✎ About Oslo
Oslo, Norway's vibrant capital, is easily accessible for foreign visitors, primarily through its main international airport, Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL).
Located approximately 47 kilometers northeast of the city center, OSL serves as a major hub for numerous international airlines.
✈︎ Flight information
From cities across Europe, North America, and beyond
OSL offers direct flights from cities across Europe, North America, and beyond.
From South East Asia
There are several daily direct flights from Bangkok to Oslo (Thai Airways and Norse Atlantic Airways) which would eliminate the need for a painful transfer in Europe.
︎⛟ Transportation
Airport Express Train (Flytoget)
The fastest and most popular choice is the Airport Express Train (Flytoget), which provides a comfortable and efficient journey to Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) in about 20 minutes.
Regional trains (Vy)
Regional trains (Vy) also offer a more economical alternative, with slightly longer travel times.
Airport buses (e.g., Flybussen)
Various airport buses (e.g., Flybussen) provide routes to different parts of Oslo, and taxis are readily available outside the terminal.
Train services (from neighboring countries)
For visitors arriving from neighboring countries, especially Sweden, train services are a viable option, connecting major Swedish cities directly to Oslo Central Station.
※ Getting around Oslo
Ruter public transport network encompasses trams, buses, subways (T-bane), and local ferries, all integrated under a single ticketing system.
The Oslo Pass is highly recommended for tourists, offering unlimited travel on all Ruter public transport within specific zones, alongside free entry to many museums and attractions.
$ Consumption patterns
Cash - Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Norway uses its own currency, the Norwegian Krone (NOK).Many Norwegians rarely carry cash. You might find some places, especially in larger cities, that are entirely cashless.In Norway, the maximum legal limit for cash payments is 20,000 NOK.
Card payments - Visa/Mastercard
Your debit or credit card will be your best friend in Norway. Virtually everywhere – shops, restaurants, hotels, museums, taxis, and even many smaller kiosks and cafes – accepts card payments.
Mobile payment - Vipps/Apple Pay/Google Pay
Vipps is a mobile payment app commonly used by Norwegians, but as a foreigner, you might not be able to use it because it requires a Norwegian bank account and a national ID.
Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted anywhere in Norway that supports contactless card payments.
︎✪ Conference venue
ICITL 2025 will be hosted at Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet). OsloMet is a dynamic and modern public university situated in the heart of Norway's capital.
The venue of the conference will be the Pilestredet 35 building (called P35) with entrance from Holbergs pass.
Conference address
If you arrive directly from the Airport the Nationaletateret airport express stop is just 7 minutes’ walk from the venue.
Conference Venue Map
Arrows indicate entrances to the buildings.
Registration desk
On the first day the registration desk will be in the main foyee of the P35 building. In the last two days you will find the registration desk in the coffee break room.
Coffee breaks will be served in PI259 (on the left end side of the corridor on the 2nd floor).
Session rooms
The plenary sessions will be in the PH131 auditotium on the first floor of P35. Parallel sessions will be located on the 2nd floor of P35 in rooms PI246, PI251 and PI254.
Lunch
Lunch will be served in the Årstidene restaurant (basement, U2, down a set of stairs) in the former building of the Research Council of Norway (Stensberggata 26). It is less than 5 minutes’ walk from P35 (follow the tram line tracks from the conference building).
※ Internet access
Is an Eduroam member : You should be able to seamlessly have access to the Eduroam network throughout the campus (and also Oslo Airport).
Not an Eduroam member : You may access our guess network (OsloMet Guest). The guest account is valid for 12 hours and can be used on up to three devices. The service costs NOK 2.
☗ Accommodation
There are a large range of hotels around Oslo at various price levels. Due to the public transport, it is relatively convenient regardless of which area you choose. The four closest hotels to the conference venue are:
◉ Things to do while you are in Oslo
August is a fantastic time to visit Oslo, with pleasant weather and a lively atmosphere. While the average temperature is around 15-19°C (59-66°F), be prepared for some humidity and a chance of rain, so packing layers and a light rain jacket is a good idea. Here are some suggestions for foreign visitors to enjoy Oslo in August:
Embrace the Outdoors and the Fjord:
Fjord Exploration: August is perfect for enjoying the Oslofjord
○ Island Hopping: Take a local ferry (covered by the Oslo Pass!) to explore the picturesque islands like Hovedøya, Lindøya, or Langøyene. You can enjoy beaches, ruins, charming villages, and even go for a swim in the surprisingly warm water.
○ Boat Tours: Opt for a guided sightseeing cruise to see Oslo from the water, passing by iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Akershus Fortress. Many tours offer silent electric boats for a more peaceful experience.
○ Kayaking or SUP: Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for an active way to explore the calm waters of the fjord.
○ Fjord Saunas: Experience a unique Norwegian tradition by trying a floating sauna, often combined with a refreshing dip in the fjord.
Parks and Green Spaces:
○ Vigeland Sculpture Park (Frognerparken): A must-visit, this vast park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. It's great for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or people-watching.
○ Ekebergparken Sculpture Park: Offers stunning views of the city and fjord, along with impressive sculptures integrated into the natural landscape. Easily accessible by tram.
○ Botanical Garden: A beautiful and peaceful oasis in the city, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Hiking and Nature:
○ Holmenkollen Ski Jump: Visit the iconic ski jump for panoramic views of Oslo. You can also try the zipline if you're feeling adventurous!
○ Hiking in Nordmarka: Just outside the city, the Nordmarka forest offers extensive hiking trails for all levels, from leisurely walks to more challenging treks.
○ Akerselva River Walk: Stroll along the Akerselva River, which runs through the city, offering a mix of nature, industrial history, and urban life.
Immerse in Culture and History:
Museums on Bygdøy Peninsula: Take a short ferry ride to Bygdøy, a peninsula packed with fascinating museums.
○ Fram Museum: Dedicated to polar exploration, housing the famous polar ship "Fram." Highly recommended for its immersive exhibits.
○ Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum): One of Europe's largest open-air museums, showcasing historic Norwegian buildings and traditional life.
○ Kon-Tiki Museum: Features the Kon-Tiki raft and exhibits on Thor Heyerdahl's expeditions.
※ The Viking Ship Museum is currently closed for renovation, with its collection to be moved to the new Museum of the Viking Age, opening in 2027.
City Center Highlights:
○ Munch Museum: Explore the vast collection of works by Edvard Munch, including his iconic "The Scream."
○ National Museum: A modern museum showcasing Norwegian and international art, architecture, and design.
○ Oslo Opera House: Marvel at its striking architecture and walk on its sloped roof for fantastic city and fjord views.
○ Akershus Fortress: A medieval castle and fortress offering a glimpse into Norway's past and great views.
○ Royal Palace and Palace Park: Observe the changing of the guard and enjoy a stroll in the surrounding park.
○ Nobel Peace Center: Learn about the Nobel Peace Prize and its laureates.
Enjoy Oslo's Summer Vibe:
Festivals and Events: August often hosts various festivals and outdoor concerts. Check local listings closer to your visit for specific events.
Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen: These lively waterfront areas are perfect for dining al fresco, enjoying a drink, and people-watching.
Mathallen Food Hall: Explore this indoor food market for a taste of local and international delicacies.
Grünerløkka: This trendy neighborhood is known for its independent boutiques, cafes, bars, and street art.
Public Swimming: With pleasant August temperatures, consider taking a dip at one of Oslo's many public swimming spots, either in the fjord or in lakes like Sognsvann.
August still offers long hours of daylight, allowing for extended sightseeing and outdoor activities.