These mid-range options are great for travelers who want contemporary furnishings and access to major highlights from Palace Park to the Oslo Opera House, not to mention outstanding breakfasts and cozy lounge areas. Here are the top picks for the best mid-range hotels in Oslo.
Karl Johan Hotel
The Karl Johan Hotel is virtually impossible to overlook, standing proud with its undeniably elegant 19th-century facade. It graces the famous thoroughfare that shares its name: Karl Johans gate. A true landmark, the Karl Johan Hotel’s history stretches back to 1874. In those early days, it was lovingly managed by two sisters, Marte and Marie, who possessed an exceptional talent and genuine passion for hospitality. Their dedication and warmth created an atmosphere that guests cherished. In 2021, the Karl Johan Hotel welcomed new owners who embarked on a comprehensive and transformative renovation project, breathing new life into this historic establishment.
Despite the extensive updates and modernization, the Karl Johan Hotel has carefully preserved many of the building’s original architectural details. These details serve as a tangible link to its rich past. Upon entering the lobby, guests are immediately greeted by a stunning staircase, adorned with intricately crafted wrought iron handrails. The glass atrium, a hallmark of the original design, continues to flood the interior with an abundance of natural light, creating a bright and welcoming ambiance, particularly during the breakfast hours.
The Karl Johan Hotel boasts 157 exquisitely appointed rooms, each designed to maximize the impact of the building’s impressive tall ceilings. This is especially evident in the hotel’s spacious corner suites, which feature elegant arched windows that offer captivating views of the surrounding cityscape. The rooms are thoughtfully furnished with modern wood pieces, including luxuriously plush beds that promise a restful night’s sleep. Bedside outlets provide convenient charging points for electronic devices, ensuring that guests can stay connected throughout their stay. The newly renovated tile bathrooms are equipped with upscale bath products, adding a touch of indulgence to the guest experience. When not enjoying the comforts of their rooms, guests are invited to relax and socialize in the hotel’s cozy bi-level lounge. This inviting space features seasonal outdoor tables, providing the perfect setting for sipping drinks and enjoying captivating views of the Parliament building across the street. It is an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring Oslo or to simply enjoy a moment of tranquility.
The Karl Johan Hotel’s central location proves to be an ideal base for exploring Oslo. Steps away from the hotel’s doorstep lies the city’s best shopping destinations and theaters. Guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural scene and indulge in retail therapy to their hearts’ content. For those arriving or departing by train, the Oslo Central Station is conveniently located approximately a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Regular express trains provide seamless connections to and from the airport. Furthermore, many of Oslo’s iconic landmarks are within easy walking distance. A leisurely 15-minute stroll will take guests to the Nobel Peace Center, a museum dedicated to the Nobel Peace Prize, as well as the lively Aker Brygge waterfront area. Aker Brygge is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, diverse restaurants, and stunning views of the Oslofjord. It serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Clarion Hotel Oslo
The Clarion Hotel Oslo seamlessly integrates into its ultramodern surroundings in Bjørvika, a district known for its cutting-edge architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The Clarion Hotel Oslo is ideally situated just a short walk away from the iconic Oslo Opera House and the renowned Munch Museum. The hotel’s minimalist aesthetic is immediately apparent upon entering the art-filled lobby. Here, guests are greeted by a curated collection of rotating artworks, showcasing both established and emerging artists. Among the displayed pieces is a Munch painting that underwent meticulous restoration, requiring over 200 hours of painstaking work to bring it back to its former glory. The presence of such a significant artwork underscores the hotel’s commitment to celebrating and preserving Norwegian art and culture.
The Clarion Hotel Oslo offers a wide range of accommodations, with more than 250 rooms and suites spread across six floors. Each room is designed to provide guests with the utmost comfort and convenience. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of either the city or the fjord, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding landscape. The rooms are furnished with contemporary pieces, creating a stylish and sophisticated ambiance. Hardwood-style floors add warmth and character to the space, while practical amenities such as kettles ensure that guests can enjoy a hot beverage at their leisure. For those seeking an enhanced experience, the superior rooms and above offer additional features such as coffee machines and plush bathrobes, providing an extra touch of luxury. Some deluxe rooms even boast balconies or terraces, offering a private outdoor space where guests can relax and soak up the atmosphere. These rooms are subject to availability and can be requested upon check-in.
When it’s time to dine, guests can head to the hotel’s stylish Kitchen & Table Fishery restaurant. It’s conveniently located adjacent to the front desk and features a seasonal terrace. It allows guests to enjoy their meals al fresco while taking in the vibrant surroundings. The restaurant specializes in seafood-focused dishes crafted by the renowned Swedish chef Marcus Samuelsson. His innovative and flavorful creations showcase the freshest catches of the day. In addition to the restaurant, the hotel bar offers a wide selection of cocktails and provides a comfortable space for lounging or catching up on emails. Whether guests are looking to unwind after a long day or simply enjoy a pre-dinner drink, the bar offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. For those seeking to stay active during their stay, the Clarion Hotel Oslo offers easy access to walking and jogging paths along the waterfront. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with modern equipment, allowing guests to maintain their workout routines while traveling.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Thon Hotel Opera
The expansive Thon Hotel Opera, boasting 480 rooms, is a distinguished member of a family-owned Norwegian brand renowned for its unwavering commitment to sustainability. As a mid-range option, the Thon Hotel Opera offers exceptional value without compromising on quality or comfort. The hotel boasts a prime location in the heart of Bjørvika, placing guests just a two-minute walk away from its architectural namesake, the Oslo Opera House. This iconic building is a must-see for any visitor to Oslo, and its proximity to the hotel makes it incredibly convenient to explore. Repeat guests consistently praise the Thon Hotel Opera for its unparalleled convenience, particularly its close proximity to the Oslo Central Station. Situated just around the block, the station provides quick and easy access to the airport, making travel a breeze. Additionally, the hotel is within a short walking distance of several shopping malls, offering guests a plethora of retail options right at their doorstep. Whether it’s high-end fashion, local souvenirs, or everyday essentials, guests will find everything they need just moments away from the hotel.
