Oslo accommodation has an undeserved reputation for expensiveness. The truth is that, while Oslo has its fair share of luxury hotels, reasonably priced accommodation in Oslo isn't too hard to find either. As with many cities, you get what you pay for.
If you're on a serious budget, it's worth checking out Oslo 's selection of youth hostels. The Anker Hostel(www.ankerhostel.no) wins out on location - you can find it right in the centre of the city, not far from Karl Johans Gate. It also scores points for being a pleasant place to stay. There is a choice of private rooms for individuals, rooms for couples and group rooms. Every room has its own en-suite toilet and shower. There's also a guest kitchen and other amenities, such as the internet cafe. A two-bed room for two people costs around 230 Norwegian kroner per person per night, which is equivalent to about £20.
If you're looking for good mid-priced accommodation in Oslo, check out the Cochs Pensjonat(www.cochspensjonat.no). It's a well-run family business that enjoys a certain fame in Oslo because of the way it is linked with the culture of the city. Artists, singers and environmental activists have all used the space for their work. The location is central, near the Slottsparken gardens. Almost all the rooms have their own bathroom facilities, except for the value rooms. Value rooms start at around £50 per room per night for a double, while a standard double is about £56 per room per night.
For the serious shopper, the Norlandia Karl Johan Hotel is a luxury option. It's situated(as the name suggests) on Karl Johans Gate, Oslo 's main shopping street, so you won't have far to walk before hitting the shops and cafés.
For a little more luxury, try the three-star Norlandia Karl Johan Hotel. As the name suggests, it's on Karl Johans Gate, Oslo 's main shopping street. The location puts you within convenient walking distance of shops, cafés, theatres and restaurants, but the hotel itself will help you relax at the end of a busy day. All rooms have private bathroom facilities as well as a minibar and wireless Internet. Guests also save money on city-centre parking, thanks to an arrangement the hotel has with a nearby car-park. A standard double room costs about £96 per room per night.
Real five-star luxury can be found at the Radisson SAS Plaza Hotel, where jet-setters stay during Oslo trips. It's famous for its height, and many guests take the lift up to the 37th floor just to enjoy the view. Within the hotel, you have a choice of eateries as well as a swimming pool, sauna and gym. Prices start at around £170 per room per night for a standard double room. However, the Radisson SAS chain does run promotions and discounts, so you may be able to get a better price if you're prepared to be flexible about when you stay.