Scandinavia is easily one of the most breathtaking places in the world. However, for a majority of people in the world, it was out of reach as a tourist destination. That, however, is soon going to change. Aer Lingus has launched a new direct Dublin-Oslo flight that has turned Oslo into a new backdoor entry into Scandinavia. In order to take full advantage of this new connection, we have prepared the ultimate unstumbled budget guide to Scandinavia.
Why Scandinavia Is Costly And Why That’s Changing
For the first time in more than a decade, Aer Lingus has announced that it is re-entering Scandinavia with its Dublin-Oslo flight. This connection will operate four times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
This presents a direct competition to carriers like Norwegian and SAS, which offer five and six weekly flights respectively. In comparison to these airlines, Aer’s fares start as low as €73 (INR 8190.02). The new Oslo link is a more convenient stop for many travelers around the world.
What To Know About The New Dublin-Oslo Route
Flying to Oslo from Dublin lets travelers skip the traditionally high airport taxes. It also sidesteps the premium flying costs that are generally associated with Stockholm or Copenhagen.
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Building Your Budget Scandinavian Itinerary Around Oslo
Here’s what you can do on a 2-3 day budget itinerary. Since saving money is the primary goal, prioritize free sightseeing spots. There are several natural and cultural attractions here that are free for all.
Free Sightseeing Spots In Oslo
1. Free Fjord Access
You can enjoy the azure fjords of Oslo by simply taking advantage of their public ferry transportation. The departing point of Line B1, Aker Brygge Rådhusbrygge 4 pier, is an excellent starting point. Enjoy mesmerizing views across Hovedøya and Lindøya islands.
2. Tjuvholmen
Walk along the bustling and vibrant waterfront boardwalk at Tjuvholmen in Aker Brygge. It is a great place for people who like people-watching, harbor views, and outdoor art installations.
3. Vigeland Park
This is the largest sculpture park in the world and is located inside Frongner Park. Featuring more than 200 sculptures of Gustav Vigeland, these are all made from bronze and granite, and are nude human figures. The monolith here is arguably the most famous and will make you wonder how this park is completely free to enter.
Budget Accommodation Options
We encourage you not to book Airbnbs here, as finding ones that are both cheap and good is difficult. Instead, taking advantage of the Nordic allemannsretten philosophy may help you save money.
Allemannsretten: Translated as the “Freedom To Roam”, the public here is free to roam any patch of wilderness or nature, whether private or public, as long as they don’t litter or disturb the natural environment in any significant way. Many people take advantage of it and set up camps in the wilderness for a free stay option. This is by far the cheapest way to spend the night. However, if you are used to a comfy bed, the hostel circuit here is not too bad either.
The Hostel Circuit: The hostel circuit is especially recommended for solo travelers or pairs. Check out Anker Hostel or K7 Hotel Oslo for cheap, comfortable, and clean dormitory options.
Oslo Pass: Hack For Cost-Effective Sightseeing
If you get an Oslo Pass, you can avail a free entry to all public museums. In addition to this, you’re also entitled to free travel on all their public transport facilities, including the island-hopping ferries.
Eating And Sleeping In Norway For The Cheapest
Flights are not the only things that are expensive in Norway. Staying and food can also break the bank. However, you can avoid this by compromising a little on your comfort. For food, supermarkets, instead of restaurants, cafes, or hotels, offer the cheapest eats. You can go to KIWI minipris, Rema 1000, or Extra for cost-effective food options like rye bread, smoked salmon, and local brown cheese. Take this meal to the closest fjord and have yourself a merry little picnic.
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Honest Cost-Breakdown Of A Scandinavian Summer Trip
Here is an estimate of what it will realistically cost to go on this budget Scandinavian trip:
Dublin-Oslo Roundtrip: €80 (INR 8975.04) – €180 (INR 20193.84)
Accommodation (7 Nights): €280 (INR 31412.64) – €490 (INR 54972.12)
Food And Drink: €210 (INR 23559.48) – €350 (INR 39265.80)
Transport: €100 (INR 11218.80) – €200 (INR 22437.60)
Activities: €50 (INR 5609.40) – €120 (INR 13462.56)
Grand Total: €720 (80775.36) – €1,340 (INR 150331.92)
What Did It Cost Before The Dublin-Oslo Route?
Prior to the Dublin-Oslo flight connection, the flight route connected Oslo via London or Amsterdam. You would have had to spend an additional €150 (INR 16828.20) to €250 (INR 28047) on travel for this route.
This new flight route is perfect as it also offers more opportunities to enjoy summer in Oslo. This means more free outdoor time per Euro spent.
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Where To Go From Oslo If Extending The Trip?
If you’re planning a multi-destination itinerary for your Scandinavian summer, there are cost-effective options for that as well.
Oslo To Stockholm: How To Travel
Instead of taking another expensive flight, use a train as a cheaper alternative. The Swedish national rail operator has high-speed trains that connect the two destinations in a journey that only takes around four to five hours. And! If you use the SJ app to book your ticket 30 to 60 days in advance, you can get it for around €30 (INR 3,366).
The journey takes you through the scenic lake regions and tranquil pine forests that you would have missed had you taken a flight. Trains always give you more bang for your buck as they offer an opportunity to see more of the landscape of the destination you’re visiting.
Oslo To Copenhagen: How To Travel
Since Copenhagen is a hub for budget flights, you can simply book a cheaper return ticket from Copenhagen instead of returning to Oslo and resuming your return journey from there. You can also book buses for this route through Gothenburg.
Oslo To Bergen: How To Travel
This is one of the most scenic routes you can take. Head west, and the seven-hour journey that follows, whether you take the train or drive, will take you over Hardangervidda, Europe’s highest mountain plateau.
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Tips To Keep The Cost Down In Scandinavia
- Fly mid-week. Oslo routes are cheapest on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Book accommodation outside the core city and use the T-Bane to travel, as it’s cheap and efficient.
- Eat from the supermarkets like KIWI minipris or Rema 1000 for cheaper meals.
- Use the Oslo Pass strategically, as it is only worth it for heavy museum days.
- To save money for accommodation between travel, use overnight buses.
- Avoid restaurants in the immediate area of tourist spots, as they may be costly. Go to restaurants at least two streets away from the spot.
- Skip going there in the month of June and go in July instead. The vibe is mostly the same, but there are fewer crowds.
- Use the Nordic allemannsretten to camp in the wilderness for the ultimate cost-saving hack. But make sure you leave no trace of your presence on the land and respect nature by cleaning up your own trash.
Summing Up
The new Aer Lingus flight connection has brought Scandinavia closer to the rest of the world. By compromising a little on your comfort, you can have the adventure of your lifetime without breaking the bank! And, with this unstumbled guide by your side, you can plan your dream budget Scandinavian getaway. So, pack your bags and head out. Scandinavia calls!
FAQs
Is The New Aer Lingus Dublin-Oslo Flight Seasonal?
Yes, but it could see an extension given the high demand.
How Long Is The Dublin-Oslo Flight?
The Dublin-Oslo flight is two and a half hours long.
Is Alcohol Very Expensive In Norway?
Yes, the state-run Vinmonopolet stores in Norway have high luxury taxes.
