Oslo is a city that surprises many visitors with its lively food scene, which blends traditional Norwegian flavors with modern, inventive dishes. Unlike some capitals where tourist traps dominate, Oslo offers authentic tastes tucked into neighborhoods and markets that only locals usually know. We love the Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems City Walk, because it combines a taste of real Norwegian cuisine with the chance to explore Oslo away from the crowds, guided by someone who knows the city inside out. Whether you’re into reindeer, fresh seafood, or cozy cafes, Oslo’s diverse food scene is a treat.
In this list, you’ll find a wide range of experiences: from cultural walks that include history and architecture to more focused food tastings highlighting traditional ingredients like moose, venison, and local pastries. Plus, some tours incorporate scenic walks along the Akerselva River, visits to food markets, and even outdoor campfire feasts in winter forests. If you’re wondering which tour matches your style, keep reading to find your perfect match.
Here’s a quick overview of what types of food tours made our list, each with its own twist:
– Guided city walks combining Norwegian cuisine and hidden spots (Tour #1)
– Neighborhood-focused tastings in trendy districts like Grünerløkka (Tour #2)
– Historic sights paired with food stops (Tour #6)
– Outdoor adventures with a winter forest campfire feast (Tour #5)
– Shorter, more casual walks with multiple food stops (Tour #9)
1. Oslo: Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems City Walk
This food tour offers a three-hour walk through Oslo’s lesser-known spots, combining Norwegian cuisine with local storytelling. Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll escape the busy tourist areas and instead discover Oslo through the eyes of locals. The tour includes visits to three different local restaurants and cafes, with plenty of tasting opportunities—vegetarian options are available too. Highlights include sampling traditional Norwegian foods, exploring hidden eateries, and visiting the guide’s favorite spots, away from tourist traps.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic Norwegian food and off-the-beaten-path sights. You’ll taste a variety of dishes, from hearty local fare to delicacies you probably wouldn’t find on your own. The itinerary features a combination of food tastings—totaling quite a few bites—and sightseeing, with a tram ride included for a bit of local transit experience.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s insider knowledge and relaxed style. One reviewer notes, “Avoiding the crowds and discovering Oslo’s hidden gems made this a memorable experience.” For those who want a good mix of food, culture, and authentic local flavor, this tour provides excellent value at $162 per person.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers eager to see Oslo differently while tasting authentic Norwegian dishes.
2. Oslo: Grünerløkka Food & Culture Walking Tour
Coming in at number 2, this Grünerløkka tour combines food tasting with a stroll through Oslo’s trendiest neighborhood. It runs for about 2.5 hours and focuses on how Norway’s flavors reflect its resources and creative spirit. Highlights include sampling reindeer, moose, and venison, and exploring the area’s vibrant streets, riverside paths, and indie food scene.
What makes this experience distinctive is its focus on Oslo’s working-class roots and how they’ve shaped the city’s food and culture today. The tour visits Mathallen Oslo, a popular food market, and stops at Vulkan, where you’ll taste local beers and snacks. You’ll also walk along the Akerselva River, enjoying scenic views and learning about the area’s industrial past transformed into a creative hub.
The reviews mention how informative and relaxed the tour is, with one saying, “The combination of food and culture was great—plus, gluten-free options were accommodated.” The tour offers a glimpse into Oslo’s evolving food scene and history, making it ideal for those interested in both.
Bottom Line: An engaging way to explore Oslo’s culinary and cultural evolution in one go.
3. 3 Hours Walking Tour for Great Food in Oslo
At number 3, this walking tour takes you along the Akerselva River to Mathallen food hall, then further into Grünerløkka’s lively streets. It’s a three-and-a-half-hour adventure designed for those who want a deeper dive into Oslo’s food and its neighborhoods.
This tour features 5-6 food stops, with a focus on local specialties—from sweet pastries to savory reindeer ham and fresh seafood. The guide offers insights into how Oslo’s food scene has evolved, and the tour is suitable for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. The final stop is a brewery with beer tastings and pizza snacks, providing a satisfying conclusion.
Guests appreciate the “great variety and friendly hosts,” with some mentioning that the tour offers a good mix of food, culture, and outdoor activity. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy flavorful bites and walking at a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a comprehensive tasting experience that includes both food and city sights.
4. Oslo: Food Tasting and Walking Tour with a Local
This tour runs about 3.5 hours through Oslo’s diverse neighborhoods, starting along the riverbanks of Akerselva. You’ll sample a variety of foods from more than 30 stands at a local food market, visit a shop dedicated to traditional Norwegian dress, and enjoy a delicious waffle—highlighting local culinary traditions.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to explore Oslo’s hipster and student districts, combined with tastings at vibrant markets. The guide emphasizes local produce and explains the origins of Norwegian ingredients, enriching your appreciation of each bite.
Recent reviews praise the guide’s in-depth knowledge and the variety of foods, especially mentioning the “excellent local produce” and the lively atmosphere of the food market. It’s perfect for travelers eager to sample a broad range of Norwegian foods in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for foodies who want to enjoy Oslo’s local food culture with a knowledgeable guide.
