The Ultimate Guide to Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)

Overview of Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)

Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), also known as Oslo Lufthavn, is Norway’s largest and busiest airport. Located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Oslo’s city center, OSL serves as a critical hub for domestic and international flights. Known for its sleek Scandinavian design, sustainability initiatives, and traveler-friendly amenities, Gardermoen Airport is the main hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and a key base for Norwegian Air Shuttle.

• Location: Gardermoen, Ullensaker Municipality, Norway

• IATA Code: OSL

• ICAO Code: ENGM

• Opened: 1998 (current facility)

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 28 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 1 (unified terminal with separate domestic and international zones)

History of Oslo Gardermoen Airport

Gardermoen Airport began as a military airfield during World War II. Civilian operations commenced in the 1950s, and the airport gradually expanded to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. In 1998, a state-of-the-art terminal was inaugurated, replacing Oslo’s former Fornebu Airport as the primary international gateway. Since then, OSL has undergone several expansions, including a major terminal upgrade in 2017, solidifying its status as one of Europe’s most modern and efficient airports.

Terminal Layout at Oslo Gardermoen Airport

Gardermoen Airport operates as a single unified terminal, with distinct zones for domestic and international flights. The design ensures seamless navigation for travelers, whether arriving, departing, or connecting.

Key Features:

• Domestic Zone: Convenient access to gates for flights within Norway.

• International Zone: Separate security and passport control for international travelers.

• Modern Facilities: Automated baggage handling, self-service kiosks, and spacious departure lounges.

• Efficient Connections: Designed to facilitate quick transfers for passengers on connecting flights.

Transportation Options to and from OSL

1. Train (Flytoget Airport Express)

• Details:

  • High-speed train service connecting the airport to Oslo’s city center and beyond.

  • Trains run every 10 minutes during peak hours.

• Travel Time: ~19 minutes to Oslo Central Station.

• Cost: NOK 210 (one-way adult ticket).

2. Regional Trains (Vy)

• Details:

  • Regional and intercity trains operated by Vy connect OSL to Oslo and other major cities.

• Travel Time: ~23 minutes to Oslo Central Station.

• Cost: NOK 114 (one-way ticket).

3. Airport Buses (Flybussen and Nettbuss)

• Details:

  • Frequent services connecting the airport to Oslo and surrounding areas.

  • Stops include major hotels and transit hubs.

• Travel Time: ~40-50 minutes.

• Cost: Starting at NOK 160.

4. Taxi and Rideshare

• Taxi:

  • Travel time: ~40-50 minutes to Oslo city center.

  • Cost: NOK 750-1,200, depending on time and traffic.

• Rideshare:

  • Services like Uber operate at designated pickup zones.

5. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Avis, and Budget.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Located in the parking garage adjacent to the terminal.

Parking at Oslo Gardermoen Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (P10)

• Details:

  • Located directly in front of the terminal, ideal for drop-offs and pickups.

• Cost: Starting at NOK 50/hour.

2. Long-Term Parking (P1 and P2)

• Details:

  • Affordable options with shuttle service to the terminal.

• Cost: Starting at NOK 90/day.

3. Premium Parking

• Details:

  • Closest parking spaces to the terminal entrance.

  • Includes valet service.

• Cost: Starting at NOK 400/day.

4. Electric Vehicle Parking

• Details:

  • Charging stations available in P10 and select long-term parking areas.

• Cost: Charging fees apply in addition to parking rates.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at OSL

• Local Norwegian Cuisine:

  • Haven: Offers Nordic-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

  • Fjøla: A modern take on traditional Norwegian meals.

• International Options:

  • Jamie’s Deli: Casual dining with fresh sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.

  • Wagamama: Asian-inspired dishes, including ramen and stir-fries.

• Quick Bites:

  • Burger King and Joe & The Juice for fast food and light meals.

Shopping at OSL

• Duty-Free:

  • Tax-free shopping for cosmetics, alcohol, and confectionery.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Hugo Boss, Longchamp, and Samsonite.

• Local Specialties:

  • Shops like Ting and Helly Hansen offer Norwegian design, outdoor gear, and souvenirs.

• Essentials:

  • WHSmith for books, snacks, and travel accessories.

Lounges at Oslo Gardermoen Airport

1. SAS Lounge (Domestic and International)

• Access: Available to SAS Business Class passengers, Star Alliance Gold members, and pay-per-use.

• Features:

  • Complimentary food and beverages, workspaces, and Wi-Fi.

  • Quiet zones for relaxation.

2. OSL Lounge (International)

• Access: Open to all passengers for a fee or Priority Pass holders.

• Features:

  • Snacks, drinks, and panoramic views of the runway.

  • Comfortable seating and business facilities.

3. Eventyr Lounge (International)

• Access: Pay-per-use or premium ticket holders.

• Features:

  • Premium dining options, fine wines, and relaxation areas.

Nearby Hotels

1. Radisson Blu Airport Hotel

• Distance: Directly connected to the terminal via a covered walkway.

• Features:

  • Modern rooms, fitness center, and on-site dining.

2. Park Inn by Radisson Oslo Airport

• Distance: 5-minute walk from the terminal.

• Features:

  • Comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and conference facilities.

3. Scandic Gardermoen

• Distance: 5-minute drive with a free shuttle service.

• Features:

  • Budget-friendly accommodations, breakfast buffet, and meeting rooms.

Top Tips for Travelers at Oslo Gardermoen Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.

2. Try Local Cuisine: Enjoy Norwegian dishes like salmon and reindeer stew at Fjøla.

3. Utilize Free Wi-Fi: Unlimited and fast Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

4. Shop for Norwegian Gifts: Pick up souvenirs like woolen clothing, local chocolates, or aquavit.

5. Take Advantage of Efficient Transfers: OSL’s layout is designed for quick and hassle-free connections.

Future Developments at OSL

• Terminal Expansion: Plans to increase passenger capacity to handle 35 million annually by 2030.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Investments in renewable energy, waste reduction, and carbon-neutral operations.

• Enhanced Connectivity: Ongoing projects to improve rail and road links to the airport.

Oslo Gardermoen Airport combines Scandinavian design, exceptional efficiency, and world-class amenities to deliver a seamless travel experience. Whether you’re connecting on a long-haul flight or exploring Norway, OSL ensures a comfortable and convenient journey for all passengers.