Where to Stay

  • Svalbard, Where to Stay

    Where to Stay in Longyearbyen, from a Tour Leader’s Perspective

    Where to Stay in Longyearbyen from a Tour Leader's Perspective

    Longyearbyen has understandably transformed into this incredible tourist destination. Thanks to modern means of travel, it is now possible to go to a place that was once inhospitable. Us visitors no longer have to rough it like the explorers did just over 100 years ago; today accommodation choices make you feel like you’re in Oslo or Bergen. They are modern, trendy, but still maintain a cozy feel that highlights the incredible natural surroundings.

    I’ve been to Longyearbyen a few times both for work as a tour leader but also as a tourist. At first the hotels felt overwhelming, but after getting my bearings in Longyearbyen, I can see the variations of choice available.

    There is no such thing as budget travel to Svalbard, which I actually believe is a good thing as it prevents mass tourism. Still, there are ways to keep to a budget when travelling to Longyearbyen, and as you’ll see in this guide, one of the ways is by choosing the right place to stay. 

    I’ve put together this comprehensive but to-the-point guide for where to stay in Longyearbyen based on your preference. 

    Tip: The most popular hotels sell out months in advance, so it’s important to plan well ahead of time. For this guide I looked at hotels 10 months in the future (March 2025) and already some hotels were sold out. 

    Tip: No matter where you stay, the excursions you book will pick you up from your hotel. 

    Tip: The airport bus doesn’t stop at every hotel, but it stops close enough to many of them. 

    Price guide:

    • Budget friendly: 1500 NOK a night or less (marked green on the map)
    • Mid-range: 1500 NOK – 3000 NOK a night (marked blue on the map)
    • High end: 3000 NOK+ a night (marked red on the map)

    In this article...

    Svalbard Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out my Svalbard travel guide, which includes practical information about travelling there but also information about the various settlements and wildlife. 

    Map of Svalbard

    Here is my overall map of Svalbard. The hotels are coloured according to their price (green = budget friendly, blue = mid-range, pink = high-end).

    Longyearbyen Centre

    Why Stay Here?

    Yes, there is such a thing as a city centre in Longyearbyen. This is the perfect spot to stay if you don’t want to be more than a 10 minute walk from the shops and restaurants. This is especially perfect in the winter months, where the temperatures of -20C don’t exactly make it appealing to walk to the way into the city. 

    However, the convenient location does mean prices are a little higher. 

    High End

    Svalbard Hotell the Lodge

    Svalbard Hotell the Lodge is expensive (prices for March 2025 for two people/two nights was 15000NOK!) but there’s a reason for it. The Lodge isn’t a traditional hotel; in fact it’s self-serviced apartments! Meals aren’t included here (you can add breakfast for an additional fee) but what you get instead is a full apartment with your own kitchen. This can be a way on cutting down costs if you don’t want to go out every night. To be honest, I’m not sure the high price justifies it. Also, on their website they say this:

    “Some of the apartments are subjected to noise from the pub on the first floor, especially during the weekends”

    So, I’m not sure it’s worth the price tag. Still, it comes down to personal preference. 

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Radisson Blu Polar Hotel

    This is where I stayed on my most recent visit, and I absolutely loved it! I know online it has a reputation for being the ‘tourist hotel’, but I was travelling as a tourist. Some excursions only start from one spot (so you have to make your own way there), and more often than not that one spot was the Radisson Blu. The airport bus to the airport also leaves from right outside here. It took me 5 mins to walk to the shops, 5 mins to the museum, and 15 mins to the old town. It was perfectly located.

    This hotel was the first hotel that was built in Longyearbyen. It opened in 1995 and the buildings are from the Lillehammer Winter Olympics 1994. 

    There are a couple restaurants located inside and the included breakfast is perfection. The rooms are big and I got a spectacular view of the mountains from my room. 

    I also want to add that the staff were some of the nicest I’ve encountered, and there’s a fantastic shop in the lobby. 

    This hotel is borderline high-end, with prices hovering between 2,500 and 3,000 NOK a night. 

    Check Availability & Prices

    Basecamp Hotel

    I’ll admit, when I saw this hotel I kind of wished I had booked it instead. If you are trying to go for a more rustic Svalbard vibe, this hotel is a great option. Basecamp Hotel is designed to look like one of the historic cabins where hunters would stay. The recycled interiors are inspired by Arctic trapper’s huts. 

    Breakfast is included and the wonderful Kroa restaurant is part of the complex. The hotel also organises their own excursions.

    This hotel is practically across the street from all the shops. 

    This hotel is mid-range with prices starting at 2,300 NOK per night, but it can easily go into the high-end category if you want a larger-than-standard room. 

    Check Availability & Prices

    Tip: If travelling in the summer months, be sure to pack a sleep mask. Not all hotels have black-out curtains, or curtains that work efficiently, so it’s important to bring one to get some sleep!

    Svalbard Hotell Polfareren or the Vault

    Please note that these are two different hotels under the one chain. Svalbard Hotel Polfareren is located on the main street, while the Vault is located a couple blocks away. However, I’ve included them under one because they are priced similarly. 

    Svalbard Hotel Polfareren is a boutique hotel taking inspiration from Svalbard’s distinctive character. The Norwegian explorer Eivind Astrup (1871-1895) was the inspiration for the hotel. He was Norway’s youngest recipient of the Order of St. Olav, so keywords such as rustic, timeless and robust are the reasons for the hotels design. The restaurant Polfareren is inspired by Nordic cuisine and changes with the season.

    Svalbard Hotel The Vault is a little more functional (rather than stylish) and takes inspiration from the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. The restaurant located here is Nuga, a Japanese restaurant.

    Honestly, I can’t see a huge difference between the two! I guess it comes down to price and location.

    Check Availability & Prices (Polfareren)

    Check Availability & Prices (The Vault)

    Longyearbyen City Outskirts

    Why Stay Here?

    If nature is why you’re here, there are a number of excellent choices in the ‘suburbs’ of Longyearbyen. The prices vary a lot, from luxury accommodation to budget friendly travel.

    Keep in mine that it takes at least 20 minutes to walk to where the shops and restaurants are, so there will be a bit of back and forth. There’s no public transportation in Longyearbyen, but there are taxis. 

    High End

    Funken Lodge

    Funken Lodge is the most expensive place to stay in Longyearbyen. Rooms are large and modern and there’s a French restaurant in the property. The hotel has more amenities than other hotels in Svalbard, including a luxury gym and champagne bar. 

    It is a 10-15 minute walk into Longyearbyen from Funken Lodge. 

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Mary-Anns Polarigg

    This is another contender for ‘places I wish I stayed at’. Mary’Anns is a quirky hotel located inside wooden miners barracks. The prices here vary a lot (which is why I marked it as mid-range), as there are cheaper rooms with shared bathrooms but also suites. But you don’t come for the rooms – it’s the shared areas that are everything. The mining-themed interior has reading nooks, a bar, an excellent restaurant, and laundry services. 

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    Coal Miners Cabins

    If you are looking for good quality budget accommodation, the Coal Miners Cabins are a great choice. Almost all of the rooms have a shared bathroom, but there a few where you can pay more for a private bathroom (though that will go into the mid-range category).

    The building is a former miners barracks in the neighbourhood of Nybyen, about 20 minutes on foot from the main shopping street.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Gjestehuset 102

    Gjestehuset 102 is another excellent budget accommodation choice. All the rooms have a shared bathroom, and that is one of the reasons for the lower price. The hotel, like Coal Miners Cabins, is located in the neighbourhood of Nybyen and about 20 minutes walk from the main shopping street. Gjestehuset 102 offers mixed 4-person dormitories as well as single and twin rooms. Breakfast is included. 

    Check Availability & Prices

    Haugen Pensjonat

    Haugen Pensjonat is located closed to the city than the other two options, but still has affordable prices. The hotel is primarily self-catering, with no reception. There are different types of rooms plus apartments, and bathrooms are shared between 2-3 rooms each. 

    Check Availability & Prices

    Out of Longyearbyen

    Why Stay Here?

    You’ve come for the adventure! You want to be out of civilisation and experience the raw nature of Svalbard. I completely get it. 

    Due to the various environmental rules and regulations on Svalbard, plus the risk of polar bears, choices for outside Longyearbyen are limited to the campground, which for some may not be what you’re after. 

    Budget Friendly

    Longyearbyen Camping

    Longyearbyen Camping is the cheapest accommodation on offer in Svalbard. The campsite is located next to the airport, meaning that you can’t simply walk into the city centre (the airport is outside the city limits). Camping gear is available for rent and to protect the campers from polar bears, there is an electric fence and guard dogs.   

    Check Availability & Prices

    Are there Airbnbs?

    Yes! Since many of the locals work in tourism and may be gone for long stretches of time, they put their apartments up on Airbnb.

    The apartments come with kitchens and bathrooms, and the prices vary from budget-friendly to high end. 

