8 Top Flea Markets And Thrift Stores In Oslo

Norway’s capital of Oslo is notoriously expensive for those of us who aren’t from Nordic regions. While this is true when it comes to things like dining out, transport and accommodation, there are exceptions to the rule. One of these is its thrifting landscape.

If you know where to look, you can pick up pre-loved goods like designer and vintage clothing, literature and furniture in different corners of the city. Here are 10 frugal destinations to add to the itinerary when next in Oslo.

1. Sunday market at Blå

Market

Sundays done right should start with coffee, include moseying about, and end with bargains in tow and a beer in hand. To acquire these bargains, make like a local and head to Brenneriveien, where Søndagsmarkedet pops up every Sunday from midday to about 5pm. This flea market takes over the artsy area of Blå in Grünerløkka, and promises to yield handmade items, vintage clothing and artwork from locals.

2. Fretex

Shop

As Norway‘s largest second-hand chain with nine stores in Oslo alone, Fretex is a must-stop on every thrifters quest for unique goods. Of these nine destinations, Ullevålsveien gets our vote for the variety of goods: you’ll find designer clothing, books and interior furnishings. Plus, it’s part of the Salvation Army, so it’s about as guilt-free as shopping comes.

4. Fuglen, Universitetsgata

Bar, Pub Grub

There are not many places where you can feel at home… and actually bring a piece home with you afterwards. Fuglen is one of them: this beautiful vintage shop, where you can buy Scandinavian design furniture from the ’50s and ’60s, also doubles as a coffee shop (by day) and a cocktail bar (at night). So basically relax on the couch, order something to drink, and ponder which of the items that surround you should be your next purchase. While you’re pondering, one of Fuglen’s many cool events might start taking place somewhere near you.

5. Ny York

Shop

Marking all products with ‘dead stock’ (meaning it wasn’t sold at the time and never worn), ‘vintage’ or ‘second-hand’, Ny York makes shopping a breeze. You’ll find all kinds of women’s and menswear, along with accessories of a bygone area, in this Grünerløkka treasure trove.

6. Birkelunden flea market

Market, Park

Another flea market that will spoil you for choice, this market is situated inside Birkelunden public park and is open yearly on most Sundays, from noon to 7pm (or until it gets dark in the winter months). Here, you can find anything from homeware from the ’40s to books and DVDs from the 2000s – and everything in between. Peruse carefully, because hidden treasures may await you in every stand.

7. Schous Bøker

Bookstore

A haven of antique books spanning most genres, with many first editions, Schous Bøker is a literature lover‘s dream. Offering free (yes, free) coffee and with a few armchairs dotted around, we don’t blame you if you don’t ever leave…

This is an updated version of an article originally written by Danai Christopoulou.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.