Find out about a typical day in Oslo

A typical day for Oslo locals varies depending on the season. In the summer, the days and evenings are longer and people spend a lot more time outdoors, whereas in the winter, hygge at home is key to get through the long and dark season. Working days are shorter than in many other countries, and most meals are eaten at home.

7AM

The day begins with a small but healthy breakfast, often cereal or open sandwiches made from dark, wholegrain bread with meat or cheese spread, juice, and a lot of very strong coffee. Many supermarkets open this early, for those who’ve forgotten to buy bread the day before.

Morning in Oslo.

8-9AM

Offices open and the working day begins.

10AM

Shops and shopping centres open their doors to customers.

11AM

Lunchtime. Norwegian meals tend to take place earlier than in other countries, and a Norwegian lunch is usually light, with more open sandwiches with simple spreads, and even more strong coffee. You’re also allowed a sweet pastry, to get your blood sugar back up for the next part of the day. Lunch is short, usually half an hour, and then it’s straight back to work.

A cup of strong coffee.

4-5PM

Most offices close for the day around this time, whereas shops stay open throughout the evening. If your working day is over, this is when you either go home to your family for dinner or meet friends at your favourite restaurant or food court. Dinner is the biggest meal of the day, and usually the only hot one. Whether it consists of meat, fish, vegetarian or vegan food, dinner is a time to sit down with your loved ones to relax, laugh, and reflect on the day so far. Dessert is usually saved for the weekend, but you’re allowed a cup of coffee or two after the meal. Norwegians swear it helps digestion!

A home cooked fish dinner.

8PM

Usually the last proper meal of the day – another meal mainly consisting of dark bread. And yes, Norwegians still drink coffee. Strong coffee.

11PM

This is when Norwegians tend to go to bed on weekdays, to ensure they get enough sleep for the next day. In the winter, it might be earlier, and in the summer it might be later. Weekends are an exception, as most young adults finally head out around this time after pre-partying at home. Norwegian clubs and bars are expensive, so it’s common to start with a group of friends at home and head out late in the evening.

Night time in Oslo.

Part of our guide to Oslo - Weekend in Oslo: Top Things to Do and Must-See Sights - Read the full guide here