The Ultimate Guide to a Day Trip from Oslo to Tusenfryd
Looking to trade Oslo’s charming city streets and fascinating museums for a day of thrilling rollercoasters and refreshing water slides? Just a short journey south of the capital lies Tusenfryd, Norway’s largest and most beloved amusement park. Offering a perfect escape for families, couples, and adrenaline junkies alike, its convenient location makes it an ideal day trip destination.
This comprehensive guide has everything you need to plan the perfect adventure from start to finish. We’ll cover how to get there, what to ride, where to eat, and insider tips to help you make the most of your day of “Thousand Joys” in 2025!
Tusenfryd Day Trip: Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Vinterbro, 20km (12 miles) South of Oslo |
| Travel Time from Oslo | 20-40 minutes |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays, June-August |
| Average Cost (per person) | 700 – 1100 NOK (Ticket + Transport + Food) |
| Perfect For | Families, couples, thrill-seekers, and groups |
How to Get from Oslo to Tusenfryd
Getting to the park is surprisingly simple, with a couple of great options depending on your preference for convenience and cost.
By Public Bus (The Easiest Way)
For most visitors, the public bus is the most direct, affordable, and stress-free way to reach Tusenfryd. It drops you right at the park entrance, so you don’t have to worry about navigation or parking.
- Bus Line: Take Bus 505 with the final destination of “Drøbak.”
- Departure Point: The bus departs regularly from Oslo Bus Terminal (Oslo Bussterminal), conveniently located next to the central train station (Oslo S).
- Destination Stop: Get off at the “Tusenfryd” stop – you can’t miss it!
- Journey Time: The ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Tickets: The easiest way to buy tickets is through the official Ruter app. You’ll need a ticket covering zones 1 and 2S, which costs around 60-70 NOK each way.
By Car
If you have a rental car or are driving your own, the journey is quick and straightforward. This option offers maximum flexibility for your departure and return times.
- Route: From central Oslo, take the E6/E18 highway heading south. The exit for Tusenfryd is clearly marked.
- Driving Time: Without traffic, the drive is only about 20-30 minutes.
- Parking: Tusenfryd has a large, dedicated parking lot. Parking costs approximately 100 NOK per day and can be paid for using a mobile app (like EasyPark) or at a payment machine on-site.
Transportation Comparison: Bus vs. Car
| Method | Cost (per person) | Time | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus | Low (approx. 140 NOK return) | 30-40 mins | High – Direct drop-off, no parking stress. |
| Car | High (Parking + Tolls + Gas) | 20-30 mins | High – Flexible departure and return times. |
Top Attractions at Tusenfryd for Every Visitor
With over 30 attractions, there’s something for everyone at Tusenfryd. Here are our top picks, from heart-pounding thrill rides to family-friendly fun.
For the Thrill-Seekers
- SpeedMonster: This is not for the faint of heart! This intense rollercoaster launches you from 0 to 90 km/h in just 2 seconds, sending you through multiple inversions and a powerful “Norwegian Loop.” It’s an absolute must-do for adrenaline junkies.
- ThunderCoaster: A world-class wooden rollercoaster that feels both classic and terrifyingly fast. It’s famous for its 9 “airtime” hills that lift you out of your seat, providing a truly exhilarating experience.
- SpinSpider: Prepare to be swung and spun! This giant pendulum ride launches you 44 meters into the sky while rotating, reaching speeds of up to 115 km/h. The views are incredible, if you can keep your eyes open!
Fun for the Whole Family
- Ragnarok: Embark on a thrilling river rapids adventure based on Norse mythology. The theming is fantastic, and the unpredictable splashes and drops make it a fun and wet experience for all ages.
- SuperSplash: Part rollercoaster, part water ride. You’ll climb high above the park before a dramatic final plunge into the water below, creating a massive splash that will soak riders and onlookers alike. Perfect for a warm summer day.
- Den Bestefars Bil (Grandpa’s Cars): A timeless classic for the youngest visitors. Kids can get behind the wheel of their own vintage car and take a gentle journey through a charming, scenic track.
Cool Off at BadeFryd Water Park
Included with your admission ticket, BadeFryd is Tusenfryd’s own water park. It’s the perfect place to cool down when the Norwegian sun is shining. Please note that BadeFryd has a shorter season, typically open from mid-June to mid-August. It features a large swimming pool, a relaxing lazy river, and several exciting water slides for all ages.