    Click here to view a cabin for rent on a husky farm out of town. 

    Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Longyearbyen

    Longyearbyen is undoubtedly becoming a huge tourist town, and because of this you’ll always have lots of choice for where to stay. 

    Just be sure to book early since places are extremely limited and do sell out! The hotel should be one of the first places you book for the trip (after flights!). 

    Svalbard Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out my Svalbard travel guide! Here you can find all my recommendations of things to do and see, plus practical information for visiting the archipelago. 

  • Flåm, Where to Stay

    Where to Stay in Flåm, from a Tour Leader’s Perspective

    Where to Stay in Flåm from a Tour Leader's Perspective

    Most people coming to Norway will visit Flåm, the small village home to the famous Flåm Railway and Fjord Cruise – two integral parts of the ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ day-trip. While many travellers simply pass through Flåm on a day-trip, it’s worthwhile slowing down the trip and spending a night in Flåm. While there aren’t many options for an overnight stay, the options that are available are wonderful.

    I’ve stayed in Flåm many, many times and have stayed and multiple places around the region. So, for this guide I thought about which one I’d pick if I was to plan and book a trip to Flåm myself. But I also thought about practical things – proximity to attractions, scenery, proximity to crowds and cruise ships, and so on. 

    Accommodation in Flåm is limited and very likely to sell out in the summer, so it’s good to be organised. When it came to writing this guide, I thought it was best to divide accommodation not just by price, but also by proximity to the major touristy area (i.e. the cruise pier).

    Here’s how I divide according to price:

    • High end: 1500 NOK a night and above
    • Mid range: 1000-1500 a night
    • Budget friendly: Less than 1000 a night

    In summary, my preference:

    If I was choosing to spend one night here, I’d definitely stay in the centre of Flåm at either Fretheim or Flåmsbrygga. If I was staying here a few nights, I’d probably stay in Aurland or maybe Undredal and get a self-service apartment as restaurants are few and far between and rather expensive.

    In this article...

    Flåm Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out my Flåm travel guide, where I put lots of information about what you can see and do in Flåm. 

    Flåm Centre (Cruise Pier & Railway)

    Why Stay Here?

    This is the most convenient place to stay. You are never more than a two-minute walk to the railway, ferry pier, or shops and restaurants. It does come at a cost, however. In the summer months, it is very crowded here during the day with buses, cruise ships and tour groups.

    The hotels don’t offer parking (there’s no parking lots outside them!) but there is a large communal parking area in Flåm.

    High End

    Fretheim Hotel

    Fretheim Hotel is Flåm’s historic hotel. The hotel was established by Christen Fretheim in the 1870s to provide accommodation for the English tourists visiting the Western Fjords.

    This is the hotel where most of the tour groups stay, so expect to have tour buses and groups of up to 40 in the area.

    The hotel has a fantastic restaurant that serves a buffet (for a fee) for dinner and an included breakfast that is worth the high nightly fee. You can stay in the modern part of the hotel or in one of the historic rooms (choose when booking directly with the hotel). The staff here are lovely and there’s a large bar and seating area in the lobby. Some rooms have fjord views while others have mountain views.

    When trying to get an average on prices for this article, the hotel was already sold out for dates in May and June (I wrote this in February). On their website, historic rooms start at 1990 NOK a night (suites from 2300 NOK a night) and standard rooms begin at 1890 NOK a night.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Flåmsbrygga Hotel

    Flåmsbrygga is owned by the same company that runs the microbrewery Ægir. The rooms are spacious and have balconies overlooking either the fjord or the mountains. The downside to the hotel is that it is right by the cruise pier, so can be crowded during the day. You can, however, get package deals through the hotel that includes beer tasting and dinner (since they own the surrounding restaurants too).

    Like Fretheim, when I was checking they also had a lot of sold out dates. Their standard rooms start at 3,190 NOK! I was shocked that it’s more expensive than Fretheim. The price includes free breakfast.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Flåm Station Apartments

    This property is quite interesting – if you want a fully serviced apartment, this is a great option. You get a balcony, kitchen, private bathroom and even a coffee machine! It isn’t cheap, though, with prices starting at around 3000 NOK a night. But the apartments can fit up to 4 people.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    Flåm Camping & Vandrarheim

    This is as close as you’ll get to budget accommodation in Flåm.

    Hostel-style rooms for two-four people with a private bathroom starts at 750 NOK a night, while hostel-style rooms with a shared bathroom starts at 550 NOK a night.

