The 6 most spectacular specialist shops to visit in Oslo today

It's not just big shopping malls and major department stores in downtown Oslo. Norway's capital city is also home to a plethora of quirky alternative and independent-minded shops. Below, we've rounded up some of our favourite specialist stores to check out.

Sanatorium is a one-of-a-kind concept store and creative hub in Oslo where interior, lifestyle, arts and design merge into a hybrid between shop, gallery and design studio. The welcoming space is an oasis for uniqueness and interior inspiration. Designed like an apartment it features a bathtub in the centre, a fireplace and kitchen, a bed - and bathroom. Discover their own designs and brands like Le Labo, and get inspired to upgrade your home with soft sofas, outdoor seating, or rarities such as a brass tap handmade in New York or an Italian kitchen from Minacciolo.

Frydenlundgata 14, 0169

The innovative, creative space Sorgenfri was founded to connect the blurred lines between fashion, art and sustainability. The space exhibits a continuing selection of pieces from independent Norwegian artists and designers, vintage clothing and art while also holding events. Sorgenfri also blends its shop with a gallery and cafe plus an in-house bar serving a selection of natural wines and coffees. It's a prime spot to get a taste of the Norwegian fashion, design and arts scenes all in one place.

Sorgenfrigata 16, 0365

Solitude Vintage is a showroom and vintage store combined, filled to the brim with unique vintage clothing and collectables. Here you can find everything from workwear and US military clothes from the 1950s, to pre-loved French designer gems and perfectly worn out Levis 501s. Also, it's worth swinging by just for a chat with, or rather a lesson on vintage clothing from, shop-owner Dennis, who is an encyclopaedia on the matter.

Frognerveien 44, 0266 Oslo

The interior shop Kollekted By features a careful selection of both big name brands and independent designers, many of which are Scandinavian. With quality and durability in mind, the duo behind the shop curate their favourite furniture, vintage objects and lighting, showcasing it in tasteful premises on the edge of Grünerløkka and in a smaller shop in Bjørvika. Here you can explore designs from Norwegian brand Fjordfiesta, Danish label Frama and Sweden's Cappelen Dimyr and Fogia.

Schous Plass 7 A, 0552

The Oslo based perfumery Heaven Scent specialises in niche and cult fragrances and cosmetics with a more sustainable approach. Discover made-in-Norway eco cosmetics from Nykr and Scandinavian makeup brands like Danish outfit Kjær Weis. A destination if you are in search of a glow-up, want to discover your signature scent or just feel like getting lost in delectable odours for a few hours.

Øvre Slottsgate 18, 0159

Vincci might not count as niche in some other cities in the world, but it most certainly is one of a kind in Norway. The shop offers high fashion brands such as Celine, Dior, Jil Sander and The Row alongside a selection of smaller, independent brands such as Muun and Scandinavian names like Danish label Mark Kenly Domino Tan. Go to find your next dream bag or to try on a sparkly pair of Manolos.

Akersgata 20, 0158