Oslo With Autistic Children

Traveling with autistic children can be a rewarding experience when you choose the right destination. Oslo, the capital of Norway, is an excellent option for families seeking a blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. The city is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to accessibility, making it easier for families with autistic children to explore and enjoy. Here’s a guide to making the most of your visit to Oslo with autistic children.

Getting To Oslo

When you arrive at OSL, look for the designated assistance points located throughout the terminal. The airport staff are trained to support passengers with special needs, providing guidance and comfort from the moment you arrive.

Traveling from Oslo Airport (Gardermoen) to the city centre is straightforward, with several transport options available to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Airport Express Train (Flytoget): The Airport Express Train, known as Flytoget, is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Oslo city centre. The train departs every 10 minutes and takes about 20 minutes to reach Oslo Central Station (Oslo S). The trains are comfortable, with free Wi-Fi and ample space for luggage. Tickets can be purchased at the airport, online, or via the Flytoget app.
• NSB Regional Trains: NSB (Norwegian State Railways) also operates regional trains that connect Oslo Airport to the city centre. These trains are slightly slower than the Flytoget but are more affordable. The journey to Oslo Central Station takes about 23-25 minutes. Tickets can be bought at the station, online, or through the NSB app.
• Airport Bus (Flybussen): Flybussen is a convenient bus service that runs between Oslo Airport and various locations in the city, including Oslo Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 40-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses run frequently, and tickets can be purchased online, at the airport, or directly from the driver.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at Oslo Airport and offer a comfortable, door-to-door service to your destination in the city. The journey takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. It’s a more expensive option, but it can be convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with children. Be sure to use official taxi stands at the airport to avoid overcharging.
• Car Rental: For those who prefer to drive themselves, car rental services are available at Oslo Airport. Several major car rental companies have desks at the airport, and booking in advance is recommended. Driving into Oslo takes about 40-50 minutes, and this option offers flexibility if you plan to explore areas outside the city.
• Private Transfers: Private transfer services can be pre-booked to take you directly from the airport to your accommodation in Oslo. This option combines the comfort of a taxi with the convenience of having a driver waiting for you upon arrival. It’s a good choice for larger groups or those looking for a hassle-free experience. Book a private transfer with GetYourGuide here.

These transport options provide flexibility for travellers, allowing you to choose the best method based on your schedule, budget, and preferences. We went with the Flytoget train because the train station is right there in the airport as you are going to the exit. We bought tickets from a machine and went down to board the train by using the escalator. It was really easy and a member of staff guided us to the best cart for families that had plenty of space for our strollers.

Where to stay in Oslo

We found that Oslo was very walkable – so I think as long as the area you choose is safe then you won’t have a problem getting around. We chose to stay in the Gamle area, this was because our return flight was very early in the morning and I wanted it to be easy to get to the train station with tired kids. I planned to leave a link to the AirBnb we used, but I no longer see it on the AirBnb platform. An alternative in the area we were in is the Radisson Blu hotel.

Family-Friendly Activities in Oslo

Oslo is a disability-friendly city with numerous accommodations for travellers with disabilities. Many attractions, public transport options, and facilities are designed to be accessible. At museums and other cultural sites, you’ll often find staff who are understanding and accommodating of different needs, including sensory sensitivities that autistic children may have.

Vigeland Park

Oslo offers a variety of family-friendly activities that are perfect for exploring with children, including those with sensory sensitivities. One of the city’s highlights is Vigeland Park, the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. This expansive outdoor space features over 200 sculptures, providing plenty of room for children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The park’s natural surroundings and spacious layout create a calming environment, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed day out. You can book a tour with a local of the park.

Paradox Museum

I know – yet another illusion place we have visited, what a surprise! The Paradox Museum is exciting and interactive, which is really great for children on the spectrum. You can learn how the optical illusion and paradoxes are achieved by scanning a QR code to learn more – great for inquisitive mines. Book your tickets with GetYourGuide here.

Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

Another great option for families is the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology, a hands-on museum filled with interactive exhibits that cover science, technology, and medicine. Kids can engage in activities like building robots or experimenting with physics, which are both educational and fun. The museum offers a sensory-friendly experience with tactile and visual exhibits that allow children to interact in a controlled way. Additionally, there are quiet areas available where kids can take a break if needed.

Oslo Opera House

For a unique experience, the Oslo Opera House is a stunning architectural landmark where visitors can walk on the roof to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the fjord. The sloping roof is accessible and fun to explore, offering a one-of-a-kind adventure that children will love. The outdoor space is less crowded and provides a soothing environment for children who may be sensitive to noise or crowds.

Fram Museum

The Fram Museum is another family-friendly attraction, dedicated to Norway’s polar exploration history. It features the Fram, the strongest wooden ship ever built, which visitors can explore. The museum offers a fascinating look at polar expeditions, with displays that capture children’s imaginations. It’s a spacious venue with clear paths and quiet areas, ensuring a comfortable visit for families.

