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Oslo   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things To Do in Oslo

Updated Jun. 8, 2023

Oslo attractions are refined and laid-back. Enjoy a coffee and snack at one of the many cafes (travelers recommend Tim Wendelboe), take a stroll through the city center on a warm summer's evening, head north to go skiing in the winter or gaze at

• All Things To Do

Oslo Fjord Oslo Fjord free

Occupying 766 square miles, Oslo Fjord attracts Oslo residents and tourists in droves, especially during the warmer months. Water vistas are available from many parts of the city, including popular attractions like the Oslo Opera House and Akershus Fortress . You can also opt to hit the water in a canoe or kayak, but to get the full experience, consider signing up for an Oslo Fjord cruise. Sightseeing and fishing excursions are available on everything from inflatable boats (known as RIBs) to sailboats and yachts to ferries throughout the year.

Traveler-approved cruise operators include RIB Oslo and Norway Yacht Charter , but the cheapest and most popular way to explore the fjord is via a tour with Båtservice Sightseeing . Affiliated with Norway Yacht Charter, this ferry company offers several fjord tour options, such as a two-hour daytime sightseeing excursion and three-hour crab-, jazz- and blues-themed cruises. Previous visitors suggest booking the evening boat tour, which includes three hours of sailing and a highly regarded all-you-can-eat shrimp buffet. But remember to bring extra money for drinks and a jacket if you plan on sitting outside.

Vigeland Park (Vigelandsparken) Vigeland Park (Vigelandsparken) free

Vigeland Park, which resides in Ullern and Majorstuen's Frogner Park, is the world's largest sculpture park featuring works by a single artist. The park is composed of five main areas: the Main Gate, the Wheel of Life, the Fountain, the Monolith Plateau and the Bridge. Its highlight is its 200-plus bronze, granite and wrought-iron sculptures created by the park's namesake, Gustav Vigeland. People come here to sunbathe, picnic and wander the beautiful grounds.

Travelers love this park's well-maintained grounds and, of course, its world-renowned sculptures. But remember, Vigeland Park is one of Norway's most popular attractions, so it can get crowded at times. To avoid hordes of tourists, consider arriving early in the morning or late at night. Some reviewers suggest timing your visit during summer's midnight sun.

Karl Johans gate Karl Johans gate free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab a gelato cone (popular flavors include mango and chocolate) at Paradis Gelateria Karl Johan – it's the perfect treat for walking through the city. –  Leilani Osmundson

Karl Johans gate stretches between Oslo's downtown train station and Palace Park, an expansive park that surrounds the Royal Palace . Boutiques, cafes, bars, nightclubs and hotels are just some of the amenities you'll find lining this central thoroughfare. Inside the smaller Studenterlunden Park, which borders the street's western end, you can catch a performance at the late 19th-century National Theatre, go ice skating at the outdoor rink or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. This section of the boulevard is also a block away from the National Gallery, one of four buildings that comprise the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design .

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Bygdøy Bygdøy free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Enjoy a delicious meal at Lille Herbern, a waterfront restaurant on an island at the southeastern end of the peninsula. You have to take a short ferry to reach the island and the restaurant is only open in the summer, but it's well worth a visit for tasty food and beautiful views. –  Leilani Osmundson

Outdoorsy types and museum buffs should plan on spending at least one day on the Bygdøy peninsula. This region 3 miles west of central Oslo is home to some of the city's best museums, including the Fram Museum , the Viking Ship Museum and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History . The peninsula's southern tip is especially popular in the summer when locals and tourists alike flock to the area's beaches and take advantage of its walking, jogging and bike trails. Huk beach also features a sand volleyball court available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.

Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum) Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum)

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Allow plenty of time – at least two hours – to explore the large range of exhibits here, including  "TIMESCAPE 1600-1914," which features gorgeous displays with digital explanations of unique items (such as a tiny sewing kit within a velvet-lined walnut). –  Leilani Osmundson

At the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, visitors can learn about traditional Norwegian architecture, early farm life and more. Several buildings are worth checking out at this open-air museum, including the 13th-century Stave Church from Gol and the medieval-style Setesdal Farmstead. Travelers will also spot reenactors in period attire participating in traditional dances, crafts and other activities every summer.

Royal Palace (Det kongelige slott) Royal Palace (Det kongelige slott)

Nestled within Palace Park at the western end of Karl Johans gate , the Royal Palace draws history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, political junkies and those who enjoy learning about European royals. This grandiose structure, which was first used by King Oscar I in 1849, continues to serve as the home and office of Norway's monarchs. Most members of the royal court also work here, and foreign heads of state regularly stay on-site during official visits.

Several previous visitors praised this expansive property, citing its beautiful gardens and exquisite exterior as highlights. Those who arrived in the summer and toured the palace also raved about the lovely rooms and informative guides. But remember, no photography is permitted inside and tours – which are only offered from late June to mid-August – fill up fast. To ensure availability, past travelers suggest buying tickets in advance on Ticketmaster's website . Tour passes are sold starting on March 1. If you're unable to snag a spot on a tour, consider visiting at 1:30 p.m. when the changing of the guard ceremony takes places.

Oslo Opera House (Operahuset) Oslo Opera House (Operahuset) free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  You don't have to watch an opera to enjoy the opera house. Make sure to climb the building up to the roof for incredible views of the city and harbor. –  Leilani Osmundson

Music lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike won't want to miss a visit to this modern opera house. Located in the western part of Gamle Oslo, the Oslo Opera House features a contemporary design inspired by glaciers floating in the adjacent Oslo Fjord . Noteworthy details include floor-to-ceiling windows, wooden interior accents and an asymmetrical roof that visitors can walk on. The venue hosts performances by The Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, Norway's largest music and performing arts organization, throughout the year.

National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design (Nasjonalmuseet) National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design (Nasjonalmuseet)

Established in 2003, the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design is actually a merger of four formerly separate museums. Only the National Gallery, Villa Stenersen, Mellomstasjonen (the information center) and The National Museum – Architecture remain open to the public as the property works toward opening a new, larger facility in downtown's Vestbanen train station. In each of these buildings, travelers can admire extensive collections about art and architecture. Noteworthy items include Edvard Munch's "The Scream" and "Madonna" paintings.

All three buildings earn praise for their exhibits, but it's the National Gallery that woos the bulk of the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design's visitors. Travelers say the museum's iconic Munch pieces can't be missed but also recommend perusing the other paintings, sculptures and drawings displayed inside. Lines to view "The Scream" can get long, especially in the afternoon on summer days, so consider arriving early. To save even more time, purchase your ticket in advance on Ticketmaster's National Gallery page .

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Fram Museum (Frammuseet) Fram Museum (Frammuseet)

Named after one of Norway's oldest vessels used for North and South Pole expeditions, the Fram Museum offers a glimpse at Norway's polar history. Inside, visitors will find exhibits about various polar explorers (think: Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen) and the Northwest Passage, but the museum's two polar ships are its highlights. Used in expeditions in the 19th and 20th centuries, the Gjøa and the Fram take up the bulk of the museum's floor space. Travelers are welcome to climb aboard and explore each vessel's decks. The Fram's cabins, lounges, cargo hold and engine room are also open to the public.

Whether you have an interest in polar history or just want to find an air-conditioned activity suitable for kids, reviewers say the Fram Museum is well worth a visit. Many museumgoers rave about the property's ships and accompanying information, describing the exhibits as so interesting that you could easily spend a few hours here. Several visitors also suggest taking the ferry to and from the property during the summer months since it docks across the street.

Holmenkollen Ski Museum (Holmenkollen Skimuseet) Holmenkollen Ski Museum (Holmenkollen Skimuseet)

Whether you love skiing or just want to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of downtown, odds are you'll enjoy exploring the Holmenkollen Ski Museum. Located in Oslo's Holmenkollen neighborhood roughly 6 miles northwest of the city center, this museum is the world's oldest dedicated to skiing. More than 4,000 years of skiing history are explored in exhibits that display everything from skis used during polar explorations to information about how climate change is expected to impact future skiing conditions. The world's longest skis – which measure 147 inches long – and one of the oldest skis ever found – it's believed to be from around A.D. 600 – are also available for viewing.

Although a few recent visitors found the museum itself to be boring, many felt its displays were informative and thoughtfully laid out. However, the highlight for most former museumgoers was the adjacent Ski Jump. Built in the early 2000s to replace previous iterations of the original jump constructed in 1892, the current structure is made of steel and features a sleek, cantilevered design. Its glass facade protects skiers and spectators from the wind, and a tilted elevator travels up the jump to bring travelers to its public viewing platform. Past visitors highly recommend heading to the top to take in the city views and speed down the zip line – if you're feeling brave.

Oslo City Hall (Oslo radhus) Oslo City Hall (Oslo radhus) free

Across the street from the ferry pier in the heart of Oslo's Sentrum neighborhood lies Oslo City Hall, a government building best known for annually hosting the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. This 20th-century building, which was designed by Norwegian architects Arnstein Arneberg and Magnus Poulsson, features a brick facade and two towers, including one with a 49-bell carillon that plays hourly. Inside, visitors will find multiple works of Norwegian art that depict scenes of the country's history and culture.

Travelers have mixed feelings about Oslo City Hall. Some were less than impressed with the structure's austere exterior. However, many praised the property's interior, especially its impressive marble walls and thought-provoking murals. In fact, several visitors describe the property as a surprising must-do. For a complete overview of the building, plan a summer visit. Between June and August, free guided tours are available at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. daily.

Akershus Fortress (Akershus festning) Akershus Fortress (Akershus festning) free

Overlooking Oslo Fjord in downtown Oslo, Akershus Fortress – which is composed of a medieval fortress and a Renaissance castle – has been a fixture in the city for more than 700 years. For most of that time, its primary purpose was to defend the city from foreign invaders – something it did well, as no foreign military ever managed to capture it by force. The fortress also served as a prison, a church and a royal residence for a time. Now, it's home to a visitor center, government offices and two museums: the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum and the Norway Resistance Museum.

Previous travelers praised the property's breathtaking water vistas and impressive architecture. Others raved about the castle's interior, which reopened in January 2019 after undergoing renovations. Keep in mind, entry to the castle costs 100 kroner (less than $12) per adult and 40 kroner (about $4.50) for each child between 6 and 18. Visitors with an Oslo Pass and kids 5 and younger get in for free. Ticket prices cover use of an English audio guide.

Vigeland Museum (Vigeland-museet) Vigeland Museum (Vigeland-museet)

Just south of the sprawling Vigeland Park lies the Vigeland Museum, an art museum filled with sculptures, portrait busts, sketches and more. The property is named after local artist Gustav Vigeland, whose former studio and apartment were converted into a museum following his death in 1943. The attraction's collection primarily features works made by Vigeland, including approximately 12,000 drawings, 1,600 sculptures and 420 woodcuts. The museum's standout exhibit is its room of original plaster models Vigeland used to create the 200-plus sculptures in Vigeland Park.

Although a few former visitors were not impressed with Vigeland's sculptures, many suggest checking out the property, especially if you have an Oslo Pass (which covers the museum's entrance fee). One recent traveler noted that additional information (in English) is available on laminated cards inside each exhibit, but for even more background about Vigeland and his pieces, you can sign up for a guided group tour in English. Rates start at 500 to 1,000 kroner per group, depending on the number and age of participants.

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Nobel Peace Center (Nobels Fredssenter) Nobel Peace Center (Nobels Fredssenter)

For an in-depth look at one of the world's most coveted awards, head to the Nobel Peace Center. This institution pays homage to the iconic Nobel Peace Prize, which is presented every year at Oslo City Hall , through various exhibits. Temporary collections touch on topics like the threat of nuclear weapons and individuals subjected to human rights abuses, while the center's permanent "Nobel Peace Prize and the Laureates" exhibit offers videos, photos, texts and animations about every Nobel Peace Prize winner's life and work. Prior award recipients include Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa, the Dalai Lama and Martin Luther King Jr.

Reviewers describe their visits to the Nobel Peace Prize as hit or miss. Although some say its touching exhibits make it the best attraction in Oslo, others lament the poorly organized ticket desk and confusing tour guides. Overall, many travelers only suggest visiting if you have an Oslo Pass, since admission is covered in the pass fee.

Aker Brygge Aker Brygge free

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Oslo

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Oslo, the beautiful capital city of Norway, is one of the world's largest capitals in terms of area. But interestingly, only 20 percent of this land mass has been developed. The remainder consists of parks, protected forests, hills, and hundreds of lakes. Parks and open spaces are an integral part of Oslo's cityscape and are easily accessible from almost anywhere in the city.

The city center is a joy to explore on foot thanks to the numerous pathways and trails connecting its public spaces. It also has many pedestrian-friendly areas, including the city's main street, Karl Johans gate . Stretching from Oslo Central Station near the waterfront all the way up to the Royal Palace , this wide avenue passes many of Oslo's tourist attractions, including the palace, the National Theatre , the old university buildings, and Oslo Cathedral .

Regularly ranked as one of the best cities in the world in which to live, Oslo boasts a rich cultural scene and numerous fun things to do, and is famous for its theater, museums, and galleries. To learn more about these and other places to visit in Norway's capital, be sure to read through our list of the top attractions and things to do in Oslo.

See also: Where to Stay in Oslo

1. Explore Vigeland Sculpture Park

2. see the museums in akershus fortress, 3. norsk folkemuseum (folk museum of norway), 4. get ready for the "new" national museum, 5. visit the munch museum, 6. tour the royal palace, 7. historical museum at the museum of cultural history, 8. explore oslofjord by boat, 9. the fram museum, 10. norwegian maritime museum, 11. kon-tiki museum, 12. holmenkollen ski jump and museum, 13. oslo cathedral, 14. city hall (rådhuset), 15. aker brygge, 16. natural history museum & botanical gardens, 17. oslo opera house and annual music festivals, where to stay in oslo for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to oslo, map of attractions & things to do in oslo.

The iconic Vigeland Sculpture Park (Vigelandsanlegget), which sits inside Oslo's famous Frogner Park (Frognerparken), is one of Norway's most famous tourist attractions. Open year-round, this unique sculpture park is Gustav Vigeland's lifework and contains 650 of his dynamic sculptures in bronze, granite, and wrought iron.

The majority of the sculptures are in five themed groups along a 853-meter-long axis. The oldest is the fountain group, depicting the cycle of human life, beyond which can be seen the 16-meter-high Monolith, comprising 121 intertwined human bodies.

Tourists will want to spend time exploring the rest of Frogner Park, where there are ample green spaces for picnics, recreational facilities, an enormous rose garden, and the nation's largest playground. Here, you can also find the Oslo City Museum (Oslo Bymuseum), as well as the Vigeland Museum (Vigelandmuseet), which is just outside the park.

Address: Nobels gate 32, N-0268 Oslo

Official site: https://vigeland.museum.no/en

Rising above the Oslofjord , on the promontory of Akernes , sits the majestic Akershus Fortress (Akershus Festning) built by Håkon V at the end of the 13th century. You can easily spend the best part of a day sightseeing here.

Take your time to wander the grounds and ramparts with their wonderful harbor views before exploring the quaint chapel with its tomb of Håkon VII (1872-1957) and the remains of the original medieval castle. Also located in the grounds is the Museum of the Norwegian Resistance , also known as the Norwegian Home Front Museum ( Norges Hjemmefrontmuseum ). Be prepared to spend a few hours here learning about the German occupation of 1940-45.

If you've any energy left, head over to the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum (Forsvarsmuseet) in Oslo's old Arsenal. This fascinating museum features numerous displays of weapons and exhibits illustrating the history of the Norwegian forces and the defense of Norway over the centuries.

Address: Akershus Festning, 0015 Oslo

Located in Olslo's Bygdøy area, the Norsk Folkemuseum is an excellent open-air museum that offers a range of permanent exhibits covering 500 years of Norwegian folk culture. The museum's buildings are divided into several areas that highlight various time periods and settings. One of the largest areas is the rural "Countryside" area, which features typical farmhouses from different points in history, including re-creations of goahti , a traditional Sami structure.

The museum also has an "Old Town," largely comprised of historic buildings that were relocated from Christiania, an early 17 th -century settlement. The museum also offers daily programs for all ages, including hands-on folk craft activities, and costumed interpreters can be found throughout the property carrying on with daily life in a bubble of history. While here, be sure to sample the lefse , a traditional cinnamon sugar bakery treat.

Address: Museumsveien 10, Bygdøy, 0287 Oslo, Norway

Official site: www.norskfolkemuseum.no/en

Slated to open in June 2022, Oslo's new National Museum will consist of collections from the National Gallery and the National Museum - Architecture , as well as additional collections of contemporary art and design. The largest such museum in Scandinavia, it will house the country's biggest art collection, featuring the works of Norwegian artists from the 19th century through the present, including J. C. Dahl and several works by Edvard Munch, including his most famous work, The Scream .

The new National Museum will eventually also house collections from the currently closed Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design, and will become the home for the National Gallery collections. Tourists should be aware that various exhibits may not be open during the move, so check the museum website prior to planning a trip.

Address: Universitetsgata 13, Oslo

Official site: www.nasjonalmuseet.no/en/

Dedicated to the life and work of Norway's greatest painter, Edvard Munch (1863-1944), the Munch Museum (Munch-museet) contains a vast collection of paintings, graphic art, drawings, watercolors, and sculptures from the great artist's life.

Containing almost 28,000 works of art in addition to personal effects and tools - even his private library - the museum also puts on special exhibits devoted to particular aspects of Munch's work through film screenings, concerts, guided tours, and lectures.

Please note: The Munch Museum is relocating to a new facility near the city's opera house. While the move is expected to be complete by the end of 2021, be sure to check first for information on their official website, below.

Address: Tøyengata 53, 0578 Oslo

Official site: http://munchmuseet.no/en

Located high up on the northwest end of Karl Johansgate , the Norwegian Royal Palace (Slottet) was built in 1825 and dominates the cityscape. The impressive 173-room building is open to the public for guided tours during the summer only, with English-language guides available four times daily.

Tours include the Cabinet Parlour and Cloakroom, the White Parlour, Mirror Hall, Great Hall, Banquet Hall, and other significant rooms in the palace. Visitors are also free to wander the grounds and gardens or watch the regular changing of the guard year-round. Just to the south of the palace sits the Norwegian Nobel Institute (Det Norske Nobelinstitutt) where the Nobel Peace Prize is presented.

Address: Slottsplassen 1, 0010 Oslo

Official site: http://www.kongehuset.no/seksjon.html?tid=28697

The Museum of Cultural History (Kulturhistorisk museum) oversees the city's Historical Museum , which explores various aspects of human history. It houses the largest assembly of Egyptian artifacts in Norway, including mummies and funerary objects.

The museum's Medieval Gallery is also extensive, exhibiting an impressive collection of daily items, as well as several examples of church art and religious artifacts. There is also a large exhibit dedicated to the history of gold coinage, including examples of coins from the past 2,600 years.

Other areas of the museum focus on looking at people, exploring the lives of indigenous peoples, as well as a thought-provoking exhibit about humanity's ability to overcome threats and challenges beyond its control. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits and continues to add to its Viking Age Exhibition , which contains rare items, like a preserved Viking helmet.

Address: Frederiks gate 2, 0164 Oslo

Official site: www.khm.uio.no/english

Olsofjord connects the city of Oslo to the North Sea , providing over 750 square miles of protected waterway to enjoy. There are a wide range of cruise options, from fully guided tourist boats with full amenities to more rustic options featuring sailboats.

If you are short on time but still want a chance to see the city's landmarks from the water, consider booking a dinner cruise; some float passively in the Inner Olsofjord around the Bygdøy Peninsula , while others set sail to explore the many islands beyond. Most of these can be found at or near the piers by City Hall .

More adventurous travelers can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the water on their own or hop aboard a less formal "cruise" by riding one of the many ferries that regularly connect to various surrounding towns.

Named after the first Norwegian ship built specifically for polar research, the Fram Museum ( Frammuseet ) is a must for anyone with an interest in Arctic exploration. The museum's star attraction is the Fram , an icon due to its many successful polar voyages, as well as Gjøa , the first ship to navigate the Northwest Passage .

Visitors can board the Fram and explore its engine room, crew cabins, and other areas which have been preserved and restored to accurately depict life aboard the ship.

Exhibits throughout the museum include information on the voyage, as well as items of interest, including navigational instruments and the ship doctor's medical equipment. Other exhibitions explore topics including the life of Fram Captain Fridtjof Nansen, as well as the efforts and accomplishments of the pioneers who paved the way for him.

Address: Bygdøynesveien 39, 0286 Oslo

Official site: http://frammuseum.no

The Norwegian Maritime Museum (Norsk Maritimt Museum) features exhibits geared for all ages, which encourage visitors to step back in time to imagine the lives of seafaring Norwegians over the past thousand years. This includes an expansive section dedicated to Vikings, as well as exhibits dedicated to maritime life during later centuries when pirates roamed the sea.

Kids will love the fully interactive Queen of Congo exhibit, where they can board the ship, play with instruments, and even play supper time in the galley. With its fascinating exhibitions about fishing, shipbuilding, and marine archeology, as well as an impressive collection of models and paintings, a visit here is time well spent.

Address: Bygdøynesveien 37, Oslo

Official site: https://marmuseum.no/en

Set in an adjoining building to the Fram Museum stands t he Kon-Tiki Museum (Kon-Tiki Museet), with its displays dedicated to Thor Heyerdahl. This Norwegian sailor, explorer, and adventurer captured the hearts and minds of the world when, in 1947, he sailed from Peru to Eastern Polynesia on a raft made entirely of balsa wood to demonstrate how he believed the Pacific region was settled.

Opened in its present location in 1957, this fascinating attraction offers plenty of details both about Heyerdahl and his famous ship. In addition to seeing the famous Kon-Tiki up close, other vessels used by the legendary Norwegian are also on display, including the 14-meter-long Ra II, made of papyrus and in which he sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in 1970.

English language guided tours are available, and be sure to catch a viewing of the Academy Award-winning documentary that propelled Heyerdahl to fame.

Address: Bygdøynesveien 36, 0286 Oslo

Official site: www.kon-tiki.no

Located at the base of Holmenkollen Ski Jump (Holmenkollbakken), the Ski Museum is the oldest of its kind in the world, open since 1923. Here, ski enthusiasts will find exhibits and artifacts chronicling nearly 4,000 years of ski history and exploring various related topics, including weather and polar exploration.

The oldest ski on display here dates back to AD 600, and there are several other examples, including skis from the 8th, 10th, and 12th centuries. Other skis in the collection represent a wide variety of terrain and uses, from mountain skis to fast skis, and even the longest skis.

The museum also has a Hall of Fame dedicated to great Norwegian skiers, interactive exhibits about modern skiing and snowboarding, and information about Fridtjof Nansen's polar explorations on the ship Fram. Guided tours include the Ski Jump and its Jump Tower Observation Deck, which has excellent views over the city.

