← DNB Oslo Marathon·Day trip

The Oslofjord Islands: A Six-Minute Ferry to a Ruined Monastery

A cluster of small, car-free islands minutes from the city centre, reached on the same ticket used for Oslo's buses and trams.

DurationDay trip
TransitPublic ferry from Vippetangen, around 6 minutes, departures roughly every 15-20 minutes in summer
DepartsOslo (Vippetangen, near Rådhusplassen)

After the DNB Oslo Marathon: The Oslofjord Islands

The Route: Oslo (Vippetangen) → Hovedøya and the Oslofjord islands Logistics: Public ferry lines B1 and B4, running year-round from Vippetangen and Aker Brygge, around 6 minutes to Hovedøya, with departures roughly every 15 to 20 minutes through the summer season and closer to hourly in winter. Standard Ruter public transport tickets are valid. Marathon Month: September Duration: Day trip

Oslo (Vippetangen) ──(~6 min ferry, ~every 15-20min)──> Hovedøya / islands
                                                                       │
                              Oslo ◄──(~6 min ferry)──────────────────┘

Hovedøya and its neighbouring islands sit only a few minutes offshore from central Oslo by public ferry, close enough that the crossing itself barely qualifies as travel, and flat enough throughout to suit legs still easing back into movement after 42.195 km. September sits at the edge of the main summer ferry frequency, so the boats still run often, though it is worth checking the current timetable rather than assuming peak-season spacing.

The ferry departs from Vippetangen, a short walk from Rådhusplassen, and runs on lines B1 and B4, the same public ferries that also serve Bleikøya, Lindøya, Nakholmen and Gressholmen, giving a runner the option to island-hop further if the day allows.

Hovedøya

Hovedøya carries the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery, the island's most substantial historical feature, alongside old fortification remains from more recent Norwegian military use. Flat gravel paths circle the island, an easy, low-impact walk with open fjord views in most directions, and the whole island can be covered on foot in well under an hour without rushing.

Swimming and Beaches

The islands carry several small, sheltered swimming spots, though September's water temperature has usually cooled from its summer peak, so this is more a spot for sitting by the water than swimming for most visitors at this time of year.

Where to Eat

A seasonal café operates on Hovedøya through the summer months; outside peak season, bringing a packed lunch from central Oslo is the more reliable option. Check current opening status locally before relying on the café being open.

Getting Back

Return by the same public ferry service to Vippetangen or Aker Brygge, using the standard Ruter ticket. Check the current timetable before setting off from the island, since afternoon frequency can taper earlier than the outbound morning schedule.