Sample One-Day Itinerary from Oslo
To maximize your time and fun, it helps to have a plan. Use this sample schedule as a guide for your perfect day trip.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Depart from Oslo Bus Terminal | Take Bus 505 to arrive just before the park opens at 10:30 AM. |
| 10:00 AM | Arrive & Enter Park | Head straight to the back for popular rides like SpeedMonster or ThunderCoaster to beat the morning queues. |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch | Grab a burger or pizza, or find a scenic picnic spot to enjoy your packed lunch. |
| 2:30 PM | BadeFryd & Water Rides | Cool off in the water park or get soaked on rides like SuperSplash and Ragnarok. |
| 4:30 PM | Family Rides & Games | Explore the less intense rides, play some arcade games, or check the schedule for any live shows. |
| 6:00 PM | Last Rides & Souvenirs | Get in one last ride on your favorite coaster and browse the gift shops on your way to the exit. |
| 7:00 PM | Depart for Oslo | Catch the convenient bus back to the city center, filled with happy memories. |
Where to Eat at Tusenfryd
From quick snacks to sit-down meals, there are plenty of dining options. But remember, bringing your own food is a great way to save money!
- To Save Money ($): Pack your own lunch! This is a very popular option. Tusenfryd encourages guests to bring their own food and provides many pleasant picnic areas throughout the park.
- Quick & Easy ($$):
- Burger Joint: A reliable choice for classic burgers, crispy fries, and refreshing milkshakes.
- Pizzaverkstedet: Serves up freshly made pizzas with a variety of toppings to satisfy the whole family.
- Sit-Down Meal ($$$):
- Vertshuset (The Inn): For a more substantial meal, Vertshuset offers a buffet or more traditional Norwegian dishes in a comfortable, sit-down restaurant setting.
Insider Tips for Your Tusenfryd Trip
- Buy Tickets Online: This is our number one tip! It’s significantly cheaper to buy your tickets on the official Tusenfryd website in advance than it is to buy them at the gate on the day.
- Go on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, visit on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. The park is much less crowded than on weekends and during school holidays, meaning shorter queue times for you!
- Download the App: The official Tusenfryd app is your best friend. You can check live wait times for rides, access an interactive park map, and see show schedules in real-time.
- Arrive Early: Be at the gates before the park officially opens. This gives you a head start to ride the most popular attractions before the biggest crowds arrive.
- Use the Lockers: Rent a locker near the entrance to store your backpacks, jackets, and swim gear. It costs a little, but it’s worth it to not have to carry everything around all day.
- Check the Calendar: Tusenfryd’s hours are highly seasonal. Always double-check the official website for opening hours, special events (like their amazing Halloween celebration!), and water park operating dates before your trip.
What to Pack Checklist
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be doing a lot of it!)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
- A light rain jacket or poncho – Norwegian weather can be unpredictable!
- Swimsuit and a small towel if you plan to visit BadeFryd
- A portable phone charger/power bank
- Credit card and/or some Norwegian Kroner (NOK) for small purchases
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person for 2025)
Here’s a look at what a day trip to Tusenfryd might cost, helping you plan accordingly.
| Expense Item | Low-End (NOK) | High-End (NOK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Ticket | 479 | 579 | Book online for the lower price. Gate prices are higher. |
| Transportation (Return) | 140 | 140 | Based on Ruter public bus fare. |
| Food & Drinks | 150 | 400 | Packing your own lunch vs. buying meals and snacks in the park. |
| TOTAL | ~769 NOK | ~1119 NOK | (Excludes souvenirs, locker rental, and other extras) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best day trips from Oslo?
Tusenfryd is undoubtedly one of the best and most exciting day trips, especially for those seeking fun and adventure. Other fantastic options include visiting the charming coastal town of Drøbak (the official Christmas town of Norway!), exploring the historic fortress city of Fredrikstad, or enjoying a scenic hike in the nearby Nordmarka forest.
Which of the following is a popular day trip from Oslo?
Tusenfryd Amusement Park is an extremely popular day trip from Oslo. Its close proximity to the city, easy public transport access, and wide variety of rides and attractions for all ages make it a top choice for thousands of locals and tourists every summer.
Can you do a day trip to the Fjords from Oslo?
While technically possible through organized tours like “Norway in a Nutshell,” a day trip to the famous western fjords from Oslo is not recommended. It involves over 10 hours of travel on trains, buses, and boats, making for an incredibly long and exhausting day. To truly appreciate the majestic fjords, it’s best to plan an overnight stay in a city like Bergen or Flåm.
How many days do you need to explore Oslo?
We recommend 2 to 3 full days to experience the main highlights of Oslo itself, such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the stunning Opera House, the Viking Ship Museum, and the Munch Museum. This schedule makes a day trip to Tusenfryd on your third or fourth day a perfect addition to your itinerary.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Tusenfryd Day Trip
- Best Way There: Take Bus 505 from Oslo Bus Terminal directly to the park.
- Save Money: Buy your tickets online in advance and pack your own lunch.
- When to Go: On a weekday in June, July, or August for the best weather and smallest crowds.
- Must-Do Rides: SpeedMonster for thrills, Ragnarok for family fun, and SuperSplash to cool off.
- Top Tip: Arrive before the park opens and head to the most popular rides first.
