Oslo, Norway
Hotel Continental
Icon Reborn
What it is
A newly revamped 151-room legend owned by the same Norwegian family for four generations.
What it isn't
A rookie. The Hansen family has been running this hotel to 5-star fanfare since 1909.
What we think
Despite its age, there’s nothing stodgy about the Hotel Continental, which lives up to its name in every way. Recently revamped—with a brand new lobby bar and reception area, plus 59 spanking new rooms—the hotel would handily satisfy any member of the global glitterati. Sumptuous rooms are fitted with tufted headboards, silken draperies and all the amenities latter-day luxury hounds hope for, including Nespresso coffee machines, fluffy robes, 24-hour room service and Molton Brown toiletries. Upgrade to the Abel Suite for a 785-square-foot space that peeps out on Oslofjord, an inlet of the Skagerrak strait and basically a Viking dream scene.
You're here because
You’ve re-committed yourself to getting into prime shape, and the Continental has a 24/hour, 700-square-foot gym with both Technogym equipment and an on-call personal trainer.
The Moment
When you saw locals dashing into TheaterCafeen, the barrel ceilinged, candle-lit restaurant, you followed hot on their heels—and you’re so glad you did. It’s no surprise people have been dining here for over a century, under the glow of chandeliers and gleaming brass. Tonight, you order the Kalix caviar and shrimp on Langos bread and, for dessert, elderflower and rhubarb sorbet. Nothing better.
Restaurants & Bars
Theatercafeen - Enjoy your meal with a show
Eik Annen Etage - Gourmet cuisine
Caroline - The hotel's breakfast restaurant
Dagligstuen - A popular lobby bar
Steamen - Serves hot and cold beverages as well as snacks
Location
In central Oslo, an easy, breezy stroll from the 19th century Royal Palace and ultra hip Aker Brygge district.