Saga Hotel Oslo

Pros     

• Enjoy a peaceful, boutique-style hotel in a charming Oslo neighborhood that is more accessible to Vigeland Sculpture Park than most hotels in the city center.
• Comfortable rooms have tall ceilings and Nespresso machines, and upgrades include bathrobes and slippers.
• An impressive breakfast buffet is included in the price, and lounge areas in the lobby are great for relaxing or working.

Cons

• Some guests may find that the hotel’s interiors are ready for a refresh.
• The entrance to the hotel requires a set of exterior stairs, but there are elevators to the rooms.

Authenticity

The 19th-century entrance to Saga Hotel will please travelers who seek charm, giving it a local vibe from the start. A set of red-carpeted stairs leads to the lobby where the front desk is located—and only here is it revealed that the hotel is part of BW Premier Collection. One or two staff members take care of the front desk, and there are seating areas on the main floor, ranging from lounge areas to a cozy bar with candles that serves drinks in the evenings. While the decor is contemporary, you can find subtle reminders of the past, like historic city photos.

Location

The hotel has a corner location in the leafy Majorstuen neighborhood between two of Oslo’s most beloved green spaces: Palace Park and Frogner Park (home of the Vigeland Sculpture Park). While not in the city center, this is an excellent location for those who want quality time in the two parks that each have their own cultural sites. More attractions can be reached on foot in under 30 minutes with a good pair of walking shoes, like Aker Brygge with waterfront dining and museums, and Karl Johans gate for shopping and dining. Otherwise, utilize the city’s user-friendly public transportation system near the hotel with frequent service. Parking is available for free for guests who have a car, based on first-come, first-served availability.

Rooms & Bathrooms

There are 47 rooms with varying layouts given the historic architecture. Decor includes a few different color schemes with contemporary, if not slightly dated, furnishings and fabrics, and either carpet or hardwood-style floors. All rooms have Nespresso machines, minibars, and flat-screen TVs, while bathrooms have walk-in showers and basic eco-friendly bath products (no conditioner). Upgraded junior suites have the most space with large windows that face the street. The brand also manages one-bedroom apartments with kitchens near the hotel, some with sofa beds for families.

Other Highlights

Though windowless, the hotel’s lower level is where guests start their day with an impressive breakfast buffet each morning; to-go items can be prepared in advance if you are planning on leaving early. A cozy bar in the lobby area serves drinks and snacks with flickering candles. The hotel once had a seafood-focused restaurant but it is temporarily closed as of June 2022. Staff will gladly point guests to some excellent restaurants in the neighborhood and can assist with reservations. The hotel also offers laundry service, and pets are welcome for a fee.

Sustainability

Rooms and suites have bath products in eco-friendly dispensers. Norwegians are proud of their clean drinking water and guests are encouraged to drink from the tap instead of bottled water.