    They also offer cabins with private bathrooms (1790 NOK a night) and with shared bathrooms (900 NOK a night) that offer more space for larger groups (such as families). Holiday homes (with three bedrooms) start at 2,800 NOK a night.

    They have an area for caravans starting at 400 NOK a night, and a tent area starting at 360 NOK a night. For those categories, they have drinking stations, kitchens, a washing machine and toilet and shower building.

    The cabins and hostel rooms are clean and well-maintained, but expect basic facilities here. No included meals.  

    Check Availability & Prices

    Outer Flåm

    Why Stay Here?

    If you want to get a little away from the cruise pier, but maybe don’t have a vehicle, there are some places 10-15 minutes on foot out of the town centre. The prices begin to drop a little bit, too.

    The village of Flåm is located about a 40-minute walk from the cruise pier and train station. There you can find some some Airbnbs (not listed on this guide) if you are more interested in renting a full house or apartment. If staying that far out of town, you would probably need a car. 

    High End

    Flåm Marina

    Flåm Marina is the high-end option for those who want to be close to Flåm, but also want to avoid the crowds. The accommodation offers a high-end restaurant and excellent views out to the fjord. Double rooms with a terrace start at 3150 NOK a night, so it’s definitely a high-end option. All rooms have a kitchenette and private bathroom, as well as parking.

    There are saunas close by that float on the fjord!

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Svingen Guesthouse

    Svingen Guesthouse is located by the fjord, but about 10 minutes on foot from the cruise pier area. The property has a shared kitchen, shared lounge and garden area. The rooms at the hostel part of the guesthouse have a shared bathroom and some come with a view to the fjord. The rooms in the main guesthouse come with private bathrooms, bed linen and towels.

    This was also mostly sold out when I was doing my research, making it tricky to get prices.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    Brekke Gård

    Brekke Gård Hostel is located about 15-20 minutes on foot from the cruise pier area. Here you can find dormitory rooms with shared bathrooms, single rooms with shared bathrooms, or high-end rooms with a private bathroom. Note that towels are not included and you need to clean before checkout.

    Reviews for this hotel are mixed, but it does offer good value in expensive Flåm. They do offer breakfast at an additional fee.

    Check Availability & Prices (Hostel)

    Check Availability & Prices (Apartments)

    Neighbouring Villages: Aurland

    Why Stay Here?

    Aurland has all the charm of a fjord-side village that you are looking for, but without the mass crowds. It has a historic church, charming shops and cafes, hiking trails, and magnificent views to the Aurlandsfjord. Big cruise ships don’t dock here, and tour buses generally don’t stop here. It’s also only a 10 minute drive to Flåm (so you’ll need a car), making it a perfect place to base yourself. 

    High End

    Wangen Apartments

    Wangen Apartments offer private apartments with a terrace, kitchen, private bathroom and full amenities. A one bedroom apartment with fjord views starts at 3,690 NOK, so this is definitely not the cheapest place to stay. Still, the apartments look brand-new and high quality.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Hotel Aurlandsfjord

    Hotel Aurlandsfjord is the classic hotel in Aurland. A twin room starts at 2,890 NOK a night, while suites are closer to 3,800 NOK. Here there is breakfast included (unlike Wangen Apartments, for example).

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri

    Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri is a good mid-range option. Here you can either rent basic or deluxe cabins, basic rooms or full apartments. Basic double rooms and cabins start at 1700 NOK a night, while the deluxe cabin is 2800 NOK a night. All rooms have private bathrooms, the cabins and apartments have private kitchens, and most rooms have views out to the fjord.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    Lunde Camping

    Lunde Camping is about as budget friendly as it gets, but the rooms are very basic (if not rather dated). A double room starts at 1100 NOK and comes with a private bathroom and private semi-kitchen (cooktop, microwave, fridge and oven). There’s also larger rooms for up to 5 people starting at 1250 NOK a night. If you are okay with basic, this is a well-valued option.  

    Check Availability & Prices

    Neighbouring Villages: Undredal

    The one place in town!

    Undredal is quite isolated, and you will need to rely on a car or the ferry service to get in and out. That said, there is a hotel here (called Visit Undredal) that offers fantastic value.