5. Oslo’s Mountain Food Tour: Winter Forest & Campfire Feast
Ranking number 5, this outdoor mountain food tour is a real highlight for those wanting to combine nature and cuisine. Over three hours, you’ll walk through Norway’s winter forests, led by a licensed guide and professional chef. The trek ends with a campfire feast featuring fire-cooked meats, lamb, trout, and even horse, plus pastries and local beer.
This experience is unique because it blends outdoor adventure with authentic Norwegian flavors, cooked over open flames. You’ll visit a 100-year-old forest bakery, learn about traditional Norwegian cooking techniques, and gather around the campfire for a hearty, communal meal.
Reviews note the “delicious wild meat tasting” and the cultural insights shared during the walk. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy outdoor life and want to experience Norway’s wilderness cuisine firsthand. Keep in mind, it’s a winter experience with warm clothing and sturdy shoes a must.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous food lovers looking to combine hiking and hearty outdoor meals in stunning scenery.
6. A Well Balanced History and Food Tour with Focus on the Scandinavian Kitchen
This half-day tour explores Oslo’s historic sites—Akershus Fortress, the Parliament, the Royal Residence—while sampling classic Scandinavian dishes. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit historic restaurants, a Norwegian canteen, and the Freja Chocolatier.
The tour’s strength is its combination of history, architecture, and food, providing a well-rounded perspective on Norwegian culture. You’ll taste traditional foods like salmon, cheese, and pastries, with some optional extra tastings at local food spots.
Guests have praised the guide’s storytelling and the unique food stops, like the salmon fishery and historic eateries. It’s priced at $334.32 for groups up to 10, making it a good value for a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs who also want a taste of traditional Scandinavian cuisine.
7. Flavors of Oslo: Food & Beer Tour
At number 7, this beer and food experience offers a casual, friendly exploration of Oslo’s beer culture and local flavors. Starting at the Nobel Peace Center, you’ll sample a typical Norwegian pastry, then move on to a shot of aquavit at the harbor. Walking past City Hall and Parliament, you’ll visit a favorite pub to taste Oslo’s local lager.
What makes this tour fun is its focus on Norwegian beer traditions combined with pairing snacks. The guide emphasizes the role of beer and aquavit in Norwegian social life and offers insights into local brewing traditions.
Reviewers mention the “relaxed vibe” and the quality of the beer and snacks. It’s a small, intimate experience perfect for beer lovers or those interested in Norway’s beverage culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to combine Norwegian flavors with local beer and spirits in a laid-back setting.
8. Norwegian Nature and Food Experience
This 5-hour adventure takes you from your hotel into Oslo’s outdoors and food halls. Meeting a personal guide, you’ll explore the River Aker, see waterfalls, bridges, and street art, then visit Mathallen Oslo for Nordic cuisine tastings.
What sets this apart is its dual focus on natural beauty and culinary delights. You’ll learn about Oslo’s industrial past, enjoy scenic views, and taste modern Nordic dishes, combining urban exploration with food.
Recent reviews highlight the personalized service and the chance to see parts of Oslo inaccessible to most travelers. It’s suitable for those who want a flexible, intimate experience that includes walking, sightseeing, and sampling great food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a mix of outdoor scenery and food, with a personal touch.
9. 3.5 Hours Walking Tour for Great Food in Oslo
Closing our list is a 4-hour walking tour focused on Oslo’s food and neighborhoods. Guides are local food lovers with over 20 years in Oslo, taking you through the Akerselva river and Grünerløkka district with 4-5 food stops.
This tour emphasizes hidden food spots and the stories behind them, offering a more intimate look at Oslo’s culinary scene. The guide’s passion for food and local life makes this a memorable, flavorful experience.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of foods from street snacks to gourmet bites, making it ideal for those wanting an authentic taste of Oslo’s culinary landscape.
Bottom Line: Suitable for foodies interested in discovering local favorites with expert guides.
How to Choose Your Perfect Oslo Food Tour
When selecting a food tour in Oslo, consider your interests and travel style. For a deep dive into Norwegian cuisine with historical context, the Well Balanced History and Food Tour is a solid choice. If outdoor adventures appeal, the Mountain Food Tour offers a unique blend of nature and hearty local dishes.
Budget travelers might enjoy shorter walking tours with multiple stops, while those looking for a more relaxed, intimate experience may prefer the food and culture tour in Grünerløkka. For beer lovers, the Flavors of Oslo combines local brews with delicious food.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons like summer and during holiday periods. Remember to check the tour timings, and if you have dietary restrictions, inquire beforehand to ensure a good fit.
In sum, Oslo offers a wide spectrum of culinary experiences—whether you want to explore historic neighborhoods, indulge in outdoor feasts, or sample innovative Nordic dishes. From curated walking tours to outdoor adventures, there’s a food experience for every type of traveler. Picking the right one depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much you want to learn about Norwegian culture. Book early, and enjoy the flavors of Oslo in all their authentic richness.