled between fjord, forest and feast. Translating to ‘packed lunch’ for the non-Scandis, it’s a crucial way to avoid the city’s infamous price tag by embracing more economically friendly pastimes.

To embark on such a mission, stock up at a SPAR (don’t get bogged down by the notion of this being like the UK counterpart), with an aggressive recommendation to purchase Smash, a salted, crisped corn cone smothered in chocolate, to take to the city’s pristine parks.

Walking the streets of Oslo awakens its rich history, gradually ebbing into contemporary architecture before dipping back into a flourish of art or a reminder of the city’s scarred past from Nazi occupation. I’d recommend heading to the Akershus Festning (Fortress) Resistance Museum, which offers a fresh perspective on the city’s evolution through time. 

Onto culinary matters: Oslo has an exceptional array of baked goods and seafood, as well as a passion for mixology. Himkok, an institutional cocktail bar, strives to conjure up Norwegian culture with on-site distilled spirits and a commitment to the surrounding nature. Meanwhile, Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen are hotspots for those looking to open themselves (and their wallets) to comedy clubs and vintage treasures; all centred around neighbourhood piers. 

For those needing a brisk walk after consuming large amounts of brown cheese (think of a lovechild between a tangy chèvre and a Caramac bar), Vigeland Sculpture Park is home to over 200 works by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Crafted from bronze, granite and wrought iron, they push both the limitations of imagination and, yes, sometimes taste.

When finishing the day standing on the rooftop of Oslo Opera House, you could convince yourself that the baritones are audible, echoing from the floors below. At that point, it’s easy to understand that while the city may embrace and turn contrast into art, the one common element here is refinement; a deep, clean breath, a reminder to take life with a pinch of salt. And maybe treat yourself to another cinnamon bun. 

Visit Oslo’s official tourist information site.