    Beginning at 2100 NOK a night, you can get a three-bedroom apartment (up to six people) with a view to the fjord, kitchen, private bathroom and balcony. The rooms are 70m2! You are a 20 minute drive to Flåm, but it’ll be so peaceful out here it may be worth the commute.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Neighbouring Villages: Gudvangen

    Gudvangen's Options

    Located on the Nærøyfjord, Gudvangen is a 20-30 minute drive from Flåm but is also one end of the famous fjord cruise. The hotel here, Gudvangen Fjordtell, is basic but offers good rooms that are not that cheaper than Flåm. Based on these prices, I’d not sure I’d choose here over Flåm or Aurland, unless both those places were sold out. Apartments (kitchens, bathrooms) start at 2,800 NOK a night, while double rooms with private bathrooms are 2,800 NOK a night (rooms with shared bathrooms are only 100 NOK cheaper, which seems odd).

    Check Availability & Prices

    There is the Gudvangen Budget Hotel as well, which has rooms with shared bathrooms starting at 1,800 NOK a night.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Neighbouring Villages: Stalheim

    Stalheim Hotel

    The furthest village from Flåm, Stalheim is the famous historic Stalheim Hotel. It offers spectacular views over the Nærøy valley and is in a truly peaceful region. I love this hotel, though expect it to be a little basic considering the price tag. Double rooms start at 2,700 NOK (deluxe from 3900 NOK).

    Check Availability & Prices

    Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Flåm

    Where you choose to stay in Flåm should depend on your own personal preferences and practical needs. Just be sure to book far in advance!

    Flåm Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out my Flåm travel guide! Here you can find all my recommendations of things to do and see, including my self-guided walks. 

  • Oslo, Where to Stay

    Where to Stay in Oslo (From a Tour Leaders Perspective)

    Where to Stay in Oslo (From a Tour Leaders Perspective)

    Welcome to Oslo! I’ve been to Oslo so many times and stayed in so many hotels, so I can understand that it may be a little overwhelming picking where to stay in Oslo. There are so many options, so many chains, and so many good locations to stay in. So, I’ve put together a list of some of the hotels that I recommend in Oslo, divided by region and price range. It’s tricky finding accommodation in Oslo for less than 1000 NOK a night, so don’t expect to come here on a budget.

    Here’s how I divide according to price:

    • High end: 1500 NOK a night and above
    • Mid range: 1000-1500 NOK a night
    • Budget friendly: Less than 1000 NOK a night

    Here’s my guide on where to stay in Oslo.

    In this article...

    Oslo Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out our Oslo travel guide! Here you can find all our recommendations of things to do and see, including our self-guided walks. 

    Central Station & Bjørvika

    Why Stay Here?

    Staying close to Central Station is certainly convenient, especially if you will be taking the train onwards to somewhere else in Norway. It also makes arriving from the airport very easy. The area of Bjørvika is part of the new urban development around the Oslofjord, and here you’ll find brand-new cafes, restaurants, bars and the Munch Museum, library, and opera house. Attend a show at the Opera House, have coffee in the new library, or explore the ’Barcode’ skyscaprers. If you want to head out for a walk, the historic area Gamle Oslo and the sculpture park Ekeberg are close by.

    High End

    Amerikalinjen

    This is one of Oslo’s most famous hotels. The hotel is in the old headquarters for the Norwegian America Cruise Line, and the hotel has recently undergone a major renovation. There is a bar inspired by New York, or you can listen to live jazz. The hotel also does comedy nights in both Norwegian and English.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Clarion Hotel Oslo

    Located in the trendy Barcode area, this new hotel is beautiful and modern. Clarion is a great chain to stay at in Norway; they offer free light dinners every evening. The hotel opened in 2020 and is approximately halfway between the Munch Museum and the Opera House. The Shutter Bar has food and drinks, and during summer there is an outdoor terrace. The hotel has a gallery inside as well.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Clarion Hotel The Hub

    This is one of the newer hotels in Oslo. It is also located across the street from Central Station, so is one of the nicer options if you want to stay close to the train. The hotel is massive and has a nice bar on the top floor. The breakfast is also one of the best in Oslo.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Scandic Byporten

    I enjoyed staying at this hotel. The rooms are excellent and it’s located within the Byporten shopping centre, which you can use to access central station without having to go outside.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Thon Hotel Opera

    The rooms are a little small, but the hotel has excellent amenities and is in a wonderful location. It is a popular hotel for conferences and groups, so expect it to be a little busy.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    City Box Oslo

    This is a no-nonsense hotel right in the heart of the city. They cut costs by not having a reception or cleaning service (unless you request it), but the rooms have everything that you need and are perfect if you don’t plan on spending much time in your room.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Karl Johan Gate

    Why Stay Here?

    Karl Johan Gate is the main street running through Oslo, so of course it’s convenient to be located close by. However, I don’t recommend staying on the street itself; it’s good to stay a block behind it. The street gets very crowded in the summer months, so it doesn’t always feel nice to walk down there. However, it is the centre of the city and a good place to base yourself so you can get out and explore Oslo.

