Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems of Oslo

If you’re seeking a way to see Oslo beyond the typical tourist spots while savoring genuine local flavors, this Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems of Oslo might just be the experience for you. Promoted by Oslonature, this 3-hour tour combines walking through the city’s quieter, picturesque neighborhoods with tasting Norwegian dishes made from local ingredients.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on hidden spots—places most visitors miss—and the chance to enjoy authentic Norwegian cuisine at three carefully selected restaurants. We love how the tour offers a balance of scenic exploration and culinary delight, perfect for travelers wanting a more local, less crowded perspective of Oslo.

One consideration is that the route involves about 1.5 hours of walking on mostly flat terrain, with some short, steep sections, which might be a challenge for people with limited mobility or low fitness levels. Still, for anyone who enjoys walking and discovering offbeat neighborhoods, this is a stellar way to spend a few hours.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to combine sightseeing with tasting Norwegian specialties, and those who appreciate storytelling from knowledgeable guides. It’s especially well-suited for small groups, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Norwegian Cuisine: The tour offers a broad sampling of traditional dishes, including fish soup, smoked trout, roast veal, waffles, and brown cheese, all made from local ingredients.
Hidden City Gems: Walk through lesser-known neighborhoods, scenic riverbanks, and viewpoints—not just the usual tourist areas—guided by locals with a passion for Oslo’s lesser-seen sides.
Expert Guides: Guides are fluent in English and Norwegian, with reviews praising their friendliness, knowledge, and the stories they share that bring Oslo’s history and culture alive.
Good Value: With three restaurant tastings and guided exploration included, the $186 price provides a well-rounded, high-quality experience at a reasonable cost—especially considering the personalized nature of small groups.
Scenic & Cultural Highlights: The route includes views of waterfalls, old wooden houses, bridges, and the river running through the city—elements that showcase Oslo’s natural and architectural charm.
Accessible in Duration & Distance: Covering about 4 km on mostly flat asphalt, the tour balances walking with ample sitting time for food at restaurants, making it suitable for most travelers with average fitness.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Oslo.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point at Jernbanetorget

The tour kicks off at the busy Oslo Central Station, with the guide easily identifiable by a yellow reflective vest. This central location is convenient for travelers arriving by train or metro, making it a logical starting point.

Walk to the First Food Stop

A brief 5-minute walk takes you into a more intimate part of Oslo. This part of the city is where many locals hang out, away from the main tourist corridors. The walk sets the tone for exploring Oslo’s quieter, authentic neighborhoods.

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First Restaurant: Seafood Tasting

The first tasting spot features a creamy fish soup with pollock, salmon, mussels, and vegetables. This dish is a fine example of Norway’s love of seafood and highlights locally sourced ingredients. Guests have noted that the food here was well-chosen and delicious, with dietary preferences easily accommodated, which is a big plus for vegetarians or those with allergies.

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Hidden Gem: Scenic Sightseeing

Next, the group visits a lesser-known but stunning part of Oslo, including scenic viewpoints and old wooden houses. The guide’s favorite local spots help travelers see a side of Oslo that most travelers never encounter. One reviewer described the experience as traveling “with a friend who knew the area,” emphasizing the tour’s personal touch.

Second Restaurant & Larger Food Tasting

The second stop is more substantial, offering three small entrees such as smoked trout with egg salad and Jerusalem artichoke chips, as well as roast veal with accompanying sides like pickled red onion, cucumber, and local cheese. The dishes are served freshly baked bread with Røros butter—“a taste of Norway’s culinary traditions,” as one reviewer remarked.

Third Stop: Dessert & Waffles

The final tasting includes Norwegian waffles topped with brown cheese, a sweet and savory treat beloved locally. The experience ends at a cozy café, where guests can relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Final Walk & End Location

After approximately 4 km of walking, the tour concludes back at Sandakerveien 2, a convenient spot for those heading back to central accommodations or continuing their exploration.