The renovated rooms at the Thon Hotel Opera are designed with a cheerful and inviting decor, a signature element of the Thon brand. Hardwood-style floors add warmth and character to the space, while minifridges provide convenient storage for beverages and snacks. The superior rooms offer additional amenities such as coffee machines, allowing guests to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee in the comfort of their own room. Plush bathrobes add a touch of luxury, while Molton Brown bath products in eco-friendly dispensers ensure a pampering and sustainable experience. For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the business rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of the fjord from their private balconies. Guests are encouraged to request a room on a high floor to maximize their enjoyment of these panoramic vistas.
The complimentary breakfast buffet at the Thon Hotel Opera is another hallmark of the brand, renowned for its extensive selection of hot and cold items. Guests can indulge in a wide array of culinary delights, including made-to-order egg dishes, ensuring a customized and satisfying start to the day. Fresh fruit smoothies and juices provide a healthy and refreshing option, while yogurt parfaits offer a lighter and more delicate choice. A variety of salads cater to those seeking a nutritious and balanced meal, while the smoked salmon provides a taste of Norwegian cuisine. In the late afternoon, the hotel lobby transforms into a full-service lounge called Eufemia Bar, providing a sophisticated and inviting space for guests to relax and socialize. The bar serves a wide range of cocktails, with a particular emphasis on gin-based specialties. Guests can also enjoy a selection of beers, wines, and spirits, as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Dinner is also available at Eufemia Bar, with a small menu featuring classic dishes such as burgers and salads, as well as signature items like Asian spare ribs. For those seeking even more dining options, a wide array of restaurants and cafes are located within a close walk from the hotel, offering a diverse range of cuisines and atmospheres.
Oslo Guldsmeden
The boutique hotel Oslo Guldsmeden provides a unique and charming experience, ideally located a short 10-minute walk from Aker Brygge via the northern entrance. Its proximity to Palace Park is another notable advantage, bringing guests even closer to one of Oslo’s most beautiful green spaces. The Oslo Guldsmeden is part of a small chain of hotels located throughout Europe and Asia. The hotel’s distinctive decor draws inspiration from various continents. This location combines Balinese and Nordic design elements, creating a truly unique and unforgettable atmosphere. The common spaces are adorned with oversized leather furnishings, textured fabrics, and funky accessories. These elements combine to create a warm, inviting, and eclectic ambiance.
The rooms at the Oslo Guldsmeden have hardwood floors, canopy beds, and mounted iMac screens instead of televisions (with movies available for purchase). The iMac screens offer a modern and streamlined entertainment solution. The rooms also feature attractive textiles, such as deerskin throws and Asian rugs. These textiles add warmth, texture, and visual interest to the space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The rooms range in size, catering to solo travelers, couples, friends, and families. Adjoining rooms and multiple-bedroom suites are available, providing flexible accommodation options to suit various needs. The suites offer additional amenities such as bathrobes, slippers, and stand-alone tubs. These additional features enhance the comfort and luxury of the experience.
The cheerful restaurant serves organic a la carte breakfasts. A daily per-person fee applies, with discounts available for children. The a la carte menu allows guests to customize their breakfast according to their individual preferences. The restaurant offers a wide range of options, from classic breakfast staples to more innovative and creative dishes. The restaurant utilizes fresh, organic ingredients, ensuring a healthy and delicious start to the day. In the evenings, the cozy bar serves a variety of drinks. Guests can enjoy classic cocktails, local beers, and a selection of wines. The bar also offers a range of non-alcoholic beverages. Guests can also reserve the small Turkish-inspired hammam. It features dry and infrared saunas and a steam bath for an hourly fee. The hammam provides a unique and relaxing experience, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. The saunas help to detoxify the body and improve circulation, while the steam bath soothes the skin and opens the airways.
Hotel Christiania Teater
The trendy and photogenic Hotel Christiania Teater stands as a historic fixture on a tree-lined street that sits perfectly between Karl Johans gate and Aker Brygge. The Hotel Christiania Teater offers easy access to both of these iconic locations for guests. Though the hotel officially opened its doors in 2008, the building’s history stretches back a century earlier. It originally opened as a theater in Norway’s vibrant capital. Tucked away in the rear of the building, the 600-seat space remains in active use today. It plays host to a variety of private events, including business conventions and elegant weddings.
The Hotel Christiania Teater’s atmospheric bi-level lounge, adorned with rich hues and eclectic decor, is especially inviting on a cold winter night. Situated directly above the lounge is Restaurant Teatro, an upscale pizzeria that boasts an extensive wine list. Large windows offer delightful views of the street and plaza, making it an ideal spot for people-watching. The hotel also offers complimentary breakfast in this very space, providing guests with the opportunity to savor made-to-order egg dishes while enjoying the stylish ambiance.
The rooms have theatrical touches, like unique wallpapers and furnishings in bold colors and patterns. All rooms feature hardwood floors and tall ceilings, creating a sense of spaciousness and elegance. Minibars stocked with a selection of beverages and snacks offer convenient refreshments, while kettles allow guests to prepare hot drinks at their leisure. CO Bigelow bath products add a touch of luxury to the bathing experience.
B-1897