    High End

    Grand Hotel Oslo

    Located on Karl Johans Gate (in a nice and not-too-crowded part) just across the street from the Norwegian Parliament, this historic hotel is home to the Grand Café, where Henrik Ibsen would go for lunch every day. Every year the Nobel Peace Prize winner stays in this hotel. Some of the world’s most notable people including Charlie Chaplin and Dwight Eisenhower, have stayed here. It is considered one of the best hotels in Norway. If you can’t afford it, just visit for a coffee in the Grand Café.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Hotel Bristol

    This is a high-end hotel in a historic building. The suites are named after famous people from all across Europe who have previously stayed in the hotel. The hotel is styled in a 1920s art deco way, and the rooms are of good size.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Hotel Christiania Theatre

    This boutique hotel is tucked in between the City Hall and the National Theatre, and the building itself used to be a theatre. The hotel has been designed in a style to reflect its theatre past. The basic rooms include TVs, minibars, WiFi, and rainwater showers.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz

    This hotel may look a little dull from the outside, but it has won awards for its design inside. The hotel also claims to have the best breakfast in Oslo, so maybe it is worth staying there.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Thon Hotel Cecil

    Located just off the park and Norwegian parliament, the Thon Hotel Cecil is in an excellent location. The rooms are decent sized and the breakfast is also excellent.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Scandic Victoria

    This is about as budget as it gets for staying around Karl Johans gate. It’s only across the street from the Grand Hotel but is half the price. Of course, it is not as extravagant, but it has everything that you need. The hotel is roughly halfway between Karl Johan Gate and Aker Brygge, so it’s centrally located for Oslo’s top attractions.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    K7 Hotel Oslo is one of the only budget options close to Karl Johan Gate. The hotel has single rooms or dorm rooms; only the dorm rooms fit into our ‘budget’ category.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Around Aker Brygge

    Why Stay Here?

    Aker Brygge was the first part of the Oslofjord area to be redeveloped and is now a string of trendy bars, restaurants and cafes with a variety of different cuisines that’ll keep you busy during your stay. Aker Brygge is also where Norway’s National Museum (The Scream by Edvard Munch is here!) is located, as well as the Nobel Peace Centre and Astrup Fearnley Gallery.

    High End

    The Thief

    The Thief is a luxury hotel in the trendy area of Tjuvholmen. The walls are covered in contemporary artwork, the rooms have designer furniture, and there are high end restaurants. The hotel also has a spa and pool area.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Oslo Guldsmeden

    This hotel is an eco-friendly boutique hotel just a couple blocks from Aker BRygge. The style of this hotel is completely unique, with wooden four-poster beds, faux-fur cushions, and throws, tvs, wifi, and contemporary bathrooms.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Thon Hotel Vika Atrium

    This hotel is just within our mid-range category; most rooms would be classified as high end. The reason for the price is location, not amenities. It is very similar to other Thon hotels.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Around the Royal Palace

    Why Stay Here?

    The Royal Palace is a beautiful location to stay in Oslo. The Palace Park is perfect for your morning or evening walks, and the whole area feels less hectic than other parts of the city. The Historical Museum is located here, where you can see the only Viking helmet ever found. From here you can also enjoy a scenic 40 minute walk to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, or just hop on the tram.

    High End

    Camilla’s Hus

    This boutique hotel is in a villa from 1845. There are only seven rooms, giving a very nice B&B feel. The Camilla in the name refers to the house’s first resident, Camilla Collet, a prominent author, and women’s rights activist.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Thon Hotel Europa

    The Thon Hotel Europa is part of the Thon chain of hotels. The rooms are large considering their location in the inner part of Oslo, and you are just across the street from the Royal Palace.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel

    This four-star hotel is a little nicer than the Thon Hotel Europa across the street, but it is considerably larger.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    Cochs Pensjonat

    Cochs Pensjonat has been operating for over 100 years and offers very affordable rooms just across the street from the Royal Palace. The rooms are simple but have everything that you need.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Around Grunerlokka

    Why Stay Here?

    Grunerlokka is a very cool neighbourhood. It only takes 20 minutes to walk to the city centre, but out here in Grunerlokka you have the incredible Akerselva walk, Mathallen food hall, and you can easily reach Damstredet and the Gamle Aker Church. If you’re looking to get away from the busy Oslo city centre, this is a great alternative.

