Oslo vs. Bergen: the best shopping areas and atmospheric markets
Shopping in Norway is an absolute blast! It's not just about brands and big stores, it's an adventure! You haven't experienced true shopping culture until you've been to the markets and boutiques! The atmosphere is simply unique and something you have to experience for yourself. Oslo and Bergen are the two largest cities in the country, and they offer tourists a variety of places to shop. In Oslo, you'll find amazing shops selling the best local goods and souvenirs, while Bergen has fantastic historic markets and fairs that reflect the region's culture. In this article, we'll be taking you on a journey to the heart of these two vibrant cities, where you'll discover the ultimate shopping destinations, whether you're after the best markets or the most stylish shops.
Where can you find the best souvenir shops in Oslo?
Oslo is a modern and traditional city, and it is here that you can find perfect souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones. For the best souvenirs, go to Karl Johans gate, the city's main shopping street. Here you will find both large international brand stores and small boutiques selling handmade goods, ceramics and traditional Norwegian souvenirs, such as Viking paraphernalia and accessories.
Aker Brygge also has lots of shops selling unusual Norwegian products, like clothes and accessories from local designers. If you are looking for something more traditional, check out Fjordbutikken, which sells souvenirs related to maritime culture and wooden products. If you walk through the centre of Oslo, you will find lots of places to buy unusual gifts and souvenirs.
Which markets and fairs should you visit in Bergen and Oslo?
As in any other major European city, Oslo and Bergen have fairs and markets where you can not only buy souvenirs but also experience the local culture. In Oslo, one of the most popular places to visit at Christmas is the market at Youngstorget. Here, you can find traditional Christmas goods and decorations, and you can also try local food. You can also buy deer antler products and local jewellery here.
Bergen has a central market called Fisketorget. The historic Bryggen area is also worth a visit. Here, you can go to various fairs. At the fairs, you can buy handicrafts, wooden souvenirs and products by local artists. You should also visit Julemarkedet, a Christmas market where you can find food, drinks and gifts specific to the region.
What can you find at the markets in Oslo and Bergen?
The markets in Oslo and Bergen sell lots of local products and delicious foods. In Oslo, at Youngstorget and Mathallen (a food market), you can find fresh produce such as salmon, smoked fish and the famous Norwegian cheese brunost. You can also find handicrafts at the markets, including wooden souvenirs, toys, ceramics, textiles and jewellery.
At Fisketorget (the fish market) in Bergen, you can buy fresh fish and unique items. These include traditional fishing equipment and other things related to Norway's maritime culture. Bergen's markets also sell stylish textiles, jewellery and local products such as cheese and spices.
Both markets sell traditional souvenirs. You can buy Viking figurines, jewellery with local symbols, and even fabrics with traditional Norwegian patterns.
Shopping in Oslo and Bergen is not just about buying things, but also about immersing yourself in the atmosphere of Norway and its traditions. If you're looking for Viking-themed souvenirs, unique items made by local artisans, or simply want to try local delicacies, then you'll find everything you need for a memorable shopping experience in the markets and shops of these two cities! Every corner of the city has its own unique atmosphere, and every market has a story to tell.
Come along, explore and share your amazing finds with us in the comments!