Address: Kongeveien 5, 0787 Oslo

Official site: www.skiforeningen.no/en/holmenkollen

Although consecrated in 1697, Oslo Cathedral (Oslo domkirke) has been rebuilt and renovated numerous times. Its tower was rebuilt in 1850, while its interior was renovated soon after the end of WWII.

Notable features include the main doorway with its decorated bronze doors, as well as the ceiling paintings by H. L. Mohr, the Baroque pulpit and altar (1699), and the stained glass by Emanuel Vigeland. Afterwards, be sure to visit the Oslo Bazaar along the old church walls. Dating back to 1841, these fascinating halls are now occupied by galleries, cafés and antique dealers.

Address: Karl Johansgt. 11, 0154 Oslo

Oslo's enormous City Hall (Rådhuset) is undoubtedly one of the city's great landmarks. This imposing square building, built of concrete faced with brick, was designed by Arnstein Arneberg and Magnus Poulson and has two towers, one of them adorned with a huge clock face. One of the towers houses the 38 bells that can be heard chiming throughout the harbor area.

As well as its fascinating facade with its sculptures and reliefs, the interior is also worth a visit. Here, you'll see a rich fresco created by Henrik Sørensen, Per Krohg, Edvard Munch, and other famous Norwegian artists.

Address: Rådhuset, 0037 Oslo

Official site: www.oslo.kommune.no/oslo-city-hall/

Built around an abandoned shipyard, Oslo's Aker Brygge area is the heart and soul of the city. Bustling and vibrant day and night, its stunning architecture - that magnificent blend of new and old that perfectly compliments Norway's stunning natural beauty - is everywhere on display, and everywhere breathtaking.

It's estimated that 12 million visitors find their way to Aker Brygge every year, drawn by its sea-front boardwalk, fine shopping, great restaurants, and cozy year-round patio bars with their snug rugs and fireplaces.

While visiting, be sure to pop into the newly opened Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art . The museum consists of two buildings: one for its own collection of works by such greats as Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, and Jeff Koons, the other for rotating exhibitions.

Address: Bryggegata 9, 0120 Oslo

Oslo's Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisk museum) - consisting of the Geological Museum , the Zoological Museum , and Botanical Gardens - is Norway's largest natural history collection. The Geological Museum includes minerals, precious metals and meteorites, plus an impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons, while in the Zoological Museum you'll find dioramas of Norwegian fauna. Best of all, however, is the exquisite Botanical Garden.

Founded in 1814, the garden features 7,500 different plant species from Norway and other parts of the world, 1,500 of them located in the beautiful Rock Garden with its waterfalls.

Address: Sars gate 1, 0562 Oslo

Official site: www.nhm.uio.no/english/

Home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet , as well as the National Opera Theatre , the 1,364-seat Oslo Opera House (Operahuset) seems to almost want to slip into the city's harbor, an effect exaggerated by its angled exterior surfaces. Clad in Italian marble and white granite, the Opera House is the largest cultural building constructed in Norway since Trondheim's Nidaros Cathedral in the 14th century.

In addition to its many performances, visitors can also participate in a variety of interesting public programs and behind-the-scenes tours, as well as enjoy the views from a stroll on the building's roof.

If you are visiting Oslo during August, be sure to spend some time enjoying the month-long Festival of Chamber Music , which includes dozens of chamber music concerts drawing internationally acclaimed musicians from around the globe. Performances take place in the spectacular Akershus Fortress , with the stunning Oslofjord as a backdrop.

Taking place in the same month and in the same location, the Oslo Jazz Festival is another huge draw for musicians and fans alike. Oslo also hosts the Ultima Contemporary Music Festival in mid-October, which features a competition for new orchestral works.

Address: Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo

If you're visiting Oslo for the first time, the best place to stay is in Central Oslo, preferably close to Karl Johans gate, the city's main street. Here, you'll find attractions such as the Royal Palace, National Theatre, and Oslo Cathedral, as well as an impressive array of museums and galleries. Most of the city's top attractions are within walking distance of each other. Below are some highly rated hotels in this central location:

Luxury Hotels:

• Minutes on foot from some of Oslo's top museums and galleries, central station, and the Royal Palace, the eco-conscious Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo sports bold, contemporary decor, and the good-value rates include a breakfast.
• Within walking distance of Aker Brygge, the National Gallery, and Royal Palace, the family-run Hotel Continental Oslo is adorned with distinctive works of art and elegant furnishings. Each room is unique.
• The pet-friendly Clarion Collection Hotel Bastion is also in a handy location, near Central Station and the opera house. Rates include an organic breakfast and a light buffet dinner.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the heart of the city, near central station and the National Gallery, Clarion Collection Hotel Folketeateret sits at the top-end of the mid-range hotels, with its cozy, contemporary rooms and a free breakfast.
• The earthy, textural decor is a standout feature of the eco-friendly Oslo Guldsmeden , 100 meters from the Royal Palace, near Aker Brygge. Rates include breakfast made with produce from local farms.
• On a quiet side street in the city center, Thon Hotel Munch has crisp white rooms with bold splashes of color and an organic buffet breakfast.

Budget Hotels:

• Central Oslo has few budget options, but the Cochs Pension is one of these. Set in a great location near the Royal Palace, rooms come with fridges, and some have kitchenettes.
• Smarthotel Oslo is another central option. The rooms are small, but the hotel lies just around the corner from Oslo's main shopping street .
• About 20-minutes away from the city center by tram, Oslo Hostel Haraldsheim is also budget friendly. Rates include breakfast and parking.

Hopping around Town:

• The City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is the perfect way to visit Oslo's top tourist attractions and includes an on-board commentary by a knowledgeable guide. This 24-hour pass allows access to 18 major sights, including the National Theater , Vigeland Sculpture Park , the Viking Ship Museum , and Oslo Cruise Ship Terminal , ensuring that you are able to get the most out of your trip.

All-Access Pass:

• Especially handy for those who want to visit multiple tourist attractions, the Visit Oslo Pass is a fantastic way to ensure you don't go over budget with admission fees and transportation costs. The pass is valid for admission to a staggering 36 attractions, and entitles the bearer to significant discounts at additional attractions. It also includes sightseeing tours and restaurants, and grants unlimited use of public transportation within zone 2, including tram, boat, bus, and trains. Those who opt for the 72-hour pass will also get a complimentary pass for the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour .

The Best of Oslo in One Day:

• Tourists with limited time in Oslo will appreciate the Oslo Combo Tour with a Grand City Tour and Oslo Fjord Cruise . This seven-hour experience includes photo-op stops at Vigeland Park and the Holmenkollen Ski Jump , as well as visits to several top museums, including the ship museums at Bygdøy Peninsula . To finish a perfect day, passengers will transfer to a boat and enjoy the last two hours on the water of Oslo Fjord while learning more about the area from the knowledgeable guide.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Norway's Biggest Fjords: Located on the western coast of Norway, Sognefjord is the country's largest fjord, stretching for 204 kilometers. Sognefjord is a three-hour drive from Bergen, a picturesque city with plenty of attractions and activities for tourists . Just south of here is the Hardangerfjord area , home to Norway's second-largest fjord. This was Norway's first international sightseeing destination, enjoyed by Victorian travelers as early as 1875.

Exploring Sweden: Although it is a six-hour train ride to Stockholm, those staying in Oslo for an extended time may want to plan a day exploring all the highlights of this city , which is often called the Venice of the North. Sweden is also home to many fascinating sites, including Kansen , the world's oldest open-air museum.

Norwegian Islands: If you are feeling adventurous and have the time, consider visiting the Lofoten Islands , which have an amazingly mild climate despite being inside the Arctic Circle. The country's northernmost city is Tromsø , a major port city, which is visited by tourists hoping to see the aurora borealis , or northern lights, because if its location in the Arctic Circle.

More on Norway

Home » Travel Guides » Norway » 25 Best Things to Do in Oslo (Norway)

25 Best Things to Do in Oslo (Norway)

On the northern shore of the Oslofjord, Norway’s capital and the third largest city in Scandinavia is a trendy and sophisticated metropolis that has grown rich from shipping and oil.

Key to the high quality of life, nature is everywhere in Oslo, as the fjord is right in the city’s backyard and you’re never more than a bus ride away from untamed forest and walking trails by the water and mountains.

Culture in Oslo means coming face-to-face with The Scream by Edvard Munch and the visceral sculptures by Gustav Vigeland in the Frogner Park.

Exciting modern projects like the Oslo Opera House, the upcoming Munch Museum and the Aker Brygge district have cropped up by the water, while long-established museums recall Viking history and the audacity of polar explorers like Roald Amundsen.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Oslo :

1. Bygdøy Peninsula

On the west side of Oslo, you’ll find yourself coming back to the Bygdøy Peninsula time and again.

As well as the Bygdøy Royal Estate, the peninsula has five national museums: The Viking Ship Museum, the Fram Museum, the Norwegian Folk Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum and the Norwegian Maritime Museum.

Every one of these deserves your time, and most are on the list below, but when the weather’s good this quiet, residential corner of the city is also somewhere to get out into nature or take a dip in summer.

There are countryside and coastal trails for walkers and cyclists, and the tempting, sheltered beaches at Huk.

Get there in 20-minutes flat from Oslo’s central station and bus terminal on the no. 30, or catch the boat from Pier 3 by the City Hall.

2. Viking Ship Museum

An arm of the University of Oslo’s Cultural History Museum, the Viking Ship Museum has jaw-dropping finds from four different Viking burial sites around the Oslo Fjord.

The museum is on the Bygdøy Peninsula and shines thanks to the Oseberg Ship.

This 9th-century burial ship was excavated in 1904-05 and is like new as it had been encased for all that time in watertight and airtight mud.

No less exciting are similar ships from Tune and Gokstad, together with all the artefacts found buried with them like beds, small boats, a complete cart, tent components, wood carvings, textiles and other treasures brought to light in Viking graves.

As you go, the film Vikings Alive is projected onto the walls and ceiling, adding context on Viking burial rituals.

Book online : Viking Ship Museum and Historical Museum Entry Ticket

3. Frogner Park

Free to enter at any time of year, Frogner Park is in Oslo’s namesake borough and is a joy for the installations by 20th-century sculptor Gustav Vigeland.

There are 212 sculptures in total, in bronze and granite from Iddefjord.

Vigeland’s works are Realist and their subjects are bizarre, from a man fighting with babies to a woman being ridden by a baby using her platted hair as reins.

Many of these works like the Angry Boy (Sinnataggen) have become identifiers for Oslo.

The Angry Boy is in a 100-metre-long ensemble known as The Bridge, between the eastern Main Gate and the Fountain.

On that same axis, a few hundred metres further, is the Monolith, an elevated 14.12-metre totem composed of 121 human figures.

This work alone took 14 years to carve from one gigantic piece of granite.

Included in : Oslo Highlights 3-Hour Bike Tour

4. Vigeland Museum

After the sculpture park visit the Vigeland Museum in the Neoclassical building on the southern boundary.

This beautiful structure was built in the 1920s as the atelier and home of Gustav Vigeland after he had agreed to donate his works to the city.

After his death the building became a museum in 1947, preserving his private apartment on the third floor where he lived from 1924 to 1943 and which is fitted for the most part with items he designed.

And being the place where Vigeland worked, the museum gives you a clear sense of the artists’ process, revealing the plaster models for the sculptures in the park, preparatory sketches, casts as well as many of Vigeland’s earlier pieces.

There are also short-term contemporary art exhibitions at the museum.

5. Fram Museum

On the Bygdøy Peninsula, this museum pays tribute to the daring polar explorers of the turn of the 20th century, namely Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup and Roald Amundsen.

The centre of attention here is the Fram, a wooden ship that was used by all three explorers in both Arctic and Antarctic expeditions between 1893 and 1912, going further north and south than any other vessel in history.

Both unusually wide and shallow, the Fram had an ingenious design allowing it to float on top of sheets of ice.

Aboard the Fram you’ll see how humans and their dogs battled to survive in some of the most hostile conditions on the planet.

Also at the museum is the Gjøa, which carried Roald Amundsen along the Northwest Passage over three years up to 1906. Look out for the Northern Lights show and interactive exhibits like the polar simulator.

6. Norwegian Folk Museum

In that same bundle of world-class museums on the Bygdøy Peninsula, the Norwegian Folk Museum is an open-air attraction that has welcomed visitors for more than 115 years.

The core of the collection was established by King Oscar II in the early 1880s and its showpiece is the Gol Stave Church, put up in the middle of the 12th century and relocated here in 1884. That wonderful monument is one of 155 historical buildings at the museum, outlining the diversity of wooden architecture around the country.

After making your way around these beautiful monuments you can pore over the indoor exhibits, which have traditional costumes, exhibitions about the history of medicine, toys, handicrafts, details about Sami culture, tools and weapons.

In the warmer months you can feed farm animals, go on horse and carriage rides, watch old crafts in action and find out how to bake lefse flatbread.

7. Norwegian National Gallery

Many people come to this museum for a single reason, to see Edvard Munch’s The Scream.

A proto-Expressionist painting known to all, there’s nothing to say about The Scream that hasn’t already been said.

Except when you see this icon of modern art you may be surprised to see that it is painted on cardboard.

And while The Scream and another Munch masterpiece, the Madonna, are a worthy main event, there’s more for art aficionados to sink their teeth into.

The National Gallery’s collection has Renaissance and Baroque pieces by Lucas Cranach the Elder, El Greco, Orazio Gentileschi, Giovanni Battista Gaulli and Jan van Goyen, as well as 19th and 20th-century art by masters like Monet, Picasso, Renoir and Paul Cézanne.

You can also dip into more Norwegian art by leading lights such as Harriet Backer, Adolph Tidemand and Hans Gude.

8. Oslo Opera House

A spellbinding landmark right on the harbour, the home of the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet is the Oslo Opera House, completed in 2007. Resembling an iceberg, this angular building is clad with white granite and Italian Carrara marble and has a main auditorium that can seat 1,364 spectators.

On a casual visit you can go up to the roof for free for a phenomenal view of the Oslofjord, best done at sunset.

The inside is also a delight, with warm surfaces covered with oak to counter the iciness of the exterior’s glass and stone.

In the lobby there’s a wall panel designed by Olafur Eliasson, and on a platform in the fjord is a glass and stainless steel sculpture by Monica Bonvicini.

You can also book a guided tour to go backstage and see the set workshop and get a table at the cafe/restaurant.

9. Kon-Tiki Museum

All about the adventures of the 20th-century anthropologist Thor Heyerdahl, the Kon-Tiki Museum is named after the balsa wood raft that Heyerdahl sailed from Peru to Polynesia in 1947. His purpose for taking on this perilous journey was to prove that Polynesians had emigrated to the Central and South Pacific from South America.

In another daring expedition Heyerdahl sailed from Morocco to Barbados on the papyrus reed boat Ra II to prove that the Ancient Egyptians could have crossed the Atlantic.

You’ll get to see these two vessels, as well a replica of the Tigris, which he sailed from Iraq to Pakistan.

An Oscar-winning documentary film about the Kon-Tiki expedition is shown at 12:00 every day, and there are artefacts, photos and accounts from all of Heyerdahl’s adventures.

10. Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower

A shortcut to Norwegian sporting history but also national identity, the Holmenkollbakken hill has been staging ski jumping competitions since 1892. The ski jumping events of the Winter Olympics were held here in 1952 and Four FIS Nordic World Ski Championships have taken place at this venerated location.

Within the structure of the ski jump is the Ski Museum, which guides you through the 4,000-year history of skiing in Norway.

You can peruse artefacts from Norwegian polar exhibitions and check out state-of-the-art skis and snowboards.

At the highest point of the ski jump is a panoramic observation deck that lets you look over Oslo and its fjord.

11. Aker Brygge

On the Inner Harbour Aker Brygge is a stylish waterside development for shopping and dining.

For almost 150 years up to 1982 this was the Akers Mekaniske Verksted shipyard, and many of these old brick warehouses and factory buildings mingle with new constructions.

The revitalisation continued until 2014 and has equipped Aker Brygge with dynamic public spaces, upmarket homes, restaurants and shops for fashion and design.

Be here on a summer’s day, when there are 2,500 al fresco seats at the waterfront restaurants.

From the steps that lead down to the fjord you can watch the maritime traffic to and from Pier 3 and the marina.

12. Akershus Fortress

Raised by Haakon V of Norway at the end of the 13th century, this fortress on a headland by the fjord has withstood every siege it has faced.

Nearly all of these were conducted by Swedish forces, whether it was Duke Eric of Södermanland at the beginning of the 14th century or King Charles XII in 1716. The surviving design is from the reign of King Christian IV, who moved the whole of Oslo just to the north of the fortress after a fire in 1624. He modernised the defences and built a palace in the Italian Renaissance style at its heart.

In the 18th and 19th centuries the fortress was a prison, and inmates included the infamous criminal and memoir-writer Gjest Baardsen.

Visit in summer, when guided tours are given of the palace and the enclosing bastions and ramparts.

13. Royal Palace

Now the official seat of King Harald V and Queen Sonja this Neoclassical palace was ordered by the French-born King Charles III and would be completed in 1849, five years after he passed away.

Charles was never able to reside in the Royal Palace, and the first tenant was Oscar I with his wife Josephine.

When Haakon VII of Norway ascended the throne after the dissolution of the union between Sweden and Norway, he became the first permanent resident.

This plush stucco-clad palace is couched in the Royal Palace Park and you can book a guided tour of the richly furnished state rooms during the summer.

If you’re just here to see the sights, then try to stop by at 13:30 for the changing of the guard.

14. Oslo City Hall

Commanding the Oslo Fjord, the City Hall is a monumental Functionalist building inaugurated in 1950. Work had begun almost 20 years earlier, but the project was interrupted by the Second World War.

You’ll know the City Hall by its red brick facade and two towers, 63 and 66 metres tall.

Those bricks were fired especially for this building and are larger than modern bricks and more akin to those that were used in Medieval constructions.

Inside and out the City Hall is decorated with depictions of Norwegian historical figures by some leading artists from the middle of the 20th century.

Anne Grimdalen produced the sculpture of Harald Hardrada on horseback, while at the front is St Hallvard, Oslo’s patron saint, sculpted by Nic Schiøll.

The marble-clad Main Hall is also coated with frescoes by Henrik Sørensen and Alf Rolfsen showing the growth of the city and key moments in its history.

15. Munch Museum

The Scream and Madonna at the National Gallery may have kindled your interest in Norway’s most cherished painter.

In which case you have to come to the Munch Museum in Tøyen.

In the museum’s stores are more than 1,200 paintings by Munch constituting over half of his total.

As of 2018 a small selection of these are on display, along with his graphic art and drawings.

They are combined with a revolving exhibition of contemporary Norwegian art by the likes of Per Inge Bjørlo and Lena Cronquist . At the time of writing the museum was open but the exhibition was limited in preparation for the unveiling of the new Munch Museum beside the Oslo Opera House.

This should be ready by 2019 making more of this enormous collection available in one go.

16. Ibsen Museum

At the home where Henrik Ibsen spent his final 11 years, the Ibsen Museum gives you a privileged glimpse into the life of one of Norway’s cultural giants.

After Ibsen passed away in 1906, followed eight years later by his wife Suzannah, the interiors of this elegant tenement house were taken apart, ending up with Ibsen’s family and a host of museums.

After the Ibsen Museum was founded in 1990 there was a meticulous 16-year project to piece this collection back together and return the building to its appearance at the beginning of the 20th century.

The attention to detail is mind-boggling; even textiles like curtains and tablecloths are like-for-like replicas of the originals.

Most exciting of all is Ibsen’s study, the exact place he wrote his two final plays, John Gabriel Borkman (1896) and When We Dead Awaken (1899).

17. Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

A little way outside of Oslo, to the north, you can still reach this excellent science museum by bus (23), train (L3) or tram (12) in a few minutes.

Some 25 temporary and permanent exhibitions take place here at any one time, while kids can get to grips with over 80 interactive stations.

Something they’re sure to love is the Teknoteket, a digital workshop where they can let their creativity take over, using high-tech tools to build racing cars or invent their own electronic appliances.

In the static exhibitions are groundbreaking pieces of technology, from the Birkeland-Eyde arc furnace on the square in front, to the Tesla BS 242 Electron Microscope dating to 1958. The National Museum of Medicine is also here, with antique instruments and information about how diseases like cholera were treated in the 19th century.

18. Norway’s Resistance Museum

One of three museums at the Akershus Fortress, this attraction chronicles the Norwegian Resistance during the occupation of Norway by Nazi Germany from 1940-1945. The venue is the noteworthy “Double Battery” building, completed in 1692. Drawing on posters, paper clippings, dead drops, makeshift weapons, recordings, documents and photographs, the museum goes into events and topics like the Invasion of Norway in April 1940, Norway’s totalitarian government and the captivity and deportation of 40,000 Norwegians.

You’ll learn about the range of groups involved in civil and military resistance, as well as their activities, from operating clandestine radio transmitters to sabotage missions.

Next to the museum building is a memorial for Norwegian resistance members executed in the war.

19. Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park

Idling along Aker Brygge, the interest doesn’t stop the end of the wharf.

You can cross a couple of bridges, and before long you’ll find yourself at this sculpture park landscaped by Renzo Piano.

On lawns and a man-made gravel beach next on the fjord are seven sculptures by heavyweights of modern and contemporary art, Louise Bourgeois, Antony Gormley, Ugo Rondinone, Anish Kapoor, Ellsworth Kelly, Franz West and Peter Fischli & David Weiss.

The park is a supreme vantage point on the Fjord, with vistas across the Akershus Fortress and back to Aker Brygge.

20. Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art

Next door to the sculpture park is a glossy art museum also designed by Renzo Piano and unveiled in 2012. The museum is in three pavilions under a coiling, silvery glass canopy.

The museum’s collection is a who’s who of modern and contemporary art with names like Francis Bacon, Sigmar Polke, Andy Warhol, Janine Antoni, Jeff Koons, Sherrie Levine, Damien Hirst, Bruce Naumann and Olafur Eliasson.

These works are hung in specially curated exhibitions and share the museum with short-term shows on themes or single artists: When we wrote this post the temporary exhibition was titled “Effects of Good Government in the Pit”, for Norwegian artist and writer Matias Faldbakken.

21. Mathallen Food Hall

A cornerstone of Oslo’s food scene for more than five years, the Mathallen is a big brick industrial building with more than 30 restaurants, bars, street food vendors and speciality food shops inside.

The building went up in 1908 as an iron forge as part of the burgeoning Vulkan industrial district.

The cast iron beams and bare brick walls are an evocative stage for international dining, culinary festivals, movie and quiz nights and food-oriented experiences like cookery classes, competitions and demonstrations.

At lunch the food selection is ultra-international and has Basque pintxos, handmade pizza, contemporary Nordic cuisine and street food from all over the world.

22. University Botanical Garden

Norway’s oldest botanical garden has 7,500 individual species and was planted in 1814 in the central Tøyen neighbourhood.

Originally owned by the Medieval Nonneseter Abbey, this land was later acquired by Frederick VI of Denmark who donated it to the University of Christiania in 1812. Much of the garden is taken up by an arboretum with 1,800 different species that have been organised scientifically.