    Mid Range

    Scandic Vulkan

    Located just above Mathallen, this hotel is excellent if you want to enjoy more of the hipster area. It’s only a 20-minute walk to Karl Johan Gate, meaning you aren’t that far from the city centre but still get to enjoy the feeling of being in a neighbourhood. The hotel is heated by geothermal energy. The rooms have what you need.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Budget Friendly

    Anker Hostel

    Anker Hostel is one of the cheaper options in Oslo. The rooms look so bare they could almost be prison cells, but they have everything you need and are a good option if you just want a place to sleep and spend your money on other things.

    Check Availability & Prices

    Oslo Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out our Oslo travel guide! Here you can find all our recommendations of things to do and see, including our self-guided walks. 

    Around Oslo

    Thon Hotel Snø

    Outside Oslo city centre is a facility called Snø, where you can ski inside all year round! There is a Thon Hotel connected to the building, so you can stay on site and ski as much as you like. Nothing more Norwegian than this!

    Click here for their website. 

  • Bergen, Where to Stay

    Where to Stay in Bergen From a Locals Perspective

    Where to Stay in Bergen From a Locals Perspective

    So you are planning a trip to Bergen – excellent! We think that Bergen is the best city in Norway, but I must admit that we also have some bias here. It is, after all, our home city. Still, no trip to Norway is complete without a visit to Bergen.

    In this guide I’ve put together a list of the best hotels to stay at in Bergen. This is based on my years of tour guiding experience, feedback from groups, and also places that I’ve stayed at myself.

    The list is divided into parts of the city and then again into different grades of hotel. They are as follows:

    • High end: 1500+ NOK a night
    • Mid-range: 1000 – 1500 NOK a night
    • Budget: Less than 1000 NOK a night

    Here’s my top list of places to stay in Bergen, sorted by area.

    In this article...

    Bergen Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out our Bergen travel guide! Here you can find all our recommendations of things to do and see, including our self-guided walks. 

    Bryggen

    Why Stay Here?

    Okay, so Bryggen is of course one of the most popular places to stay in Bergen. Bryggen is Bergen’s UNESCO World Heritage site. Located approximately 10 minutes from the city centre, Bryggen is where you’ll find several museums as well as Bergen’s best Norwegian restaurants. It is close to everything you need: museums, restaurants, shops, hikes and scenic points. While it is a bit of a walk from public transport and the city centre, if you are interested in Bryggen then this is the place to stay.

    Of course, being the most popular place in town means there aren’t too many budget options.

    High End

    • Clarion Havnekontoret.
    • This hotel has beautiful views out to the harbour as well as parking and an amazing breakfast. They also offer light dinners for free. Within a minute walk is St. Mary’s Church, the Bryggens Museum and Bryggen. Both this hotel and the Radisson Blu have the airport bus leave right outside. Check Availability & Prices
    •  
    • Radisson Blu Hotel
    • The Radisson Blu Hotel is a gorgeous hotel located just seconds from Bryggen. The breakfast is delicious! Note that often there are conferences here, so it can sometimes feel a little busy. Check Availability & Prices
    •  
    • Hanseatic Hotel Bergen – top pick! If you want to get away from chain hotels then the Hanseatic Hotel is for you. Most of the hotel is situated inside the historic wooden houses of Bryggen, meaning your room has a clear rustic feel. There are also very few rooms here, giving the hotel a boutique feel.
    •  
    • Bergen Harbour Hotel
    • I’ve heard a lot of good about Bergen Harbour Hotel. It has modern rooms and is a relatively small hotel, so there’s certainly a personal touch to it. Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    Thon Orion

    I do like the Thon Orion. In fact, it is the hotel I stayed in when I first came to Norway back in 2011. The hotel has had a major renovation since then. Thon Hotels are typically known for their good breakfasts. The hotel is approximately halfway between the fortress and Bryggen. Check Availability & Prices

    Thon Rosenkrantz

    The rooms are a little on the small side, but that’s okay because you’ll be out exploring Bergen! The staff at this hotel are lovely; I haven’t had a bad experience here. it is also one block behind Bryggen, so you’re away from a lot of the crowds. No public transport close by, but you’re a block from the taxi rank outside the funicular station. Check Availability & Prices

    Around the City & Train Station

    In this part of the city you’ll find some of Bergen’s major landmarks, shopping centres, restaurants and part of the university. The city still keeps its small-town charm; there are no skyscrapers or busy streets here. Staying in the city centre has its advantages; Bryggen can get crowded in the summer months and the city centre has all the public transport connections. It is also centrally located, meaning you can get around Bergen easily.

