15 best hotels in Oslo for a stunning stay in the Norway capital

Found on parade street Karl Johan, Grand Hotel Oslo is a relaxing place to get away from everyday life. An iconic spot in the city centre, this hotel first opened in 1874 and is just yards from the Royal Palace. Of course, you can expect to find plenty of exclusive shops, boutiques and attractions nearby (just ask the concierge for recommendations). In the hotel itself, there's a rooftop bar with panoramic views and an on-site restaurant, offering all kinds of luxurious dishes. 

Also located next to the Royal Palace is Thon Hotel Slottsparken, which is a five-minute walk from Karl Johans Gate shopping street, museums, restaurants and nightlife haunts. Rooms are decked out in modern interiors, with neat and contemporary design features. The colourful theme runs down to the on-site restaurant where you can have breakfast buffets throughout your stay. Stuck for dinner ideas? Go for a walk and you'll find all sorts of interesting eateries that are sure to spark inspiration. 

Clarion Hotel Oslo is a modern hotel in Oslo's Bjørvika neighbourhood. Nearby sights include the Opera House and the new Munch Museum, while the hotel itself is one of the city's newest galleries, with a permanent art collection on display scattered throughout the building. The sleek bedrooms include impressive views, comfortable bedding and plenty of mod-cons. As for dining, there's a breakfast buffet and American-inspired local delicacies by Marcus Samuelsson at Kitchen & Table Restaurant and Bar. Afterwards, head to Shutter Bar for alfresco cocktails. 

One of the best boutique hotels in Oslo, Amerikalinjen is a sleek modern spot that contrasts to the 19th-century cruise ship from which it gets its name. You'll never be bored here, as there's a wealth of entertainment on your doorstep. That includes sky-high notes at the Opera, swoon-worthy shops in Kvadraturen and all-night parties at Youngstorget. It's striking modern decor makes it particularly appealing, especially to trendy young couples looking for romantic city breaks. Swing by the on-site cocktail bar for drinks and live tunes. 

If it's a boutique hotel that you're after, The Thief is a must-see. Offering stylish room in deep blue hues, with pops of golden light and modern bathroom fixtures, it's got a luxurious vibe unlike many other places around it. This old-meets-new glam is extended to the rest of the hotel, with its lobby and restaurants evoking the same kind of vibe. Perks of this spot include its proximity to the promenade of Aker Brygge, alongside a top-of-the-range gym and spa centre. 

This budget hotel in Oslo is all you need if you're planning on filling your trip with excursions and cultural outings. Found just 250 yards from Oslo Central Station, it's got a prime location to win you over. Inside the rooms, you'll find a neat selection of necessities, including a work desk and armchair if you need them. The decor is simple, contemporary and comfortable, so you can trust it to be a nice retreat after spending your days filling up on art, shopping, dining and exploring.

Now this is somewhere that screams luxury. If you're looking to splash out on a no-holds-barred glamorous sort of spot, Clarion Hotel The Hub should be on your list. The metallic and navy colour scheme gives it an opulent feel, while certain rooms have envy-inducing views of the city. It's an environmental-friendly hotel to boot, with its own urban garden and a sustainable menu at the forefront of things at Restaurant Nord. To help you really unwind, there are extras like an organic breakfast buffet, free sauna and swimming pool access. 

Want to be in Oslo without being right in Oslo? Tryvannshøyden Hill sits just above it, with lush greenery and scenic views creating a dramatic backdrop to your holiday. Book a spot at Lysebu Hotel and you'll stay in a charming historical building, complete with cosy alcoves, grand suites and everything in between. The building itself has traditional influences, bespoke furniture and fully-equipped bathrooms alongside modern extras like stocked-up minibars. There's an impressive Nordic restaurant on-site, as well as a wine cellar if you want to try to unleash your inner sommelier. 

As its name would suggest, Scandic Vulkan is in the Vulkan area of Oslo, close to Grunerlokka. This place is right in the epicentre of design, culture, shopping and nightlife, with top food and drink spots all nearby. The rooms come decorated with crisp white sheets, hardwood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows, with pops of colour and the occasional splash of modern art. You'll get impressive views of the surrounding area, where the trendy  Grünerløkka district is just a short walk away. Definitely one for culture vultures. 

Talk about five-star digs. Hotel Bristol is an absolute knockout with its grand ceilings, elegant furnishings and ornate finishes. For an old-school kind of fancy hotel stay, this place is giving you handsome bedrooms with high bedframes, jewel tones and high-end bathroom products. Nearby attractions include  National Theatre and the National Gallery. You'll be incredibly close to Oslo Central Station too, so you'll be able to hop on a train and travel further afield should you fancy it. 

Oscarsborg Castle Hotel & Resort is stooped in history, in fact, it's a fortress best known for the sinking of the Blücher. Nowadays, it's a luxury hotel within a fortress, with five on-site museums that give its guests a unique insight into the stories it holds. The rooms are cosy and contemporary, contrasting to their history. Meals are served at the two in-house restaurants, Forpleiningen and Offisiersmessene. Activities include paintball, golf, archery and experiences like the aquarium and afternoon tea. 

Looking for somewhere in the middle of all the action? Comfort Hotel Grand Central is right by the airport train and the main shopping street, Karl Johans Gate. The rooms come decked out in chic, minimal styling with pops of colour coming from the wall decals, soft furnishings and furniture (they've been decorated by designer Ariel McMillion). It's a quiet place to stay in the buzz of it all, with handy amenities including a co-work lobby, 24-hour gym and close proximity to Østbanehallen, which is home to a massive food and shopping marketplace.

Looking for affordable places to stay in Oslo? K7 Hotel is a stylish, modern spot with rooms suited to all kinds of travellers. Whether you need dorms for groups, family rooms or a superior king – because you're properly going for it – these spaces are sure to impress. The hotel is found in a historic corner building, just a short stroll from major sights like Oslo Central Station, Aker Brygge and The Royal Palace. Once you're done exploring, relax in your room with flat-screen TVs, comfy beds and free wifi.

Opulence. This place has it by the bucket load. Camillas Hus is an exclusive hotel in one of Oslo's fanciest spots, found adjacent to the Royal Palace Gardens. Boasting seven gorgeous rooms, kitted out with massive beds, chic furniture and classical fittings, all emulating twentieth-century style with elegance and comfort. The rooms have flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, fine bed linen and towels while offering an à la carte or continental breakfast. The space itself feels more like a luxury mansion than a hotel, in the best possible way.

One of Oslo's most popular hotels, Hotell Bondeheimen is an affordable spot blending metropolitan vibes with old Norwegian charm. On your doorstep, you've got the National Gallery, Karl Johan, Youngstorget and the castle. Feeling hungry after all that cultural exploration? The hotel's restaurant, Kaffistova will have you chowing down on traditional Norwegian food such as potato dumplings and cod. Then you can flop into one of the comfortable beds in a sizable bedroom before watching films on bed until late.