Hotels near Oslo's up-and-coming waterfront offer easy access to a deluge of new museums, restaurants, shops, and architectural gems. We've compiled a list of properties that are a short stroll to either Aker Brygge or Bjørvika along the Oslofjord, making it easier to explore Norway's capital.

Hotel Continental

Junior suites have terraces with waterfront views (photo courtesy of Hotel Continental)

Hotel Continental is one of Oslo's longest-running and most popular hotels, dating to 1860, and run by the fourth generation of the same family. Though the hotel is not directly on the waterfront, it's just a five-minute walk from the Nobel Peace Center and Aker Brygge waterfront area. The hotel completed a major renovation in recent years and today features plush room interiors with upscale amenities, like coffee machines, Apple TV, and Molton Brown bath products. For water views, upgrade to a junior suite where you'll likely have a walkout terrace with a dining table and fjord views. 

The elegant lobby attracts locals for predinner drinks, while the historic restaurant Theatercafeen—with a Viennese vibe—features portraits of Norway's famous writers and artists (check out actual photos of many celebrities and dignitaries who have dined here). There's also a trendy pizzeria and a posh restaurant that serves set-course menus. For more options, Aker Brygge's many waterfront restaurants and bars—especially buzzing during the summer months—are easily accessible from here. Learn more

The Thief
LUXURY

A sophisticated rooftop restaurant with waterfront views (photo courtesy of The Thief)

If being directly on the water is a priority, then there is only one hotel in Oslo that will do. The Thief stands out for its curved modern architecture and location on Tjuvholmen (Thief Islet), which was once known for thieves and pirates. Aker Brygge surrounds the site with easy access to the attractions and the fjord for swims and boat excursions. The hotel has its own swim ladder, and there's even a nearby public beach during the summer months where you can sunbathe. 

Inside, the trendy, dark-hued decor offers a pool, sauna, and full-service spa with six treatment rooms. The 114 modern rooms and suites have king-sized beds, Scandinavian linens, smart TVs, sound systems, Italian coffee makers, bathrobes, and slippers. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows with balconies (if having a water view matters, opt for the deluxe room category or higher).

Though Aker Brygge has many options for dining, a standout option is The Thief's rooftop. This sophisticated dining space has spectacular sunset views during warmer months, while a separate bar on the same rooftop has a more casual vibe. Learn more

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Clarion Hotel Oslo

MID-RANGE

This modern hotel is steps from the Munch Museum (photo courtesy of Clarion Hotel Oslo)

The Clarion Hotel Oslo blends into its sleek surroundings in Bjørvika, just a quick walk to the Oslo Opera House and Munch Museum. Modern minimalism is evident as soon as you step inside the hotel's art-filled lobby with rotating artworks, including a Munch painting that underwent over 200 hours of restoration. 

More than 250 rooms and suites rise six floors with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide city or fjord views. Rooms have contemporary furnishings and hardwood-style floors, and superior rooms and above have coffee machines and bathrobes. Some deluxe rooms have balconies or terraces (request upon check-in).

When it's time to eat, the hotel's stylish Kitchen & Table Fishery restaurant is adjacent to the front desk with a seasonal terrace, where guests can dine on seafood-focused dishes created by Swedish chef Marcus Samuelsson. Additionally, cocktails are served at the bar, with space for lounging or catching up on emails. Walking and jogging paths along the waterfront are steps away, or head for the fitness center with modern equipment. Learn more

Thon Hotel Opera
MID-RANGE

Some rooms and suites offer waterfront views (photo courtesy of Thon Hotel Opera)

The expansive 480-room Thon Hotel Opera is part of a Norwegian hotel brand. This mid-range option has a great location in the center of Bjørvika, a two-minute walk to its architectural namesake: the Oslo Opera House. Repeat guests also love the convenience of being around the block from the Oslo Central Station with regular express trains to and from the airport, as well as a short walk to several shopping malls. 

Renovated rooms have cheerful decor (a brand staple) with hardwood-style floors and minifridges, while superior rooms add coffee machines, bathrobes, and Molton Brown bath products in eco-friendly dispensers. Business rooms and suites face the front of the hotel and have balconies with possible fjord views (request a high floor).

In the late afternoon, the lobby opens a full-service lounge called Eufemia Bar, serving a range of cocktails, especially gin-based specialties. Dinner is also available with a small menu that features burgers, salads, and signature items like Asian spare ribs. Better yet, head to the waterfront for more dining options with direct views. Learn more