Tøyenbadet

For water-based fun, Tøyenbadet is Oslo’s largest indoor swimming pool complex, featuring multiple pools, including a children’s pool and a therapy pool. Swimming is a great way for children to expend energy, and the variety of pools caters to different age groups and skill levels. The warm therapy pool, in particular, provides a calming environment that can be beneficial for children who enjoy water-based sensory experiences.

Oslo Reptile Park

If your family is interested in animals, Oslo Reptile Park is a small indoor zoo that specializes in reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Children can get up close to a variety of exotic animals, including snakes, lizards, and frogs, which can be both educational and exciting. The park’s dim lighting and quiet atmosphere make it a less stimulating environment, suitable for children who are sensitive to noise and bright lights.

Norwegian Folk Museum

Exploring Norwegian culture can be both fun and educational at the Norwegian Folk Museum, an open-air museum showcasing historic buildings, traditional costumes, and live demonstrations. The museum offers activities such as horse and carriage rides, traditional crafts, and interactive exhibits that engage children in learning about Norway’s history. The expansive outdoor areas allow families to explore at their own pace, making it a low-stress, sensory-friendly destination.

Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower

The Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower offers a mix of adventure and education. This museum, dedicated to the history of skiing, is located at the base of the iconic Holmenkollen ski jump, with a tower offering stunning views of Oslo. The museum’s interactive exhibits are appealing to children, and the ride to the top of the ski jump tower is an exciting experience. The surrounding outdoor areas offer plenty of space to explore, and the cool, crisp air at the higher altitude can be refreshing for children who enjoy being outdoors. You can also book a spectacular walk to Holmenkollen here.

Scenic Fjord Cruise

This is one of our top activities to do in Oslo with autistic children. The Norwegian Fjords are on the bucketlist of so many people – and this is a way to get a little taster of what to expect without a huge time commitment. You can book a scenic fjord cruise online in advance here.

Our Favourite Sensory-Friendly Experience In Oslo

Oslo Botanical Garden

For a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, the Oslo Botanical Garden offers a beautiful, tranquil space where children can learn about various plants and enjoy the natural surroundings. The garden’s quiet and serene environment makes it an ideal spot for children who need a break from more stimulating activities. The diverse textures and scents of the plants provide gentle sensory engagement, adding to the garden’s appeal. If I were to return to Oslo, I would base at least one day around seeing the Botanical Garden in Oslo. Not only is it free – it is enormous and boasts so many interesting and educational areas. We barely saw any of the gardens compared to what exists!

Getting Around Oslo With Autistic Children

The city’s public transport system, including buses, trams, and ferries, is equipped with ramps and spaces for wheelchairs and other mobility aids. The public transport is very easy to use and there always seems to be people around willing to help if you need it. In Oslo, after originally arriving by train from the airport, we literally walked everywhere. The city is easy to walk and most things do not take a long time to reach by foot.

Is Oslo Autism-Friendly?

I get very easily distressed trying to work out public transport – and I can quite honestly say that Oslo has been the best and easiest transport system to use in Europe, maybe even the world. I did not get distressed at all. When you walk to leave the airport, you will automatically find the train station. There are ticket machines everywhere and there are people to help you if you need it.

I end up choosing to walk most places because I do get easily overwhelmed with figuring out public transport. I felt so comfortable in Oslo, because we could walk around easily and were able to reach all of the places we intended to see just by walking. We were exploring on a Sunday and I am not sure if that contributed to the city being quiet and therefore easy to navigate with two strollers. Almost all of the ‘normal’ shops were closed on Sunday – which was a real pain in the bum because Sylvie had tossed one of her shoes between Oslo airport and the apartment. I felt constantly stressed that she did not have a pair of shoes to wear and worried that she would become upset, wet or we could be asked to leave somewhere because she had no shoes on.

I use Google maps a lot, I open a route and follow it and check up on my progress using the app. This worked really well in Oslo and everything was exactly what and where it said it would be.

There were multiple McDonald’s which is what we rely on when travelling with autistic children and a child with allergies. There was also plenty of options to get food delivered – including McDonald’s. There are a number of stores which seem to be open 24/7 especially on the weekend. This was handy when our flight landed late and we needed a few snacks for the kids. I think that it really helps with how overwhelmed our children are to offer them to choose a snack in a store after a long travel day.

Things That Make Oslo Stand Out

• The public transport system in Oslo is easy to navigate and there are often staff around to help you if you need it.
• Oslo is quite easy to walk around, which saves worrying about public transport while you are in the city.
• Food deliveries are easy and can be done within an app. There are plenty of options which should suit almost all tastes.
• It is easy to book excursions all in one place: the GetYourGuide app. You can even book tickets right before you want to go in some places. We did this with the Paradox Museum because we were not sure exactly when we would arrive. I just opened the app when we were a few minutes away and booked our tickets.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

1. Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need. If you can plan to arrive after check-in time you should, or try to arrange an early check-in.
2. Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
3. Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download.
4. Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts.

Oslo is a beautiful, accessible, and welcoming city that offers a range of experiences for families with autistic children. With its well-designed facilities, understanding staff, and commitment to inclusivity, Oslo makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a memorable and stress-free vacation. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying the stunning natural scenery, or simply relaxing, Oslo has something to offer every family.

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