The garden is strewn with woven sculptures by the artist Tom Hare, and there are two greenhouses, the Palm House built in 1868 and the Victoria House in 1876, named for the marvellous Victoria water lilies kept in the pond.

The Scent Garden meanwhile is open to all, but has been specially drawn up for visually impaired and disabled visitors.

23. Tusenfryd

The biggest amusement park in the country is a day out to remember for younger members of the clan.

Tusenfryd, around 20 kilometres south of Oslo, is open April to October and has more than 30 rides and attractions.

Among them are six roller coasters like Loopen, a steel mainstay for 30 years, and the high-speed Super Splash, which makes a splash five metres high when it hits the water.

These are partnered with all sorts of old-fashioned games and amusements, and smaller rides like bumper cars, teacups, merry-go-rounds and the recent Thor’s Hammer motion-based 3D ride.

Since 2000 there has also been a water park, BadeFryd with four slides and a pool, for fun when the sun is out.

24. Oslofjord Trips

Standing on Oslo’s wharfs you’ll be at the northern shore of a body of water that continues far to the south and opens onto the Skagerrak strait between Norway, Sweden and Denmark.

In between there are many kilometres of narrow sounds, little wooded islands with holiday homes, unfrequented coves and tranquil bays.

The simplest way to get out onto the fjord is to board a boat from Pier 3 by the City Hall.

Companies like Båtservice Sightseeing and Fjordtours have a menu of trips, whether you want to see iconic sights from the water by day or night like the Oslo Opera House, the Dyna Lighthouse the Bygdøy Peninsula and the historic ships berthed outside the Maritime Museum.

You can set a course for nature instead, on fjord safaris, fishing trips and day cruises up to seven hours long, or go even further, to the Swedish or Danish coast on a 600-horsepower RIB.

Essentially these sausages are hot dogs made from a blend of beef and pork, but what makes Pølse typically Norwegian is the way they’re cooked (in beef stock). The classic way to get your pølse is wrapped in a lompe, a flatbread made from potato, milk and flour.

You can order a pølse with ketchup and mustard, and an array of other accompaniments like dried onions, remoulade and pickles.

You’ll find them at convenience stores like Narvesen, Deli de Luca and 7-Eleven all over Oslo, and they’re eaten at barbecues and big national events like Norway’s National Day on May 17. Every Norwegian eats an average of three sausages on that single day.

If you need another statistic that sums up the Norwegian love for pølse, 46,000 tons of this sausage is eaten here every year.

That comes to more than 100kg per person.

25 Best Things to Do in Oslo (Norway):

• Bygdøy Peninsula
• Viking Ship Museum
• Frogner Park
• Vigeland Museum
• Fram Museum
• Norwegian Folk Museum
• Norwegian National Gallery
• Oslo Opera House
• Kon-Tiki Museum
• Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower
• Aker Brygge
• Akershus Fortress
• Royal Palace
• Oslo City Hall
• Munch Museum
• Ibsen Museum
• Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology
• Norway's Resistance Museum
• Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park
• Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art
• Mathallen Food Hall
• University Botanical Garden
• Oslofjord Trips

The Ultimate Oslo Guide: 15 Experiences You Can’t Miss in Norway’s Capital

Written by Kali Todd

May 21, 2024, europe | norway | travel guides.

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Oslo, the vibrant capital of Norway, offers a perfect blend of historical richness, cultural depth, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or an adventure seeker, Oslo has something special for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top activities that will make your visit to Oslo truly memorable.

Table of Contents

1. Bygdøyfergene: A Scenic Boat Ride to Historical Treasures

2. Norsk Folkemuseum: A Journey Through Norway’s Cultural History

3. Norwegian Maritime Museum: Celebrating Norway’s Seafaring Heritage

4. Fram Museum: Tales of Polar Exploration

5. Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower: Soaring Views and Winter Sports History

6. Oslo Opera House: Architectural Marvel and Cultural Hub

7. Ekebergparken Sculpture Park: Art and Nature Intertwined

8. Akershus Fortress: Journey Through Oslo’s Military History

9. Vigeland Park: A Sculptural Masterpiece in the Heart of Oslo

10. Barcode Oslo: A Modern Architectural Masterpiece

11. Floating Sauna: A Unique Nordic Experience

12. Mathallen Oslo: A Culinary Haven

13. Oslo’s Royal Palace and the Palace Park: A Peaceful Retreat

14. Oslo Nature Walks: Discover the Fjords

15. Viking Ship Museum: A Glimpse into Norway’s Past

Start your Oslo adventure with a scenic boat ride on the Bygdøyfergene. This ferry service offers picturesque views of Oslo’s harbor and takes you to Bygdøy, a peninsula home to some of the city’s most renowned museums. The journey itself is a treat, offering a serene introduction to the natural beauty surrounding Oslo.

Cost: Adult NOK 104, Children Under 18 NOK 52, Children Under 6 Free Free with the Oslo Pass

A short walk from the Viking Ship Museum, the Norsk Folkemuseum offers an immersive experience of Norway’s cultural history. This open-air museum features over 150 historical buildings relocated from different parts of Norway. Highlights include traditional Sami dwellings, a stave church from the 13th century, and exhibitions on Norwegian folk art and daily life. 

Cost:  Adult NOK 180, Senior NOK 140, Under 18 Free Free with the Oslo Pass

Discover Tivoli Gardens, the inspiration for Walt Disney and the creation of Disneyland. With vibrant gardens, attractions, and charming architecture, this 19th-century amusement park blends old-world charm with modern thrills for a magical experience. My favorite? The stunning tulip gardens!

Cost:  Adult NOK 140, Children 0-17 Free, Student/Senior NOK 120 Free with the Oslo Pass

Adjacent to the Maritime Museum is the Fram Museum, dedicated to the legendary polar exploration ship, Fram. The Fram, used by explorers like Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, is preserved in its entirety and accessible to visitors. The museum offers detailed exhibitions on the expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic, showcasing the harsh conditions and heroic efforts of the explorers.

Tour Cost: Adult NOK 140, Children/Students NOK 50, Seniors NOK 100 Free with the Oslo Pass

Situated on the hills overlooking the city, Holmenkollen is a famous landmark and a symbol of Norway’s skiing tradition. The museum, the world’s oldest dedicated to skiing, chronicles over 4,000 years of skiing history. Exhibits cover everything from ancient ski artifacts to modern Olympic memorabilia. After exploring the museum, take the elevator to the top of the ski jump tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Oslo and the surrounding fjords. The observation deck offers one of the best vantage points in the city.

Cost:  Adult NOK 190, Senior/Student NOK 170, Children 6-17 NOK 95, Children Under 6 Free Free with the Oslo Pass

The Oslo Opera House, with its striking design resembling an iceberg, is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. Located at the waterfront, the building allows visitors to walk on its roof, offering fantastic views of the city and the Oslo Fjord. Inside, the Opera House hosts a variety of performances, from opera and ballet to concerts. Even if you’re not attending a performance, a guided tour of the building reveals its architectural wonders and behind-the-scenes operations.

Cost (Guided Tour): Adults NOK 150, Children NOK 85 Free to walk on the roof

Ekebergparken Sculpture Park combines contemporary art with stunning natural scenery. Located on a hillside overlooking Oslo, the park features works by renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Damien Hirst, and Louise Bourgeois. As you wander through the park’s trails, you’ll encounter sculptures seamlessly integrated into the landscape, offering a peaceful and thought-provoking experience. The park also provides panoramic views of Oslo, making it a perfect spot for both art and nature lovers.

Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and fortress, stands as a testament to Oslo’s historical and military significance. Located near the city center, the fortress offers expansive views of the Oslo Fjord. Visitors can explore the castle’s interiors, which include the Akershus Castle Church and the Norwegian Resistance Museum. The fortress grounds are open to the public, providing a scenic and historical backdrop for leisurely walks and picnics.

Cost: Adults NOK 100, Senior/Student NOK 60, Children 6-18 NOK 40 Free with the Oslo Pass

Located in the Bjørvika neighborhood, this collection of high-rise buildings is characterized by its unique barcode-like appearance, with varying widths and heights creating a visually dynamic effect. The Barcode Project, completed between 2005 and 2016, comprises twelve buildings housing a mix of offices, residential spaces, retail shops, and restaurants. While constructing the Barcode Project, workers made a remarkable discovery: remnants of Viking ships buried beneath the site.

11. Floating Sauna:  A Unique Nordic Experience

The floating saunas in Oslo offer a quintessential Nordic experience, combining relaxation with the natural beauty of the Oslo Fjord. These innovative saunas, built on floating platforms, provide a unique way to unwind while enjoying stunning waterfront views. Visitors can enjoy the warmth of the sauna, and then take a refreshing dip in the fjord, embracing the invigorating Scandinavian tradition of alternating hot and cold. Popular among locals and tourists alike, the floating saunas in Oslo are a must-try for those looking for an experience!

Cost: From $195 for a 1.5-hour session for groups of up to 10 people Book Here: Private Floating Sauna Experience

Mathallen Oslo Food Court

Mathallen Oslo is a vibrant food court and culinary hub located in the trendy Vulkan neighborhood. Featuring a diverse array of food stalls and eateries, it offers a fun mix of local Norwegian produce and international cuisine. From gourmet delicacies to street food favorites, Mathallen is a paradise for food enthusiasts looking to explore a variety of flavors under one roof.

Cost: Free entry, food cost varies

13. Oslo’s Royal Palace and the Palace Park: A Peaceful Retreat

Located at the end of Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s Royal Palace serves as the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. Built in the 19th century, this neoclassical structure stands as a symbol of Norway’s royal heritage and elegance. Visitors can explore the lavishly decorated state rooms during the summer guided tours, from late June to mid-August, gaining insights into the royal family’s life and the palace’s historical significance. Surrounding the palace is the tranquil Palace Park, an oasis in the heart of the city. Spanning over 54 acres, the park features beautifully manicured gardens, serene ponds, and statues, offering a perfect retreat.

Cost (Guided Tours): Adults NOK 175, Senior/Student NOK 145, Children 3+ NOK 125, Children Under 3 Free Cost (Palace Park): Free

Experience the natural beauty of Oslo with the “Oslo Nature Walks: Island Hopping” excursion. This guided tour takes you on a journey through the stunning Oslo Fjord, exploring some of its most picturesque islands. Enjoy scenic walks along coastal trails, discover hidden beaches, and learn about the region’s rich history and diverse wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this island-hopping tour offers a refreshing escape into the tranquil landscapes surrounding Norway’s capital. Discover Oslo’s natural gems and enjoy a unique outdoor adventure.

Cost: $50 Per Person Book Here: Oslo Nature Walks: Island Hopping

15. Viking Ship Museum: A Glimpse into Norway’s Past

On the Bygdøy peninsula, your first stop should be the Viking Ship Museum. This museum houses some of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world, dating back to the 9th century. The Oseberg, Gokstad, Borre, and Tune ships and numerous artifacts provide a fascinating insight into the Viking age. The craftsmanship is truly incredible. To date, this is one of my favorite museums.

The museum is currently under renovation, with plans to reopen in 2027.

Cost: N/A Free with the Oslo Pass following reopening

Map of Stops

I highly recommend purchasing a Oslo Pass , which gives free admission to 30 museums and sights in Oslo, along with unlimited public transport.

Don't Miss A Beat!

Trip Cost Report: 9 Days in Norway

Dec 15, 2023 | Europe , Norway , Travel Guides

Curious how affordable a trip to Norway can be? Check out my cost breakdown for a 9-day solo trip to Norway.

The World’s Most Beautiful Train Ride: Flåmsbana

Sep 4, 2022 | Europe , Norway , Travel Guides

The Flåm Railway has been deemed by several to be the most beautiful train journey in the world with spectacular views of fjords and majestic waterfalls. The Flåmsbana line begins in Myrdal, where both Olso and Bergen connect.

Celebrating Norway’s Constitution Day

May 7, 2022 | Europe , Norway , Travel Guides

The biggest day of the year in Norway is May 17th and celebrates the country’s independence from Sweden. Although each village organizes its own celebrations, the day consists of parties, parades, and lots of food. 

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49 BEST Things to Do in Oslo, Norway That Are Totally Worth Doing

Looking for the best things to do in Oslo Norway? Explore my extensive Oslo travel guide to find everything from free things to do, top attractions, unique experiences, museums, parks, tours, shopping, and more!

Located at the innermost point of the Oslo fjord surrounded by forest, mountains, and sea is Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital. With a history spanning 1,000 years, today Oslo has world-class museums such as the Munch Museum and you can even walk on the roof of its state-of-art opera house. From sea pools to sculpture parks, waterfalls to panoramic views this extensive Oslo travel guide will help you uncover the real city with only the best things to do in Oslo.

I spent two weeks in Oslo on a language holiday , where I continued learning Norwegian in the mornings and had the afternoons and weekends free. Oslo city centre is compact and very walkable, however, many places on this list require a short ride on a bus, tram or water ferry. For this, I recommend purchasing a Visit Oslo pass which includes free public transport and entrance to many of the best attractions in Oslo.

Get to the heart of the city with these 49 underrated things to do in Oslo. Let’s begin!

Map of things to do in Oslo

Want to know where you’ll be going? Take a look at the detailed map below.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

Click on this interactive map and see where this itinerary will take you. I’ve created this map using Google Maps which you can save and use as you travel around Oslo.

Watch my vlog on the best things to do in Oslo

Here are 49 underrated things to do in Oslo in detail

1. visit the colourful norwegian houses on damstredet and telthusbakken.

2. Stroll along Aker Brygge Wharf

The waterfront is lined with restaurants offering excellent views over the marina and various food trucks if you want something on the go. 

Thanks to its large open-air areas and modern shopping malls, many photo exhibitions, concerts and pop-up events, activities, and festivals are hosted here.

3. Walk along Akerselva river

Join the Akerselva riverwalk at Nedre Foss and head north for the most scenic route. Look out for a cute red wooden building, this is Hønse-Lovisas house, a lovely cafe. Either keep walking or stop in for a break and them loop back towards the centre.

4. Wander the gardens of Oscarshall palace

Oscarshall is another one of Oslo’s gems hidden in plain sight as it doesn’t receive many visitors. It probably has a lot to do with the fact that it’s only open in summer and tours only run in Norwegian. However, when I bought my ticket they did they say the tour would be conducted in both languages even though the guide ended up running the whole tour all in English. 

Oscarshall opens during the summer from 1 June until 8 September, so if you’re in Oslo, make sure you pay a visit. Wander through the lovely gardens down to the waters edge before circling back to the outdoor cafe.

I definitely recommend joining the guided tour which costs NOK 100 / $11 USD. You’ll see the decadent interior that was wholly constructed and decorated by Norwegian artists and artisans. 

Tours start every hour (Wednesday – Sunday 11:00 – 17:00) and last approximately one hour. The last tour starts at 16:00. Monday – Tuesday Oscarshall is closed.

5. Wander along Karl Johans Gate

6. See the Change of Royal Guard at the Royal Palace (Det kongelige slott)

Going to Norway? Get my free Norwegian travel phrase guide here . 

7. Walk on the Roof of the Oslo Opera House (Operahuset)

8. See the Unusual Statues in Vigeland Park (Vigelandsparken)

9. Visit the Vigeland Museum (Vigeland-museet)

The museum houses a collection of Vigeland’s early works, his portraits and monuments, as well as plaster models for the sculptures in Vigeland Park where you can see Gustav’s well-documented working process. Entrance to Vigeland Museum is NOK 120 /  $13 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.

10. Visit the Emanuel Vigeland Museum, Oslo’s best-kept secret

Erotic figures cover the walls inside Emanuel Vigeland Museum

There must be something in the the Vigeland family blood because Gustav’s brother, Emanuel is also an excellent artist. Living in the shadow of his brother’s success and not to be outdone, Emanuel Vigeland set out to build something equally amazing and is now considered Oslo’s best-kept secret.

Located just outside the city centre, for a small entrance fee (NOK 50 / $5.56 USD), you can visit this unusual and very unique place. For more details about what makes this place so special, visit my guide to the Emanuel Vigeland Museum here .

11. Have lunch on island at Lille Herbern

The food served at Lille Herbern is all based on seasonal ingredients, with an emphasis on fish and shellfish and most of it is prepared on a charcoal grill. This is a very Norwegian experience and by that I mean the menu is only in Norwegian and there are no tourists here. Your waiter will most likely speak English though.

If you’re a vegetarian like me, you should know that their options are very limited. I did, however, manage to get a salad and roasted potatoes. 

To get to Lille Herbern you have to take (probably) the world’s shortest boat trip from a little pier. I’m not exaggerating either, from pier to pier the distance is only about 20 meters (65ft). 

The ferry across departs regularly and a return ticket costs NOK 35 ($3.80 USD) for adults and NOK 10 ($1.10 USD) for children. For their details about the restaurant and ferry times, visit the Lilleherbern.no website.

12. See ‘The Scream’ at the Munch Museum (Munchmuseet)

‘The Scream’ by Edvard Munch

Self-portrait by Edvard Munch

For me, seeing Edvard Munch’s famous painting in person at the Munch Museum was one of the highlights for me during my 2-week Norwegian language holiday. 

The Munch Museum has the world’s largest collection of Edvard Munch’s works in its permanent collection with well over half of Munch’s entire production of paintings and at least one copy of all his prints. That’s an impressive 1,200 paintings, 18,000 prints, six sculptures, 500 plates, 2,240 books, and various other items.

The Munch Museum are moving into a new state-of-the-art building and may be closed during the transition. Be sure to check the latest times on the official Munchmuseet website. Entrance to the Munch Museum is NOK 120 / $13 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.  

13. Visit Edvard Munch’s grave at Vår Frelsers gravlund (Our Saviour’s Cemetery)

14. Explore Akershus Fortress (Akershus festning)

Thanks to its strategic location at the tip of the headland, Akershus Fortress withstood a number of sieges over the centuries. It was modernised by King Christian IV (1588-1648) who converted the castle into a luxurious Renaissance castle and royal residence. It has also been used as a military base since then.

Today, visitors are free to wander the grounds and the visitor centre although I do recommend going  inside the castle building to see the banquet halls, the Royal Mausoleum and the government’s reception rooms, and the small, historic church that’s home to the royal sarcophagi. The entrance is NOK 100 /  $11 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.

Visit the official Akershus Fortress website for more information.

15. Explore Oslo City Hall (Oslo Rådhuset)

16. Eat Oslo Street Food at Torggata bad

Originally, when Torggata Bad first opened its doors in 1925, it was the largest public bath of the time. With its swimming pools, Roman baths, showers and a spa, this was the place to be in the 20s.

Oslo Street Food is open Monday – Saturday from 11:00 and Sunday from 12:00.

17. Buy some chocolate at the Freia shop

Freia is Norway’s most famous chocolate producer. It was founded in 1889 and by the turn of the century Freia was the leading Norwegian brand in sweets. The company is famous for Freia Melkesjokolade and Kvikk Lunsj and Marabou , as well as for other candy and dessert products which you can find in this cute store.

Since it started, the Freia factory has been in the Rodeløkka neighbourhood in the borough of Grünerløkka in Oslo. You can find the Freia store at Karl Johans gate 3.

18. Take a journey across the Pacific Ocean at the Kon-Tiki museum

Kon-Tiki vessel

Ra II vessel

It wasn’t until I visited Oslo that I heard about the incredible story of Thor Heyerdahl. Thor is a Norwegian explorer and one of history’s most famous. In 1947, Thor’s raft made of balsa wood carried him his crew of 5 men across the Pacific Ocean from Peru to Polynesia. Why? Well, Thor wanted to show that people from early South American civilisation could have reached Polynesia with seafaring vessels.

The voyage of 8000km (4970 miles) lasted 101 days and took place in the South-east trade winds with the aid of wind patterns and ocean currents. On top of that, Thor never learned how to swim, even after a near death-by-drowning experience as a child that left him with a form of hydrophobia (an extreme or irrational fear of water). Thor’s epic journey was captured on film and was awarded an Academy Award for best documentary in 1951.

But Thor didn’t stop there. He undertook another voyage, this time on a reed boat made of papyrus. After a previous attempt with the reed boat Ra, in 1970 Heyerdahl returned with his crew on Ra II and sailed from Safi in Morocco to Barbados in the Caribbean. This time it was to demonstrate the possibility of early culture contact between the so-called “old world” (Americas) and “new” world (Africa, Asia, and Europe).

In the Kon-Tiki Museum you’ll find objects from Heyerdahl’s expeditions arranged around the the original Kon-Tiki raft, and the papyrus boat Ra II.

The Kon-Tiki museum is open daily. Entrance is NOK 120 / $13 USD or is free with the Visit Oslo Pass.  

19. Admire three original viking ships at the Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset)

As you enter the museum, the first ship you’ll see is the most famous ship called Oseberg . It was excavated from the largest known ship burial in the world. The ship is richly decorated and was full of lavish burial gifts for the two women onboard. 

To the left is the Gokstad ,  a fast ship suitable for high sea voyages. The man buried in it suffered cutting blows to both legs, indicating that he probably died in battle.

To your right is Tune , made from oak around 910 AD it supported up to 24 rowers. The strong mast and lack of cargo capacity indicate it was most likely used in battle.

The Viking Ship Museum is open daily. Entrance is NOK 100 / $11 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.  

20. Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum)

Making traditional Norwwgian Lefse bread on the fire

It’s like the museum has its own little town. There are ‘streets’ you can wander down to see over 150 buildings which were brought here from all over the country.  Each building represents different regions and eras. There’s even a reconstructed traditional Sami goahti (tent).

Inside a beautiful three-story 19th-century building is an exhibition on the last two centuries in Norway. You can also find a collection of Sami national costumes from the northern reaches of Lapland, toys, and folk art. 

As you wander the grounds you’ll see staff (both adults and children) in traditional costume who run a farm and saw mill. Inside one of the houses are two girls who make and sell lefse – a traditional Norwegian sweet bread made of potatoes, milk and flour. I definitely recommend buying one fresh from the oven fire.

The Norsk Folkemuseum is open daily. Entrance is NOK 160 / $17 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.  

21. See famous artworks at National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design (Nasjonalmuseet)

‘The Sick Child’ by Edvard Munch

‘Madonna’ by Edvard Munch

The Oslo National Gallery houses a large collection of works by Norwegian painters from the 19th century until about 1945. From famous landscape painter J. C. Dahl, T. Fearnley, H. F. Gude, to naturalist painters and illustrators  C. Krohg, and G. P. Munthe. A separate and special exhibit is devoted to Edvard Munch where you’ll see The Scream , Madonna , The Sick Child , and The Dance of Lif e. Other famous artworks on display includes those by El Greco, Rubens, and Rembrandt

[September 2019]: The National Gallery is temporarily closed while it relocated to the new National Museum opening in 2020. Check the official Norwegian National Museum website for more details.

22. Climb aboard the Polar Ship Fram at the Fram Museum (Frammuseet)

The Fram Museum is centred around the original exploration vessel itself named Fram (“Forward”) which was used in expeditions of the Arctic and Antarctic regions between 1893 and 1912. 

Fram was designed and built by the Scottish-Norwegian shipwright Colin Archer for Fridtjof Nansen’s 1893 Arctic expedition who planned to freeze the ship into the Arctic ice sheet and float with it over the North Pole. Sounds crazy, right? Well, it worked! Fram is said to have sailed farther north (85°57’N) and farther south (78°41’S) than any other wooden ship.

The museum also exhibits images of the fauna of the polar regions, such as polar bears and penguins. In a separate building is Gjøa, the first vessel to transit the Northwest Passage. It took Roald Amundsen and this crew of six three years to accomplish this feat which finished in 1906.

Entrance to the Fram Museum is NOK 120 /  $13 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.

23. Spend the day on Bygdøy island

Bygdøy is also where you’ll come to some of the best museums in Oslo, many of them already mentioned here in this list. They include the Kon-Tiki Museum (Kon-Tiki Museet), Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum), Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset), Norwegian Maritime Museum (Norsk Maritimt Museum), the Fram Museum (Frammuseet) and Oscarshall palace.

Located approximately 5 km from Oslo city centre, there are a few ways to reach Bygdøy. 

• Bus: Catch bus no. 30 Bygdøy from downtown Oslo. The best way to plan your journey on the go is by downloading the RuterReise app to check schedules and routes and then buying your tickets using the RuterBillett . For planning ahead of the trip, you can use the ruter.no website.
• Ferry: From April to September a ferry runs from Rådhusbrygge 3 by the City Hall to Dronning, Bygdøy. 
• Car/bike/walk: From highway E18  or from street Bygdøy Allé, turn off to Bygdøy.

24. Head up the Holmenkollen Ski Jump (Holmenkollen Skimuseet)

Panoramic view from the rooftop platform

Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Ski Jump is one of Oslo’s top attractions and is open 365 days of the year. Holmenkollen Ski Jump has been the heart of Norwegian skiing for over 100 years, hosting its first ski jumping competition on 31st January 1892. Holmenkollen was also used in the VI Olympic Winter Games held in Oslo in 1952.

Located underneath the ski jump is the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, the oldest of its kind in the world. This impressive museum covers Norway’s long relationship with skiing, all 4,000 years in fact. There is also a Norwegian polar exploration with a series of artefacts on exhibition. The museum proves that Norwegians really to do learn to ski before they learn to walk.

End your visit by taking the elevator up to the very top of the ski jump for awesome 360 degree views of Oslo and the Oslo Fjord.

It’s free to enter walk inside the ski jump area itself, however, entrance to the museum costs  NOK 140 / $15.50 USD for adults. Entrance is free with the Visit Oslo Pass.

Even if you don’t head inside the museum, it’s still worth coming out here to admire this huge structure. Standing on it and actually dizzying. Holmenkollen Chapel and a park are nearby. Head up to the park for an elevated view of the whole area.

25. Join a free Guided Tour Inside Parliament House

26. Kayak around Oslofjord

See Oslo from a different perspective with a kayak tour. This the best way to combine the city with nature and get a bit of exercise in too. What makes this tour so great is that you can customise your itinerary. You can choose to kayak around natural areas or visit a local beach. Book your kayak tour here

27. Watch the sunset at Ekebergparken Sculpture Park 

I was walking along a path with two friends — the sun was setting — suddenly, the sky turned blood red — I paused, feeling exhausted, and leaned on the fence — there was blood and tongues of fire above the blue-black fjord and the city — my friends walked on, and I stood there trembling with anxiety — and I sensed an infinite scream passing through nature. 

The viewpoint isn’t the only reason to visit Ekebergparken’s Sculpture Park. This park is ranked one of the top 5 sculpture parks in the world which combines beautiful landscapes, high-quality sculptures, and history. You are free to explore the park on your own, or you can pay to join a guided tour.

Visit the official Ekebergparken website for a free map of the park marked with all the sculptures.

28. Visit Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park

Both the sculpture park and nearby Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art were designed by the world-renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano. The same architect who designed ‘The Shard’ in London and the MUSE Museum in Trento.

During summer, you’ll see locals at the nearby pier and cooling off in the water. Why not join them!

29. Take a dip in the Sørenga sea pool 

Did you know that Oslo enjoys 19 hors of daylight in the summer? Why not spend a few of those at Sørenga sea pool, located along Oslo’s new harbour promenade.

Seawater fills this large fjord pool which also has a beach, a children’s pool, and a large recreational area. You’ll only find locals here, especially on warm days.

The Sørenga pool is open to the public all year round and in winter, people go cold water swimming or enjoy a sauna. To reach Sørenga, follow the harbour promenade past the Opera House.

30. Have afternoon tea at Hønse-Lovisas House

The story behind the Hønse-Lovisas house goes back to 1800 when it was as saw miller’s house. The house was named after Hønse-Lovisa, a brave and warm female character from Oskar Braaten’s books. The inspiration for the character came from the author’s childhood in the area, but it is unknown whether the person Hønse-Lovisa actually existed.

Hønse-Lovisas House is open all year round: 

• Summer (May through August) – Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 6pm
• Winter (September through April) – Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 5pm

31. Have lunch at Vippa Oslo

Vippa Oslo is a vibrant food court serving up flavours from all around the world. It’s not just a simple food hall though, it’s actually a social enterprise that uses street food as a way to help integrate immigrants and aspiring entrepreneurs into the local community. 

We are highly committed to inclusivity and sustainability, and we strive to create opportunities for immigrants and young people who are excluded from the workforce.

Vippa Oslo is open Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 – 21:00 and Sunday: 12:00 – 20:00 and is located at Akershusstranda 25 just a 20 minute walk from the Oslo Opera House.

32. Unwind in the University’s Botanical Garden

There is also the Great-granny’s Garden which is designed for people suffering from dementia – the familiar scents, old-fashioned benches, and other traditional elements have a comforting effect and improve their memory.

For more details about the Botanical Gardens, visit my guide to free with the Visit Oslo Pass.

33. Climb and go a zip lining at Oslo Summer Park (Oslosommerpark)

Visiting Oslo in the summer and feeling adventurous? Head to Oslosommerpark (Oslo Summer Park), one of the best climbing parks in Scandinavia. Choose from 12 different trails with different levels of difficulty and flying across the treetops thanks to their 1,000 metres of zip-lines.

Your ticket includes all the necessary equipment and training you need for a safe and fun day out. You can also bring your own food and have a barbeque in the park’s picnic areas.

Oslo Summerpark is located under 30 minutes away from central Oslo by Tryvann Tower, on top of Holmenkollenåsen. Take train line no. 1 towards Frognerseteren and get off at Voksenkollen Station (second to last). From there it is a 12 minute walk to Tryvann Tower.

Oslo Summerpark is open from mid-August to mid-October. For more details, visit Oslosommerpark.no

34. Go skiing at Oslo Winter Park (Vinterpark)

In winter, Oslo Summerpark transforms into Oslo vinterpark! Only this time it’s all about skiing. Oslo Vinterpark is the largest ski resort in the Oslo area, with 18 slopes and 11 lifts. If you’re a beginner like me, you’ll be happy to hear their is a beginners area and easy slopes for us newbies but there are also more challenging ones for the more experienced.

Oslo Vinterpark has one of Norway’s biggest snowparks with a slopestyle course and Europe’s only Superpipe open to the public. The season usually start around November/December and concluded at the end of Easter. For more details, visit Oslovinterpark.no

35. Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art Museum

The Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art Museum is open Tuesday-Sunday and the entrance is NOK 130 / $14 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.

36. Walk across Ankerbrua, Oslo’s fairytale bridge

The sculptures include a man on a reindeer depicting Per Gynt, a legendary deer hunter from Gudbrandsdalen. This story actually helped inspire Henrik Ibsen’s famous work, Peer Gynt. 

Across the bridge is Kari Trestakk, the Norwegian Cinderella who escaped her evil stepmother on the back of a great blue ox.

At the city end there’s a woman on a huge bear representing Kvitebjørn kong Valemon. King Valemon was cursed to spend his days as a polar bear after he refused to marry a wicked witch. The woman is the princess who became his wife. 

Opposite the bear is Veslefrikk med fela, which is a young man who gets three wishes from a troll. One of his wishes is for a fiddle that no one can resist dancing to, which eventually saves him from a lynch mob.

37. Explore the Barcode Project District

38. Ride the roller coaster at TusenFryd

Just 20 kilometers south of Oslo centre is Tusenfryd which literally means, “Thousand Joys”, or the term used for a common daisy. Tusenfryd is Norway’s largest amusement park full of roller coasters, carousels, games, shops, and places to eat.  During the summer, head to BadeFryd water park for a dip in the swimming pool or slide down the huge water slide.

Buy discounted tickets online in advance using tusenfryd.no or receive 20% off with the Visit Oslo Pass.

39. See the stained glass windows in Oslo Cathedral (Oslo domkirke)

The church has mass in Norwegian on weekdays and high mass every Sunday and is regularly used for concerts. Oslo Cathedral is open every day from 10am – 4pm except Friday where the church opens at 4pm and stays open until Saturday morning at 06:00.

40. Take a photo with “The Tiger”

As most Norwegian’s know, Oslo’s nickname is Tigerstaden (“The Tiger City”). It is said that this name was first used by Norwegian poet, Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson. In his poem “Sidste Sang” written in 1870, he describes a fight between a horse and a tiger; the tiger representing the dangerous city and the horse, the safe countryside. Since then Oslo has been known as “The Tiger City”. Over the years the negative connotation was lost and now refers to Oslo being an exciting and happening place rather than dangerous.

41. Take a fjordside sauna at Urban Sauna

The Finnish tradition of relaxing in a sauna to cleanse the body whilst enjoying great company has come to Norway in a unique way. Docked in Oslo harbour are two architect-designed floating saunas, one called Måken (holds up to 12 people) and the other Skarven (holds up to 16 people). They even have their own diving board on the roof! 

These cosy saunas are made of Finnish pine wood are run by a group of sauna enthusiasts and is in operation all year round. You can book one or both saunas privately for two hours or come by during drop-in hours. Drop-ins are only available on a few select dates so I suggest booking in advance to avoid disappointment.  Visit the owners’ website for more information about bookings.

42. Go hunting for Oslo’s street art and sculptures

Amongst the most memorable is the Sphinx, which is a sculpture of supermodel Kate Moss in a very uncomfortable-looking yoga pose. You can find out the front of the Clarion Collection Hotel Folketeateret. One other a controversial sculpture by Paul McCarthy which depicts a Santa Claus with a “christmas tree” in his hand. The first time I saw this sculpture was in Rotterdam, which is the original. Read all about why it’s so controversial in my Rotterdam travel guide.  

For more street art and sculptures to see, check out Visit Oslo’s urban art guide.

43. Take a Boat trip around Oslo fjord

Alternatively, you can join a 2-hour Oslo Fjord sightseeing cruise that runs both in the morning and afternoon. As you cruise the fjord,  you’ll receive commentary from an onboard guide giving you the chance to learn about nature and the countryside. Check times and book your tour here.

44. Visit Kvadraturen, Oslo’s historical centre

Step back into Oslo’s history with a trip to Kvadraturen. Located behind Akershus Fortress, Kvadraturen is Oslo’s historical centre whose name, literally “the quadrature”, was inspired by the rectangular street pattern of this once renaissance town.

Danish-Norwegian King Christian IV’s founded Christiania here after the big town fire in 1624. He claimed this area and renamed after himself. It was then renamed back to Oslo in 1924. 

Only a few buildings from the 17th and 18th century survived the test of time including the building that housed Oslo’s first town hall and the city’s oldest restaurant, Café Engebret. You’ll also find the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Architecture, the Film Museum and several galleries located here.

Located in square Christiania torv is a fountain with a large sculpture of a hand pointing to the ground. This is supposedly the hand of King Christian IV who pointed to this spot and said: “The new town will lie here!”

45. Nobel Peace Center (Nobels Fredssenter)

The Nobel Peace Center is open: Summer season (29 April-30 September): Monday to Sunday 10–18. Winter season (1 October–28 April April): Tuesday to Sunday 10–18 

Entrance is NOK 120 /  $13 USD or free with the Visit Oslo Pass.

46. Join a small bike tour

Enjoy the best of Oslo on this leisurely 3-hour bike tour.  A knowledgeable guide will take you around the charming streets and popular attractions while imparting insightful knowledge and interesting history. The tour is limited to 15 people so you’re sure to have an intimate experience. Book your small group bike tour here . Alternatively if you prefer to go it alone, you can get a full-day bike hire here .

47. Enjoy a cocktail with a view at Eight – The Rooftop Bar at Grand

Take in the Oslo’s skyline whilst sipping on a Nordic cocktail at Eight rooftop bar. Located on Karl Johans gate on the top floor of the Grand Hotel, come here to end your day or start your evening on its gorgeous terrace with excellent views.

Eight rooftop bar is open:

• Monday – Thursday: 16:00-01:00
• Friday – Saturday: 14:00-02:00
• Sunday: Closed

48. Head to Mathallen for lunch

Mathallen, literally “the Food Hall”, is a huge indoor food market with cafes, specialty shops, restaurants, cafés and other great places to eat. The eateries serve high-quality products from small-scale Norwegian producers as well as special foreign imports. Locals flock to Mathallen around lunch time on weekdays and on weekends.

Mathallen is open: 

• Tuesday-Saturday: 10:00-20:00
• Sunday: 11:00-18:00
• Monday: Closed

49. Have a cocktail at HIMKOK

Coming in at 20th place on the The World’s 50 Best Bars 2017 list is HIMKOK. This cocktail bar is also a craft distillery with a cider bar, outdoor kitchen, and a greenhouse with plants and herbs for the drinks and food. Let pro bartenders whip you up a cocktail using unique Norwegian flavours include cloudberries, seaweed, birch and even the caramelised milk cheese known as ‘brunost’.

HIMKOK is open Sunday – Thursday: 17:00-03:00 and Friday – Saturday: 15:00-03:00.

Planning a trip? Don’t risk it. I never travel without getting travel insurance. I always use World Nomads for all my trips.

Oslo Accommodation: Where to stay in Oslo

During my first visit to Oslo around Christmas time, I stayed at Anker Hotel for four nights . The double room I had was very spacious and the bathroom was equally as big. The room had a lovely view over the stream and bridge leading up towards Damstredet and Telthusbakken. Located just a 15-minute walk from Karl Johans gate, Anker Hotel is also well connected with both tram and bus stops right outside the hotel. I particularly enjoyed their traditional Norwegian ginger biscuits they had at reception each day. Nom nom! These are very much a Christmas tradition though.

Want to see more of Oslo and Beyond? Join one of these tours!

• Oslo Nature Walks: Island hopping
• Join this small Group Oslo walking tour
• Take this self-guided trip to Bergen and Flåm
• PLUS… many more here!

Plan your trip with my Oslo travel toolkit

• Going to Norway? Take my Norwegian travel phrase guide
• Find the best deals on flights here
• Get the best hotel deals here
• Compare the best car rental prices here
• See more of Oslo with local experiences .

Visiting Norway? Check out my other Norway posts

• 22 Absolutely Free things to do in Oslo You Shouldn’t Miss
• Emanuel Vigeland Museum: Oslo’s Best-Kept Secret
• How to Hike Trolltunga like a Pro: The Ultimate Guide
• 23 Travel Tips You Should Know Before Visiting the Lofoten Islands, Norway
• How to get to Lofoten: 6 Easy Ways to Get to the Lofoten Islands, Norway
• 28 Unique Things to Do in Lofoten Before You Die [A Comprehensive Guide]
• 11 Awesome Things to do in Stavanger you won’t forget
• 20 Unique Things to do in Tromsø in Winter: The Definitive City Guide, Itinerary & Travel Tips
• The Ultimate Sámi Culture Experience in Tromsø
• 7 Reasons Why You Should Take an Arctic Fjords Road Trip in Tromsø
• The Best Place to See the Northern Lights You Probably Haven’t Heard of
• How to Choose the Best Whale Watching Tour in Norway and Iceland

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Over to you!

Got a question about visiting Oslo? Is there anything you’d add to this list? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

22 Absolutely Free Things to do in Oslo You Shouldn’t Miss

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Must-see attractions in Oslo

Vikingskipshuset

Aker Brygge & Bygdøy

Around 1100 years ago, Vikings dragged up two longships from the shoreline and used them as the centrepiece for grand ceremonial burials, most likely for…

Ekebergparken

Sofienberg, Grønland & Tøyen

Opened to much controversy in 2013, Ekebergparken cemented Oslo's reputation as a contemporary-art capital and, in particular, one devoted to sculpture. A…

Astrup Fearnley Museet

This private contemporary-art museum resides in an arresting, silvered-wood building designed by Renzo Piano, with a sail-like glass roof that feels both…

Ibsen Museet

While downstairs houses a small and rather idiosyncratic museum, it's Ibsen's former apartment, which you'll need to join a tour to see, that is…

Vigelandsparken

The centrepiece of Frognerparken is an extraordinary open-air showcase of work by Norway's best-loved sculptor, Gustav Vigeland, and is home to 212…

Akershus Festning

When Oslo was named capital of Norway in 1299, King Håkon V ordered the construction of Akershus, strategically located on the eastern side of the harbour…

Nobels Fredssenter

Norwegians take pride in their role as international peacemakers, and the Nobel Peace Prize is their gift to the men and women judged to have done the…

Polarship Fram Museum

This museum is dedicated to one of the most enduring symbols of early polar exploration, the 39m schooner Fram (meaning ‘Forward’). Wander the decks, peek…

Oslo's beloved woodland sits to the north of the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and is a prime destination for hiking, mountain biking, sledding and skiing. In the…

Holmenkollen Ski Jump

The Holmenkollen Ski Jump, perched on a hilltop overlooking Oslo, offers a panoramic view of the city and doubles as a concert venue. During Oslo's annual…

Nasjonalgalleriet

The gallery houses the nation's largest collection of traditional and modern art, and many of Edvard Munch's best-known creations are on permanent display…

Munchmuseet

This monographic museum dedicated to Norway's greatest artist, Edvard Munch (1863–1944), houses the largest collection of his work in the world: some 28…

Henie-Onstad Art Centre

This private art museum contains works by Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso, as well as assorted impressionist, abstract, expressionist and contemporary…

Frognerparken

Frognerparken attracts westside locals with its broad lawns, ponds, stream and rows of shady trees for picnics, strolling or lounging on the grass. It…

Norsk Folkemuseum

This folk museum is Norway's largest open-air museum and one of Oslo's most popular attractions. The museum includes more than 140 buildings, mostly from…

Royal Palace

The Norwegian royal family's seat of residence emerges from the woodland-like Slottsparken, a relatively modest, pale-buttercup neoclassical pile. Built…

Historisk Museum

The Historical Museum is actually three museums under one roof. Most interesting is the ground-floor National Antiquities Collection (Oldsaksamlingen),…

Vigeland Museum

For a more in-depth look at Gustav Vigeland's work, this museum is just opposite the southern entrance to Frognerparken. It was built by the city in the…

Oslo Cathedral

The highlights of a visit to Oslo Cathedral, which dates from 1697, are the elaborate stained-glass windows by Emanuel Vigeland (brother of Gustav) and…

The quirky 18th-century wooden homes of the Damstredet district and the nearby Telthusbakken are a nice change of pace from the modern architecture of the…

Norwegian Resistance Museum

Within the Akershus Fortress complex the Norwegian Resistance Museum stands adjacent to a memorial for resistance fighters executed on this spot during…

Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park

Like the Astrup Fearnley Museet that it surrounds, this sculpture park was designed by Renzo Piano and is also dedicated to international contemporary art…

Emanuel Vigeland Museum

Emanual Vigeland, brother to the more famous Gustav, began construction on this large, vaulted space in 1926, with plans to make it a museum. The dimly…

Natural History Museum

Under the trees of Oslo's Botanical Garden, the university's serious-looking Natural History Museum comprises two different collections: the Zoological…

Botanical Garden

Oslo's 6.5-hectare Botanical Garden – the oldest in Norway – has a beautiful woody arboretum, a sublime scent garden, a mini-mountain landscape and a…

Nobel Institute

It is unclear why Alfred Nobel chose Norway to administer the Peace Prize, but whatever the reason, it is a committee of five Norwegians, appointed for…

Slottsparken

Rising up above the western end of central Oslo is the sloping parkland of Slottsparken, one of the capital's first public parks. Filled with rambling…

Akerselva River

Running from Maridalsvannet to the Oslofjord, this fast-flowing river was once the centre of Oslo's industry and then, until the late 20th century,…

This twin-towered town hall, completed in 1950 to commemorate Oslo's 900th anniversary, houses the city's political administration and is filled with mid…

Vår Frelsers

This triangular cemetery dates to the Napoleonic wars, but it's most notable as the final resting place of artist Munch and writer Ibsen. Ibsen's grand…

Kon-Tiki Museum

A favourite among children, this worthwhile museum is dedicated to the balsa raft Kon-Tiki, which Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl sailed from Peru to…

Museet for Samtidskunst

The highly regarded National Museum of Contemporary Art is keeper of the National Gallery's collections of post-WWII Scandinavian and international art…

Norwegian Maritime Museum

Author Roald Dahl once said that in Norway everyone seems to have a boat, and the theory seems like quite a good one at the Norsk Maritime Museum. The…

Stian Eide Kluge and Steffen Håndlykken began this artist-run space in a former timberyard in 2010 and it's one of the city's most respected and enduring…

If you're not here for the restaurant, the cafe, the bars or the live-music venues, it's still worth popping in for a poke around both the spectacular…

Queen Sonja Art Stable

The former palace stables, used for half a century as storage, were reopened as a public gallery space by Queen Sonja on her 80th birthday. The charming…

Part gallery, part office, part library and part performance space, nyMusikk hosts a program of sound-focused art shows, performances and festivals. Even…

Oslo City Museum

Near the southern entrance to Vigeland Park, this charming museum is housed in the 18th-century Frogner Manor, built on the site of a Viking-era great…

St Hanshaugen Park

This huge park is a locals' favourite and, from its top, a very pleasant place to get a view of the city. The neighbourhood's name – a reference to …

Nasjonalbiblioteket

A thoroughly modern library where you can view important documents of Norway's cultural heritage, from 13th-century manuscripts to magazines, films and…

More destinations you need to see

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• Los Angeles

The 12 best things to do in Oslo

The home of Scandi cool? The best things to do in Oslo cover everything from food courts to the hip Grünerløkka district

Photograph: Shutterstock

Ready for some Scandi cool? Oslo might not be cheap (okay, it's really not cheap), but the Norwegian capital is worth every single øre. Found between the mountains and the sea, Oslo has a little bit of everything you need for a weekend away. 

It's a vibrant, bustling city, with world-class museums, innovative restaurants and a seriously friendly vibe (it frequently gets voted the most liveable city for a reason, you know). If you're ready to do things the Norweigan way, read on for the best things to do in Oslo right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏨 The best  Oslo hotels 🧳 The best city breaks in Europe ✈️ Europe's most underrated travel destinations

This guide was written by travel expert Ellie Ross . At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Oslo

1.  oslo fjord.

What is it?  In summer, the water bustles with sailboats and the islands that dot the inner Oslo Fjord – including Hovedøya and Gressholmen – are ideal for swimming, beach picnics and hiking.

Why go?  It only takes five minutes by ferry to reach the main island, Hovedøya, with its lush forests, beaches and monastery ruins – and it costs just 38 NOK (the same as a bus). Buy a day pass, and jump from island to island, or book a guided tour.

2.  Nobel Peace Centre

What is it?  This interactive exhibition is dedicated to the acclaimed Peace Prize and its previous winners. While the permanent exhibition is about the winners, its ever-changing exhibits range from photos capturing extreme wealth to those examining anorexia.

Why go? The Nobel Peace Centre  offers a fascinating insight into the significance of the Peace Prize, as well as issues relating to war, peace and conflict resolution. It’s also super family-friendly, and children under 16 get in free.

3.  Oslo Opera House

What is it?  One of Scandinavia’s most iconic modern buildings, the Opera House is a 21st-century marvel. Designed to resemble a glacier rising out of the fjord, its prime role is to showcase opera and ballet performances.

Why go?  In many ways, this building was the start of a new era for Oslo and the regeneration of its waterfront. Don’t miss a walk on top of its roof for a superb architectural experience, with wonderful city views to boot.

4.  Vippa

What is it? The city’s food court, located inside an old industrial building. Vippa 's various stalls serve a mixture of affordable, international cuisine, such as pulled pork tacos and crab sandwiches.

Why go? Its location at the tip of the city makes it slightly off the tourist route. It’s popular with locals who enjoy the eclectic mix of Oslo’s food cultures in a relaxed atmosphere with superb sea views.

5.  Urban sauna

What is it?  One of the coolest things to do in Oslo is to sizzle in an urban sauna. The harbour has a number of places where you can heat up besides the coals – before a refreshing plunge in the fjord. 

Why go?  The health benefits of saunas are well-documented and this is a great way of embracing local life.  SALT  is a nomadic art project where you can relax in water-filled barrels, while  KOK  is a floating sauna with epic fjord views.

6.  Ekeburg Sculpture Park

What is it?  Around a 30-minute walk from central Oslo, this wooded park featuring 31 sculptures beautifully overlooks the city and is where Munch found his inspiration for The Scream. 

Why go?  Always open and free to visit, Ekeburg Sculpture Park is home to works by artists including Salvador Dali and Damien Hirst and has a top-notch restaurant, Ekebergrestauranten (we recommend the mussels).

7.  Tim Wendelboe

What is it?  Oslo is having a coffee moment, with world champion baristas such as Tim Wendelboe importing, roasting and grinding coffee beans with pizazz. There are dozens of independent coffee shops popping up all over town, serving everything from black, filtered brews to espressos.

Why go?  Norwegians are the world’s second-biggest coffee drinkers, so to skip sampling their ‘lightly roast’ drink is to miss a key part of local cuisine. Try it at Tim Wendelboe.

8.  Bon Lío

What is it?  A cute little local gem serving delicious and authentic Spanish tapas, wine and cocktails in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Head chef and owner Cato Wara was born in Norway but grew up in Mallorca, so his cooking is Nordic-Spanish.

Why go? Bon Lío  is  an intimate space – seating only around 35 diners – and is often packed, so book ahead. It’s not cheap, but for that, you get ten scrumptious courses made with the finest Spanish and Norwegian ingredients.

9.  Holmenkollen

What is it? A huge Olympic ski jump, located within easy reach of the city by Metro, with a viewing platform and a museum that delves into skiing history and polar exploration, plus snowboarding and modern skiing.

Why go? No trip to Oslo is complete without taking in the panoramic vistas from the top of this impressive tower – the best views in the city. Book a whole day tour, including the ski jump.

10.  Vaaghals

What is it?  Located in the Barcode area, a short walk from Oslo’s central station, Vaaghals  is a great place to come and sample traditional Norwegian dishes and share platters with friends in a laid-back atmosphere.

Why go?  If you want to experience a uniquely Norwegian way of communal dining, this is it. The restaurant celebrates ‘skifte’, an old tradition where food is passed around the table, with sharing plates made using fresh, locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.

11.  Akerselva River

What is it? The 5.1 mile-long Akerselva river starts at Lake Maridalsvannet and flows right through to downtown Oslo, dividing the east and west sides of the city. The trails along the river are perfect for hiking and cycling.

Why go? Strolling along the river is a great way to explore different neighbourhoods, including Grünerløkka, the hipster area, where you’ll find vintage boutiques, quirky cafes and pubs stretching along the riverbanks. Try Nedre Foss Gard for al-fresco dining and  Ingensteds night club.

12.  Himkok

What is it?  Housed inside one of the oldest brick buildings in downtown Oslo, this ‘hidden’ speakeasy bar serves avant-garde cocktails made with spirits distilled on-site and featuring quirky ingredients, such as Norwegian brown cheese, ginseng and horseradish.

Why go? Himkok  has frequently been named as one of the best bars in the globe. It also has a cider bar, outdoor kitchen and greenhouse growing plants and herbs used in drinks and food.

More great things to do in Oslo

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

14 Incredible Experiences In Beautiful Oslo, Norway

• Destinations

Set on a glittering bay amid impressive hills and fjords, Oslo is one of Scandinavia’s most magnificent cities. Founded by a Norseman, King Harald III, the city has a rich Viking history with close ties to the sea.

Our Viking Venus Ocean Ship docked at the Akershus Fortress , a medieval and Renaissance citadel built in the 1290s by Norse King Hakon V, central to Norway’s identity . Oslo was one of the stops during our 2-week Norwegian Homelands cruise from Stockholm to Bergen.

1. The Parks And Green Spaces In Oslo

A nature walk is always top of mind in Oslo, situated between the waters of Oslofjord and the sloping forests that spread into the hinterlands or areas inland from the coast. Ample parks and open spaces invite residents and guests to commune with nature. Norway’s most famous is Frogner Park , home to Gustav Vigeland’s renowned sculptures.

A short ferry takes you to Bygdoy, the green “Museum Peninsula” protruding into the fjord. St. Hanshaugen Park , with rolling hills and romantic pathways, features broad city views. The grassy stretch of Toyen Park and an inviting botanical garden extend behind the Munch Museum.

2. Edvard Munch Museum

Dedicated to the life and art of the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch , the original museum opened in 1963, commemorating his 100th birthday. On October 22, 2021, the new museum opened with an extensive collection of over 1,200 paintings,18,000 prints, 2,240 books, 500 plates, six sculptures, and other prominent items by Munch.

I was fascinated to find more than four versions of the famous Scream , an 1893 oil, tempera, and pastel; an 1895 pastel on board; an 1895 lithograph; and a 1910 tempera on panel. The artist described his scream of nature as the sun went down, the sky turned a bloody red, and he trembled in anxiety.

3. The National Gallery Of Oslo

In 1910, the iconic Scream , painted in 1893, was donated to the National Gallery in Oslo . The Edvard Munch Room features 18 of his most famous paintings, including Madonna, The Sick Child , The Dance of Life , and The Girls on the Pier .

The new National Museum opened on June 11, 2022, and houses Norway’s most extensive collections of older and modern art, architecture, design, arts and crafts, and contemporary art, all presented under one roof and in new settings. Some exhibitions include United States artist Mark Rothko, Mexican artist Freda Kahlo, and Else Hagen, the first female artist in Norway to create monumental public artworks.

4. Frogner Park And Gustav Vigeland’s 200 Sculptures

The largest sculpture park by a single artist in the world, Frogner Park houses over 200 bronze, granite, and cast-iron sculptures by acclaimed Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Vigeland Square is within Frogner Park, the most significant park in Oslo. Frogner also hosts an open-air pool, a café and restaurant, the grandest playground in Norway, and the country’s most prominent collection of roses, with 14,000 plants and 150 different species. The park is also home to Frogner Manor and the Museum of Oslo, telling the city’s history through paintings, models, and photographs.

The Monolith is the center of the park’s sculptures, a tribute to humankind’s complexity. Carved from a gigantic stone block and the highest point in Vigeland Park, the Monolith represents 121 humans stacked, clinging to each other, with children at the top. Each figure depicts a different stage of life.

The famous Bridge hosts 58 bronze sculptures of men, women, and children, while the Fountain features 20 statues from all stages of life, from childhood to old age and death. Other outstanding sculptures include the Dancing Young Woman, Man Fighting Lizard, and The Wheel of Life , a bronze circle of human figures.

The most humorous sculpture I found was The Angry Boy , a little boy throwing a temper tantrum. Vigeland was said to have given the boy some candy and then taken it away. His angry expression made me laugh. You could spend all afternoon in this park.

5. Oslo City Hall, Home To The Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony

On December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death, Oslo City Hall hosts the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, where the annual laureate presents their lecture and receives the medal and diploma. The awards presentation takes place in the grand Central Hall, surrounded by murals of artist Henrik Sorensens depicting scenes from Norwegian history and legends.

6. The Royal Palace

The opulent Royal Palace is one of the country’s most important buildings, owned by the state and provided for the head of state. The King and Queen live here and conduct the daily work of the monarchy. The King presides over the Council of State, holds official dinners, and grants audiences. Foreign heads of state who visit Oslo stay at the palace, and most of the members of the Royal Court have offices here. The castle was officially established on July 26, 1849, by King Oscar I.

Pro Tip: The Royal Palace is open for summer tours from June 25 through August 18, with tickets available on Ticketmaster .

7. Norwegian Parliament

Guided tours of the Norwegian Parliament , or Storting, are available weekdays from July 11 to August 12. Since 1866, The Grand Storting has been the main arena for the Kingdom of Norway’s political debate and decision-making. The building features a round dome with two wings protruding like arms embracing the citizens.

8. The National Theatre

One of Norway’s most prominent and grandest venues for dramatic arts performances, The National Theatre celebrated its first performance on September 1, 1899. Designed by architect Henrik Bull, the building has served Norway’s stage artists, theater productions, and celebrations for over 100 years. The main building is between the Royal Palace, Oslo, and the Parliament of Norway. Statues of Norwegian writers Bjornstjerne Bjornson and Henrik Bull guard the front entrance. They also have their names engraved on the main wall of the theater, along with Ludvig Holberg, the Danish Norwegian playwright.

9. Holmenkollen Ski Museum And Tower

Holmenkollen District, home to the world-famous ski jump set atop the most prominent hill in the city, dates back to 1892. Made of 1,000 tons of steel and rising over 196 feet, designers brought together the ski jump, the judges’ booths, the Royal family observatory, souvenir shop, café, ski simulator, zip lining, and the museum.

Pro Tip: See a panoramic view of Oslo at the top of the tower.

10. Norwegian Museum Of Cultural History

Inside the open-air Museum of Cultural History , you’ll find 160 historical buildings in city and countryside settings. Fences, pastures, and grazing farm animals frame sod-roofed farmhouses. The cobblestone streets of the museum’s old town feature quaint stores, workshops, and homes. In the indoor exhibition halls, see historic furniture, silverware, handicrafts, and clothing and watch live folk dancing, storytelling, and baking. See the Gol Stave Church built in the 1200s.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the cafe and gift shop.

11. Norwegian Maritime Museum

Situated on the waterfront of the Bygdoy Peninsula, the Norwegian Maritime Museum combines Norwegian maritime history, underwater technology, and shipbuilding. Two new exhibitions in 2022 feature a reconstruction of a Viking boat — one of the original boats from Gokstad, a huge Viking ship from 900 AD found in a burial mound in 1880. The triangular-shaped Boat Hall has reopened with a collection of traditional open boats, including a shipwreck from the end of the 16 th century. You’ll also see The Stokkebaten, Norway’s oldest ship dating from 200 BC, plus Discover the Sea, an exhibition about myths, monsters, and heroes of the sea.

12. The Norwegian National Opera And Ballet

Oslo Opera House , located at the harbor, is a prominent white, angled exterior that rises from the water, inviting visitors to climb to the top of the roof to see panoramic views of Oslo and the fjord. The award-winning horseshoe-shaped main hall, an iceberg-inspired design by Norwegian architecture firm Snohetta, features large-scale windows with glimpses of rehearsals and workshop activities. The venue features three stages — the Main House, Second House, and the Studio — with the roof and foyer also used for concerts.

13. Fram Museum, The Polar Ship Fram

At the Fram Museum , see the strongest wooden ship ever constructed, still holding the records for sailing farthest north and farthest south. Check out the polar simulator where you can experience the cold and dangers of polar expeditions more than 100 years ago. Step aboard the ship to see how the crew and their dogs survived the Arctic and Antarctic.

Pro Tip: Visit the museum shop for exclusive polar merchandise.

14. TusenFryd Amusement Park

Norway’s largest amusement park, TusenFryd , features over 30 rollercoasters, carousels, log rides, attractions, great games, shops, restaurants, friendly trolls, and fun for all ages. Enjoy BadeFryd in the summer, a water park with a swimming pool, a lazy river, and a giant waterslide. Barnas Fryd and Fredskogen boast rides and activities for the grandchildren. 

Pro Tip: The Oslo Pass provides free admissions to 30 museums and attractions in Oslo. You can also get unlimited travel on public transportation throughout the city. Conveniently hop on or off any bus, tram, subway, or public ferry as you wish, without worrying about tickets. Plus, you’ll get special offers at restaurants, shops, or entertainment and leisure venues. Or, enjoy rebates on climbing, ski rentals, sightseeing, concert tickets, or the Tusenfryd Amusement Park.

Related Reading:

• 9 Magical Experiences On Norway’s Central Coast
• Norway Is Adding 10 New National Parks For This Very Important Reason
• 6 Reasons Norway Needs To Be On Your Travel Bucket List

Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Her latest adventure was a Viking Cruise to the Norwegian Homelands. After a career in advertising and sales, Janie knows what makes compelling, substantial content. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped .

• Norwegian Fjords
• Northern Norway
• Eastern Norway
• Itineraries & Inspirations
• Plan Your Trip

Things to Do in Oslo: 30+ Must-See & Tips from Locals

A curated and honest guide to the best things to do in Oslo : museums, attractions, best tours and places to eat and stay! You’ll find the best tips from the locals so you can explore Oslo just like a local!

Oslo is a vibrant city full of interesting attractions: top-notch museums , one of the most important artistic and architectural scenes in Europe, a remarkable gastronomic heritage and a pleasant, relaxed and cosmopolitan atmosphere . Oslo is increasingly establishing itself as one of the trendiest cities in Northern Europe and is a perfect destination for a few days’ stay, enough time to explore its most popular attractions.

Here you will find the best tips from the locals on the best things to do in Oslo : museums, attractions, places to stay and eat, the best tours and useful tips to save on tickets and public transport!

What you’ll find in this guide to the best things to do in Oslo:

Best Things to Do in Oslo

How to save on tickets for oslo museums and attractions, top 3 best tours and activities to do in oslo, things to know before visiting oslo, getting to and getting around in oslo.

Oslo Opera House

The Oslo Opera House (Operahuset Oslo) is located near Oslo Central Station and is home to the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet . It is one of the most prestigious theaters in Europe and can accommodate over 1300 spectators.

The building, an eclectic example of contemporary architecture , was built entirely of white granite and Italian Carrara marble and its external shape resembles a huge iceberg rising over the fjord. Its interiors are decorated in precious oak wood, which creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The theater hosts many theatrical and musical performances, not only of classical but also more modern works, featuring shows by internationally renowned artists from all over the world. You will be able to attend ballets, concerts, classical plays and opera performances.

The modern and iconic Oslo Opera House can be visited on a guided tour that includes a visit to the backstage and scenography workshops. Tours are held daily in Norwegian and English (on Saturdays also in German), last 50 minutes and tickets can be purchased on site. Ticket prices from 120 NOK. From the rooftop of the Oslo Opera House , which can be visited for free , you will have a nice view of the fjord and the city center.

Munch Museum (MUNCH)

Arguably the most famous museum in Oslo, the MUNCH Museum is a brand new museum entirely dedicated to the most famous Norwegian artist: Edvard Munch .

This museum – which is now the main place to see Munch’s works – is located in Bjørvika , one step away from the Oslo Opera House . Previously, the artist’s works were located in the Norwegian National Museum in Tøyen (Old Munch Museum) , near the Botanical Garden . Since October 2021 the Munch Museum has been moved to this new modern venue, entirely dedicated to his history and his works.

The MUNCH Museum is surprisingly huge: 13 floors and 11 exhibition halls. Many spaces are for events and temporary exhibitions, while the top 4 floors are a sort of observation deck over the city. You will be able to see thousands of works by Munch and other famous contemporary European artists. The collection of the MUNCH Museum in Oslo boasts over 26,000 works, including paintings, drawings, lithographs and sculptures, but also photographs and an exhibition on the artist’s life, with a reconstruction of his studio.

You will be able to see some of Munch’s most famous masterpieces, such as “The Scream” and “Madonna” , but also “Night in Nice” , “Puberty” and “Ashes” and many more.

Seeing “The Scream” is a bit tricky: the museum exhibits the three most famous versions of the painting, but these are covered by a black protective panel. This is due to the fact that these paintings are extremely fragile and are damaged by the light. The three works are exhibited in rotation : every hour you can see one, but there is no schedule. This is a bit crazy: the paintings are unveiled randomly, so you’ll have to run around the museum for at least three hours to see them all.

However, MUNCH Museum is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Oslo, and can be visited for free with the Oslo Pass City Card . Otherwise, ticket prices start from 160 NOK.

Akershus Fortress

Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle located near the port and is one of the main attractions of the city. It was built in 1300 by King Håkon V , when Olso became the capital of Norway. Its purpose was to protect Oslo from attacks by sea and was part of a complex system of mighty fortifications located around the harbor.

The fortress became even more important after the fire of 1624, when Oslo was rebuilt entirely within the defensive walls. Over the centuries, their function ceased and the walls and external bastions were demolished to allow the expansion of the city. Akershus Fortress then became a prison and then a military base. It currently houses several government offices, is the official seat of the Norwegian Prime Minister’s offices and has several venues for concerts and shows.

It has kept its medieval appearance almost intact, while its interiors have beautiful Renaissance decorations. You will visit the royal halls , the castle chapel , the royal crypts with the tombs of King Håkon VII and Olav V and the interesting Norges Hjemmefront Museet , a museum dedicated to the Norwegian Resistance during WWII. Here are exhibited objects, newspapers and photographs that tell the story of the Nazi occupation of Norway.

Among the artifacts on display are several devices used by spies and partisans to smuggle information. I was impressed by a denture that belonged to a Norwegian prisoner of war: inside it hid a mechanism used to receive radio transmissions!

You can walk around the ramparts and gardens of the fortress for free. It is open from 6.00 AM to 9.00 PM. Tickets for visiting the interior of Akershus Castle start at NOK 100. Free entry with the Oslo Pass City Card .

OSLO Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is located on the top of Bellevue Hill , at the end of Karl Johans , Oslo’s main street. This fabulous palace dates back to the 1800s and in 1849 became the official residence of King Oscar I . Even today this is the official residence of the Norwegian royal family , where King Harald V and Queen Sonja live. It is also the seat of the King’s office, where he holds hearings and official banquets and where the meetings of the Council of State are held.

Set in a lush garden, the Royal Palace boasts 173 rooms. Its fabulous rooms can be visited on a guided tour held daily in summer , from from late June until the middle of August. You will be able to visit some of the most beautiful rooms, such as the White Parlor , the Hall of Mirrors where royalty usually take afternoon tea, the Great Hall used for special occasions as a ballroom and the Banqueting Hall . You can also admire some of the private bedrooms for guests, such as the beautiful King Haakon VII Suite .

Tickets start at NOK 175 and tour times (which are also held in English) vary from year to year. Timetables and tickets on the official website of the Royal Palace . There are no tours in winter . The palace gardens are open to the public all year round and at 1.30 PM you can watch the exciting changing of the guard ceremony .

Oslo overlooks the picturesque Oslofjord , a peaceful fjord bordered by green grasslands, forests and villages dotted with traditional colorful wooden houses . You can go up to the rooftop of the Oslo Opera House for a nice view of the fjord.

But one of the best things to do in Oslo is undoubtedly an unforgettable cruise through Oslo’s fjords , which allows you to see the sensational surrounding landscape characterized by bays, narrow sounds and a maze of islands dotted with picturesque summer homes.

From the Oslofjord you will have amazing views over the city and its most iconic sites, such as the Opera House , the Dyna Lighthouse , the Bygdøy peninsula and the ships of the Maritime Museum . From the Aker Brygge pier there are connections to neighboring islands, such as Hovedøya and Gressholmen , which in summer are the ideal place for swimming, picnicking on the beach or hiking.

One of the best things to do in Oslo is a stroll along the beautiful Bygdøy peninsula , located west of the city center. This was once one of the quietest and most exclusive places in the city and still today you can see two of the most beautiful royal residences in Norway here.

The Bygdøy neighborhood is covered in forests, gardens, parks and paths where locals go for a jog. There are many opportunities for nature walks , as well as some beautiful beaches, such as Huk, which is very popular with locals in the summer.

However, Bygdøy is famous for being Oslo’s museums’s island , because here there are 5 of the most famous museums in Oslo : the Kon-Tiki Museum , the Fram Museum and the Viking Ship Museum , the Norsk Folkemuseum and the Norsk Maritimt Museum . Below you will find a detail of each of them. There is also an interesting museum on the history of the Holocaust housed in a large noble villa, called Villa Grande .

You can also visit two fabulous royal residences: the Oscarshall , which can be visited with guided tours only in the summer, and the Bygdø Kongsgård which includes the large royal dairy farm , a good place to walk and see farm animals, recommended for families. There is also a café and shop where you can try the excellent locally produced organic cheese.

To go to Bygdøy you can take the public ferry which leaves from Pier 3 of Aker Brygge , in front of the Town Hall . Or you can go there by bus no. 30, which stops in front of the National Theater (Nationaltheatret) . Or you could go on foot or by bicycle, from Oslo Central Station it is about 6 km, or 1.5 hours walk (one way).

Norwegian Folk Museum

One of the best things to do in Oslo is a visit to the Norwegian Folk Museum (Norsk Folkemuseum) , the perfect place to learn more about the local culture. Far from being a boring museum, this is a family-friendly place as well, as it is a large open-air museum of traditional Norwegian culture, art and architecture. Over 160 authentic historic buildings are preserved here.

Located on the Bygdøy peninsula, the Norwegian Folk Museum allows visitors to stroll through centuries-old old houses, including the stunning Gol Stave Church , built in the 12th century and moved to the museum in 1884. You can visit the interiors of each building. so as to find out more about its history and different aspects of the local culture. Inside the buildings there are some exhibitions on Norwegian folk art and traditional costumes. The exhibits on the history of medicine , local crafts and Sami culture are also very interesting.

In summer, the Norwegian Folk Museum is one of the best things to do in Oslo with kids, as there are plenty of activities for children, such as feeding farm animals, horseback riding, seeing figures in traditional costumes and learn how to cook the famous Norwegian potato flatbread called Lefse .

Here you are also in the heart of the royal summer residence and you can visit Bygdø Kongsgård , the dairy farm that produces excellent organic cheeses. You will be able to take a look at the farm with its many animals: cows, sheep, ponies and rabbits. Here you can also see some rare native breeds, such as the Old Norse Spælsau sheep, the Fjord Horse and the cuddly Trønder Rabbit . In the heart of the farm there is also a small restaurant, Kongsgården Gardening , which serves good local specialties made with locally grown ingredients.

The Norsk Folkemuseum is undoubtedly one of the must-do in Oslo. Ticket prices start at NOK 180. Admission is free with the Oslo Pass City Card .

Fram Museum

One of Oslo’s most famous attractions is the Fram Museum , located on the Bygdøy peninsula. This museum tells the compelling history of polar exploration and provides an insight into the life of 20th century explorers. An unmissable destination for arctic lovers.

Here you can admire the Fram , which is the authentic ship used by explorers Fridtjof Nansen , Otto Sverdrup and Roald Amundsen for their Arctic and Antarctic expeditions between 1893 and 1912. The Fram boasts an incredible history: it is the wooden ship that has sailed further north and south than any other. Her hull was made to be wide, but with a shallow draft, so that she floated on the ice.

You will be able to visit the ship and learn about life on board and polar exploration. The Fram Museum also houses another ship, called Gjøa , with which Roald Amundsen sailed for the very first time through the Northwest Passage . Tickets start at NOK 140. Admission is free with the Oslo Pass City Card .

Norsk Maritimt Museum

The Norsk Maritimt Museum is another popular museum in Bygdøy and is located right next to the more famous Fram Museum . The museum is dedicated to Norway’s maritime heritage. Here you can learn more about local culture, fishing and maritime trade. You’ll also see an exhibition of historic ships ranging from ancient Stokkebåten to more modern steamboats and boats, as well as temporary exhibits on the sea and navigation. Ticket prices start at NOK 180. Admission is free with the Oslo Pass City Card .

Kon-Tiki Museum

A popular thing to do in Oslo is a visit to the Kon-Tiki Museum , also located on the Bygdøy peninsula. This is a small museum – you can visit it in less than an hour – dedicated to the history and life of Thor Heyerdahl , an explorer who crossed the Pacific Ocean in 1947 on a balsa-wood raft called Kon-Tiki .

His incredible adventure is narrated through photos and objects from the exotic islands visited by the explorer. You will be able to see the authentic raft , as well as other boats and artifacts. Every day at noon you can watch the screening of the famous film “Kon-Tiki” which tells the story of the expedition and which won an Oscar in 1950. Ticket prices start at NOK 180. Admission is free with the Oslo Pass City Card .

Viking Ship Museum and Viking Era Museum in Oslo

A famous attraction in Oslo was its Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset) , located on the Bygdøy peninsula. This museum exhibited three perfectly preserved authentic Viking ships. The most famous is the 9th century Oseberg ship, which is 21 meters long. In addition to the ships, the museum also housed an exhibition of artifacts and archaeological finds that once were inside the ships, including chariots, sculptures, furnishings and even skeletons.

The Viking Ship Museum is now permanently closed . In its place will be the new and larger Viking Era Museum , scheduled to open in 2026.

Oslo City Hall

Oslo City Hall (Rådhuset) is one of the most famous buildings in the city, known for being the venue for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Dating back to 1950, this building with an impressive and austere facade – an excellent example of the Scandinavian functionalist style – still houses the City Council and the city administration.

It is located in the heart of Oslo, in the district called Sentrum , right in front of the public ferry pier. Its red brick facade is dominated by two towers, from which a carillon with 49 bells plays every hour from 7.00 AM to midnight. Don’t be fooled by the stern exterior though: its interior is fabulous, and well worth a visit! This by the way is one of the best things to do in Oslo for free , so just go in and take a look!

There are also affordable Oslo walking tours that allow you to visit Oslo City Hall , as well as other popular city attractions, with an English-speaking local guide. It is a great way to explore the city and learn more about its culture, history and eclectic architecture.

Aker Brygge

Aker Brygge is one of the most popular and vibrant areas in Oslo. It is located next to the harbor and is where most of the ferries leave for Bygdøy and other destinations in the fjord. Once there were old disused shipyards here, but recently it has become one of the trendiest areas of the city.

This is the ideal place for shopping and nightlife lovers. Along the Aker Brygge promenade there are hundreds of shops, as well as dozens of good restaurants and bars. In the summer there are outdoor terraces to eat or drink, while in the winter there is a magical atmosphere here – especially around Christmas time – and it’s a good place to relax and warm up.

This is a place that locals love , bustling with families, couples and groups of friends in every season. This is the place where you often meet with friends and go out for a drink. Plus, here are some of Oslo’s best seafood restaurants.

Karl Johans Gate

Karl Johans Gate is Oslo’s main street, named after King Charles III John of Norway . This is the real heart of the city: following it you can see most of the main attractions, from the University to the Historical Museum , up to the Stortinget , the large building that houses the Norwegian parliament, and the Royal Palace with its gardens. The boulevard is lined with shops, restaurants and cafes.

Oslo Cathedral

Oslo Cathedral is located in the heart of the city, near the Karl Johans Gate which is one of Oslo’s main streets. Dating back to 1627 it was heavily damaged during WWII and rebuilt soon after. The facade features a mighty bell tower and richly decorated bronze doors. The interiors are richly frescoed, with works by Hugo Lous Mohr and a beautiful altar and Baroque stained glass windows by Emanuel Vigeland . The Cathedral is the place where the official royal ceremonies take place and also hosts classical music concerts.

Gamle Aker Kirke

Located in the north of the city center, the Gamle Aker Kirke is the oldest building in Oslo , dating back to 1150 . This is the only medieval church in the city that has survived practically intact to the present day and looks like an austere building in stone with three naves in Romanesque style. The oldest part is the churchyard, while over the centuries the baptismal font, the baroque pulpit (1715) and the bell tower (1861) have been added.

Damstredet and Telthusbakken

In the surroundings of Gamle Aker Kirke there are two other districts whose visit deserves to be included among the best things to do in Oslo. Indeed Damstredet and Telthusbakken are among the oldest districts of the city and keep their old charm intact, with their traditional wooden houses dating back to 1700-1800 .

You could start your walk from Fredensborgveien , which is just a 15-minute walk from the city center. From here you will take Damstredet , where you can see its quaint wooden houses. You will continue on Akersbakken to Gamle Aker Kirke . Along the way you will pass the Vår Frelsers Gravlund Cemetery , where you can see the graves of numerous Norwegian artists, including Edvard Munch and playwright and theater director Henrik Ibsen .

Tjuvholmen and Astrup Fearnley Museum

Tjuvholmen is one of the most modern, exclusive and glamorous neighborhoods in Oslo. This is the place for art lovers, as it is teeming with art galleries and art installations . You will enjoy a calm stroll along its streets, gardens and beaches overlooking the fjord. It will be like walking into an open-air art gallery .

The heart of this eclectic neighborhood is the contemporary building by the famous architect Renzo Piano , which houses the Astrup Fearnley Museum . This is the most important contemporary art museum in Oslo and one of the most important in Europe.

It exhibits works by leading artists such as Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, Sigmar Polke, Janine Antoni, Jeff Koons, Sherrie Levine, Damien Hirst, Bruce Naumann and Olafur Eliasson. It can be reached with a short walk from Aker Brygge . Ticket prices start at NOK 140. Admission is free with the Oslo Pass City Card .

Frogner Park and Vigeland Park

Frogner Park , located in the district of the same name, is the largest and one of the most important parks in Oslo. In the 19th century the park was bought by the German industrial entrepreneur Benjamin Wegner , who had several buildings and monuments built, as well as some large sculptures.

In the southern part there are several mansions and manor buildings , which now house the Oslo City Museum (Oslo Bymuseum) . The heart of the park is Vigeland Park , where a series of sculptures by local artist Gustav Vigeland , dating back to the 1900s, are exhibited. There are over 212 works in bronze and granite , including a granite bridge with statues of men, women and a child – who is nicknamed Angry Boy . Also noteworthy is the bronze fountain, the 17-meter high monolith decorated with 121 human figures and the Wheel of Life . Either way, this is a good place for a quiet stroll. Admission is free.

Grünerløkka

Grünerløkka is another vibrant district of Oslo, located north east of the city center. This was a decadent working-class neighborhood in the 19th century, built around large factories. This is where Munch spent his childhood and walking through the streets you will see many traces of what inspired his works.

Although at first glance the graffiti-covered alleys might make you think this is a dodgy neighborhood, Grünerløkka has recently become one of Oslo’s trendiest neighborhoods and one of its hottest nightlife spots . This area is full of restaurants and bars and is very popular with students. It is also a popular area for alternative lifestyle and shopping, filled with stalls and shops selling vintage and second-hand items.

The large building located at the edge of Karl Johans Gate avenue is called Stortinget and houses the seat of the Norwegian parliament . Built in 1866, the Stortinget features a yellow brick and red granite facade, a mixture of Norwegian and Italian architecture.

The large amphitheater hall where the assemblies of Parliament are held hosts 165 members and features a large painting located behind the President’s seat. This, created at the end of the 19th century by Oscar Wergeland , depicts the constituent assembly of Eidsvoll , held in 1814. In summer, some guided tours are held in English, which depart at 10.00 AM from the rear entrance in Akersgata.

Ibsen Museum

This small museum is located in the former home of Henrik Ibsen , a famous Norwegian playwright and theater recorder, near the Royal Palace . Here Ibsen lived for 11 years until his death, and today the museum tells his life and his works through a collection of objects that belonged to him, photographs and documents. You’ll see his perfectly preserved studio where he wrote some of his most famous plays: John Gabriel Borkman and When We Dead Awaken .

Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

The Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology is located in the suburb of Kjelsås , easily reachable in just 10 minutes by train from Central Station. It is the largest museum of technology and science in Norway, with an interesting section dedicated to natural sciences and medicine .

It boasts dozens of permanent and temporary exhibitions, also suitable for families with kids. Its interesting interactive installations will allow you to learn many curious and interesting things. You will be able to see an electron microscope and test your skills in building electronic devices and machines. One of my favorite attractions is the National Museum of Medicine , which displays an interesting collection of medical instruments and tells the history and development of medicine from 1850 to the present day.

Natural History Museum at the University of Oslo

Located in the Tøyen district, the Natural History Museum is the most important in the country and boasts an interesting Geological Museum , a Zoological Museum and the large University Botanical Garden . It boasts a valuable collection of minerals and meteorites, as well as an interesting section dedicated to fossils and dinosaurs, including Stan : a huge life-size Tyrannosaurus Rex.

The Zoological Museum offers an interesting overview of Norwegian and polar fauna, while the Botanical Garden boasts over 35,000 plants including thousands of rare species. It was founded in 1814 and is the oldest botanical garden in Norway. Among its historic pavilions stand out two greenhouses dating back to the mid-19th century, the Palm House built in 1868 and the Victoria House in 1876. The last one houses a pond with wonderful Victoria water lilies. Do not miss the Scents Garden , an olfactory path among fragrant plants and flowers, designed for visually impaired visitors.

Mathallen Food Hall

The Mathallen Food Hall is a large food hall, which is the perfect place for foodies . Here you will find over 30 restaurants and bars, as well as several shops selling local specialties. Several cooking classes are also held here, just in case you want to learn some local recipes.

Housed in an old industrial building from 1908, built in red brick and iron, Mathallen Food Hall is the heart of the vibrant Vulkan district in the northern part of the city center. This is a popular neighborhood among young couples and families. There are dozens of great restaurants , street food stalls and you can find the best of international cuisine, especially Asian and American. There are also several good restaurants serving local cuisine, such as the 1-Michelin Star Restaurant Kontrast , which serves interesting gourmet tasting menus.

Another famous, albeit tiny, food hall in Oslo is Vippa . It is located in what used to be an old port warehouse, with the facade covered with graffiti, right next to the Akershus Fortress . It houses several street food stalls and food trucks ranging from local cuisine to the best of exotic cuisine . You will be able to taste a wide choice of Asian, Middle Eastern and American specialties.

It closes early, 9.00 PM, but is a good place for a drink or meal. It is very popular with locals : here you will find some of the best tacos, spring rolls, Chinese dumplings and Norwegian seafood. A journey through the flavors and cultures of the world! There are shared tables inside, but many prefer to enjoy their meal or drink while enjoying the peaceful fjord views .

Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower

Just 10 km from Oslo the landscape becomes mountainous and features forests and lakes . In summer this is a pleasant place to relax and take long nature walks , while in winter it is one of Norway’s most popular ski resorts .

The Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower is located right on top of Holmenkollen Hill in the Nordmarka region, just below the famous olympic ski jump . This museum is dedicated to the history of the Norwegian national sport: skiing! Through an extensive collection, which boasts over 2,500 pairs of skis that belonged to the best Norwegian skiers and members of the royal family, this museum collects over 4000 years of skiing history.

An interesting section is dedicated to polar expeditions , with skis and other equipment belonging to Nansen and Amundsen. There is also an interesting exhibition on snowboarding and modern skiing. From the museum an elevator takes you to the top of the ski jump, from where there is an observation deck with a view that sweeps across the valley, the city and the fjord.

The region north of Oslo is called Nordmarka and is a fabulous area covered with forests , lakes and grasslands. It is a fantastic place to visit in any season and offers plenty of opportunities for nature walks, mountain biking and views of scenic lakes and mountains.

Here is also one of the most popular ski destinations around Oslo, the Tryvann Vinterpark , which boasts 14 slopes and six ski lifts. In the surroundings of the tall Tryvannstårnet television tower there are many paths and from here you have a beautiful view of the surrounding valley.

You could also hire a car and travel northwest to the picturesque village of Noresund , overlooking the mountains and a peaceful lake. Here you could stay overnight at the fabulous Norefjellhytta Restaurant & Overnatting , a Nordic-style log cabin offering quaint accommodations and a restaurant serving delicious regional cuisine .

Ekebergparken

The place that inspired Munch’s “The Scream” is located at Ekebergparken , although it won’t be easy to recognize at first glance. This park is located just east of Gamle Oslo and can be reached within a 30-minute walk. Today it is a place where locals like to stroll leisurely, there are several sculptures , including some by Salvador Dali and Damien Hirst . The entrance to the park is free and from here you also have a nice view over the city.

Deichman Bjørvika Library

Deichman Bjørvika is Oslo’s new public library and is located between Central Station and the Opera House . It is housed in a beautiful contemporary building featuring six entirely transparent floors. The walls are made of glass and let in the light, creating a sense of union between the inside and the outside. It is a modern library, with large spaces dedicated to cultural events. It boast a collection of over 450,000 volumes and large reading rooms, as well as a cinema, an auditorium, recording studios and a restaurant.

Historisk Museum

The Historical Museum of Oslo (Historisk Museum) offers a good overview of local and Northern European history and boasts interesting sections dedicated to the Viking Era and local folklore. Surprisingly, you will also find extensive collections dedicated to the history of Ancient Egypt and the native peoples of Latin America .

KOK Floating Sauna

An unusual thing to do in Oslo is KOK’s floating saunas . Located right on the Oslofjord , these saunas are a kind of floating barge with a small wooden house on top that houses a changing room, a sauna and a terrace from which you can dive into the cold waters of the fjord. Each floating sauna can accommodate 10 to 14 people and you can book it all for yourself and your friends, or join a shared experience. They are located near the Aker Brygge and Langkaia Pier , next to the Oslo Opera House .

Norway’s largest and most popular amusement park is located about 20km south of Oslo in the village of Vinterbro , easily accessible by car or train. The Tusenfryd only opens from April to October and boasts over 30 family-friendly rides and attractions. There are six roller coasters and other adrenaline-pumping rides, as well as children’s rides such as toy trains, bumper cars and the like. It might seem rather modest when compared to other mega amusement parks in the world, but for locals this is the best! In summer there is also a water park with water slides and swimming pools.

There are tons of things to do in Oslo: medieval forts, parks and top-notch museums , which are among the best in Europe. The city is easily explored on foot and with the excellent public transport system , so in a few days you can easily visit all the best attractions.

To make the most of your visit to Oslo you will need to explore at least the most famous museums, which offer an interesting insight into local life, culture and history, Arctic exploration and the Viking Age. You will visit several museums per day, as many can be visited in less than an hour.

This means that if you visit at least 5 of the best things to do in Oslo in one day, you will spend a lot of money on tickets. At an average rate of NOK 150 for each museum, you will spend at least NOK 750 , which means € 75 ! Plus the cost of tickets for buses, ferries, trams, etc.

This is why most travelers opt for the affordable Oslo Pass City Card , the official pass that allows you to visit all the main attractions of the city at its best and includes:

• FREE admission to ALL Oslo’s Best Museums and Attractions
• FREE admission to over 30 attractions in Oslo (including the ones you read in this guide!)
• UNLIMITED FREE TRIPS on Public Transport (Bus, Trams …)
• UNLIMITED FREE TRIPS on Ferries to and from Bygdøy

Plus: OSLO FREE WALKING TOUR with Official English Speaking Guide from Oslo Guidebureau

You can choose an Oslo Pass City Card that is valid for 24 , 48 or 72 hours from the time of first use. Prices start at NOK 273 per day (for the 72-hour Oslo Pass City Card) or NOK 445 (for the 24-hour card).

Discounted passes are available for children 6-17 (under 6 is free), students (up to 30, with valid student ID) and seniors (over 67). The child pass starts at NOK 136 per day (for the 72-hour Oslo Pass City Card) or NOK 235 (for the 24-hour one), which is pretty cheap! On average, travelers to Oslo visit at least 15 attractions during a short stay (1-3 days), so the Oslo Pass City Card will save you a lot – you’ll spend less than half the price of the tickets!

Sightseeing Cruise through Oslo’s Fjords

This is undoubtedly the most popular thing to do in Oslo: a cruise on the calm waters of Oslo’s Fjords , from which you can get a nice view of the city , its harbor and main attractions. You will explore the coast around the city, with its coves and scenic bays and even a fabulous lonely lighthouse . You will pass through a maze of islands , dotted with picturesque colorful wooden houses, and you will be able to see the many seabirds that populate the fjord, such as the white-tailed sea eagle . This tour is very popular and in demand, so it’s best to book in advance.

For a few extra bucks you could join an evening cruise , which includes a good and hearty dinner buffet of delicious Norwegian shrimps.

Guided tours of the city by bus, bicycle or on foot

There are so many things to do in Oslo and a good way to catch the city’s highlights and learn more about its compelling history, stunning buildings, contemporary art and architecture is to join a guided tour.

If you are short on time, an excellent solution could be a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour : the big red buses pass through the most beautiful places in the city , connecting all the main attractions and museums. Buses run frequently and at each stop you can simply get off, visit, take photos and spend as long as you want there, then take the next bus and continue to the next stop. The ticket is valid for 24 hours and includes an audio guide available in several languages.

A very pleasant alternative could be an Oslo Bike Tour : you will explore the most beautiful corners and the most hidden gems of the city, led by an expert local guide. You will enjoy the city just like a local, riding your bike. The rental of a comfortable hybrid bike and all the necessary equipment is included in the price.

Otherwise you could book a Private Oslo Walking Tour which in just 2 or 4 hours allow you to discover the best of the city , see the main monuments and learn more about its history. The tour can be a good way to see the most beautiful corners of Oslo, and then maybe explore the museums you want to visit at a more leisurely pace.

Kayak tour in the Oslofjord

One of the best things to do in Oslo for outdoor enthusiasts is a kayaking tour of the beautiful fjord . This activity lasts 3 hours and is also suitable for beginners : you will be accompanied by a professional instructor, who will guide you through some of the most scenic bays of the fjord with a beautiful view over the city. During the tour you will be able to see some of Oslo’s most famous sights from a rather unusual perspective. It is a good way to get in touch with the adventurous local culture!

Oslo is Norway’s bustling capital city and sits nestled in the scenic Oslofjord , a fjord located in southeastern Norway, not far from the Swedish border. Surrounded by forests and mountains renowned for winter sports, Olso is Norway’s largest and most populous city, as well as being its main cultural, financial, economic, political and scientific hub.

With a population of just 630,000, Oslo is a modern, vibrant and cosmopolitan city. It is full of great trendy hotels , restaurants and bars . It also has a pleasant nightlife, which is quite rare in Norway. Unsurprisingly, there are tons of things to do in Oslo – you’ll discover the city’s most scenic corners, fabulous fjord views and interesting museums, which are among the best in Europe.

Oslo boasts a thousand-year history : its name until a few years ago was Kristiania or Christiania . Do you know why? Oslo was founded in 1050 by King Harald Hardraade , along the banks of the Akerselva River , where today there is the district of Gamle Oslo , which means Old Oslo. This was a calm bay, called Bjørvika , protected by the nearby hills of Ekeberg , and there was an old Viking port. In 1624 a fire completely destroyed Oslo and King Christian IV decided to rebuild it just a few kilometers to the west, where the Sentrum district is now located. He then changed its name to Christiania , from his name.

In the following years, Norway was merged with the Kingdom of Sweden and in 1877 the name of the city began to be written as Kristiania , this until the independence of Norway in the early 1900s. Only in 1925 the Norwegians decided to return to the old name and the city was once again called Oslo .

After the Second World War, Oslo developed and expanded rapidly, incorporating the surrounding villages. In 2000 it was classified as Europe’s fastest growing city , and still is today. Plus, it’s recognized as one of the best cities to live in , thanks to its good quality of life , decent wages, great public transport, and a relatively compact size.

Oslo is one of the major capital cities in Northern Europe and is well connected with all major European cities and many international destinations. It has two international airports : Gardermoen and Torp .

Gardermoen is located 50 km north of Oslo, while Torp is 120 km south. Both are connected by bus and Gardermoen is also easily accessible by train.

Getting to Oslo by Cruise or Ship

Many tourists arrive in Oslo on one of the large cruise ships that sail along Norway’s southern fjords. The pier is located near the Town Hall and Akershus Fortress in the city center. Cruise passengers have little time to visit the city, so it is advisable to book one of the convenient (and inexpensive, especially when compared to the overpriced tours sold on the cruises) tours of the city.

In Oslo there are ferry connections to and from Kiel (Germany), Copenhagen (Denmark) and Frederikshavn (Denmark). These are large car ferries and take between 19 and 22 hours. it could be a good option for those coming to Oslo by car.

Getting to Oslo by Train

Oslo Central Station is located right in the city center and has international connections to Sweden . It is a popular stop for those taking an Interrail trip to Scandinavia or Norway . The famous Oslo-Bergen railway departs from here, crossing stunning mountainous landscapes and connecting Norway’s two major cities. There are also some connections to Trondheim and Stavanger .

Getting around Oslo is quite easy: public transport covers all the main attractions and districts of the city, it is efficient and punctual. There are several buses and trams and the main ones run through Oslo Central Station . Anyway, the city is compact and can be easily explored on foot or by bicycle.

Other Helpful Tips for Your Trip to Oslo (From a Local!)

Are you planning a trip to Oslo? Then you might want to take a look at our guide on Oslo Airport Hotels , which could come in handy if you have an early morning departure or a late evening arrival. If you’re traveling on a tight budget and looking for an affordable, clean, and comfortable place to stay in the heart of Oslo, you should check out our guide to the best Hostels in Oslo .

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37 Top Things to Do in Oslo – From a Local!

February 16, 2024 by Silvia 7 Comments

I never used to be a big fan of Oslo, mostly because I’m more of a mountain person. I’m also legally obligated to say that as a resident of Bergen. To me Norway is all about beautiful views, and Oslo sightseeing doesn’t really compare to the incredible views in other parts of Norway. But while living for years in a village in Telemark with Oslo as my only nearby city escape, I learned that Oslo offers enough interesting museums, shops, cafes, and experiences to make up for the lack of dramatic mountains and fjords. 

Quick Oslo Travel Guide

Oslo Accommodation: Camillas Hus for most unique luxury accommodation, The Grand Hotel for classic luxury, and First Hotel Millennium or Oslo Citybox for mid range accommodation downtown.  I don’t recommend booking an Airbnb in Oslo.

Top Oslo Activities: 

• Boat trip down Oslofjord 

Kayak down Oslofjord

• Dinner cruise
• Oslo walking tour or hipster walking tour

Packing for Oslo: You can find my  summer packing guide for Norway here and my winter packing guide for Norway here . In general I would say Oslo is quite a casual city – even when dressing up to go out most women opt for sneakers or boots with their dresses, so you can leave the high heels at home. 

While Oslo was established in 1048, it was only Norway’s capital briefly in the 1300s and then not again until 1814. Plus after a fire devastated Oslo in 1624, the city was actually moved slightly west, so today you won’t find the same rich history here as you do in Bergen or Trondheim.

And so whenever people asked me where to go in Norway, I would say that you can’t go wrong anywhere in Norway, but maybe avoid Oslo. It’s a wonderful city for locals, but most foreign tourists come to Norway for the incredible views, which isn’t really Oslo’s strong suit.

I mean yes, Oslo is surrounded by beautiful nature and there are so many parks and green areas right by the city, but the landscape is nowhere near as impressive as that surrounding Bergen , Tromsø , Ålesund , or oh my goodness Bodø .

But my heart has finally warmed to Oslo.

When I lived in Telemark I would usually visit Oslo at least a couple of times a month, but after moving up north I didn’t visit Oslo once – until this past weekend! And wow was it nice to be back.

I also used to spend a lot of time in Oslo when I was younger. My mother studied there and her closest friends still live in Oslo, so we’d often stay with them while in Norway. So I realized that now that I live farther away from Oslo I do sort of miss it.

While I still probably wouldn’t consider Oslo a must-visit on any Norway trip, if you are planning some time in the city don’t worry, you won’t be at a loss for what to do in Oslo. At least if you read this! I thought I’d share some of my top tips for things to do in Oslo, and I’ve been surprised by how long the list has become.

I started taking notes on my phone while wandering the city over the weekend and it seemed like every five minutes I was pulling out my phone to add something else, which must be a good sign!

And if you’re wondering how long to spend in Oslo, I think one full day would be plenty, or two days tops. This will give you time to experience Oslo’s best sights, but also won’t cut too much into the rest of your Norway trip. 

If you’re heading to Bergen next, I’ve shared the best ways to get from Oslo to Bergen here . 

Norway Travel Guides! I’ve gathered all my best advice for planning an incredible trip through Southern and Northern Norway in two 95-page ebooks covering my top recommendations for places to visit (both on and off the beaten path), the best times of year to visit, how long to visit for, the best accommodation choices, transportation, what to eat, what to pack, and how to plan the perfect itinerary.

You can purchase the Norway Travel Guides here .

Table of Contents

Walk up the roof of the Oslo Opera House

Whether you’re arriving by train, or bus, you will almost definitely start your Oslo trip at Oslo Central Station. And right next to the station happens to be one of the most famous sites in Oslo: the Oslo Opera House.

I remember when it first opened in 2008 and it felt like a milestone for the city. Oslo was finally becoming cool. And actually it’s crazy to think how much Oslo has changed in the decade since then. Mostly in good ways!

The Opera House is a popular summer hangout, with people sunbathing here on sunny days, but I personally think it’s also magical in the winter. So if you’re looking for things to do in Oslo in winter I’d still recommend this.

Check out Oslo’s new “Instagram spot” Deichman library

I actually laughed out loud when I saw Oslo’s new library being advertised in Norwegian media as Oslo’s new Instagram spot. And then I sort of wanted to cry – is this what libraries have become? But then I saw photos of the Deichman library and wow, it is definitely photo friendly.

Beyond books, the library also houses a movie theatre, media workshops, gaming zones, lounges and a restaurant. Oh and it’s right by the Oslo Opera House and Central Station, so it’s convenient as well.

Go for a cook and dip at KOK

KOK is a new floating sauna established in 2017, now with two sauna boats. You can relax in the sauna docked across from the Opera House, and then if you’re brave (and you should be) you can take an icy dip in the fjord!

Another new place in Oslo featuring all capital letters, SALT is a nomadic restaurant/art/sauna project that has already been in Nordland and Bergen, and now it is in Oslo until 2020. It features three saunas, art exhibitions, a café, concerts, a market, and other events. It’s all very hip and exciting.

Take a boat trip down Oslofjord for some Oslo sightseeing

I love experiencing Norway from the water, and while Oslofjord isn’t the sort of dramatic mountainous fjord that Norway is famous for, it’s always nice to get out on the water! There are a bunch of tour boats that leave from near Oslo Station, like this 2-hour sightseeing cruise .

Another fun way to get out on the water in Oslo is to go kayaking. Again there are a few tour options, like this 3-hour kayaking trip .

Eat dinner on a boat down Oslofjord

There are a few tour options here where you can even have dinner on a boat, like  this 3-hour buffet on wooden boat sailing  through the fjord in Oslo.

Visit Akershus Fortress

Right by the harbor you’ll find Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle that now serves as a museum. It has nice views of both the city and waterfront and I always see lots of families here on sunny days.

Have a drink and bite at Vippa

About a year ago I was telling a woman in Sweden how much I prefer Gothenburg to Oslo, and she was just like, but Gothenburg doesn’t have Vippa!

Vippa is a trendy food hall right on the water across from Akershus Fortress, and it really is the nicest place to eat or have a drink on a sunny day. It’s also still a little bit off the beaten path – or at least I’ve only heard Norwegian being spoken there.

Aker Brygge

If you keep walking around the harbor past Vippa you’ll eventually get to Aker Brygge, with lots of shops and restaurants right on the water.

This is an especially popular spot in the summertime, as you can eat fresh seafood outside right by the water.

Island hop around Oslofjord

From Aker brygge you can take a ferry to the different islands around Oslofjord with a regular public transport ticket or an Oslo Pass. You can visit Hovedøya, Lindøya, Nakholmen, Bleikøya, Gressholmen and Langøyene, and if you’re visiting on a nice summer’s day you should definitely bring your swimsuit for a dip in the fjord!

Walk down Karl Johan

If someone only has a few hours in Oslo, say before getting a train to Bergen, I always at least recommend that they walk down Karl Johan, Oslo’s main shopping street, which ends with the Royal Palace. You can store your luggage in luggage lockers at both the bus terminal and central train station, and then Karl Johan starts from right outside the train station.

I particularly love Karl Johan around Christmas with all the decorations so again, it’s a great thing to do in Oslo in winter.

Stock up at the Freia Store

You’ll probably notice the huge Freia sign on Karl Johan, and if you don’t know what it means, oh my goodness you are in for a treat, literally. Freia is a Norwegian chocolate company, most famous for the Freia milk chocolate bar and Kvikk Lunsj (like a Kit Kat, but don’t ever say that to a Norwegian).

The factory is actually in Grünerløkka, but there’s a shop on Karl Johan where you can buy the chocolate bars for slightly cheaper than in most super markets.

Most people who have visited me in Norway chose to buy Freia milk chocolate as gifts for people back home, so if you want to do the same this is a great place to do it! Or you can be like me and wait to buy it at Duty Free at the airport and then eat half of them on your flight. Wish that weren’t a true story, haha.

The Royal Palace

And then at the end of Karl Johan you’ll see the Royal Palace, which is the residence of the king of Norway. People are always surprised by how close you can get to the palace. I mean basically it seems like you could walk up and knock on the door to see if the king is home.

In fact I’d say the Royal Palace should really be at the top of any person’s list for what to do in Oslo.

Have a cocktail at HIMKOK

Himkok is Oslo’s “hidden” speakeasy, which is sort of funny because actually it’s probably Norway’s most famous bar and craft distillery.

If you’re looking for a more chaotic vibe, Tilt is a fun arcade bar with lots of games and a huge selection of local Norwegian beer. 

Visit some of Oslo’s wonderful cafés

Oslo if full of amazing cafés. Some of my favorites are Oslo Raw in Frogner, Grains in Frogner, Babbo in Frogner, Vanité in Aker Brygge, Eftir in Grünerløkka, KUMI right by the Opera, and Åpent Bakeri, which has many locations. 

Frogner Park + Vigeland Sculpture Park

Frogner Park is the biggest park in central Oslo, and you should definitely, definitely come here if you happen to be in Oslo on a beautiful sunny day, especially in the summer.

But even if the weather isn’t great Frogner Park is worth visiting to see the Vigeland Sculpture Park section, which might just be Oslo’s most popular attraction. The park has over 200 of Gustav Vigeland’s sculptures, some of which are truly bizarre.

Viking Ship Museum (Museum of the Viking Age)

The Viking Ship Museum is now closed for rebuilding. It will reopen as the Museum of the Viking Age in 2025/2026.

If you’re into Vikings (I mean, you should be), then definitely check out the Viking Ship Museum, where you can see preserved Viking ships and other artifacts.

When people are looking for fun things to do in Oslo with kids, I always recommend this museum – I adored coming here as a child!

Kon-Tiki Museum

In 9th grade my English class had to do oral reports on a nonfiction book and I chose Kon-Tiki, and after I gave my report everyone was like, um Silvia, you were supposed to choose a  nonfiction book. Because that’s how unbelievable Thor Heyerdahl’s epic raft journey across the Pacific Ocean in 1947 was.

And at the Kon-Tiki museum in Oslo you can learn all about Heyerdahl’s adventures.

Norwegian National Museum

The National Museum houses Norway’s largest collection of art, including iconic works like Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.”

Munch Museum

Speaking of Munch, the Munch Museum recently opened in Oslo and exhibits over half of Munch’s paintings.

Nobel Peace Center

The Nobel Peace Center finally reopened after renovations and I’m so glad it did! Even if you’re not much of a museum person I think you’ll find the Nobel Peace Center so interesting with its stories about Alfred Nobel, the Peace Prize and the Peace Prize laureates. There’s so much inspiration here and I left the center with a renewed optimism about the state of the world. 

Take the tram up out of the city to Nordmarka

One of the great things about Oslo, and every Norwegian city really, is that wherever you are in the city you’re only a short public transport ride away from some beautiful nature.

A nice way to get out of the city is to ride the tram up to Hollmenkollen, which is the start of Nordmarka, Oslo’s main outdoor recreational area. You can start hikes or cross-country skiing from Tryvann and Frognerseteren and you won’t even know you’re in Norway’s biggest city.

My mom used to always do this as a student in Oslo – in the winter she would bring her skis out and pretend she was back in the mountains of Telemark where she grew up.

Holmenkollen Ski Jump

And while you’re up at Hollmenkollen you should check out the ski jump. The Holmenkollen Ski Jump offers one of the best views over Oslo, plus it even has a little ski jumping museum for you to learn more about the sport.

I love seeing ski jumps in real life because it’s so crazy when to think about people actually flying off of them – they’re so high!

Walk along the Akerselva river

If you want to experience a quieter side of Oslo, you could walk along the Akerselva river, which will take you by old industry buildings that now house cafés and galleries, as well as through beautiful pieces of nature right in the city. Most people start from Maridalsvannet Lake, which is 8 kilometers from downtown Oslo. It’s about a two hour walk, but you can break it up by stopping in a café or two on your way.

Take an electric scooter around town

If you’re not into walking I would typically recommend renting a bike, but now the hot new ride in Oslo is the electric scooter! You’ll find these scooters scattered throughout downtown Oslo, and you can rent one for a 10 kroner unlocking fee + 2 per minute. Just download the VOI app and follow the instructions to unlock an available scooter.

And if this is your first visit to Oslo and you want some guidance, you could take this private e-scooter tour . 

Take a walking tour

If you really want to make the most of your time in Oslo, you could take a walking tour. There are so many on offer, like this alternative culture and street food tour , this 2.5 hour hipster tour , or even this 7-hour grand tour and fjord cruise .

Grünerløkka

Grünerløkka is Oslo’s hipster neighborhood, with lots of small independent boutiques, vintage shopping, cafés, restaurants, bars, and music gigs.

Then you can cross the river at stop by Mathallen, Oslo’s food hall with lots of local dishes on offer. It’s a bit touristy, but if you want to sample a few different types of Norwegian dishes this is perfect.

Barcode Street Food

Barcode Street Food has a collection of 14 food stalls and bars, right by the Central Station. 

Have a cheap + delicious meal in Grønland

Grønland is one of my favorite areas of Oslo, because of all the amazing food. You’ll find lots of Indian and Middle Eastern restaurants, and the food is surprisingly cheap – for Norway. I keep going back to Punjab Tandori to satisfy my Indian food cravings.

Damstredet and Telthusbakken

My biggest complaint about Oslo is that it doesn’t have the lovely cobblestone alleys and colorful wooden houses of most other Norwegian cities. Except actually it does.

In Damstredet and the nearby Telthusbakken you can see some old 18th century wooden homes. It really doesn’t even feel like being in Oslo, even though it’s still in the city center.

This is also a super popular spot for Instagram photos, in case you’re into stuff like that.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Layla✈ ℒoѕ Aɴɢᴇʟᴇѕ ᴛʀᴀᴠᴇʟ ɢɪʀʟ (@latravelgirl) on Jan 14, 2019 at 8:56am PST

Visit Ibsen and Munch’s graves at Vår Frelsers

And while you’re at Damstredet you might as well stop by Vår Frelsers where notable Norwegians like Ibsen and Munch are buried.

I’m not a huge fan of museums and tend not to get as excited as I probably should about seeing famous works of art in real life, but oh my goodness do I love seeing where those famous artists have been buried. I hope that’s not morbid. I mean, obviously it is.

Go for a hike

While Norway isn’t surrounded with as dramatic mountains as Bergen, there are still lots of great hikes in the area. Some beautiful hikes under an hour from Oslo are Mørkgonga, Kongens Utsikt, Øyungkollen, Kolsåstoppen, and Sprogruvene. 

Christmas markets

And then of course if you’re visiting Oslo around Christmastime you have to check out the Christmas markets! I’ve written more about the Oslo Christmas markets here . Oslo in winter really is so magical.

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LeeAnn says

March 4, 2020 at 2:56 am

I am planning to travel to Norway from the US with my husband and four young children (baby through nine) for two weeks in June 2020. It’s my husband’s dream to go there, but I am a little stumped as to what to do! I thought to fly into Oslo since it’s the largest city, see the city then take a train to Bergen to see the sights there. But we could fly into Bergen or Trondheim and venture from there. Do you have a preference?

Thomas says

February 6, 2021 at 8:58 pm

Not far from Oslo , If You want to do a nice hike You can try Kolsås, I did it in a winter time, even made some video of it.

Travel girl in London says

February 9, 2022 at 11:32 am

This article is truly legendary. Had a 3 days trip there sadly munch , snowy alps cable car are under maintenance. And a lot of stuff like eatery are not opened not only Monday but also Tue. But I really enjoyed the trip, surprisingly my favourite is the sculpture park & city hall. The latter one is breathtaking and it’s free of charge ! It’s so amazing that I will be more than happy to pay for a £20 entrance fee ! I guess the greatness is how balance the city is – 30 minute metro to nature side, but food might not be the best . I think Swedish pastries is better & coffee is not that great, but Tim W. Coffee can be a lifesaver. A pricy city but very beautiful, it’s just different to other northern euro capital city. Love it

Angela says

March 2, 2022 at 6:24 pm

I am heading to Oslo and the Lofoten Islands in July and was looking for things to do in Oslo for a few days when I stumbled across your post. Can I say it has answered all my questions and given me some great ideas to check out on my visit. I will be checking out the bohemian areas and the sculpture park for sure and doing some island hopping. Thanks for sharing your insider knowledge of Norway.

May 9, 2022 at 11:16 am

Thanks so much for this article! Found it when trying to look up things to do in Norway 🙂

Will definitely be doing many things on this list!

August 7, 2022 at 10:41 pm

So great to revisit Oslo through your article.. A million, ok, 9999 reasons to go again next year. Of course it is not like… That is why it is special, unique and still relatable! Loved all of my 10 days there… And the rest in Bergen!

Chaitanya tata says

November 16, 2022 at 9:54 pm

My first solo trip to Europe (ongoing) was to Norway, and I have followed your blog and even with 2 days in (oslo only),your blog was absolute fun to read and I can say first hand its accurate, after reading many, followed this blog for my itinerary and had absolute fun, takk and keep blogging.

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Top Things to do in Oslo, Norway [A Local’s Guide]

Psst! Some links in my posts may be affiliate links, which means that I get paid a fee if you chose to purchase something through it. This doesn't cost you anything, but makes a huge difference for me! Thanks for your support!

In this guide I share the most popular/top things to do in Oslo, sharing a local’s opinion on what to do when sightseeing in the Norwegian capital. Whether you are visiting Oslo for the first time or you’re a frequent visitor, there are some attractions you just don’t want to miss during your trip.

Having lived in Oslo myself, and with loads of friends and family who still do, I visit the city often. In fact, even though I brag about being from the most beautiful place on earth (aka the western fjords), I my mom and that entire side of my family are Oslo natives!

The capital city is the most-visited destination in Norway , and with good reason due to the many fun things to get up to there. The city is the main port of entry for most travellers arriving in Norway, before they head off to the fjords or up north to see the northern lights .

Table of Contents

Quick Oslo Travel Guide

Where to stay : My absolute favorite hotel in Oslo is Amerikalinjen , but I also love the luxury of the Grand . Oslo is an expensive city, but there are some budget-friendly options such as CityBox and Comfort Xpress .

Where to eat : Oslo is home to a haven of great restaurants. Personal favorites include Villa Paradiso in the Grünerløkka neighbourhood, Kverneriet in Majorstua (where I used to live), Vippa (a local food court with outdoor seating along the waterfront) and Royal Gastropub (homey pub food in the King’s former waiting room in the train station).

Top activities and tours in Oslo :

• Fjord Cruise on the Oslofjord ($58)
• Oslo Highlights Bicycle Tour ($46)
• City Tour by Bus including Museum Admission ($95)
• Guided Island Hopping and Hikin g Tour ($49)
• Culture and Street Food Tour ($77)

Packing for Oslo : Oslo is a city of contrasts. It gets very cold in the winter (my Norway winter packing guide has you covered), and can be nice and toasty in the summer. Therefore, what to pack for Oslo depends on the time of year you visit. Generally, keep layers in mind, and even on a warm summer day I recommend a light jacked in the evening (Norwegians love thin puffer jackets such as these ).

Airport transfers : Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) is about a 50 minute drive from the city center. The most efficient way to get from the airport to the city is by train. The airport express train is called Flytoget, and they have an app where you can get your tickets using the airport wifi when you arrive. The train takes about 20 minutes. Of course, you can also book a private luxury transfer taking you straight to your hotel.

How this Oslo guide is structured

This guide used to be a lot bigger (with over 40 things to do in Oslo, actually!). However, I recently decided to split it up to make it even more reader-friendly – in the hopes that it would be easier for you to use it in planning your trip to Oslo and Norway.

Therefore, i n this guide I give you the most popular things to do and activities in Oslo . These include the Vigeland Sculpture Park, Akershus Fortress and (of course) the Munch Museum. In short, the must-see, can’t miss things to do while you’re here!

Then, i n another post, I have outlined my favorite free attractions in Oslo . From my favorite city walks to the Botanical Gardens, I include everything you need to visit Oslo on a budget over there.

Moving on, Oslo is home to some epic museums – it’s not just the Munch! So, I have dedicated an entire article to the best museums in Oslo . I even ended up creating a little guide to visiting Oslo with kids !

Now, there is some overlap. For example, the Vigeland park is both free and one of the most popular things to do here. However, for the most part, these guides will all enhance your trip to Norway – and hopefully cover whatever specific activity you’re looking for!

How long should you spend in Oslo?

First things first. How many days do you need in Oslo?

Most people spend just a day or two before heading off to see the fjords or heading back to the airport to visit northern Norway. If you only have a week in Norway in total, know that it is perfectly fine to see Oslo in one day (I have an itinerary for it here ).

My personal recommendation is that 2 days in Oslo is sufficient , but there are plenty of fun and unique things to do in Oslo for those who want to stay longer. As a general rule, however, I would only spend more than 2 days in Oslo if you have at least 10 days to explore Norway in total.

And even then, I’d not recommend more than 2 days. There is just so much to explore and see in Norway, and I find that’s one of the things people planning a trip to Norway just don’t know .

As mentioned, lots of people start their Norway trips in Oslo, before heading west towards the fjords (or up north to explore the Arctic). If you are one of them, I have written a detailed guide on travelling from Oslo to Flåm here!

The 12 Most Popular Things To Do in Oslo – By a Local!

I’ll get straight to it.

These are the most popular Oslo attractions that I recommend for anyone wondering what to do in Oslo for their visit.

#1 Vigelandsparken (the Vigeland Sculpture park)

The Vigeland Park is a sculpture park and the most popular attraction in Oslo.

The collection of sculptures is actually the largest sculpture park in the world created by only one artist; Gustav Vigeland. If you can find the most popular sculpture; the Angry Boy (Norwegian; Sinnataggen), make sure to get a photo!

In the Vigeland Park / Vigelandsparken, you’ll meet tourists and locals alike, as everyone loves to drop by for a walk.

The park is free of charge, and particularly busy on Sundays.

You’ll also find groups meeting in the park to work out or start their runs here, so if you are hoping to get some exercise during your trip, this is the place to start!

Head this way to read my quick  guide to the Vigeland Park.

Just around the corner from the park you’ll find the Vigeland Museum . There, you can dive deeper into the life and works of Gustav Vigeland himself.

Vigeland lived in an apartment adjacent to the museum from 1924 until his death. They’ve kept the apartment as it would have been when he lived there, and on selected days you can enter the apartments.

Read more about the best museums in Oslo here !

#2 The Norwegian Palace

The Norwegian Palace is a must for when you visit Oslo, and so easy to check off your list. It was completed in 1849, and boasts 173 rooms!

This is where the royal family resides, and when the royal flag is up this means that the King is at home. I love walking around the palace trying to sneak a peek through the windows!

When deciding what to see in Oslo, most people make sure not to miss the Palace. As mentioned, it is located at the end of the main street Karl Johan, so it’s easy to drop by to see it when you are in the city center.

In the summer months you can join a guided tour of the palace. These tours sell out fast, so make sure to book in advance on their website .

#3 Holmenkollen Ski Arena and Museum

We love skiing in Norway, and ski jumping is by many considered one of our national sports.

Holmenkollen is one of the top Oslo attractions, and the building itself is impressive with or without snow. At Holmenkollen you’ll find the Holmenkollen Ski Museum , which is the world’s oldest museum dedicated to skiing, and the famous jump tower.

The museum opened in 1923, and covers 4000 years of skiing history – with over 2500 pairs of skis on display!

How to get there : Take the subway line 1 towards Frognerseteren, and get off at the subway stop called Holmenkollen. The travel time from the city center is around 25 minutes.

#4 Have lunch at the Grand Café

Not everyone knows the significance of this place, and you’ll find that it’s mostly locals who do. But when I’m asked about what to do in Oslo, this is one of the first places I recommend.

The Grand Café is located right on Karl Johan, across from the Norwegian parliament Stortinget. And it is well worth a visit (for lunch, dinner, or just a coffee or glass of wine).

The original Grand Café opened in 1874 in the basement of the Grand Hotel (where the likes of Obama and the Rolling Stones have stayed), and was a watering hole for the now famous ‘Kristiania Bohemes’.

The likes of Henrik Ibsen, Knut Hamsun and Gustav Vigeland (the sculptor) would all spend their days there.

So, when you are seated here, know that you are one of many, many important names and people who have done the same.

Don’t miss the large mural on the back wall, depicting some of the famous people who frequented this watering hole. When you get close to it, you’ll notice that their names are engraved on the frame of the painting, so you can see who’s who.

Tip : If you stay at the Grand Hotel whilst in Oslo, breakfast is served at the Grand Café!

#5 The National Museum

The brand new National Museum opened in 2022 and contains Norway’s largest public collection of paintings.

The museum spent years in the making, and opened its doors right in the city center by the Opera House and Nobel Peace Center, and within walking distance of Oslo’s Barcode neighbourhood (pictured below).

It is now the largest museum in the Nordics, and covers several floors of exhibitions (both permanent and temporary) – in fact, they have over 5000 pieces in their collections!

Art lovers will love visiting the National Museum – my only recommendation is to check their website before you visit to orientate yourself with their floor plans and exhibits. You don’t want to get lost and miss out on the pieces you most wanted to see.

#6 The Nobel Peace Center

Right next to the National Museum you will find the Nobel Peace Center. Not everyone know that the Nobel Peace Prize is handed out in Oslo every year, as opposed to the other Nobel prizes (handed out in Sweden).

The center is dedicated to the Nobel Peace Prize, its history, winners and impact through the years. They use modern exhibitions to dive into topics on peace and war, with the aim to inspire visitors to “work towards a more peaceful world”.

This is especially a good place to bring children. I remember it had a big impact on me when I visited when I was little. I left with a sense of being able to change the world.

#7 The Bygdøy Museums

Bygdøy is a treasure trove of museums that cater to a wide range of interests, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Oslo. From delving into the intriguing world of the Viking age at the Viking Ship Museum to embarking on a journey through polar exploration history at the Fram Museum , Bygdøy offers an enriching cultural experience.

The Kon-Tiki Museum is a fascinating stop for those intrigued by Thor Heyerdahl’s expeditions, while the Norwegian Folk Museum provides a deep dive into Norwegian heritage and culture.

With such diverse offerings, spending time in one (or several) of the museums in Bygdøy is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Oslo, offering a mix of educational insights and engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages and interests.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer at heart, or simply curious about Norwegian traditions, Bygdøy’s museums have something for everyone. The museums in Bygdøy not only educate and entertain but also offer a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the resilience, innovation, and cultural heritage of Norway.

Side note : The Viking Ship Museum is closed for renovations until 2027. I’ll keep you posted when it reopens. For now, the Historical Museum is your go-to for Viking age artefacts in Oslo.

#8 The Oslo Opera House

The Oslo Opera House is more than just a cultural performance hall, it is one of the best things to do in Oslo during your visit.

It is the first Opera House in Norway, and opened in 2008. In addition to being the place to go for classical concerts, ballet and (of course) opera, the structure itself is quite impressive.

The fun design of the Opera House attracts many visitors, and having a walk around the roof is a great Oslo activity for a sunny day. Grab a coffee to go and enjoy the views of the harbour!

#9 Explore Akershus Fortress

Akershus Fortress overlooks the harbour of Oslo and is a castle and fortress dating back to the 1300s. It has been a prison, the seat of the royal family, and currently holds barracks belonging to the Norwegian army.

In short, Akershus is one of the most important buildings in Norwegian history, so if you are unsure of where to start and what to see in Oslo first: this is it.

You are also just a short walk from Aker Brygge, so it’s the perfect thing to do in Oslo before dinner and a stroll on the roof of the Opera House!

There are daily tours taking you around the grounds of Akershus , and they also have a visitor centre where you can get all the information you need.

Akershus Fortress also contains two museums (the Resistance Museum and the Armed Forces Museum) that you can read more about here .

#10 MUNCH (The Munch Museum)

Edvard Munch is perhaps the most famous artist to come out of Norway.

His most well-known painting is The Scream (in Norwegian; Skrik), but other notable works of art include Madonna and The Girls on the Bridge (Pikene på Broen).

The Munch museum, simply named MUNCH , is a modern, 13-storey building in Oslo’s Barcode district. The most famous pieces are found on the 4th floor (in the exhibition called Endless Munch/Munch Uendelig), and Kranen Bar on the 13th floor is one of the best bars in Oslo for the views alone.

#11 Oslo Fjord Cruise

It isn’t Norway without a fjord cruise, right?

Whilst it can be argued whether the Oslofjord is a proper fjord or not, there is nothing like heading out on the water.

There are several fjord cruises available from Oslo, usually lasting about 2-3 hours. They will take you on a roundtrip journey through the fjord, and bring you back to the city docks by the end.

With several to choose from, I thought I would share three of my favourite fjord cruises in Oslo here.

From 3-hour evening cruise that take you out on the fjord onboard a beautiful wooden boat in the evening to slightly shorter daytime tours , there are plenty of options for cruises on the Oslofjord.

Finally, there is the sightseeing boat to Bygdøy . This is the perfect mode of transportation for those who want to head out to the Bygdøy museums (Fram, Kon-Tiki and the Museum of the Viking Age). You can disembark at Bygdøy after the 1-hour 45-minute cruise through the fjord, and return to Oslo by bus (Route 30).

#12 Oslo Street Food Tour

What better way to enjoy a city than to eat your way through it?

If you join one of these Oslo Street Food tours , you’ll not only be taken on a walking tour around Oslo, but you will also get the change to sample some local dishes and delicacies.

From traditional Norwegian hot dogs and waffles, to meats and drinks – this is the perfect activity for foodies, and will also allow you to explore a more alternative side to Oslo.

Your Questions About Oslo – Answered! [FAQ]

I get a lot of emails and DMs with questions about Oslo and visiting Norway (I always say: start by reading my Norway trip planning guide here ).

So, below I have tried to gather some of the most frequently asked questions I get about Oslo and things to do there, in the hopes that it is helpful to you!

Of course, if you have a question that isn’t covered here, please leave a comment below!

I won’t say Oslo is a must-visit destination in Norway (go to the fjords or up north instead), but it is worth spending a day or two there if you are flying to the Norwegian capital anyway.

In my opinion, yes. 1-2 days is sufficient to see the main sights of Oslo.

The top sights in Oslo are the Vigeland Sculpture park, the Oslo Opera House and Akershus Fortress.

Assuming you mean the western fjords of Norway, you can reach them by train, bus, car or even by taking a plane to Bergen. Read my full guide on this here.

Looking for more things to do in Oslo?

There you have some of my favourite Oslo activities and things to do during a visit. There are plenty of unique ways to explore Oslo, whether you are on a budget or looking to splurge a little.

Oslo is a great city to visit, both in the winter and the summer, and I hope you enjoy the Norwegian capital! You can find some more information about visiting Oslo and Norway here on Fjords and Beaches, and also on the Visit Oslo website .

Visiting Bergen as well? Don’t miss my guide to the best things to do there!

Below are a bunch more things and activities in Oslo for your trip. As always, I recommend booking activities and tickets in advance, as Oslo (and the whole country really) gets busy in the summer.

15 FREE Attractions in Oslo [A Local’s Guide]

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I have not yet visited Oslo. when I visit this city I will follow your advice 🤗

That’s great to hear! I know you’ll love it 🙂

[…] 30+ fun things to do in Oslo […]

[…] to pull something useful out of this post. You’ll be happy to hear that there are loads of things to do in Oslo if you are trying to avoid breaking the […]

Aker Brygge is a short walk from Karl Johan (the main shopping street), and boasts plenty of restaurants along the fjord.

[…] A few KM out of the centre of the city is the huge open air Vigeland Sculpture park at Frogner Park. The incredible and eye opening work was created by Gustav Vigeland between 1924 and 1943 and is a permanent exhibition of his most famous works. The provocative Art Deco sculptures, bridges and other installations study the human form in all its oddities in what makes for a strange but impressive installation across the park. The park itself is home to the historic Frogner Manor for which is was originally created in 1750 as a baroque garden and is one of the top things to do in Oslo.  […]

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A Hilariously Deadpan Tourism Video About How Oslo Is Not Really a City Because It’s Too Easy

• June 25, 2024

A brilliant tourism video by Visit Oslo features a resident named Halfan describing how Oslo is not really a city in the most hilariously deadpan manner possible.

Is it even a city? You know what I mean everything is just so available. You know there’s no exclusiveness. I grew up here and I temporarily live here, unfortunately.

The narrator explains that Oslo is not a city because its too easy. He can walk from one end to another in 30 minutes (unlike New York or Paris ), get a table at a local restaurant or into a museum without waiting, see the Prime Minister or the King on any day of the week, and even swim in the middle of the city.

Oslo feels more like a village maybe. I mean you you walk around a corner and it’s like oh there’s the Prime Minister and you walk around the next corner it’s like oh there’s the King. …I think think a city should feel a little hard to get. It’s like a good relationship, you know. It’s not supposed to be easy

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit OSLO (@visitoslo)

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Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry , playing guitar , taking photos and mixing craft cocktails .

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Visit oslo's ad uses reverse psychology to entice tourists, the work from oslo-based newslab complains about the ease of exploring the city.

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Visit Oslo is wryly looking to inspire trips to Norway with an ad that starts with a local saying, “I wouldn’t come here, to be honest.”

The film from Oslo-based agency NewsLab leans on irony and reverse psychology to complain about qualities that make the city remarkable.

Halfdan, a 31-year-old Oslo native, questions if Oslo is even a city given its small size and accessibility compared to tourist-packed metropolises like Paris and New York. He calls swimming in the city center disgusting, brooding as others have fun splashing around him.

The ad compares Oslo to a village where you might run into the prime minister or the king of Norway while crossing town in just 30 minutes. Halfdan says he can just walk in off the street and get a table at a nice restaurant, a privilege he believes should be reserved for the famous.

While visiting the National Museum, Halfdan questions if art is worth seeing if you don’t have to wait in line for a couple of hours, complaining that Edward Munch’s “The Scream” is “not exactly the Mona Lisa.” That jab ties back to Visit Oslo’s 2017 campaign , in which the city “rescued” a couple who had shared their disappointment with the crowds on a trip to the Louvre on Instagram and brought them to Oslo for a vacation do-over. They chronicled all the city had to offer throughout a two-day trip.

Oslo’s marketing organization shared the film on its website, where a page dedicated to the campaign lists all the attractions Halfdan was so unimpressed with, including the Vigeland Museum and the Oslo Opera House. So far, the dry humor has earned the ad 1.4 million views on TikTok.

Great Britain and Northern Ireland’s Tourism Campaign Is About to Get Even Greater

Samantha Nelson

Samantha Nelson is a freelance writer for Adweek.

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Visit OSLO — Is it even a city? By NewsLab AS

“Everything is just so available.” A 31-year-old local shares that there are no lines at museums, no waits at restaurants.

He tells you everything that’s wrong with Oslo – while sharing exactly what makes it unique and beautiful.

“The inspiration for the ad is Oslo’s position as an underdog as far as city break destinations go, both in Europe and in the Nordics,” said Anne-Signe Fagereng, director of marketing for Visit Oslo.

It’s an appealing message, especially now. The world’s most popular tourist destinations are currently experiencing a boom, with some like Japan, Venice and Barcelona being struck with overtourism.

“The fact that it’s not as famous and crowded as some other capital cities is something we should start highlighting as a benefit,” said Fagereng.

Some of the Norwegian capital’s most famous attractions are Akershus Fortress, the Nobel Peace Center and the Norwegian Maritime Museum.

In 2021, the city opened a museum dedicated to artist Edvard Munch. In 2022, it opened a National Museum. The Museum of the Viking Age is coming in 2027.

“Oslo has been through an incredibly positive transformation over the last few decades, so it’s time our confidence in our capital catches up with reality. Our protagonist Halfdan is obviously not quite there though!” she said.

Oslo saw an upsurge in international arrivals this past quarter. International arrivals in the Norwegian capital are up 26% from 2019 levels, according to ForwardKeys.

When Skift’s founder and CEO Rafat Ali shared the video on X, it received 1 million views on the first day thanks to viral reshares.

Zero Excited Oslo Locals The ad incorporates the dry humor Nordic countries are known for. Last year, Visit Sweden launched a campaign ad reminding viewers to stop confusing it with Switzerland. In 2021, Visit Iceland launched an ad that parodied the Metaverse.

Most tourism ads feature locals talking about what they love about their destination with a big smile, which can sometimes be taken as disingenuous and insincere. In contrast, the actor in the ad talks about Oslo in a somber tone and doesn’t crack a smile.

“There are so many wonderful destinations in the world and a lot of pretty ads for them, but to stand out we really needed a different and more creative approach,” said Fagereng.

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Shore Excursions from Oslo Cruise Terminal

Top excursions for cruise passengers in oslo.

If you're docking at the Oslo cruise terminal and wondering what to do, you're in luck! There are plenty of exciting shore excursions to make the most of your time in the city. Here's a quick guide to help you plan your day, taking into consideration the limited time you may have.

The Oslo cruise terminal is conveniently located near the city centre, making it easy to explore. You can walk, take a taxi, or use public transport. The journey is short and straightforward, so you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the sights.

Discover Oslo's Highlights with Limited Time

Vigeland sculpture park.

Visit Vigeland Sculpture Park / Frognerparken . This unique park filled with over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. It's a beautiful and peaceful place to wander around and take in the art.

Address: Nobels gate 32, 0268 Oslo

Akershus Fortress

Akershus Fortress offers stunning views of the Oslofjord. You can explore the historic buildings and learn about Norway's past.

Address: Akershus Festning, 0015 Oslo

Oslo Opera House

Check out this architectural masterpiece. You can even walk on the roof of the Opera House for panoramic views of the city and the fjord.

Address: Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo

Munch Museum

Art lovers shouldn't miss the Munch Museum , home to many works by Edvard Munch, including "The Scream."

Address: Edvard Munchs Plass 1, 0194 Oslo

Sightseeing Tour with M/S Nobel 

Take a scenic 1 hour sightseeing cruise along Oslofjord aboard the M/S Nobel. Starting from SALT, this tour offers beautiful views of the coastline and islands, providing a relaxing way to see the natural beauty of Norway.

Address: SALT/ Langkaia 1, 0150 Oslo

Hop On a City Sightseeing Bus 

Departing directly from the cruise terminal. These convenient hop-on-hop-off buses allow you to discover Oslo's top attractions at your own pace. With multiple stops around the city and informative commentary onboard, you'll get to experience the best of Oslo effortlessly.

Start Point: Oslo Cruise Terminal Convenience: Easy access for cruise passengers Service : The Shorex team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable 

The cruise port in Oslo, Norway, offers easy access to these attractions and more. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the scenic views, there's something for everyone.

Tips for Your Oslo Shore Excursions

• Plan Ahead Make a list of must-see places and plan your route.
• Stay Comfortable  Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Check the Weather  Oslo's weather can change, so dress in layers.
• Local Transport : Public transport is reliable and easy to use if you prefer not to walk.
• Time Management  Be mindful of your time. Some attractions are closer to the cruise port, making it easier to fit more into your day.

Shore excursions from the cruise ship port in Oslo, Norway, offer a fantastic way to explore this vibrant city. With so many attractions close to the Oslo cruise ship port, you can easily make the most of your visit. Enjoy your time in Oslo!

By keeping your shore excursions simple and well-planned, you'll have an unforgettable experience exploring the best of Oslo from the cruise terminal.

Find the spots on this Oslo map

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Oslo’s brilliant new tourism ad is enticing visitors by telling them not to come

“I wouldn’t come here, to be honest.”

That’s the opening line to a tourism ad that debuted yesterday from Oslo’s official marketing agency, VisitOslo . The commercial follows a begrudging native Oslovian around the city as he questions whether Oslo is “even a city,” while lamenting the area’s walkability and beach access, and complaining about public amenities as he sullenly gazes out at beautiful landscapes. 

The ad has quickly drawn traction on the Internet for its dry humor and reverse psychology, which flips the script on the overproduced, and, frankly, corny approach that’s typical for American tourism spots . But, in a busy travel season, chock-full of travel influencing and endless social media vacation photos, what’s most refreshing about the new ad is its rejection of an Instagrammable travel experience in favor of a more authentic one.

Oslo’s tourism ad takes an understated approach to its visuals. It appears to be shot on a handheld camera, and while the locations are aesthetically pleasing, it’s not trying to hit you over the head with a series of Oslo’s most post-worthy tourist attractions. Some shots are just pretty streets or a view of the harbor. Taken together, the videography and scenery convey a city that’s cultured and interesting, yet serene.

That sense of simple pleasure is, ironically, amplified by the narrator’s insistence on pointing out supposed “downsides” to the town: While sitting in a beautiful restaurant, he describes Oslo as “a village”; in a dig at New York and Paris, he points out that it only takes 30 minutes to walk across town; and while standing in front of Edvard Munch’s The Scream , he notes that “It’s not exactly the Mona Lisa .” The ad positions Oslo as a place where embracing simple pleasures can be, well, simple—and where long lines aren’t the barometer for beauty. “Everything is just so available, you know?” our narrator grumbles. “There’s no exclusiveness.”

The campaign comes at a time when other major European cities are hiking up fees for tourists, or even actively discouraging them from visiting. The trend, dubbed “ tourismphobia ,” stems from the myriad issues that accompany annual overcrowding when hordes of visitors flock to local hot spots. In some cities, tourists have even been caught trespassing in private homes and on balconies to take photos. Residents in places such as the Canary Islands and Binibeca, on Spain’s Menorca island, have been protesting en masse, while cities in Italy, France, and Portugal have instituted additional monetary fees or fines for tourists.  

Oslo, it seems, is still interested in welcoming visitors this summer—but it has a particular kind of tourist in mind. In a podcast episode released in November, 2023 , VisitOslo’s director of marketing, Anne-Signe Fagereng, explained that advertising could play a major role in attracting responsible tourists, especially those who will respect local culture and uphold Oslo’s goal to become carbon neutral by 2030.

“We try to make it really easy to make sustainable choices, not by saying, ‘You should do this,’ [but by] just giving them the greener or the more sustainable options,” Fagereng said. “It is better in Oslo to travel by public transport, for example, so that’s what we’re encouraging [tourists] to do; and that goes for where they shop, how they eat, and what kind of activities they do while they’re in Oslo.”

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reaction to VisitOslo’s latest tourism ad, this more down-to-earth marketing strategy is resonating with travelers who want to experience new places as a local resident might—though maybe with a more positive outlook than the grumbling Oslovian narrator.

This post originally appeared at fastcompany.com

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Visit Oslo’s Ironic New Ad Goes Viral Asking: ‘Is it Even a City?’

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

June 25th, 2024 at 9:53 AM EDT

Oslo doesn't take the typical smiling local approach in its new tourism ad. It instead uses dry Nordic humor to promote Oslo's unique appeal.

Dawit Habtemariam

“I wouldn’t come here.” That’s the opening of a new ad from from Visit Oslo that promotes the relative ease of Norway’s capital as a tourist destination.

“Everything is just so available.” A 31-year-old local shares that there are no lines at museums, no waits at restaurants.

He tells you everything that’s wrong with Oslo – while sharing exactly what makes it unique and beautiful. “The inspiration for the ad is Oslo’s position as an underdog as far as city break destinations go, both in Europe and in the Nordics,” said Anne-Signe Fagereng, director of marketing for Visit Oslo. 

It’s an appealing message, especially now. The world’s most popular tourist destinations are currently experiencing a boom, with some like Japan , Venice and Barcelona being struck with overtourism.

“The fact that it’s not as famous and crowded as some other capital cities is something we should start highlighting as a benefit,” said Fagereng.

Some of the Norwegian capital’s most famous attractions are Akershus Fortress, the Nobel Peace Center and the Norwegian Maritime Museum.

In 2021, the city opened a museum dedicated to artist Edvard Munch. In 2022, it opened a National Museum. The Museum of the Viking Age is coming in 2027.

“Oslo has been through an incredibly positive transformation over the last few decades, so it’s time our confidence in our capital catches up with reality. Our protagonist Halfdan is obviously not quite there though!” she said.

Oslo saw an upsurge in international arrivals this past quarter. International arrivals in the Norwegian capital are up 26% from 2019 levels, according to ForwardKeys. When Skift’s founder and CEO Rafat Ali shared the video on X, it received 1 million views on the first day thanks to viral reshares.

This type of creativity is rare in tourism ads these days, most of which blend into each other. This is different, a typical understated Norse sense of dry humor. From @VisitOSLO . Well done, more needed in this series. pic.twitter.com/Zc7RcsHdNi — Rafat Ali, Media Operator & Dad (@rafat) June 24, 2024

Zero Excited Oslo Local s

The ad incorporates the dry humor Nordic countries are known for. Last year, Visit Sweden launched a campaign ad reminding viewers to stop confusing it with Switzerland. In 2021, Visit Iceland launched an ad that parodied the Metaverse .

Most tourism ads feature locals talking about what they love about their destination with a big smile, which can sometimes be taken as disingenuous and insincere. In contrast, the actor in the ad talks about Oslo in a somber tone and doesn’t crack a smile.

“There are so many wonderful destinations in the world and a lot of pretty ads for them, but to stand out we really needed a different and more creative approach,” said Fagereng.

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Tags: destination markeing , norway , oslo , tourism