Food and Culture: What You’ll Taste and See

The focus on authentic ingredients means you get to sample real Norwegian flavors: the creamy fish soup showcases fresh seafood; the smoked trout and roast veal reflect traditional methods and local produce. The inclusion of waffles and brown cheese offers a sweet and iconic Norwegian finish—something many reviews highlight as a highlight.

The food is not just about taste but about understanding Norwegian culinary customs. The carefully selected restaurants ensure quality and authenticity, giving travelers a genuine bite of the local lifestyle.

The Value of Food Tastings

At $186 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—three restaurant visits and guided sightseeing. When you consider the quality of the food, the insights from guides, and the exclusive access to hidden parts of the city, this price provides excellent value. It’s especially appealing for those wanting a curated, intimate experience rather than a large-group, cookie-cutter tour.

Discovering Hidden Gems

What makes this tour stand out are the lesser-known sights. Walking along the river, passing by waterfalls, and exploring neighborhoods off the beaten path, you’ll see Oslo’s natural beauty and historic architecture from a fresh perspective. The guides share stories and tips, making the experience both educational and personal.

One reviewer mentioned how the tour revealed parts of Oslo they wouldn’t have discovered on their own, including a waterfall in the city—a rare sight that adds a touch of magic to the urban landscape.

Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour is run by Oslonature and typically lasts around 3 hours. It’s suitable for most travelers, as it involves walking roughly 4 km on mostly flat terrain, with a few short uphill sections. The group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—important given Norway’s changeable weather. Also, note that the tour is not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or those with mobility challenges.

Since beverages aren’t included, travelers might want to bring a water bottle, especially during warmer days. The tour ends at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Authentic Guides Make the Difference

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills. Guides like Ingunn and Margarita receive high marks for their enthusiasm and ability to make guests feel like they’re touring with a friend. Their local insights add depth to the experience, transforming it from a simple walk-and-eat into a memorable cultural adventure.

The Verdict: Who Should Join?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with tasting Norwegian cuisine, especially those interested in exploring Oslo’s quieter, more authentic neighborhoods. Food lovers will appreciate the diverse tastings and the local ingredients used.

It’s also excellent for small groups or couples who enjoy personalized attention and lively conversations. Given the moderate walking and focus on local gems, it’s well-suited to travelers with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoy discovering lesser-known places.

FAQs About the Norwegian Food & Hidden Gems Tour

Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, dietary preferences and allergies are considered, and guides can offer alternatives if notified in advance.

How much walking is involved?
Expect about 1.5 hours of walking on mostly flat asphalt, covering approximately 4 km. There are a few short uphill sections to keep in mind.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not really—it’s geared toward travelers over 10 years old due to walking and food tasting.

Are the food portions large?
The tour includes several smaller tastings at three stops, enough for a satisfying experience without being overly heavy.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, which makes for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your trip planning.

Final Words

This Norwegian Food Tour and Hidden Gems experience offers a well-curated look at Oslo’s lesser-known neighborhoods, combined with delicious, locally sourced food. It’s a fantastic way to see the city through a local’s eyes while indulging in Norway’s culinary staples.

Ideal for curious travelers who want a mix of scenic walks, cultural insights, and authentic flavors, this tour delivers great value for the price. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Oslo’s charm, its natural beauty, and its culinary traditions.

For those who enjoy discovering hidden corners and tasting regional specialties, this tour is a memorable highlight. It’s a chance to see Oslo beyond the usual postcard shots—filled with stories, flavors, and scenic surprises—and to do so with a small, friendly group led by passionate locals.

Additional Resources

Interested in more Oslo experiences? Check out similar options like the Grünerløkka Food & Culture Walk, Dark Stories from Oslo Streets, or the Viking Planet VR Movie. Each offers its own unique glimpse into Norway’s capital—whether through food, history, or modern culture.

In sum, if you’re looking for an engaging, authentic, and delicious way to explore Oslo’s hidden corners, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a smart choice for travelers who value quality, local insights, and a more intimate experience of Norway’s capital.

Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems of Oslo