Traveler's Choice: 15 Norwegian Gifts from Oslo
The Norwegians are strict about gift making and believe that each gift must be equaled with a return one. For this reason, public holidays and birthdays are a very serious business in Norway, with everyone making and receiving gifts. In the spirit of this tradition, you might want to treat your dear ones back home with some tasteful, typically Norwegian presents to mark a special occasion or just as a token of your affection. Here are the top 15 gift ideas from Norway!
(To visit the venues mentioned in this article, check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Oslo)
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1. Arts & Crafts Jewelry
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Arts & Crafts jewelry is a great gift for that special one in your life. Originally designed in Norway, these collections include both, high quality fashion jewelry and completely handmade sterling silver jewelry. Their models represent a fusion of Scandinavian simplicity and international fashion patterns. Much of this jewelry is adorned with enamel, Swarovski crystals, pearls and other quality materials. Today, the Arts & Crafts company offers a wide range of beautiful jewelry collections and enjoys great popularity throughout the whole world. Each piece is designed with much love and a great sense of detail. Price: $25 - $100, or more.
Where to find it:
A & C ShowroomSj酶lyst Plass 3, room 450, 0278 Oslo, Norway
+ 47 32 22 60 00
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2. Rosette Cookies
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Sweet and crispy, these Scandinavian origin cookies are a perfect gift for your family and friends. They are considered a tradition during Christmas time in Norway. Rosettes are characterized by a golden brown colour, lemon flavour and intricate designs. Most often they are sprinkled with powdered sugar or dipped into frosting, thus they end up looking like giant snowflakes. They are paper thin and tend to crumble. Rosette cookies usually break into small pieces upon the first bite. These soft and extremely delicious Norwegian cookies have been a treat for many generations. Price: $3 - $6.
Where to find it:
Maschmanns Food Market Karenslyst all茅 51
0278 Oslo
22 55 33 44
post@maschmanns.no
www.maschmanns.no
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3. Norwegian Tine
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Norwegian tines make great one-of-a-kind gifts for your family and friends, offering an interesting range of designs, sizes and shapes. In Norway, these bentwood boxes often appear in the shape of viking ships. They are used mostly as a container for jewelry, mementos and other delicate objects. Though some are left unadorned, the majority of these boxes are decorated with carvings or traditional Rosemaling patterns. Sometimes the wood itself that is used for producing these tines is beautiful enough to provide the desired eye-appeal. The wood most commonly used for manufacturing bentwood boxes is birch. Price: $50 - $400.
Where to find it:
Norway DesignsStortingsgata 28, 0161 Oslo, Norway
23 11 45 10
post@norwaydesigns.no
www.norwaydesigns.no
Mon-Fri: 10-18
Thu: 10-19
Sat: 10-16
The Artisans in the Old Town/Museum of Cultural History
Museumsveien 10, 0287 Oslo, Norway
22 12 37 00
www.norskfolkemuseum.no
Mon-Fri: 10:00-18:00; Sat-Sun: 10:00-18:00
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4. Freia Chocolate
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If you are looking for something delightfully sweet from Norway, then you should definitely go for their beloved Freia chocolate brand. This tasty, high-quality Norwegian chocolate, often referred to as a "little piece of Norway", has been magnetizing consumers for more than 100 years. The most popular variations of this brand include Freia Melkesjokolade, Freia Kokesjokolade, Kvikk Lunsj and Firkl酶ver. The company also produces candies, deserts and other foodstuffs. Most often, their sweet production contains supplements of nuts, raisins, cookies and Daim pieces. Your family and friends will definitely be excited to receive such a delicious treat! Price: $2 - $10.
Where to find it:
Freia chocolate shop Address: Karl Johans 31, 0159 Oslo , Norway
Tel: +47 22 42 31 16
5. Linie Aquavit
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This smooth and rich aquavit is the most famous flavoured spirit produced in Norway. Sailed around the world via Australia, this mature and soft liquor carries the details of its journey in each bottle. The beverage has a light caraway flavour and slightly sweet taste. The color varies from yellow to light brown. A darker color means it has been aged for a longer period of time. This full-bodied, nutty-tasting drink is usually served refrigerated in small shot glasses. It's a perfect gift for family or friends, especially during Christmas time! Price: $20 - $30, or more. In Oslo, the only place to buy alcoholic beverages over 4.75% alc by volume is the state-run Vinmonopolet, which unfortunately can also be more expensive. The best place to buy it would be the Oslo Airport Duty-Free shop.
Where to find it:
Oslo Airport ShopEdvard Munchs veg, Gardermoen
+47 32 23 09 00
Mon-Sun: 00.00 鈥� 24.00
Briskeby Vinmonopol
Briskebyveien 48, Oslo, Norway
Monday - Thursday: 1000-1800
Friday: 0900-1800
Saturday: 0900-1500
+47 04560
vinmonopolet.no
Gr酶nland Basar Vinmonopol
T酶yengata 2, Oslo, Norway
+47 04560
Mon-Fri: 10:00-18:00
Sat: 10:00-15:00
vinmonopolet.no
6. Norwegian Sweater
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An authentic Norwegian sweater would make a great gift for that someone special to you. These comfortable and warm sweaters come in a variety of styles and sizes. They are characterized by bright, vivid colors and traditional Norwegian patterns. The most commonly used imprints are edelweiss flowers, snowflakes and hearts. These friendly-skin sweaters are made of the highest-quality wool and bring up the spirit of Norway. They are considered a classic present for Christmas, being especially appreciated by the enthusiastic supporters of the Olympic Ski Team. The sweaters equally become men and women, as well as children of all ages. Price: $150 - $550.
Where to find it:
HolmAddress: H. Heyerdahlsgt. 1, 0160 Oslo, Norway
Tel: +47 22 41 15 74
Email: holm@hatteholm.com
Opening hours: Monday - Fridag: 9 am - 5 pm Saturday: 10 am - 4 pm
Website: http://www.thv-holm.no/
Maurtua Husflid
Address: Akershusstranda, 0150 Oslo, Norway
Tel: +47 22 41 31 64
Email: maurmail@maurtua.no
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7. Gnomes and Trolls
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Gnomes are the scheming little folk from fairy tales, who entertain themselves with pranks all the time. Garden figurines of gnomes are very popular these days in Norway as both, decoration pieces and cute welcome gifts. Another famous mystical lot of the Norwegian folklore are trolls. They can be both, gigantic and tiny. The statues of trolls carved in wood or stone also make a popular gift from Norway.
Where to find it:
Quality Shop Tordenskiolds gate 12
0160 Oslo
46 93 51 88
post@qualityshoposlo.no
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8. Norwegian Brown Cheese
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Brown Cheese or Brunost is one of the dearest loved delicacies in Norway, holding a special place in the country鈥檚 diet. With over 150 years in existence, this unique caramelized piece of cheese-making artistry is indeed something special. It can be equally enjoyed if eaten on its own, or put on top of some freshly baked waffles, or together with apple pies, or inside game or venison stews. Any way, it's delicious!
Where to find it:
Den Blinde Ku Fredensborg
Maridalsveien 17 A
0178 Oslo
Norway
+47 924 44 551
9. Norwegian Christmas Ornaments
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These beautiful handmade paper cut-outs are a cute little something from Norway that will be definitely appreciated back home, especially during Christmas. These Norwegian Christmas ornaments will look equally good if hung on windows or placed on tables. Usually, they include various hand-colored decorations, paper hearts and Norwegian flag garlands. The garlands are about 12 foot long and have like 40 little Norwegian paper flags attached to it. The ornaments are very colorful and bright, and will bringing up the Norwegian spirit of Christmas. They are easy to mail and will certainly put a smile on the face of the recipient. Price: $3 - $15.
Where to find it:
Audhild Viken Fridtjof Nansens plass 6
0160 Oslo
22 42 28 06
oslo@aviken.no
www.gifts.no
10. Rosemaling Design
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A rosemaled item is a great gift for those fond of painting. This method of decorative painting on wood is very popular in Norway. The most commonly featured patterns include flowers, scroll-work, lining and geometric elements. Landscape and architectural designs are also common. The most well-known rosemaling patterns are Telemark, Rogaland and Hallingdal. This form of decorative painting is done by hand, so there no two items exactly alike. The designs are usually created with C and S strokes and are characterized by subtlety and vivid colors. Price: $10 - $120, or more.
Where to find it:
Norway DesignsStortingsgata 28, 0161 Oslo, Norway
23 11 45 10
post@norwaydesigns.no
www.norwaydesigns.no
Mon-Fri: 10-18
Thu: 10-19
Sat: 10-16
The Artisans in the Old Town/Museum of Cultural History
Museumsveien 10, 0287 Oslo, Norway
22 12 37 00
www.norskfolkemuseum.no
Mon-Fri: 10:00-18:00; Sat-Sun: 10:00-18:00
11. Henning Engelsen Wood Carvings
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Henning Engelson was one of the greatest woodcarvers and illustrators of Norway. His fascinating wood carved creations, illustrating themes from the Norwegian folklore, as well as animals and mythological creatures, possess a great deal of artistic value and can adorn any interior. All handmade, they come in a variety of sizes and themes. Some of the most popular ones are the images of trolls and gnomes, as well as vikings. These carved figurines combine the warmth of natural wood with that of the human hands that masterly cut it; they radiate joy and manifest a miniature piece of the Norwegian culture. Price: $40- $550.
Where to find it:
Norway DesignsStortingsgata 28, 0161 Oslo, Norway
23 11 45 10
post@norwaydesigns.no
www.norwaydesigns.no
Mon-Fri: 10-18
Thu: 10-19
Sat: 10-16
The Artisans in the Old Town/Museum of Cultural History
Museumsveien 10, 0287 Oslo, Norway
22 12 37 00
www.norskfolkemuseum.no
Mon-Fri: 10:00-18:00; Sat-Sun: 10:00-18:00
12. Bunads
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Whether it shows strong traditional patterns and cuts or has a more modern design, this traditional Norwegian costume will definitely look good on any woman. You can even buy separate pieces and create your own set, as each piece carries a certain motif and theme attributed to a certain area of Norway. Bunads usually include sophisticated embroidery, scarves, bonnets and shawls. Woolen stockings are considered compulsory for a complete outfit. Most often, the costumes are characterized by bright colors and floral or geometric patterns. The price of a whole costume is fairly high and can sometimes reach up to $4,000. But if you buy only certain garments, you can economize significantly. The price of a vest, for example, ranges between $35 and $60, and the shirt would set you back around $50-$150, or more.
Where to find it:
Heimen HusflidRosenkrantz gate 8, 0159 Oslo, Norway
23 21 42 00
heimen@heimen.net
www.heimen.net
Monday-Friday 10:00-18:00
Saturday 10:00-15:00
Husfliden
GlasMagasinet, Stortorvet 9, 0155 Oslo, Norway
22 42 10 75
post@dennorskehusfliden.no
www.dennorskehusfliden.no
Monday-Friday 10:00-19:00
Saturday 10:00-18:00
13. Solje Jewelry
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This traditional jewelry of Norway shows a great deal of distinctive Scandinavian flair. It usually comes as a set of sterling silver, from which small round or oval tear-shaped "spoons" of either gold or silver are suspended. Initially, Solje was meant to accentuate the traditional Norwegian costume, known as bunads. Today, this jewelry appears in a variety of forms, such as earrings, necklaces, brooches or even pins. In fact, these days, you can find fans of this type of jewelry far away from Scandinavian shores! If you ponder over some cool present for a wedding, christening and some other special occasion, think no more! Price: $20 - $300.
Where to find it:
The Artisans in the Old Town/Museum of Cultural HistoryMuseumsveien 10, 0287 Oslo, Norway
22 12 37 00
www.norskfolkemuseum.no
Mon-Fri: 10:00-18:00; Sat-Sun: 10:00-18:00
David-Andersen
Karl Johans gate 20, Oslo, Norway
24 14 88 10
www.david-andersen.no
silver@david-andersen.no
Monday-Friday 10-18, Saturday 10-17
Esaias Solberg
Dronningens gate 27, 0154 Oslo, Norway
22 86 24 80
post@esaias.no
www.esaias.no
Monday-Wednesday, Friday 10:00-15:00
Thursday 10:00-17:30
14. Smoked Norwegian Salmon
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Smoked salmon from Norway is a very popular product on the international market these days. Caught in the cold waters of Norwegian fjords, this delicious appetizer is prepared based on the traditional Norwegian smoking techniques. The salmon is cold smoked for about 12 hours, subjected to dry-curing with various types of wood, including Juniper. The end product reveals a silky smooth texture and salty flavour. It has a peachy-pink colour and a high content of water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. A truly great treat to fish lovers with a taste. Due to its relatively high cost, smoked salmon is considered a delicacy. Price: $10 - $100.
Where to find it:
Fenaknoken Address: Tordenskiolds gate 12, 0160 Oslo, Norway
Tel: +47 22 42 34 57
Email: fenaknoken@fenaknoken.no
Website: http://www.fenaknoken.no/
15. Norwegian Folk Music CD
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If you're fond of music in general and folk music in particular, you might as well fancy a CD of Norwegian folk music. Most of the Norwegian folk tunes are rather funky, composed mainly for dancing purposes. There are two main types of folk music: vocal and instrumental. The vocal part comprises mostly epic folk songs, especially the medieval ballads. Their themes are either historical or the tales of knights and maidens. Today, there is a growing interest in both, folk music and traditional instruments. A significant number of the young talents, who have recently emerged on the Norwegian music market, combine traditional style with more modern approach. Some of the popular Norwegian folk musicians include Mari Boine, Sofia Jannok, G氓te, Odd Nordstoga and others. Price: $10 - $15.
Where to find it:
PlatekompanietOslo City shopping mall
Stenersgata 1, 0050 Oslo, Norway
+47 23 16 35 00 鈥�
platekompaniet.no
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Other Interesting Souvenirs from Norway
If you are out of Norway and have no immediate plans to travel up North any time soon, but still want to procure some authentic Norwegian souvenirs, without leaving your home country, you may do so right here, right now through our partner Amazon.com. Presented here are some Norwegian products sought by foreign visitors, now available online for your convenience.
1. Books of Norwegian authors - If you're a fan of Scandinavian art, and particularly Norwegian literature, or on the contrary - only wish to acquaint yourself with it without traveling to the country, perhaps there's no better way to do it than by reading books by the local authors, such as Edvard Munch and J. Gill Holland, Tarjei Vesaas and Torbjorn Stoverud, as well as Jostein Gaarder.
2. Viking souvenirs - Viking-themed artifacts to put yourself into the mood of the bygone era. Feel the Viking spirit by drinking wine or mead or ale from a Medieval cup made of horn that comes complete with a leather holder or special stand.
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Walking Tours in Oslo, Norway
Create Your Own Walk in Oslo
Creating your own self-guided walk in Oslo is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Oslo Introduction Walking Tour
Originally a Viking village, Norway's capital city has a long and multifaceted history that begins long before its establishment as a trading hub of 脕nslo in 1040 AD. Archaeological findings suggest the presence of a Christian settlement in the area predating the year 1000.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Oslo's significance varied under the rule of Danish and Norwegian kings. Around... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Throughout the Middle Ages, Oslo's significance varied under the rule of Danish and Norwegian kings. Around... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Historical Churches Walking Tour
Oslo's religious landscape, particularly within the Christian tradition, is a captivating tapestry interwoven with history, faith, and architectural elegance. The city boasts a collection of historical churches reflecting the evolution of local Christian communities. Diverse in their designs, these sacred sites offer a glimpse into the deep-rooted religious traditions that have shaped Oslo... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Museum District (Bygdoy) Walking Tour
Oslo's Museum District, located on the Bygdoy Peninsula, is home to some of the most visited museums in the city. Repositories of precious artifacts from Norway鈥檚 history, these remarkable institutions collectively represent a treasure trove for those keen on exploring this northerly nation's past.
One of the standout attractions here is the Fram Museum, showcasing the incredible... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
One of the standout attractions here is the Fram Museum, showcasing the incredible... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles