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15 Best Day Trips from Oslo

The Norwegian capital is a veritable hotbed of activity, and like many popular modern metropolitan hubs, has something to suit every taste.

From high art and contemporary architecture to flavours from around the world, Oslo is known for its diversity.

The combination of traditional Scandinavian culture mixed with a progressive, contemporary atmosphere makes for a fascinating visit.

Oslo is also known for its surroundings; every bit as diverse and beautiful as the city itself.

Excellent transport options mean you can get to the coast, fjords, small towns and much more in merely a few hours and be back the same day.

Whether you want to go hiking in search of incredible views or get a feel for modern rural life in Norway, these day trips are a guaranteed way to give you a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

1. Bygdoy Peninsula

Only four miles from Oslo lies one of its most treasured and beautiful local attractions: the Bygdoy Peninsula.

Here you’ll find a high concentration of some of the area’s most intriguing points of interest, not to mention gorgeous parks, beaches and forests.

You can embark on a museum spree and marvel at artefacts depicting the country’s fascinating history, or pay a visit to the Royal Manor; a fully functional 200-acre organic farm.

The numerous cultural attractions in the Bygdoy Peninsula make for an intriguing visit, but if you simply want to unwind and get back to nature, you’ll find this the perfect place to do it, with various peaceful trails you can follow to explore by foot.

2. Norwegian Folk Museum

This open-air museum is a testament to all things Scandinavian, and here you’ll find an intriguing collection of exhibits featuring everything from antiquities to entire buildings built in traditional Norwegian fashion.

The Norwegian Folk Museum is made up of various structures from all over Norway that form a little old village.

The exhibits are spread out among the different buildings and you’ll have the chance to learn about things like reindeer herding, hunting, fishing and even visit a church dating back to 1200. The museum can be found at Bygdoy, whose Old Town is only a few minutes walk away, and is a charming way to wrap up your day trip.

3. Viking Ships Museum

A trip to the Viking Ships Museum is almost obligatory if you’re in Norway, and with the amount on exhibition at the museum, a day trip here is without question worthwhile.

In this museum, you’ll find three 9th Century ships that have been incredibly well-preserved; including the Osenberg Ship, which is in fact the largest surviving pre-Christian artefact in the whole of Scandinavia.

Sharing a room with these huge vessels is truly an experience, and their rich history sheds light on the intriguing and tumultuous lives of the Vikings.

Tickets available online : Viking Ship Museum and Historical Museum Entry Ticket

4. Fram Museum

An absolute must-see for anyone interested in both historical and modern maritime exploits, the Fram Museum is named after the first Norwegian ship that was built for polar research, which is now the prized exhibit.

Here you’ll also find the vessel known as Gjøa; the first to navigate the Northwest Passage.

If the Fram Museum doesn’t have enough to keep you intrigued, then head over to the adjoining building where you’ll find the Kon-Tiki Museum, with even more crafts and displays dedicated to the nationally treasured explorer, Thor Heyerdahl.

This small neighbourhood is a great place to escape to for a day, to wander around the various points of interest in an atmosphere far removed from the bustling center of Oslo.

Ekeberg is home to a huge array of al fresco art installations and sculptures, all dotted around the picturesque Ekeberg Park.

You can while away many hours searching for these among the tree-lined paths and open spaces.

Also found here are the famous Petroglyphs at Ekeberg; a collection of 5000-year-old rock carvings depicting local wildlife and even an early human.

6. Holmenkollen

A beautiful range of wooded hills to the northwest of Oslo hides Norway’s most popular ski areas, and is home to the enormous Holmenkollen Ski Jump.

The huge structure offers visitors the chance to learn about some of the nation’s most interesting ski-related history, as well as inviting them to enjoy the views from the top, which are truly breathtaking.

The Oslo Fjord is visible from the apex, and the panoramic vista of nearby Oslo is hard to beat.

If you’re feeling curious about the action on the slope, you can even try out a ski jump simulator to see what it’s like leaping over the world-famous incline.

Included in this tour : Oslo Panoramic and Sculpture Park

7. TusenFryd Family Park

Found in Vinterbro, not far from Oslo, is the TusenFryd Family Park; a pleasant day trip for the whole family, or simply for visitors looking to have some fun and try something new.

With a plethora of attractions, rides, and games, it’s a great place to have an adventure, particularly as there is something for every age group.

From huge rollercoasters to 5D haunted houses, it’s a great way to get out of the city and enjoy yourself.

The nearby BadeFryd water park is also an excellent place to cool off in the warmer summer months.

8. Grefsenkollen

A popular location for people looking to snap some panoramic shots of the city, the area of Grefsenkollen sits at over 1000-feet above sea level and offers some incredibly beautiful sweeping views of Oslo below.

Another bonus sitting at the top of the hill is the much-loved Oslo landmark: Grefsenkollen Restaurant, open since 1926 and offering an insight into life in days gone by, as well as serving up some excellent food.

9. Henie-Onstad Art Center

Founded over 50 years ago, the Henie-Onstad Art Center can be found in Høvikodden and houses the country’s largest collection of international art.

A perfect day trip for art lovers and curious visitors alike, the center was built on a headland protruding into the Oslofjord, meaning that it offers beautiful views to visitors wandering around looking at the outdoor exhibits.

With works by everyone from Matisse to Picasso, there is something for everyone at Henie-Onstad.

Look out for cultural events and concerts that are regularly held here.

10. Lillehammer

The beautifully rural town of Lillehammer is the epitome of small-town pleasantness that attracts more and more locals and visitors seeking an escape from the busy capital.

A two-hour scenic drive will find you in a completely different world to metropolitan Oslo; surrounded by rolling green hills, verdant forests and beautiful lakes.

The charming wooden houses lining the streets are often rentable if you wish to stay a night, or you can simply bring a picnic, spend the day, and return to town in the evening.

Though it involves catching a flight, a day trip to Bergen is more than achievable from Oslo and is well worth the effort.

This gorgeous waterside town is filled with brightly-coloured wooden houses and is a quaint insight into what rural life was like in fjord towns up and down Norway’s fjord region.

Wander around on foot or embark on a short cruise to some nearby fjords in search of jaw-dropping views.

You can also enjoy some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in Norway at Bergen; famed for its fishing history.

12. Trondheim

A trip to Trondheim also involves an hour’s flight, but the historical city is a bucket-list destination in Norway and it’s easy to see why.

Dating back to the 11th Century, the city is filled to the brim with incredibly preserved, breathtaking architecture, with sites like the Gothic Nidaros Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace Museum.

Perfect for history lovers, the picturesque city also houses fascinating archaeological findings from the area and showcases classical music performances.

13. Lake Mjøsa

Jump on the train from Oslo International Airport and within the hour you’ll find yourself at Norway’s largest lake: the breath-taking Lake Mjøsa.

The perfect way to spend a day if you want to combine exploring small lakeside towns with a healthy dose of Scandinavian nature, it’s so close to Oslo that a visit to the lake can last all day long before you must head back to town.

Popular spots on the lake that you can reach by paddle steamship are Hamar, Gjøvik and Lillehammer.

14. Vestfold

Home to Faerder National Park, Vestfold is a region on the coast that is rich in Viking history, as well as boasting some incredible fjord landscapes.

Here, you can visit various archaeological sites to learn about the area’s history and significance as a shipbuilding hub and other marine activities.

One of the most popular of these is the Viking Trail, a center for learning about Viking activity in the area and peppered with sites of interest.

Also worth a visit is the “Worlds End,” where you’ll be rewarded with absolutely stunning views of the national park.

15. Drøbak Christmas Town

Only an hour from Oslo, you’ll find the small fishing village of Drøbak, used as a port for the capital during the winter months when the other fjords freeze over.

It’s also known for being a charming little settlement reminiscent of Christmas villages, complete with a Santa Post Office, coloured wooden houses and Christmas memorabilia around every corner.

It’s a perfect day trip for families and travelers looking for some Christmas cheer all year round.

15 Best Day Trips from Oslo:

• Bygdoy Peninsula
• Norwegian Folk Museum
• Viking Ships Museum
• Fram Museum
• Holmenkollen
• TusenFryd Family Park
• Grefsenkollen
• Henie-Onstad Art Center
• Lillehammer
• Drøbak Christmas Town

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Oslo, Norway

Written by Lura Seavey Updated Mar 30, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A day trip from Olso can be a great way to experience other parts of the country, and even neighboring Sweden, without packing up and spending the night in another city. For those with limited time, there are plenty of things to do just outside the city center, including a visit to the beautiful Bygdoy Peninsula , with its fine museums and superb architecture, or the neighborhood of Ekeberg , both of which can be easily accessed by public transportation.

Dependable train, bus, and boat options will bring visitors to a variety of great destinations within 2.5 hours or less, several of which are along Oslofjord . Here, you can find everything from Viking settlements and fortresses to amusement parks and shopping, not to mention countless fascinating museums. Plan your excursions with our list of the best day trips from Oslo.

1. Bygdoy Peninsula

2. lillehammer, 3. tusenfryd family park, vinterbro, 4. gamle fredrikstad, 5. tønsberg, 6. explore the fjords by boat, 8. kongsberg, 9. karlstad, sweden, 10. onstad art center, høvikodden, 11. ekeberg, 12. take a train to flåm, map of day trips from oslo, norway.

Located on a peninsula just four miles west of Oslo , Bygdøy – easily accessible by public transport or car – is home to many of the city's best tourist attractions, including the Center for Studies of Holocaust and Religious Minorities in Norway located in Villa Grande , and the Royal Manor , a fully operational 200-acre organic farm.

Tourists can see historic boats and learn about the history of seafaring culture at the Norwegian Maritime Museum , with an exhibit featuring the country's oldest boat, the Stokkebåten. There is also a large collection of Viking artifacts accompanying exhibits about Viking life, as well as collections and exhibits dedicated to the golden age of sailing, pirates and all.

Several exhibits are designed with kids in mind, a favorite being the Queen of Congo – a ship where they can play with instruments and imagine life at sea.

It's also one of the area's most popular outdoor recreation destinations, rich in beautiful parks, forests, and beaches. Huk & Paradisbukta beach is the most popular of the beaches, offering a volleyball court, food vendors, a picnic area, and plenty of shade along with a sandy beach. Largely protected from future development, numerous tranquil trails make the peninsula easy to explore, whether on foot or by bike.

Lillehammer is an incredibly popular destination for both tourists and Oslo residents because of its many things to do. Just a two-hour train ride from Oslo, the city's Tourist Information Office is located right at the train station. The city's crowning jewel is Maihaugen , an open-air museum with period homes and exhibits, and it's also home to the Norwegian Olympic Museum , which commemorates the 1994 Winter Olympics held here.

Packed with cultural attractions, Lillehammer is also home to the Kittilbu Museum ; a Postal Museum ; the Road Museum ; and several historic homes, including the home of Nobel laureate Sigrid Undset, a famous female writer.

Lillehammer also has a vibrant art and crafts scene, and the pedestrian street Storgata is the best place to visit for unique mementos.

Winter sports enthusiasts will especially love Lillehammer thanks to its five ski resorts and fun activities, including sleigh rides, dog sledding, and ice fishing, not to mention former Olympic facilities like the Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jump and the Hunderfossen Luge Track.

With more than 40 attractions, countless games, and plenty of live entertainment, TusenFryd Family Park is a fun diversion for the whole family. You can find everything here, from the most hair-raising thrill rides like the Speedmonster Coaster to family favorites like bumper cars and log boat rides. Some of the most popular rides are Norse Mythology-themed including Thor's Hammer , an indoor 3D adventure, and Ragnarok , an intense river-rafting ride with drops and plenty of splashing.

Newer attractions include cutting edge technology, like the steampunk-themed Virtual Reality roller coaster and a 4D haunted house. Entertainment includes vehicle stunt shows performed by a team of Italian drivers and other events throughout the season. Park admission also includes the BadeFryd water park, which is especially popular with youngsters.

Address: Høyungsletta 19, 1407 Vinterbro

Official site: www.tusenfryd.no/en

Just over an hour by train from Olso's central station, this town is loved for its 17th-century Old Town (Gamle Fredrikstad or Gamlebyen) . Guarded by a total of five forts, this area is known for being the only Norwegian fortifications that have remained as they were originally. This incredibly secure city was built on the bank of the Glomma estuary and surrounded by an impressive network of star-shaped moats.

One of the most impressive things about Gamle Fredrikstad is the fact that its inhabitants have found a way to preserve and respect the city's historic importance while continuing to use the space, keeping the town alive without spoiling its old-world charm. Tourists can enjoy the historic ambience of shopping and dining along the cobblestone streets, and then head to the Fredrikstad Museum , where there are exhibits and demonstrations on life in the fortress city.

Tourists can also visit the well-preserved 17th-century Kongsten Fort and the island-bound Akerøya Fort , which has been painstakingly restored after falling to ruins.

Norway's oldest city , Tønsberg was founded by Vikings and is the spot where the famous Oseberg Viking ship was originally found in 1904. A full replica of the Oseberg can be toured in the harbor in Tønsberg where you can also see the Oseberg Viking Inheritance Foundation working on a reconstruction of the Klåstad ship. Both of these vessels are made only using the methods and tools available to Vikings at the time that they were originally constructed.

Tønsberg is also home to the largest ruin site in Scandinavia, Mount Slottsfjell (Castle Rock) , which is home to the 13th-century Castle Rock Tower and the Slottsfjel Museum (Slottsfjellsmuseet) . The museum includes a Viking ship and artifacts found just three kilometers away, an exhibit of whale skeletons, and multiple exhibits dedicated to medieval life.

Tønsberg is the starting point for the Vestfold Viking Trail , a historic route featuring Viking-age burial sites and former settlements. The area is a popular summer vacation spot for both Norwegians and international tourists, especially Færder National Park, home of the picturesque Verdens Ende (World's End).

Located at the end of the Inner Oslofjord , Oslo offers a myriad of options for those who want to experience Norway's breathtaking fjords from the water. The city's piers and main port are located right by City Hall , making it particularly convenient for tourists unfamiliar with the area.

In addition to full-day and multi-day cruises that explore Oslofjord and the other nearby fissures in the shoreline, tourists can opt for a shorter boat tour around the Bygdøy Peninsula , including sightseeing tours and dining cruises. Visitors can also find kayak and canoe rentals to explore independently, or guided kayak tours to learn even more about the area.

Tourists who want to experience even more of the fjords can take a Self-Guided Full Day Trip From Oslo To Bergen with the Flåm Railway and Sognefjord . This combination of land and water travel allows tourists to see the landscape from different perspectives to make the most out of a visit. This trip includes passage via rail from Oslo to the quaint waterside town of Flåm , a fjord cruise on the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord to Gudvangen, a peaceful bus ride through the mountains, and finally rail passage to Bergen .

Drøbak is only a 50-minute bus ride from Oslo, but those in the know will opt for the 1.5-hour boat ride, which is not only inexpensive but the perfect way to tour the Oslofjord and get in some fantastic sightseeing on the way.

The town's biggest attractions for locals are its beaches and fresh seafood, but tourists come to see Oscarsborg , a fortress that held off German troops during WWII. Here, you can tour the grounds and the old castle, where there is a museum as well as cultural events during the summer, including artisan fairs and music festivals. Drøbak Town Square is also a great place to visit for shopping; it's home to a summer open-air market, filled with every manner of goods, and a Christmas Market each December.

Families will want to make time for the Drøbak Aquarium , located next to the Tourist Information Center . The aquarium is open year-round and features marine life native to the Drøbak Strait. It has two large tanks with a variety of sea life including sharks, octopuses, eels, and other native fish, and there is also a touch pool where kids can get up close with starfish and other small sea life.

About an hour and a quarter drive from Oslo, and also accessible by train from the capital city, Kongsberg is best known internationally for its high-tech Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace company. Tourists, however, come here for the skiing at Kongsberg Skisenter and to see the King's Mines , once the source of all the kingdom's silver. In operation from 1623 to 1958, the Kongsberg Silver Mines consist of more than 200 individual mines and burrow several kilometers into the mountain.

From May through the end of August, visitors can tour the mine aboard the rail system once used by the workers - but be prepared with a sweater, because the temperature gets as low as 6 degrees Celsius. Nearby, the Norwegian Mining Museum is home to the world's largest native silver collection, which includes exhibits on coin production and the history of the mine.

The city of Karlstad sits on the route between Oslo and Stockholm, well over the border into Sweden but just within the reach of a day trip, about 2.5 hours from the city. Karlstad prides itself in being known as the "sunniest place in Sweden," and many locals come here to enjoy Lake Vänern. Tourists will enjoy local attractions, including the Värmlands Museum , which features a variety of fine art, as well as magnificent and surprising architecture, housed in the Chinese-temple-style building named Cyrillushuset .

Karlstad is also home to the fascinating Brigade Museum , where visitors can learn about daily life in Sweden form the 1940s through the 1990s. Exhibits also include both military and civilian artifacts relating to WWII and the Cold War, as well as an interactive target practice simulator where you can feel what it was like to fire from a tank and rifle.

Founded in 1966, the Henie-Onstad Art Center in Høvikodden contains Norway's largest collection of international art, including works by Matisse, Miró, and Picasso, as well as trophies won by champion skater Sonja Henie. The center is also home to several interactive art programs for children, including Labben, an open studio where children and parents can experiment with creativity while getting tips from staff.

The Art Center also hosts various cultural events, including theatrical performances and concerts. Outside, visitors can enjoy the museum's Sculpture Park, which is nestled within a network of trails along the shores of the Oslo Peninsula.

Address: Sonja Henies vei 31, 1311 Høvikodden

Official site: www.hok.no

A visit to the neighborhood of Ekeberg doesn't have to take a whole day thanks to its location just two miles southeast of the center of Oslo, but there are so many things to do here that you will likely want to leave your itinerary open. Home to picturesque Ekeberg Park and the former Nautical College , the area offers many great views of Oslo Harbor and Oslofjord , especially from the terrace of the College.

Ekeberg Park is home to numerous excellent sculptures and outdoor art pieces, so be prepared to spend a few hours wandering its many tree-lined pathways. Also, be sure to visit the nearby Petroglyphs at Ekeberg . These remarkable 5,000-year-old rock carvings contain 13 figures, mostly of elks but with a solitary human figure.

Official site: http://ekebergparken.com/en/

Traveling by rail not only holds a certain nostalgic charm but also offers tourists the opportunity to gain a new perspective on the landscape and see virtually untouched parts of the country. The bulk of the journey is spent on the main rail system, departing from Oslo Central Station headed southwest.

At Haugastøl , passengers say goodbye to civilization as they know it and head northwest past Hallingskarvet National Park , where hikers and the occasional rest hut dot the landscape among the alpine flora and grazing deer. After passing through mountain tunnels, the tracks head into the valley and stop at Myrdal .

At Mydral, travelers board the Flåm Railway and continue through the valley north to Flåm , a peaceful town that sits at the tip of the Aurlandsfjord. In Flåm, tourists will find the Flåmsbana Museum right next to the train station, as well as the historic Frenthiem Hotel , an excellent four-star hotel with views over the water. This quaint town is tiny but as picturesque as they come, offering some local shops, a bakery, cafés, and several excellent spots to get views of the fjord.

For those who want to extend their adventure into the fjords, there are cruises that depart from here to explore Sognefjord , the longest and deepest of Norway's fjords.

More on Norway

27 Most Interesting Day Trips From Oslo + Map

Are you looking for ideas for interesting day trips from Oslo? Here you can find suggestions for the best Oslo day trips and weekend trips from Oslo.

In the list of Oslo day trips below, you can find outdoor activities, gentle coastline walks, stunning views, rich history, and impressive buildings. I’ve enjoyed my day trips from Oslo to these places, and I wanted to share them with you, too. You can find the basic map with some of the locations of the places at the bottom of the post.

Did you know how much this part of Norway can offer?

If you are interested in the panoramic views and trails for hiking in Oslo and around, head to the linked post. Remember to also check my post on where to stay in Oslo .

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM OSLO

There are many options for day trips from Oslo, ranging from relaxed walks by the coast to adventure-filled hiking trips, to discovering the culture and history of Norway.

• Hiking in Oslo and around 
• Where to stay in Oslo
• Fun things to do in Oslo in winter

Oslo Day Trips Within 1 Hour Drive From Capital

In this part, I list places that you can visit within one hour drive from Oslo. I’ve covered the first few of the recommendations below in my hiking in Oslo post. However, they are not inside the city, you still need to travel a bit to get there and they make for nice Oslo day tours.

# King’s View (Kongens Utsikt)

The wonderful view, is not bad, even for a king (hence the name). According to the story, the King has come here to look at the view below. You can also be one to admire it after a short hike. Below, you can see the Tyrifjorden and the islands dotting the lake.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through a link. More details here .

# Mørkgonga

It’s probably my favourite hike near Oslo, and not far from the King’s View. Mørkgonga is a crack in the lava plate, that now creates a deep gorge. From the top, you can see wonderful views down to the Hønefoss and the little islands on Tyrifjorden. 

For a longer hike, you can continue to Gyrihaugen Mountain.

QUICK PLANNING TIPS FOR TRAVEL IN OSLO AND NORWAY

• Save time and money with the Oslo Pass
• Find the best flights to Norway with Skyscanner.net  
• Book your accommodation with Booking.com , and find the cheapest and best Oslo hotels here
• Find the best car rental deals on Rentalcars 
• Check the best-rated activities in Norway on Get Your Guide and Viator
• Read Norway on a budget travel guide

# Tyrifjorden

#Islands and Oslo Fjord

# Kanada i Lier – Solbergfossen waterfall

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# Canyon in Drammen (Kjøsterudjuvet i Gamledammen)

Near Drammen, you can walk inside the deep canyon filled with water. It’s an adventurous hike, only for the brave ones who don’t mind getting wet and climbing some ladders.

Alternatively, you can also hike on top of the canyon and admire it from above. At the end of the hike, you reach a peaceful forest lake.

Important: Currently, the hike at the bottom of the canyon is closed due to the rockfall. It is still possible to hike on the top of the canyon.

#Kistefos Museum

# Lakes and forests around Oslo

# Kolsåstoppen

The hike to Kolsåstoppen offers panoramic views towards the Oslo fjord and the nearby settlements of Baerum.

To do the whole loop, you need around 2-2,5 hours and you will be walking for around 7 kilometres in the varied terrain with a few steeper parts.

# Nesodden and Spro cave

A day trip from Oslo to the little coastal town of Nesodden with colourful boathouses makes for a perfect day in the sun.

From Nesodden, you can go to a very extraordinary place – Spro cave . Inside, you will find a partially collapsed dome that now opens to the sky. There is also a little lake inside the cave. However, what is the most fascinating is the mineral, muscovite, shining in the sun inside, like silver. Outside you can also see it on the beach called Diamond Beach.

Famous for its beautiful sunsets, outdoor restaurants, and home to Santa Claus (Julehuset) , Drøbak is a town that makes for a pleasant day trip from Oslo. Whether you visit Oslo in winter or in the summer. If you plan to spend the weekend in Drøbak you can stay in  Reenskaug Hotel located just by the fjord. Check prices and availability here.

# Oscarsborg Fortress

From Drøbak , or directly by ferry from Oslo, you can get to the little Oslofjord island with a fort. Oscarsborg is a former 1850’s military fortress, that you can even sleep in !  It makes for a great day trip from Oslo filled with history, culture, and nice views.

Day Trips From Oslo With More Than 1 Hour Drive

Below are my suggestions for day trips from Oslo that are located more than an hour’s drive from the capital. If you have more time, you can turn them into weekend trips.

# Rjukan and Gaustatoppen

The industrial town of Rjukan, a part of the UNESCO Heritage List , has a lot to offer. One of the numerous things to do in Rjukan is hiking up the Gaustatoppen, where you can admire 1/6 of Norway. In winter, make sure to try ice climbing. For an overnight stay in Rjukan, I can recommend cheap and nice Sandviken Camping   with wooden cabins by the lake and a sauna. Check prices and availability here.

# Heddal Stavkirke 

Heddal Stavkirke is the largest stave church in Norway, located on the way to Notodden and Rjukan . It dates back to the 1200s and is still in use.

# Gardnos crater in Garnås

Gardnos crater is a huge Meteorite Impact Crater, located near Nesbyen. There is a visitor centre that is open to the public during the summer months.

# Gygrestolen in Bø

Gygrestolen is a unique rock formation. You can see it from the distance at the bottom of the hill, but for the best view, you need to follow a trail up. The hike is quite steep and requires some effort.  On top of the formation, you will be rewarded with a great view of Uvdal and Uvdalsgjernet.

Blefjell is a mountain area with multiple lakes and hikes. The highest point of Blefjell is Bletoppen at 1342 meters above sea level. The area lies at the border between Buskerud and Telemark.

# Skrimfjella, Sauheradfjella and Kongsberg

The mountain area south of Kongsberg offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. The most famous mountain is Styggeman at 872 meters above sea level. The legend says that the hill is home to a troll, who hated people walking on the mountain, so he lied on top of it to scare everyone away. Near the summit of Styggmann, there’s a tiny mountain cottage Styggemannshytta .

Lifjell is a mountain plateau with numerous hiking trails in the summer and skiing trails in winter. Snow stays there for longer than in other areas, so if you already miss winter at the beginning of spring, Lifjell is the place to go. The hiking area in the park is almost 200 km2, and you can find there more than 20 summits over 1000 meters above sea level.

Tønsberg is the oldest town in Norway, founded during the Viking Period. It houses several of the important sites, including the world-famous Oseberg ship, whose copy can be seen in the Tønsberg harbour. Or Mount Slottsfjell, Scandinavia’s largest ruin site, with a fortress from the 13th century.

# Verdens Ende and Færder National Park

Verdens Ende , which means “The World’s End” is a part of the Færder National Park, located just outside of Tønsberg. The area is famous for its vast horizon views and a Vippefyret ( bascule light or tipping lantern) , built in 1932.

# Fredrikstad 

Fredrikstad is famous for its old town , Gamlebyen . This is   Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortified town. Today it’s full of picturesque wooden houses, charming cafes and good restaurants. You can stay in the middle of the old town in stylish Gamlebyen Hotell .  

# Ytre Hvaler National Park

Corals in Norway? Yes! In Ytre Hvaler National Park y ou can find a rich underwater ecosystem including corals and kelp forest. On the coast, you can walk along the smooth rocks shaped by the sea waves and ice. The coastal woodland is home to various plants and animals, including many protected species.

The national park is a perfect place to wind down, get closer to nature, feel salty air on your skin, and watch the vast sea horizon.

# Mærrapanna naturreservat

Similarly to Ytre Hvaler National Park, and located not far from it, Mærrapanna naturreservat offers rocky coastal paths with varied plants and animals. The nature reserve and recreation area is located north of Fredrikstad municipality. 

# Hankø island

Located not far from Fredrikstad, Hankø island is a perfect place for a relaxing Oslo day trip. The island has been a recreational spot since the 1870s. Even King Olav bought his holiday home there. Today it belongs to Norwegian Princess Martha and her family.

# The Ancient Trail

The Ancient Trail along Highway 110, is Norway’s most concentrated collection of historical and cultural monuments dating back to the Bronze and Iron age.

Along the trail, you can find many of these monuments, including burial mounds, rock rings, rock carvings and more. We stopped in a few of them and they are quite easy to find. 

# Iskjørkja – “The Ice Church”

This one is a bit further from Oslo, you need to count at least a 3-hour drive one way. But it’s still possible to count it as a day trip, and it’s worth it. Iskjørkja (from Norwegian: “Ice church”) is a spectacular natural ice formation located in southern Norway, in Tromsa Valley. The magical cave, straight from the movie “Frozen”, exists only for a few weeks, up to a few months of the year, between January to March. Check out more details of Ice Church Iskjørkja here .

Map of Oslo Day Trips

Read more about Norway:

• Where to Stay in Oslo – The Best Hotels in Oslo
• The best things to do in Oslo in winter
• Rjukan ice climbing and other things to do from a day trip from Oslo 
• Norway on a budget – locals’ tips for cheap travel in Norway 

Have you tried any of the day trips from Oslo? Maybe you have your favourite Oslo day trips? Let me know in the comments!

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• Hiking In Oslo & Around – 16 Best Oslo Hiking Trails With Panoramic Views
• 30 Best Hikes in Norway – The Spectacular Norway Hiking Trails + Map
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17 easy day trips from Oslo

You don’t need to travel far from Oslo to be immersed in unspoilt nature. And Norway’s good public transport system means that it’s easy to get out of the city on a day trip.

So whether you fancy wild-swimming in a waterfall, island-hopping in the Oslofjord or exploring a historic fortress, we’ve picked some of our favourite easy day-trips from Oslo.

5 super-easy day trips

• Spend the day exploring the historic Akershus Fortress, which is free to enter with the Oslo Pass .
• Swim, hike, cycle or kayak at Sognsvann Lake, just 20 minutes from the city centre.
• Visit the fascinating open-air Norwegian Folk Museum with its ancient stave church for Norwegian folk dancing and music. 
• Keep the kids entertained on the rides at Norway’s largest theme park, the Tusenfryd Amusement Park .
• Visit Kongsberg to take a tour of an old silver mine in summer – or hit the slopes in winter.

1. Sensational swimming spots

For a swim in some of the cleanest waters in Oslo, head to the waterside neighbourhood of Tjuvholmen, where you can also have a warming sauna before your dip.

This floating sauna is self-service – you just type in a code – and sit back and enjoy the views from the large picture window.  

• 4km from Oslo Central Station
• 15 minutes by direct bus #12

2. Go island hopping in the Oslofjord

Hovedøya is the nearest island to Oslo city centre and one of the prettiest, with sandy beaches and wooded hills.

For such a tiny place – you can walk across it in around ten minutes – it’s got a rich history and you can still see today the ruins of a Cistercian monastery and the remains of a Napoleonic fortress.

This island-hopping tour includes tickets for the local ferries to Hovedøya and Lindøya, plus guided walks on each. For more on exploring the Oslofjord , see our guide. 

• The ferry leaves from Rådhusbrygge, 10 minutes on bus #12 from Oslo Central station
• 10 minutes by direct public ferry to Hovedøya; 20 minutes by direct public ferry to Lindøya 

Is the Oslo Pass worth buying?

Read this guide to see how much you could save during your trip!

3. Hike up Vettakollen mountain

You don’t have to go far from Oslo to get out into the countryside and do some hiking.

This hike up to the top of the Vettakollen mountain takes you along winding forest paths, past small lakes and up to the summit for stupendous views over the city and the islands and shoreline of the Oslofjord.

And what’s more, a scenic metro journey takes you straight to Frognerseteren station, at the beginning of the hike.

For more on local walk, see our guide to the best hikes near Oslo .

• 13km from central Oslo
• 40 minutes by metro from Jernbanetorget to Frognerseteren station

4. Take a day-trip to Drøbak

The pretty town of Drøbak sits on the eastern shore of the Oslofjord with winding 18th-century streets, and a cluster of painted clapboard houses round the harbour. 

It’s biggest attraction is the Julehuset , a cornucopia of all things Christmassy that stays open from March through to December. 

It’s just a short 10-minute ferry ride from Drøbak to Oscarsborg island (the ferry from Oslo stops off here in summer), home to the historic Oscarsborg Fortress. You can explore the fortress grounds and learn all about its military history in the fortress museums.

• 35km from central Oslo
• One hour by direct bus from the Oslo Buss Terminal, or 90 minutes by ferry.

5. Explore the Bygdøy Peninsula

Home to seven museums, the Bygdøy Peninsula would probably fill a couple of day trips if you want to see everything.

The best known of the museums is the Viking Ship Museum, which is currently closed for refurbishment and will re-open in 2027 as the Museum of the Viking Age.

In the meantime, the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Fram Museum, the Maritime Museum and the Norwegian Folk Museum are all worth a good hour or two.

And once you’ve had your fill of museums, there are beaches, hiking trails and bike paths round the leafy peninsula. 

Entrance to all the peninsula’s museums is included on the Oslo Pass – click here to see if buying the pass can save you money. And this guided bus tour and fjord cruise includes entrance to the Fram Museum and the Folk Museum.

• 6km from central Olso
• 25 minutes by direct bus from Jernbanetorget, or 15–20 minutes by ferry from City Hall Pier 3 (free with the Oslo Pass)

6. Tønsberg 

Sitting at the mouth of the Oslofjord, Tønsberg is Norway’s oldest settlement and gateway to the Færder National Park , a marine archipelago.

Although little remains from its medieval heyday, Tønsberg has a lively waterfront promenade lined with renovated warehouses and one of Norway’s top contemporary art galleries, the Haugar Art Museum.

• 100km from central Oslo
• 80 minutes by car or by direct train from Oslo Central Station.

7. See Oslo from the water 

You can see the sights of Oslo and the Oslofjord on this eco-friendly electric boat trip that sails silently past Oslo’s main waterfront sights, including the Akershus Fortress, the Oslo Opera House and the Bygdøy Peninsula. 

• The boat leaves from Rådhusbrygge, 10 minutes by direct bus #12 from Oslo Central station.

8. Experience the Holmenkollbacken ski jump

You can’t actually ski down this iconic, modernist ski jump , but you can take a lift up to the top of the jump tower for great views over Oslo.

And you can abseil or zipwire down, or find out what’s it’s like to ski down in a virtual simulator. 

If you’d rather keep you feet on the ground, there’s an interesting museum at the bottom of the tower that details the history of skiing in Norway. This panoramic bus tour of Oslo takes in Holmenkollen as well as the major sights of Oslo.

• 15km from central Oslo
• 30 minutes by metro on Line 1 to Holmenkollen station, or 25 minutes by car

9. Go wild-swimming at Solbergfossen waterfall

This beautiful waterfall runs down a small wooded gorge and is a lovely place to escape the bustle of the city. There are good views over the valley from the falls and some great wild swimming spots just downstream. 

It’s a steep 1km walk from the car park at Kanada, but there are plenty of longer walks in the woods around.

• 50km from central Oslo
• 30 minutes by car from central Olso

10. Pay your respects at Utøya

While trips to Utøya island in Lake Tyrifjorden are not encouraged, you can visit the memorial to the 77 people who were murdered by right-wing terrorist Anders Breivik on the island in July 2011.

The memorial is on the quay where the boat to Utøya leaves from, and features a bronze column for each of the victims of Norway’s worst ever terror attack.

• 40km from central Oslo
• 40 minutes by car from central Olso

11. Go hiking in Nordmarka 

Look out for moose in the Ringkollen forest in Norway’s Nordmarka region. The woods, hills and lakes of the Nordmarka are great for hiking, cycling and kayaking, plus spotting wildlife and birds.

And for a real adventure, this overnight camping trip involves sleeping in a tree tent and cooking dinner on a campfire in the wild. 

• 65km from central Oslo
• 70 minutes by car from central Olso

12. Explore Akershus Fortress

On a rocky knoll overlooking the harbour, the Akershus castle complex isn’t far from the city centre but has a very separate feel.

The sprawling fortress grounds contain a medieval castle, a Museum of Resistance, a visitor centre and an Armed Forces Museum, as well as walkways, tunnels and fortified gateways. Entrance to the Akershus Fortress is included with the Oslo Pass .

• 1.5km from central Oslo
• 15 minutes by direct bus from Jernbanetorget station

13. Spend the day at Kistefos Museum

An art gallery-cum-industrial museum with an outdoor sculpture garden, waterpark and play areas for the kids, the Kistefos Museum is well worth a day-trip from the city.

On an old industrial site alongside the river Randselva, this former wood pulp mill has been beautifully converted into a living museum and gallery that hosts exhibitions by the likes of Louise Bourgeois and Marina Abramović. 

The award-winning Twist building doubles as a bridge over the river and gallery space, with superb views over the site.

• 65km from Oslo
• One hour and twenty minutes by seasonal express bus from Oslo Bus Terminal, or one hour by car.

14. Visit Frederikstad’s fortress 

With a picturesque old town to browse round and an impressive fortress to explore, Frederikstad makes a great destination for a day-trip from Oslo.

The cobbled streets and brick and wooden houses of the well-preserved old town, or Gamlebyen, are enclosed within a star-shaped moat and 17th-century fortifications. 

The Old Town has been preserved on one side of the river, while the new town has grown up on the other, and we like the fact that a free ferry runs between the two.

• 90km from central Oslo
• One hour by direct train from Oslo Central Station

15. Go skiing in Lillehammer

Home to the 1994 winter Olympics, Lillehammer is a popular ski resort in winter and activity centre in summer where you can go kayaking, hiking and mountain-biking. 

It’s also a Unesco City of Literature and home to the beautiful 13th-century Garmo stave church, now part of the Maihaugen open-air Folk Museum. Hourly trains from Oslo make it perfectly possible to spend the day on the slopes and be back in the capital at night.

• 170km from central Oslo
• Two hours by direct train from Oslo Central Station

16. Norway in a nutshell

Ok, so it’s a pretty busy day-trip, but if you’re on a tight schedule and want to see something of the fjords on a whistle-stop tour, it is possible to do this trip in under 24 hours.

The Norway in a Nutshell train tour leaves Oslo first thing in the morning, with a train to Myrdal.

Here you’ll change onto the dramatic Flamsbana mountain railway to Flåm for a boat trip on the beautiful Aurlandsfjord.

Then you’ll get a bus from Gudvangen to Voss, and a train to Bergen where you can spend the evening before picking up the overnight train to arrive back in Oslo at 6.30 the following morning.

For more on the tour, see our guide to how to do Norway in a nutshell DIY-style .

• Around 1000km round-trip
• 23 hours by train, bus and boat

17. Have fun in the fjords

For a more relaxed day-trip to the fjords, this private tour in an air-conditioned car with your own guide includes a cruise on the Unesco-Heritage Nærøyfjord, plus a trip on the awesome Flåm mountain railway . 

The scenery en-route is stunning and and you’ll arrive back in Oslo late in the evening.

• 17 hours by car

See also : Where to go skiing in Oslo (and nearby) Five cool Oslo neighbourhoods you have to check out Getting around Oslo

Where is the Arctic Circle, and is it even real?

You may also like.

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How to eat on the cheap in Oslo

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The Best Day Trips From Oslo

There are several great ideas for day trips from Oslo and there is a day trip for every type of traveler and every season. Some focus on sightseeing, others on city destinations or relaxing scenery near Oslo. 

A Day Trip to Lillehammer

victoria12368 / Pixabay

Day trips from Oslo to Lillehammer, the famous romantic Norwegian town, are becoming more popular each year. Trains leave hourly from Oslo to Lillehammer.

You can also drive to Lillehammer by simply following the E6 highway. Lillehammer is a two-hour trip from Oslo . A destination that's scenic in summer, and romantic in winter.

