Grand Hotel Oslo Review: Our Stay Between Christmas and New Year

Our stay at Oslo's Grand Hotel between Christmas and New Year: the central Karl Johans gate location, our room, dining, the spa and the Christmas market nearby.
Lisa Bundesen, The Wandering Life

By Lisa Bundesen

Updated 14 May 2025

The Grand Hotel, Oslo
Disclaimer

Beautiful accommodation in Oslo

For beautiful accommodation in Oslo look no further than the Grand Hotel.  The hotel is a mix of old world charm with modern elegance. It is considered one of Oslo’s most well known and prestigious hotels. The hotel first opened its doors in 1874.

Location

Located on Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s main street it’s a short stroll, from The Royal Palace. It is also just over a kilometre from the Oslo Opera House. This means the Grand Hotel is perfectly situated in central Oslo.  

The hotel is within five minutes walking distance from four shopping centres with department stores such as Eger Karl Johan and GlasMagasinet. It is also close to the train station which gives you access to trams, buses and underground connections around the city as well as to the airport.

We stayed at the Grand Hotel, between Christmas and New Year.  The park between the hotel and The Royal Palace hosts one of Norway’s best Christmas markets, Winter Wonderland.  The market has food, crafts, a ferris wheel and Spikersuppa, Norway’s most popular public ice skating rink. The markets are open for the month and entry is free.

Grand Hotel, Oslo
The Grand Hotel with The Grand Palace in the background
Grand Hotel, Oslo
A Fearless Girl replica statue is outside the hotel entrance

Book a great Oslo experience through Get Your Guide

Arrival

As you arrive at the hotel take in the view from the door before, heading into the hotel.  As you enter you are greeted by a large, modern and bright foyer which included a large Christmas tree during our stay.

One of the things I love about the foyer is the art work behind the reception desk.  The wall is covered with intricate lights with golden tassels hanging from each light.

Once you leave reception and head to your room you are greeted by the hotel’s old-world charm. Take time to admire the intricate handrails and beautiful staircase, the art deco light fittings, the funky carpet ad the beautiful art work.

Grand Hotel, Oslo
Grand Hotel, Oslo
Grand Hotel, Oslo
Grand Hotel Oslo
Grand Hotel, Oslo

Our Room

The hotel has 283 guest rooms including 54 suites.  The rooms are an elegant mix of the old world charm the hotel exudes along with modern comforts.  

Our room had a very comfortable queen bed, chair, desk, mini bar and TV – all the things you expect in your hotel room.  There was also enough room for us to open both suit cases. 

The bathroom was a crisp white and bright. One of the great things about our bathroom was that the hand basin was large enough for both our toiletry bags without taking up all of the space.

Grand Hotel Oslo Room
Grand Hotel Oslo
Grand Hotel Room

Eat and Drink

There are two restaurants and two bars which gives you choice during your stay.

As you walk into the lobby you will find Othilia Lobby Bar and Palmen Restaurant. The bar is a great place to relax after a day exploring Oslo.

Grand Hotel, Oslo

Eight is the rooftop bar at the hotel.  It should be noted that it is closed from Christmas to New Year so unfortunately we did not get a chance to sit back and relax with a delicious cocktail while enjoying views of Oslo.

Grand Hotel, Oslo

If you have breakfast included with your room, you will be eating at the Grand Cafe.  For breakfast, the cafe serves a buffet style full breakfast.  The cafe opened in 1874 and like the rest of the hotel, retains the mix of historical charm and more modern comfort.

Grand Hotel, Oslo
Grand Hotel Restaurant
Grand Hotel Restaurant
Grand Hotel Restaurant

The Spa

If you need to relax after a long day exploring the sites of Oslo, you can indulge at the Artesia Spa.  The spa has a heated tranquility pool, steam bath, sauna and treatment rooms.

Recommendation

If you are looking for accommodation in Oslo, The Grand Hotel, is the perfect hotel for a central base to explore the city.  While you will definitely find cheaper accommodation options in Oslo, you will be able to make friends and family just a little bit jealous by staying in this beautiful hotel.

Planning a trip to Norway?  If you are heading north to Kirkenes, why not book a King Crab Safari.

PIN IT

Grand Hotel Oslo
Grand Hotel Oslo
Grand Hotel Oslo
Share this guide

Questions about this guide? Send us a message on Instagram or email hello@thewanderinglife.com. We’re always happy to help.

Lisa Bundesen, The Wandering Life

About the author

Lisa Bundesen

Lisa is an Australian traveller, photographer and retired chartered accountant who has explored more than 35 countries. Through The Wandering Life, she shares real travel experiences, practical advice and thoughtful perspectives to help others travel with greater confidence and curiosity.

More Norway guides

King Crab Safari

King Crab Safari in Kirkenes, Norway

A snowmobile ride onto the frozen fjord, crabs hauled up through the ice, then an all-you-can-eat feast – plus why Norway’s red king crab is an invasive species.

The Wandering Life Compass

A life shaped by curiosity, connection and the moments that quietly change us.

Until next time… keep wandering.

JOIN THE JOURNEY

Receive our latest stories, travel tips and inspiration straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just meaningful travel.