12 Best Hotels in Sentrum, Kvadraturen, and Bjørvika, Oslo

The handsome headquarters of the Norwegian America Line opened its doors in 1919, and 100 years later it was transformed into this boutique hotel appealing to the design-conscious explorer. Resembling a set from a Wes Anderson movie, the nautically themed lodging has an impressive brasserie, a basement jazz club, and a leafy courtyard area appropriately named Haven. The guest rooms are eclectic, sumptuous, and chic, with large walk-in showers, bay-window seating, and a mix of high tech (flat-screen TVs) and historic features (old maps and ship menus found during renovations).

The feel at the Clarion group's latest outpost is similar to the others: somewhere between business stay and small design hotel, which is a good blend when you're staying so central, in the very new district of Bjørvika on the waters that also birthed the new Munch Museum and copious bars and eateries in the past couple of years. The gigantic breakfast buffet, which stops at nothing, will leave you full for the better part of a day. Rooms are airy, extremely clean, with a telephone, desk, and minibar. Downstairs, a bistro offers fresh oysters and steak, with the bar whipping up a good martini or mojito. Downsides are barely openable windows with dowdy blinds/curtains and an unimpressive gym---but the fjord and nearby floating saunas are all you need.

Looking like it would be at home on any street in Paris, this grande dame with a mansard roof and Beaux Arts entrance is the choice of visiting heads of state, rock musicians, and Nobel Peace Prize winners. All the rooms have a regal touch, with the Mikado Suite—done up in cream, lilac, and red tones—being particularly palatial and plush. There are several different dining options, two bars, and a see-and-be-seen lobby. Norwegians book several years in advance for National Day, May 17, in order to have a room overlooking the parades below.

History meets modernity at this landmark—it's a sophisticated stay with stylish guest rooms and posh common areas. The handsome lobby lounge has Munch lithographs on the walls. Gracious service prevails throughout, but is especially notable in the restaurants: Theatercafeen, an Oslo tradition, and Eik Annen Etage, another great choice for dinner. The hotel is opposite the National Theater and close to many cafés, clubs, and movie theaters, making it ideal for leisure as well as business travelers.

This slick business hotel has all the features of a design hotel: great restaurants and bar, contemporary interiors, and elegantly appointed rooms. You are likely to spot Norwegian supermodels rubbing shoulders with international politicians in the grand lobby or the futuristic elevator. It's known for resplendent breakfast buffets served in a softly lighted room with velvet armchairs. On the ground floor is the fitness room, relaxation area, and pool, while on the top floor you'll find the bar with views of the Opera House and the fjord beyond.

Along the historic main street of Karl Johan—but tucked in its own courtyard away from the hustle and bustle—this handy hotel has nicely sized rooms and an eco-friendly vibe. There's a substantial gym and a fantastic buffet breakfast by candlelight, making it great for a winter visit. The courtyard, complete with overhead heaters, has an attached bistro serving great seafood that's perfect for a glass of wine all year round.

Extremely popular with young travelers, this budget-minded lodging is also a hit with families because of its low-key vibe and unbeatable location. You check yourself in and out in the casual common area, which includes a bar and small shop and is staffed around the clock. Rooms are extremely simple, with smartly designed desks and big windows letting in lots of light. What you don't get is daily housekeeping or a breakfast buffet, but there are sandwiches and fresh orange juice in the lobby.

Rising 22 stories, this modern hotel blends the charm of Nordic design with the amenities of a chain hotel: spacious rooms, light-up wardrobes, cloud-soft beds, and stunning views of the city. There's great dining at 26 North Restaurant & Social Club on the ground floor, and the upper floor has a dreamy cocktail bar. The buffet breakfast is excellent, and you're as likely to spot business CEOs as you are touring rock stars over your morning coffee.

An unassuming facade hides one of the most stylish large hotels in Oslo. The guest rooms are comfortable and colorful, the staff is attentive, and the breakfast buffet gets rave reviews, as does the Paleo restaurant. A delicious and generous supper on the 8th floor is included for guests. There's a spacious gym with free energy bars and free coffee at the reception desk.