A Day Trip to TusenFryd Near Oslo

Copenhagen's Tivoli was the model for this amusement park outside Oslo. Filled with loop and corkscrew-style roller coasters, TusenFryd also offers a water park, a 67-meter spaceshot, carousels, and more than 20 other rides.

A bus runs between Oslo's main bus station and TusenFryd during opening hours. It's a great day trip from Oslo for families.

The Guided "Grand Tour" of Oslo

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Here's one of the most popular day tours of Oslo: The Grand Tour. It's an interesting 7.5 hour guided tour by sailboat and bus, showing you all around Oslo. Stops include Polarship Farm, Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Vigeland Park, the Viking ships, and the Norwegian Folk Museum.​

This guided tour operates May through September and is great if you want the comfort and convenience of a guided ​ group tour .

A Day Trip to Bergen

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Bergen is absolutely doable as a day trip from Oslo, but you'll have to fly. Driving from Oslo to Bergen takes about seven hours. Flying from Oslo to Bergen, on the other hand, is a quick 50-minute trip.

Considering flight prices start around $150, this may not be a day trip suitable for budget travelers, though.

A Day Trip to Trondheim

The same goes for a day trip from Oslo to Trondheim. It's too far to drive but if you don't mind a one-hour flight, the historic city of Trondheim is a unique destination for a day trip from Oslo.

Add the historic and scenic 2.5-hour walking tour of Trondheim to your day, and you'll be all set.

Combine Oslo's Parks and Royal Gardens

Plan a relaxing day trip to the parks and gardens around Oslo. Especially Vigeland Park and the royal Slottskogen should be on your list. Slottskogen, which surrounds the Royal Palace in Oslo, even lets you witness the Changing of the Guard .

If you have some time left in the afternoon, also stop by the beautiful Botanisk Hage Gardens & Museum (the Botanical Garden of Oslo).

Visit the Holmenkollen Ski Jump

The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is Norway's most popular sports-related attraction for travelers. Visitors can enjoy lots of interesting ski history and a beautiful view of Oslo and the surrounding Oslo Fjord. And if you get bored, you can even experience flying 100 meters in the world famous ski jumping hill...inside the ski-simulator, that is.

This idea for a day trip from Oslo is suitable for all seasons.

A Day at the Beach

Just want to relax on your spare day in Oslo? Then just spend your day at one of the nearby beaches. Summer travelers are often surprised at the many beautiful beaches in Norway.

With a short swimming season due to the weather in Norway , it's best to learn where the best beaches in Norway are before you travel.

Spend a Day Shopping in Oslo

How about a trip exploring the shopping areas of this bustling metropolitan area? There are four major shopping areas in Oslo (especially the popular Karl Johans Gate pedestrian zone), and it's fun to combine two or three for a day of shopping in the Norwegian capital.

In Oslo, shops are usually open from 10 am to 5 pm on weekdays, with extended evening hours on Thursdays. This is a great day trip idea in winter, too!

The 10 Best Sights in Norway

The Best Guided Tours in Oslo, Norway

The Best Cities in Norway

12 Best Places to Visit in December

Where to Go Shopping in Oslo, Norway

Explore the Regions of Norway

The Best Parks in Oslo

8 Scandinavian Cruises for Any Time Frame

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Scandinavia

How to Get From Oslo to Trondheim

8-Day Itinerary for Travel in Scandinavia

The Lillehammer Travel Guide

A Guide to Airports in Scandinavia

The Best Day Trips From Reykjavik

The 13 Best Day Trips From Miami

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Oslo

Day trips from oslo.

• Oslo to Flam
• Oslo to Gudvangen
• Oslo to Vestby
• Oslo to Drammen
• Oslo to Helsinki
• Oslo to Geilo
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Oslo City Highlights with Fjord Cruise

2. Oslo To Sognefjord Private Full Day Roundtrip Including Flam Railway

3. Self-Guided 22-Hour Round Trip From Oslo To Sognefjord With Flåm Railway

4. Oslo To Bergen Self-Guided Full Day Trip with Flåm Railway And Fjord Cruise

5. The Scenic Roadtrip, Oslo to Bergen via Flam & the Fjords

6. Private guided tour to Oslo - Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway

7. Train and Bus Tour from Oslo to Bergen via Hardangervidda/Fjord

8. Private Full-Day Round Trip from Oslo to Sognefjord via Flåm Railway

9. Guided Group Walk Tour in Norway Holmenkollen

10. Oslo Hiking - Private Great lake tour

11. Private Full Day Trip From Oslo To Bergen with Sognefjord And Flam Railway

12. 7 hours Private Limousine tour combined Oslo & Tyrifjord including "The Twist"

13. Private Shopping Tour from Oslo to Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby

14. Oslo Private Tour: Nydalen, river Akerselva, Bygdoy Peninsula & Kon-Tiki museum

15. Private Transfer From Oslo To Kristiansand With a 2 Hour Stop

16. Private Transfer From Oslo To Bergen With a 2 Hour Stop

17. Full 7 hours-day Private Oslo "Stroll and Roll" by Norway Exclusive Limousines

18. Exclusive Guided & Customized Private Oslo City Tour in Limo

19. Private Shopping Tour from Oslo hotels to Oslo Fashion Outlet

What travellers are saying.

• Oslo City Highlights with Fjord Cruise
• Oslo To Sognefjord Private Full Day Roundtrip Including Flam Railway
• Self-Guided 22-Hour Round Trip From Oslo To Sognefjord With Flåm Railway
• Private Shopping Tour from Oslo hotels to Oslo Fashion Outlet
• The Scenic Roadtrip, Oslo to Bergen via Flam & the Fjords
• OURWAY Tours in Oslo
• Retro Tours Norway
• Oslofjord Adventures Island & Fishing Guiding

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Oslo

Day trips from oslo.

• Oslo to Flam
• Oslo to Gudvangen
• Oslo to Vestby
• Oslo to Drammen
• Oslo to Helsinki
• Oslo to Geilo
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Oslo City Highlights with Fjord Cruise

2. Oslo To Sognefjord Private Full Day Roundtrip Including Flam Railway

3. Self-Guided 22-Hour Round Trip From Oslo To Sognefjord With Flåm Railway

4. Oslo To Bergen Self-Guided Full Day Trip with Flåm Railway And Fjord Cruise

5. The Scenic Roadtrip, Oslo to Bergen via Flam & the Fjords

6. Private guided tour to Oslo - Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway

7. Train and Bus Tour from Oslo to Bergen via Hardangervidda/Fjord

8. Private Full-Day Round Trip from Oslo to Sognefjord via Flåm Railway

9. Guided Group Walk Tour in Norway Holmenkollen

10. Oslo Hiking - Private Great lake tour

11. Private Full Day Trip From Oslo To Bergen with Sognefjord And Flam Railway

12. 7 hours Private Limousine tour combined Oslo & Tyrifjord including "The Twist"

13. Private Shopping Tour from Oslo to Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby

14. Oslo Private Tour: Nydalen, river Akerselva, Bygdoy Peninsula & Kon-Tiki museum

15. Private Transfer From Oslo To Kristiansand With a 2 Hour Stop

16. Private Transfer From Oslo To Bergen With a 2 Hour Stop

17. Full 7 hours-day Private Oslo "Stroll and Roll" by Norway Exclusive Limousines

18. Exclusive Guided & Customized Private Oslo City Tour in Limo

19. Private Shopping Tour from Oslo hotels to Oslo Fashion Outlet

What travellers are saying.

