Fun Classes for Expats Living in Oslo
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Oslo by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
Oslo, the vibrant capital of Norway, is not only a hub for expats and digital nomads but also a city rich in culture and learning opportunities. For English-speaking adults looking to immerse themselves in new experiences, there's a plethora of classes available that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're keen on honing your culinary skills, diving into the local language, exploring the world of wines, or expressing yourself through art, Oslo offers a variety of classes that can enhance your stay. These classes provide excellent avenues to learn something new, indulge in your hobbies, and meet like-minded individuals in the community. Below is a curated list of classes in Oslo that are perfect for English speakers who are eager to learn and engage with the city's cultural offerings.
Kulinarisk Akademi
Type of Class(es): Cooking Classes
Location: Maridalsveien 87, Oslo
Website: kulinariskakademi.no
Kulinarisk Akademi offers a variety of cooking classes that cater to both beginners and experienced food enthusiasts. Their courses range from specific cuisine-themed nights to techniques in food preparation and presentation. The classes are interactive and hands-on, providing a delightful culinary experience even for those still mastering the Norwegian language.
Folkeuniversitetet
Type of Class(es): Norwegian Language Courses, Art and Culture Classes
Location: Several locations in Oslo
Website: folkeuniversitetet.no
Folkeuniversitetet is an adult education institute that offers a wide range of classes, including Norwegian language courses for all levels. They also provide various courses in arts and culture which can be enjoyed without fluency in Norwegian. It's a great place to start for expats looking to integrate into Norwegian society.
Oslo Vinfagskole
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation Classes
Location: Oslo City Centre
Website: oslovinfagskole.no
Oslo Vinfagskole offers wine courses for both enthusiasts and professionals. Their classes cover wine tasting techniques, grape varieties, and wine regions. The courses are conducted in English and are a fantastic way to learn about wines from around the world while socializing with other wine lovers.
Blank Space
Type of Class(es): Art and Illustration Workshops
Location: Storgata 32, Oslo
Website: blankspaceoslo.com
Blank Space is an artist-run creative hub that offers workshops and classes in various forms of visual art. From illustration to digital painting, these classes are designed for all skill levels and are often taught in English, making them accessible to the international community in Oslo.
Cappelen Damm Language Center
Type of Class(es): Norwegian Language Courses
Location: Akersgata 47/49, Oslo
Website: cappelendammundervisning.no
Cappelen Damm Language Center offers Norwegian language courses tailored to expats and foreigners. The courses range from intensive beginner classes to advanced levels, with a focus on practical language use in everyday situations. The center also provides online courses for flexible learning.
Oslo International Hub
Type of Class(es): Networking and Cultural Integration Workshops
Location: Oscars gate 27, Oslo
Website: oslointernationalhub.com
Oslo International Hub is not only a co-working space but also a place where expats can attend workshops and events aimed at helping them network and integrate into Norwegian society. While not traditional classes, these workshops offer valuable insights into Norwegian business culture and living.
OsloMet – Oslo Metropolitan University
Type of Class(es): Various Short Courses
Location: Pilestredet 46, Oslo
Website: oslomet.no
OsloMet offers a range of short courses that can be of interest to expats, including language and culture courses. Some of these courses are designed specifically for English speakers, providing an academic yet practical approach to learning.
House of Nerds
Type of Class(es): Technology and Gaming Workshops
Location: Lørenveien 38, Oslo
Website: houseofnerds.no
House of Nerds is a social arena for technology and gaming enthusiasts. They offer workshops and events where you can learn about the latest in tech, gaming, and e-sports. The environment is English-friendly and offers a unique opportunity to meet fellow tech aficionados.
Oslo Photography School
Type of Class(es): Photography Courses
Location: Torggata 11, Oslo
Website: oslofotokunstskole.no
Oslo Photography School provides courses for both amateur and professional photographers. Their classes cover various aspects of photography, from the basics to more advanced techniques. The school's courses are often available in English, making them suitable for English-speaking residents.
Oslo Adult Education (Rosenhof)
Type of Class(es): Norwegian Language and Social Studies Courses
Location: Trondheimsveien 2, Oslo
Website: roa.oslo.kommune.no
Rosenhof is part of Oslo Adult Education and offers Norwegian language courses as well as social studies classes designed to help immigrants understand Norwegian society better. The courses are available at various levels and are an excellent resource for expats looking to settle in Norway.
Oslo Theatre Academy
Type of Class(es): Acting and Theatre Workshops
Location: Fjerdingen 1, Oslo
Website: khio.no
The Oslo Theatre Academy offers workshops and short courses in acting and theatre. These classes are a great way to explore dramatic arts and often cater to English speakers, providing a creative outlet and a chance to connect with the local arts scene.
Oslo Botanical Garden
Type of Class(es): Gardening and Botany Workshops
Location: Sars' gate 1, Oslo
Website: nhm.uio.no
The Oslo Botanical Garden, part of the Natural History Museum at the University of Oslo, offers workshops and guided tours that can be enjoyed by English speakers. These classes are perfect for those interested in learning about local flora, gardening, and botany.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Tips for Expats Driving in Oslo
- Cost of Living in Oslo
- Health Care in Oslo
- The Insider's Guide to Oslo
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Norway
- Best Places to Live in Norway
- Real Estate in Norway
- Pros & Cons of Living in Norway
- Guide to Residency in Norway
- Pros and Cons of Living in Norway 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Norway