Oslo: Food Tasting and Walking Tour with a Local

Imagine exploring a city’s authentic flavors without the hassle of guessing where the locals eat. That’s precisely what this Oslo food and walking tour offers: a chance to taste the real deal, step away from touristy spots, and learn about Norwegian cuisine from knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re an epicure seeking new tastes or a curious traveler wanting to understand local culture through food, this tour might just be your perfect match.

We love the way this tour combines scenic strolls along the Akerselva River with stops at hidden gems and local markets. The promise of delicious tastings—from fresh seafood to traditional brown cheese—makes it an appealing way to spend an afternoon. One potential drawback? The tour’s duration of about 3.5 hours means it’s fairly brisk, so pace and comfort with walking are worth considering. But if you’re eager to sample Oslo’s food scene in a lively, intimate setting, this experience suits those who enjoy a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone returning to Oslo, this tour is ideal for food lovers, history buffs, and anyone interested in experiencing the city like a local. Just be prepared for some walking, and bring your appetite for authentic, well-curated Norwegian bites.

Key Points

• Authentic Norwegian flavors: Get beyond tourist spots with tastings of fish, cured meats, and cheeses.
• Scenic route: Walk along the picturesque Akerselva River and through trendy neighborhoods.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides are friendly, well-informed, and eager to share local insights.
• Quality tastings: Enjoy a well-curated selection of foods, including seafood, brunost, and desserts.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Norwegian cuisine, history, and traditions in a relaxed setting.
• Convenient: Approximately 3.5 hours, suitable for those with limited time but big appetites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Entails: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

This guided walking tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural stories, and delicious bites. Starting outside a shop called Narvesen, it begins with a walk through some of Oslo’s most lively neighborhoods, including the area around the River Akerselva. We loved the way guides take you off the beaten path, avoiding overly touristy spots and instead focusing on places locals frequent.

The Food Market with 30+ Stalls

One of the highlights is a visit to a bustling food market, home to over 30 stands of local produce, cheeses, cured meats, and baked goods. Here, you’ll get a real taste of Norwegian farm life with local cheeses, including the iconic brown cheese (brunost), and smoked salmon that showcases Norway’s world-renowned seafood. Several reviews mention the quality of these tastings; one traveler noted, “All the food was excellent,” emphasizing the freshness and authenticity.

Traditional Norwegian Dishes and Unique Flavors

The tour curates about five tastings that introduce you to traditional dishes. These include cured meats, hearty cheeses, and sweet pastries. The guide explains the significance of each, helping you understand why these flavors matter in Norwegian culture. For example, the brown cheese is a staple in Norway, often enjoyed with bread or waffles.

Scenic Walks and Neighborhoods

Adding to the experience, you’ll stroll through the hipster and student areas of Oslo, taking in the lively street art, trendy cafes, and vibrant markets. The walk along the Akerselva River offers a visual treat—combining nature and urban charm—giving you a well-rounded sense of the city’s atmosphere.

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Sweet Finish: Norwegian Waffle and Dessert

No Norwegian food tour would be complete without a waffle served with brown cheese—a surprisingly tasty combination. Coffee, if you wish, is included, making the dessert feel like a cozy, local treat. One reviewer called this “the perfect finish,” highlighting the buttery, cardamom-spiced pastry that embodies Norwegian baking.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour is approximately 3.5 hours long, with the time structured to include sampling, walking, and learning. The pace is moderate, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the food without feeling rushed. Guides speak English and Spanish, making the tour accessible to international visitors.

The Food Tastings: Quality over Quantity?

While some reviews suggest the tour may be a bit pricey for the amount of food, most agree that the quality and authenticity of the tastings outweigh the cost. Guests enjoy fresh seafood, traditional cheeses, and local cured meats, which provide a comprehensive look at Norwegian cuisine. The guide’s storytelling adds depth, turning each bite into a lesson about Norwegian life and culinary traditions.

The Guide’s Role

Guests consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share insider stories. One review states, “Kevin was outstanding—friendly and very knowledgeable.” This personal touch elevates the experience, transforming a simple food walk into a cultural discovery.

Practical Details: Logistics and Value

The tour starts outside a Narvesen shop—an easy-to-find meeting point—and ends back at the same spot, making it convenient for participants. The activity includes all tastings, a guide, and a dessert, with optional coffee. Not included are extra meals, taxis, or souvenirs.

At a price point that some find high, many agree that the guided experience, curated tastings, and local insights justify the cost. It’s particularly good for travelers who want to maximize their understanding of Norwegian cuisine without the guesswork or the risk of tourist traps.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, which is important to note if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed pace. It’s not wheelchair accessible, and travelers with food allergies should be aware that tastings are pre-selected, so check with the provider if needed.

What Reviewers Loved

Numerous reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor. One traveler mentioned, “Alex was knowledgeable and friendly,” while another called Kevin “outstanding.” The variety of food—from fish to reindeer—was appreciated, along with the storytelling that made each stop meaningful. Many felt the tour was a great way to see Oslo’s neighborhoods while enjoying authentic Norwegian cuisine.

This Oslo food tour offers a well-balanced experience blending scenic walks, cultural insights, and delicious food samples. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore the city’s culinary roots, enjoy intimate group settings, and learn from friendly, informed guides. If you value authentic tastes, local stories, and a chance to see Oslo’s trendy neighborhoods, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer longer meals, more food, or a less brisk pace, you might consider whether the duration and tastings meet your expectations. It’s also worth noting that it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking.

For hungry, curious travelers ready to taste their way through Oslo’s culinary landscape and gather stories to match, this tour is a reliable choice. It’s a chance to enjoy small, quality bites while taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant Scandinavian city.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or people with food allergies?
The tour focuses on typical Norwegian foods like seafood, cured meats, and cheeses, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with certain food allergies. You might find limited options, so check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including walking and tastings. Be prepared for some moderate walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins outside a shop called Narvesen, which is easy to locate and serves as a convenient meeting point.

Are drinks included?
Yes, beer tastings are part of the experience. Coffee is also included if you desire, especially during the dessert stop.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, making it flexible for last-minute plans. However, availability depends on the season and group size.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the walking involved and certain venue limitations.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera to enjoy the scenery and capture memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: