Things To Do
in Ås

Ås is a charming town in Norway, known for its beautiful surroundings and close proximity to Oslo. It offers a blend of nature and culture, with various parks, hiking trails, and a vibrant community spirit. Ås is also home to the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, attracting students and researchers from around the world.

The town’s picturesque landscapes and friendly atmosphere make it an inviting destination for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ås Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll surrounded by diverse plant species.

afternoon
:

Head to the Norwegian University of Life Sciences for a guided tour of the campus, learning about its research and educational programs.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Norwegian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing walk through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Spend the morning hiking on the nearby Åsmarka trails, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

afternoon
:

Visit the local arts and crafts market to explore handmade goods and souvenirs, while also sampling local delicacies.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit by enjoying a drink at a cozy café, soaking in the local nightlife ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🚆Public transport ticket$3
🍻Local beer$7
🏨Hotel night stay$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Rich cultural and educational opportunities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Can be quite cold in winter, impacting outdoor activities.
  • "Hei" - Hello
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Jeg forstår ikke" - I don't understand
  • "Kan jeg få menyen, takk?" - Can I have the menu, please?

Places to Visit in Ås

Visit one of these nice places.

Ås Botanical Gardens

A vibrant collection of plants and flowers, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Åsmarka Trails

Stunning views and landscapes that provide excellent backdrops for hiking and nature photography.

Local Art Installations

Various public art pieces scattered throughout the town, showcasing local talent.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ås

Ås offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Norwegian flavors and local ingredients.

Ås Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Raspeballer

Potato dumplings often served with meat and gravy.

Must-Try!

Lapskaus

A hearty stew made with meat and vegetables.

Lefse

A soft flatbread often enjoyed with butter and sugar or savory fillings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ås Farmers Market

A local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ås has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging 20°C (68°F). Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall common. Spring (March to May) sees warming temperatures and blooming flora.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Norwegian culture, so try to arrive at meetings or events promptly.

Personal Space

Respect personal space; Norwegians typically value their privacy.

Quietness in Public

Maintain a moderate noise level in public spaces, as loud conversations are often frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ås is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Ås

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is less common but still usable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, flowers bloom, and the botanical gardens are at their most vibrant.

Summer

Warm weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities, with long daylight hours for exploration.

Autumn

The foliage changes to stunning hues of red and orange, creating picturesque landscapes.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring snow, perfect for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Ås at Night

Ås has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and cafés that offer a cozy atmosphere. The local pubs often host live music and events, creating a friendly environment for socializing. Many locals enjoy meeting friends for drinks after work or on weekends, making it a great place to experience the community vibe.

Hiking in Ås

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Åsmarka Trail

A popular hiking route that offers beautiful views and well-marked paths suitable for all skill levels.

Sørmarka Trail

A more challenging hike that takes you through diverse terrain and provides stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Ås by plane.

Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)

Located about 50 km from Ås, this international airport connects the town to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ås is a walkable town with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Most amenities, including shops, cafes, and parks, are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant demographic in Ås due to the presence of the Norwegian University of Life Sciences.

Families

Many families reside in Ås, attracted by the community atmosphere and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

A widely enjoyed sport, with local teams and community games.

Cross-Country Skiing

Popular during winter, with many trails available for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ås is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns and Oslo, providing convenient options for travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ås.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants provide vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available, but be sure to specify your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Ås are accessible through local clinics and hospitals. The town has a community health center offering general medical services, and emergencies can be directed to hospitals in nearby Oslo.

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2025 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide