Industrial Grünerløkka: Oslo’s Trendiest Area

Old meets new in the gentrified working class neighborhood of Grünerløkka. Only a 10 minute walk from downtown Oslo brings you to the center of this must see neighborhood. Follow the river Akerselva and it’s many waterfalls to old industrial buildings turned into houses, cafés, galleries, (art) schools or offices. Grünerløkka is certainly one of the most vibrant and trendiest areas in the city with many creatives and young people finding their way. 

Over the past year, I have been in Oslo at least once a month for my work as a consultant. Last time I discovered the neighborhood of Grünerløkka, when I walked from the office to my hotel along the river Akerselva. I just kept wishing I had more time to explore this fascinating area!

Grünerløkka’s industrial buildings

Grünerløkka used to be a working class district with many factories along the Akerselva river. The river was central to Norway’s industralization in the second half of the 19th century, as the river gave power to mills, factories and workshops. As a result, the whole neighborhood is filled with old industrial buildings. Most buildings have lost their old function and are nowadays transformed into houses, cafés, galleries, (art) schools or offices.

River Akerselva and waterfalls

An 8-kilometer hike from Maridalsvannet (Oslo’s largest lake) to downtown Oslo takes you along the river Akerselva. There are many scenic waterfalls, some good spots to swim in the summer, and green, lush, recreational parks great for hiking, biking, running or a picknick. During the hike, the neighborhood of Grünerløkka is easily spotted by the many old factories along the river. Make sure to enjoy a short detour through Grünerløkka with great stops for coffee, eating, drinking and shopping.

Sustainable center

Around dinner time I found myself near the street Vulkan, in the center of Grünerløkka. Vulkan is a development project with eco-friendly architecture with all kinds of sustainable features. The modern buildings in the street are in sharp contrast with the old neighborhood in which it is located. Vulkan brings together many different people, companies, and backgrounds. At Vulkan you find Oslo’s first food hall (Mathallen), schools, hotels, a dance venue, apartments and even beehives. And, of course, many restaurants and bars, which makes it the perfect place for dinner.

Oslo’s first food hall

The Oslo Mathallen are located in Vulkan. Oslo’s first food hall with more than 30 specialty shops, cafés and eateries from across the world. Expect high quality products from Norwegian small-scale producers and special foreign imports. The location in an old industrial building (what else?) ensures an amazing setting and vibe.

Damstredet and Telthusbakken

The streets of Damstredet and Telthusbakken are located very close to Grünerløkka. Damstredet is a cobblestone street with traditional red wooden houses from the first half of the 19th century. It’s just 160 meters long, but the old and authentic atmosphere is worth a detour. Telthusbakken is very close to Damstredet and only 260 meters long. It also has small wooden houses and a large allotment garden area. Two beautiful streets which are definitely worth a short detour.

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I’m really curious to know what you think of the area. Please share your own experiences or advice below. Also, before booking your trip make sure to read my article on how to find a cheap flight!