Thon Hotel Cecil, Oslo

Pros  

• This centrally-located hotel is within walking distance to many of Oslo's top attractions, as well as shopping and dining.
• Standard rooms are modern with colorful decor; upgraded options offer extras like Nespresso machines, separate seating areas, or balconies.
• Take advantage of the free breakfast buffet with an impressive spread, as well as free coffee in the lobby, and an upper lounge with free drinks and snacks.
• Fitness lovers can jog to the waterfront or Palace Park—or use the modern gym with street views.

Cons

• There's no on-site restaurant, but a buffet breakfast is included in the rate, and a light meal of soups and salads is served on weekday evenings.

Authenticity

Though the steel-gray facade of this seven-story building is monotone, newcomers should expect to see a flurry of bold colors when they enter the door. This is a common look for Thon Hotels, which is one of the largest hotel groups in Norway. The lobby is small with a seating area and brochures on display selling local excursions, while a free coffee station gets plenty of action (friendly staff will point to it if there's a line at check-in). For more space, a larger all-day lounge is located on a higher floor with drinks and snacks, acting as an extension of the lobby—a place where leisure travelers can relax and business travelers can work. 

Location

Thon Hotel Cecil sits directly across the plaza from the Parliament building (with daily tours). On the other side, you'll find the pedestrian-friendly Karl Johans gate that leads to Oslo Central Station with regular express train service to and from the airport. Meanwhile, the Aker Brygge waterfront district with restaurants and world-class museums, like the Nobel Peace Center, is a 10-minute walk away. Other nearby highlights, like Palace Park, can be reached on foot. Guests can also access the Stortinget metro station near the hotel. Private parking is available on site for a fee (a reservation is needed). 

Rooms & Bathrooms

Like the rest of the property, the 167 rooms and suites have eye-catching decor with graphic prints and bold colors along with hardwood-style floors. They're also equipped with smart TVs, Bose speakers, mini-fridges, kettles, spacious working desks, and umbrellas to borrow. Bathrooms are simple and modern, with walk-in showers and bath products in eco-friendly dispensers. Superior rooms add seating areas plus bathrobes and slippers, while Business units include Nespresso machines and balconies. Junior Suites have separate bedrooms and living areas. 

Amenities

The free breakfast buffet starts at 6:30 am on weekdays and 8 am on weekends, and it's best to get there early if you want to avoid crowds. It's an opulent spread, with a self-service espresso machine, smoothies, fresh juices, smoked salmon, grilled vegetables, salads, cheeses, egg dishes, grilled fish, smoked salmon, and additional hot and cold items. Free coffee is available in the lobby, and most bookings also include a light evening meal, another Thon tradition, which consists of simple, hearty fare like homemade soups, breads, and cold cuts offered on certain weeknights. The only other common space is the fitness center with modern equipment and natural light from the windows overlooking the street. 

Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome at the hotel, and extra beds and cribs can be added to rooms for an additional fee. Families can book one of the Suites for added space and a separate living area, or opt for adjoining rooms.

Sustainability

Thon Hotel Cecil is part of the Olav Thon Group, one of Norway's largest hotel chains, and all hotels in the company are Eco-Lighthouse certified with a focus on waste reduction, recycling, saving energy, using and ordering environmentally friendly products, and cooking with organic food when possible.