Oslo residents and visitors can now ride the metro all night on weekends. Transport authorities are testing overnight T-bane service for seven consecutive weeks. The trial runs from November 16 through December 28.
Lines 2 and 3 will operate every thirty minutes in both directions on Saturday nights. The last trains depart from terminal stations between 3:30 AM and 3:45 AM. These include Østerås, Kolsås, Ellingsrudåsen and Mortensrud stations.
The overnight metro test coincides with Norway's traditional Christmas party season. Many workplaces hold julebord celebrations during this period. These festive gatherings often extend late into the evening.
Marit Vea, the City Councilor for Environment and Transport, expressed enthusiasm about the trial. She said this gives many people an easier journey home from the city during the Christmas party season. She hopes many will use the service and that the test proves successful.
Transport officials made a strategic decision for this overnight metro Oslo test. They suspended night bus lines 2N and 3N during the trial period. This ensures they can properly evaluate demand for metro service alone.
Snorre Lægran, Ruter's planning director, explained the reasoning. He said running the test without competing night buses provides clearer data. This marks the first time Oslo and neighboring Bærum have operated overnight metro service. The trial offers a unique opportunity to gather experience.
Norway's capital has been gradually expanding its night transport options. Most European capitals already offer some form of 24-hour weekend transit. Oslo's test brings it closer to international standards for night mobility.
The timing strategically addresses several urban challenges. It provides safer late-night transportation options. It potentially reduces drunk driving incidents during peak party seasons. It also supports the nighttime economy as Oslo's cultural scene expands.
International residents and tourists will particularly benefit from this development. Many newcomers find Oslo's early transit shutdown surprising compared to other European cities. This test represents progress toward more cosmopolitan service hours.
The seven-week trial will provide crucial data about usage patterns and operational costs. Transport authorities will monitor ridership numbers closely. They will assess whether permanent overnight service proves feasible.
This initiative reflects Oslo's growing status as an international city. The test acknowledges that vibrant urban centers require transportation matching their residents' lifestyles. The Christmas season provides ideal conditions for measuring demand.
City officials appear genuinely curious about the results rather than making premature commitments. The temporary suspension of competing bus services shows serious intent to collect meaningful data. Oslo's transportation evolution continues responding to changing urban rhythms.