"What to do on a Snowy Day in Oslo, Norway🇳🇴?"

It was during the first week of november, that I had the opportunity to attend a tech conference in Oslo, Norway. so I thought why not take this chance to explore the city as well during this winter time. I remember, during this time I was in the last phases of completing my masters degree in Karlskrona, Sweden.

My plan started out by taking a train to Copenhagen from Karlskrona, which is the nearest possible airport(which later became my travel hub in my student years) which I took.

As the plane descends towards Oslo, Norway, the first impression is one of awe-inspiring natural beauty juxtaposed with modernity. From the vantage point of the airplane window, passengers are greeted by a breathtaking panorama of fjords cutting through rugged mountains, their icy blue waters glinting in the sunlight. As the aircraft glides closer to the ground, the verdant forests and pristine lakes come into view, hinting at the untouched wilderness that lies just beyond the city limits.

Upon touchdown at Oslo Airport, the sleek and efficient Scandinavian design ethos is immediately evident. The terminal itself is a testament to Norwegian innovation, with its clean lines, expansive glass windows, and minimalist aesthetic. Yet, amidst the contemporary architecture, there's a palpable sense of warmth and welcome, as friendly faces greet travelers with smiles and assistance.

Stepping out of the airport, I could feel the scent of pine trees and sea salt. Despite being a bustling metropolis, Oslo maintains a refreshing connection to nature, evident in the abundance of green spaces and the pristine air quality is what I thought.

My first day in Oslo My first day started with the AI conference which I planned to attend. The conference was conducted from morning 9:00 to evening 5:00. So, I would say I barely got time to explore the city on my first day. But It was an interesting and fun filled event, which helps you network with some awesome minds. If you are a student and would like to get some tips about networking & finding jobs, Conference events are one such go to places in the area that you want to build your career. I will write a specific blog for some tips related to networking as students.

So my time to rise & shine with exploring the city started on the second day of my trip, which also unfortunately was the last day in Oslo. But I can definitely say I made the most out in site seeing this beautiful city when it's snowing.

Here are top 5 must visit places in Oslo!(on a snowy day 😉)

• The Vigeland Park

As winter blankets Oslo in a layer of pristine snow, Vigeland Park transforms into a serene wonderland of icy enchantment. Gustav Vigeland's timeless sculptures, now dusted with powdery snowflakes, take on a new life against the backdrop of the glistening white landscape.

Walking through the park, the crisp air invigorates the senses, while the soft crunch of snow beneath my boots adds a soothing rhythm to my steps. The Monolith, usually towering and imposing, now stands surrounded by a halo of delicate snow, its figures appearing even more ethereal against the winter sky.

• The Royal Palace

Next in my route was to the royal palace which stands as a majestic symbol of the nation's history and heritage. As winter descends upon the city and blankets the landscape in a pristine layer of snow, the palace takes on an even more enchanting aura.

Despite the cold, the palace remains a hive of activity. Guards stand stoically at attention, their uniforms crisp against the snowy backdrop, while visitors brave the chill to catch a glimpse of royal splendor.

• Frognerparken

The sculptures that populate Frognerparken, normally striking in their bronze and granite hues, now stand out against the soft, white backdrop of snow. The Monolith, with its towering figures, appears even more awe-inspiring as it rises above the wintry landscape, while the intricate details of Vigeland's other works are highlighted by the contrast with the snow. As I wander deeper into the park, I come across secluded corners and hidden alcoves, each offering its own unique perspective on the beauty of the season.

• Oslo City Hall

As the clock approached midday, I strolled through the city center and encountered the imposing Oslo City Hall. It was precisely when hunger pangs began to gnaw at my stomach and the cold air nipped at my fingertips in the snowy weather. Seizing the opportunity, I decided to grab a warm pizza from the nearby 7-Eleven, conveniently located across from the grand City Hall. Nestled on the scenic shores of the Oslofjord, this architectural marvel stands as a proud symbol of Scandinavian heritage, especially enchanting when blanketed in a layer of snow.

• Norsk Folkemuseum

As you know the quote of Keeping the best for the last, This was the last piece of magnificence that I had to visit before I end my trip. The historic buildings that dot the museum's expansive grounds, normally charming in their own right, take on a new allure when draped in a blanket of pristine white. Each traditional Norwegian structure, from rustic farmhouses to quaint wooden cottages, appears straight out of a storybook, their peaked roofs dusted with snow and smoke curling lazily from chimneys.The Norsk Folkemuseum, with its timeless charm and natural beauty, is a sanctuary of serenity in the midst of winter's embrace.

With the above list of places, I have fulfilled my snowy day dream to explore Oslo and bid farewell to this enchanting place, I carry with me memories I spent immersed in the magic of Norway's cultural heritage🇳🇴.