Grand Hotel

Julius Fritzner was a dedicated confectioner and restaurateur, but he probably could not have expected one of his greatest contributions to Oslo was the hotel he established. The Grand Hotel opened in 1874, after Julius transformed a former private residence on Karl Johans Gate into the city’s most celebrated venue. Before the hotel, however, he opened the Grand Café, which quickly became a bastion for the artists, thinkers, and bohemians of Kristiana, Oslo's former name. Architect Jacob Nordan oversaw the conversion of the building, while Fritzner’s friend, the painter Wilhelm Krogh, created the iconic interiors.

Following its success, the hotel soon expanded to add new sections and facilities. In 1886, the spectacular Speilen ballroom opened, followed in 1894 by the lavish Rococo Hall. These spaces became the backdrop for extravagant galas and gatherings, and apart from private parties of the elite, they also hosted diplomatic receptions and cultural events.

Several notable figures also made the Grand Hotel their haunt, such as the writer Henrik Ibsen, who is considered today the father of modern drama. The artist Edvard Munch was also a regular at the Grand Café, often trading an original artwork for his meal.

Major renovations took place between 1911 and 1913, during which the hotel acquired much of its present-day façade. The exterior was refaced with white granite sourced from Sognefjord, and the distinctive copper-clad bell tower was added. Tragedy unfortunately struck the hotel in the mid-20th century, with a devastating fire in 1957 that ravaged the Speilen and Rococo halls. Still, people picked up the pieces, and the halls were rebuilt and reopened in 1961. Despite its age, the hotel is kept up-to-date, with the most recent renovation in 2014 that added new guestrooms, public spaces, and facilities.

Another iconic event that cemented the Grand Hotel's reputation was the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Although the awards were held in Sweden, the celebrations with the recipients took place at the Grand Hotel in Oslo. The first ceremony was held in 1901, and ever since, the tradition has been upheld at the Grand Hotel's Nobel Suite.

While the Grand Hotel was established in 1874, the main aesthetic dates from its major rebuild in 1911. This was when the façade was redone with gleaming white granite, while its top was adorned with a distinct copper-roofed bell tower.

The interiors of the hotel are equally standout, with the first thing to greet guests being the ritzy lobby staffed by kind and helpful personnel. Other stylish spaces that express the playful yet luxurious atmosphere of the hotel include Othilia Bar with its velour seating, and the Palmen Restaurant, boasting a grand blown-glass chandelier.

Perhaps the aspects where the hotel’s historic identity is most expressed are in its grand halls. Though both suffered severe damage in a 1957 fire, they were painstakingly rebuilt and reopened in 1961. The Speilen Ballroom features mirrored walls and an ornate ceiling set with opulent lighting. The adjacent Rococo Hall spans two stories and displays stunning murals by painter Wilhelm Krogh.

Palmen Restaurant

The main restaurant of the Grand Hotel serves a menu of continental selections, each given a Nordic touch. Guests can enjoy dining in the historic ambiance, set beneath a grand skylight and chandelier, or book a chambre séparée for a private experience.
Monday to Friday: 11 am - 4:30 pm (lunch); 5 pm – 10 pm (dinner)
Saturday: 12 pm - 4:30 pm (lunch); 6 pm – 10 pm (dinner)
Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm

Afternoon Tea

Guests can avail a delightful Afternoon Tea experience held every weekend at Palmen Restaurant. Savor delicious blends and flavorful desserts and sandwiches while basking in the wonderful atmosphere.
Availability: Weekends: 12 pm - 5 pm

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the Grand Hotel's official website.

Eight Rooftop Bar

Situated at the top of the Grand Hotel, guests can admire panoramic views over Oslo and a soothing atmosphere while sipping their favorite cocktail, beer, or wine.
Wednesday and Thursday: 4 pm - 12 am
Friday and Saturday: 4 pm - 1 am

Othilia Lobby Bar

For a more casual yet trendy setting for both dining and drinking, the hotel's lobby bar, Othilia, is a wonderful choice. Enjoy dishes prepared by the hotel chefs, as well as a wide range of beverages, from tea & coffee to cocktails and aperitifs.
Sunday to Thursday: 10 am - 11 pm
Friday and Saturday: 10 pm - 12 am

Celebrate your special day with one of the world's finest hotels. The Grand Hotel has over a century's worth of experience hosting grand banquets and celebrations, including prestigious gatherings for the Nobel Peace Prize. You'll have a dedicated team to assist you with the planning and execution of your celebration. They'll take care of every detail, including decor, catering, and logistics. Couples can even select their reception menu from past Nobel Peace Prize banquets, should they wish.

Rococo

A grand ballroom fit for royalty, the Rococo Hall has been host to many historic celebrations, including one for Roald Amundsen's successful expedition to the South Pole.
Capacity: 224 guests

Speilen

The famed Mirror Hall of the Grand Hotel, where the Nobel Peace Prize banquet is held every year.
Capacity: 142 guests

Julius Fritzner

Named after the hotel's founder, the Julius Fritzner Hall features a cozy yet elegant ambiance.
Capacity: 59 guests

Lounges

Intimate yet regal, these salons can accommodate a small gathering and reception.

Cultural Experiences

Before you go out to explore the city, take a look at the relaxing amenities the Grand Hotel has available. They have a lovely spa with an extensive menu of therapies, massages, and regenerative treatments. They also have a well-equipped gym featuring a wide range of machines and equipment.

Once you're ready, head out and see the many wonderful sights of Oslo. Since the Grand Hotel is situated along the royal road of Karl Johans gate, many historic landmarks are within walking distance. These include the Royal Palace, the National Theater, and the Oslo Cathedral. Tram stops and train stations are also close by, if you're looking to access other parts of the city.

Other Celebrations

The Grand Hotel's vast experience with hosting events makes it one of the foremost choices for corporate functions and private celebrations in Oslo. They have a selection of fantastic venues that can be customized and configured for a variety of gatherings, including seminars, exhibitions, and conventions. Smaller groups can also avail private chambers or tables at the restaurant, upon making a booking.