Visiting Grünerløkka, Oslo | Your Quick Guide

Each city has its own alternative districts. By that, I mean places which are not on the main tourist trail and where locals can still enjoy their life without trailing behind groups of people stopping and taking pictures on every street corner. For Oslo, this area is called Grünerløkka. If you’re visiting Grünerløkka, it may seem quite dark and dingy to begin with. In fact, its edgy and urban atmosphere gives cool Copenhagen, or stylish Stockholm a run for their money. However, don’t let this first impression fool you. Grünerløkka is up-and-coming and this quick guide aims to persuade you that it is worth your time.

If you find yourself in Oslo and want to try something alternative and unique, this is the perfect place to begin. Here is everything you need to know about this cool neighbourhood.

Visiting Grünerløkka, Oslo | Your Quick Guide

Running through Oslo is the Akerselva river, once a lifeline during the city’s industrial history, the remains of which can still be seen today. To the east of the river, nestled behind the old industrial buildings is where you’ll find the Grünerløkka district. Once the heart of the working class in the city, this area is now filled with boutiques shops, delicious cafés and restaurants, as well as some truly remarkable art (more on that later).

To say that it is up-and-coming is an understatement. The Industrial Revolution of Norway took place here and the infrastructure in this part of Oslo reflects this. Back in the day, there were only factories and the homes of the workers. The area became synonymous with hard work and, in 2006, it was formally recognised for its contribution to the country.

Whilst some of the roots remain, Grünerløkka is no longer solely famous for the factories and contribution to industry. In fact, most Norwegians associate this area with some of the most unique and beautiful art in the country – a stark contrast to its historical role.

Getting to Grünerløkka

Oslo has fantastic public transport and getting to Grünerløkka couldn’t be easier. From the centre (Storgata), catch Tram number 12, 15 or 18 which will take you as far as
Schous plass, a 3 minute walk from the heart of Grünerløkka. I would personally recommend that you start in Birkelunden – it is directly on the Tram line.

Top Tip: Tram tickets can’t be bought on board. To get these, you’ll need to download the Ruter App, where you can pay on demand. If you don’t want to do this or haven’t got an eSIM (check out my collaboration with Sim Local), then you can purchase tickets at certain convenience stores like 7/11.

Alternatively, Oslo is relatively compact and walkable. The same distance outlined above would take you 15 minutes or so, or 27 minutes to get to Birkelunden.

Starting your Exploration

I’d suggest beginning your journey at Birkelunden. This is a large park in the centre of the neighbourhood. It is relatively local and is often filled with people meeting for a coffee. Nearby are a few cafés to choose from, however, I’d suggest heading to Thorvald Meyers Gate. This is where you’ll find those iconic boutique shops I mentioned earlier in the post. You might also see some artwork on the walls of the buildings. From here, head up to the next street called Sannergata. This street has a few more shops to explore, but it also links up with the nearby park and the Akerselva river, where you’ll enjoy the next part of your walk.

In the midst of industry, the river was incredibly important to the work which took place in the area. Now though it is perfect for a morning stroll. I always find that the light here is gorgeous, especially when you get nearer Øvre foss, a waterfall in the park, where incidentally there is one of the most picturesque bridges in the city. This slow walk will take you a good 15 minutes or so, but it definitely recommended. Few tourists get to see this part of the city and you’ll be surrounded by nature and a handful of locals.

Stop for a Coffee and a Snack

I had one of the best coffees of my life in Oslo. It surprised me too – I really didn’t think that this would be the case after 2 weeks in Japan a few months back. This was in the Mathallen, the modern large food hall right on the banks of the river. In here you’ll find lots of artisan food and fresh, high-quality produce as a given. There is also Solberg & Hansen, a shop which takes its coffee extremely seriously. I mentioned Japan as it actually reminded me of a small shop in Kyoto called Black Cat Coffee. The beans were clearly expertly chosen and were infused with hints of fruit and chocolate. Definitely a top coffee and worth going to (I would personally order the slightly fruity coffee. Don’t worry – it is extremely subtle).

The Art Trail

Leave Mathallen and head down Vulcan before crossing the road into Brenneriveien. This is where you’ll begin to see some of that legendary art. This begins quite subtly; there is a gamer’s shop near Mathallen and you’ll spot a Pac-Man mural on the floor which guides you to the entrance. Pretty cool.

However, the legendary art begins once you hit Brenneriveien. Some of this is quite cartoon-like in terms of their look. You’ll see alien-looking creatures of different colours adorning the walls. You’ll also spot 3D art, including a giant snake and even a giant eye, nose and ear. It is certainly one of the best examples of street art in Europe, however, it does get better.

Turn the corner into Ingens Gate. You’ll see a narrow street which is decorated from head-to-toe in wall art. This street is actually where you’ll find all of the nightclubs. Not something which I’m into, but they have added in some pretty cool decorative pieces. You have a large chandelier made from scrap metal, as well as Renaissance-style statues.

At the end of Ingens Gate is a small bridge. Once again, it has a really lovely light hue here and it is great for taking a photo. Look out for the floating swan in the water and even more art.

Top Tips for Visiting Grünerløkka

Visiting Grünerløkka is really straight forward. Whilst it is usually quiet, it can get busy on weekends. This is especially true during peak-cruise season, such as in the school holidays. My best advice is to get here as early as possible. You’ll have the place to yourself and it is much easier to take photos of the walls.

Another top tip is that you’re not too far from Telthusbakken, which is a beautiful street in Oslo which looks like it was from 100 years ago. After visiting Grünerløkka, head here to explore, before catching a tram into the city centre.

Final Thoughts | Visiting Grünerløkka, Oslo

Visiting Grünerløkka is an incredible experience to have. It is rather far removed from the more mainstream Oslo, such as the city centre or the museum islands. However, it is that removal from the main tourist trail which makes the area so interesting and exciting. If you’re in Oslo, don’t miss your chance to explore this beautiful, historical area. You won’t regret it.