    High End

    Hotel Norge by Scandic

    The newly renovated Hotel Norge has beautiful rooms with views out to the city as well as free breakfast, private parking, and an upscale spa. The hotel is close to the airport bus and light rail, making it easy to get in and out of Bergen. It’s very fancy – sometimes a little too fancy for a travellers liking – and I found the cheaper rooms were tiny. Check Availability & Prices

    Opus XVI

    Opus XVI is owned by the descendants of Edvard Grieg. The building dates from 1876 and used to be the bank. The rooms are incredible, as is the lobby (they’ve preserved most of the old bank), and I’ve always found the staff to be friendly. Check Availability & Prices

    Bergen Børs Hotel

    The Bergen Børs Hotel was formerly a stock exchange. One of Bergen’s two Michelin star restaurants, Bare, is located inside the building. The hotel itself is huge and is used by groups, so it can feel a little crowded. Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    • Zander K Hotel
    • This hotel is located across the street from Bergen train station, so it’s perfect if you are coming in or out of Bergen by train. It’s a 15 minute walk to Bryggen and only a 5 minute walk to the city park. I’ve only ever heard good things about this hotel. Check Availability & Prices
    •  
    • Scandic Ørnen
    • Scandic Ørnen is located only a few minutes from the city park and it’s across the street from Bergen’s largest shopping centre. Scandic’s are a reliable hotel chain in Norway – all of them are pretty much the same and they are all pretty great. There’s no frills in the room, but that’s fine. Check Availability & Prices
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    • Scandic Byparken
    • The hotel is a little smaller and in a slightly odd part of town – there’s not much here but the main bus road, but the city park is only a block away. Check Availability & Prices
    •  
    • Magic Hotel Xhibition
    • Magic Hotel is located in a shopping centre, and honestly I kind of like staying in shopping centres sometimes – especially if I’m travelling alone and on a budget. It’s a quick way to grab a meal! Rooms are small but have what you need. Check Availability & Prices

    Budget

    • Bergen Budget Hostel
    • The train station is just a five minute walk away. The rooms look nice and clean, and the location itself is pretty good.
    •  
    • Citybox Bergen
    • Citybox is a chain of budget friendly hotels in Norway. There is no breakfast included, but the rooms are cosy. To keep the costs down, there’s no standard reception or cleaning service. Rather the keys are kept in a safe place and you check yourself in and out. Check Availability & Prices
    • Marken Guestehus
    • Marken Gjestehus is a no-frills hostel with shared rooms for only 250 NOK a night, which is a bargain in Norway. There’s a common living area and kitchen, so it has everything you need.

    Nordnes

    Nordnes is the peninsula that separates the Bergen harbour into two. The peninsula is home to trendy bars and cafes and is also where some of the oldest houses in Bergen city centre are located. Close by is the aquarium, Nordnes park, and the charming alleys.

    High End

    Clarion Admiral

    This hotel is beautiful and definitely one of my top picks for a stay in Bergen. Here you can look out to Bryggen as you have breakfast! The rooms are very cozy. Check Availability & Prices

    Mid Range

    • Comfort Hotel Bergen
    • The Nordic Hotel chain is a fairly decent chain to stay with. I’ve had mixed stays with them; in general the rooms are fairly simple. Still, breakfast is included and this one is in a great location. This part of Nordnes is nice and quiet but it’s only a short walk to the city centre. Check Availability & Prices
    •  
    • Augustin Hotel Bergen
    • This hotel has just had a new renovation and looks very charming inside. Check Availability & Prices
      Best Western Hotell Hordheimen
    • This is a nice hotel within Nordnes. Hot breakfast is complimentary. There’s also a traditional restaurant and a coffee shop, plus guest laundry facilities – finding a laundry in a hotel in Norway is something of a luxury in itself. Check Availability & Prices

     

    Budget Friendly

    Klosterhagen Hotel

    Located in arguably one of the most beautiful spots in Nordnes, Klosterhagen is a unique independent hotel. There are only 15 guest-rooms with private bathrooms and a home cooked breakfast. The hotel hires people who are training to work in the hotel industry; perhaps they have had a rough past but are now looking to change their lives. Check Availability & Prices

    Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Bergen

    These are my top picks for hotels in Bergen. All of them are in good locations and have a lot of facilities included, ensuring that your stay in Bergen is relaxing.

    Enjoy your stay in Bergen!

    Bergen Travel Guide

    Be sure to check out our Bergen travel guide! Here you can find all our recommendations of things to do and see, including our self-guided walks.