• Oslo City Highlights with Fjord Cruise
• Oslo To Sognefjord Private Full Day Roundtrip Including Flam Railway
• Self-Guided 22-Hour Round Trip From Oslo To Sognefjord With Flåm Railway
• Private Shopping Tour from Oslo hotels to Oslo Fashion Outlet
• The Scenic Roadtrip, Oslo to Bergen via Flam & the Fjords
• OURWAY Tours in Oslo
• Retro Tours Norway
• Oslofjord Adventures Island & Fishing Guiding

Best Day Trips from Oslo

Oslo, one of the oldest Scandinavian capitals, has a rich history dating back 1000 years. Its original site was east of the Aker River, but it now lies at the head of Oslo Fjord, in the country’s southeastern part. On the western side is the Bygdoy Peninsula, home to some of the city’s most beloved beaches, hiking trails, and museums, including the Norwegian Maritime Museum, the Holocaust Center, and Bygdøy Royal Manor.

While touring the best museums in Oslo , its ancient buildings, and historical landmarks has proven a meaningful activity, there are a lot more things to do and places to see outside the city center that will give you an insight into Norway’s fascinating history.

The capital of Norway is only the beginning of what the country has in store for visitors. You can see the beaches and lakes, watch exhibitions, discover flora and fauna at national parks, check out resort towns, ancient villages, and more. With many iconic spots and hidden gems just a short drive from the city, there’s no reason not to plan day trips from Oslo. Once you leave your bags at a reliable storage facility in Oslo , you can be on your way to unparalleled Scandinavian experiences.

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How to get out of Oslo

Opportunities for learning, relaxation, adventure, and shopping in the city abound – you just need to know how to get around Oslo to make the most of your journey. Oslo Central Station , for instance, takes you on both local and regional routes. But when planning to get out of Oslo, you have to be wise with your choice of transportation to avoid wasting precious time during your day trip.

Renting a car will always be the most logical solution, as driving a car gives you control of your schedule and time. It might even be cheaper than other modes of transportation, depending on how many members are in your group. Look for the best car rental deals and find the lowest prices available.

For those who prefer public transport, several places are accessible by bus or train from Oslo. It includes the historic old town of Fredrikstad, Lillehammer, and Tønsberg. You can also spend a day by the water and go on a sightseeing cruise or join a guided or private tour.

From Oslo to Tusenfryd

Tusenfryd must be on your list of top go-to places when visiting Oslo with family and friends. It’s famed as the biggest amusement park in Norway, with more than 30 exciting rides and attractions. It ranges from roller coasters and bumper cars to sleigh rides, Barnas Fryd, and Frydskogen for young children. There are also various restaurants, stores, and souvenir shops to make your experience more memorable.

The rides and attractions at Tusenfryd family park can be categorized based on intensity, age, and height limits. This means it has something to offer for everyone, regardless of age, making it perfect for family day trips from Oslo.

Tusenfryd is open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, although this may change depending on the season. Therefore, it’s recommended to check their official website before the target day for the visit. Day passes for visitors from 95cm to 120cm are $47, while $50 for those above 120cm. Those below 95cm are free of charge, while seniors and people with disabilities can enter for $33.

How to get to Tusenfryd

Tusenfryd family park is a short drive from the city center, about twenty minutes south of Oslo. But to reach it via public transportation, you can catch a bus from Bjørvika, specifically, bus line 505 towards Drøbak via TusenFryd. It will take you about 20 to 25 minutes on the road.

From Oslo to Lillehammer

Travel to Lillehammer and explore the best of the Norwegian countryside. The town is known for its scenic lakeside location, idyllic wooden houses, and friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite day trip from Oslo among locals and tourists. It’s one of Norway’s most important cultural cities, recognized by UNESCO as a City of Literature. It offers an impressive blend of urban vibes and a rich cultural life, approximately 124 miles (200km) north of Oslo.

The highlight of your adventure is the Norwegian Olympic Museum. It’s an exciting museum chronicling the Olympic history and intriguing past from the ancient period to the present day. The city is also home to Maihaugen, boasting family-friendly experiences and activities. It is the country’s largest open-air museum, featuring over 200 historic houses dating as far back as the 13th century until today. There are also summer fun and winter sports to enjoy, including skiing, downhill biking, hiking, and more.

How to get to Lillehammer

A journey by car or train to the city can take two hours or more, so start your day trip early. Otherwise, you might want to organize an overnight stay and see more of the neighboring attractions. However, there are also night trains that might be ideal for this trip.

From Oslo to Mount Slottsfjell

Another noteworthy destination for day trips from Oslo is Mount Slottsfjell. It’s the largest ruin site in Scandinavia and the home of the most famous icon in Tønsberg, the Castle Mountain Tower. Mount Slottsfjell is significant to the country’s history, from the location of the besieged castle in the 1100s to the 1200s civil war to the center of royal power in the later years. Currently, it’s more of a tourist spot than anything.

You can also find the Castle Mountain Museum here. Its most famous exhibitions are the Vikinghallen or Viking Hall, Svend Foyn and Tønsberg, and Hvalhallen or Whale Hall. The admission tickets range from $7 to $10, and entry is free on Tuesdays and for children up to six years old. It’s open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM but closes at 7:00 PM on Thursdays.

How to get to Mount Slottsfjell

From Oslo S, get on the train towards Skien and stop at Tønsberg Stasjon. Mount Slottsfjell is a walking distance from there. The whole journey will take more than an hour.

From Oslo to Færder National Park

Not far from Scandinavia’s largest ruin site is Færder National Park, a perfect addition to your itinerary. It’s one of the country’s most significant coastal outdoor recreation areas, offering plenty of activities, including swimming, hiking, kayaking, boating, and canoeing. It is conveniently located near the capital city and Tønsberg, making it an important local area for cottage owners and residents and a popular tourist destination year-round.

Apart from the water adventures you can enjoy at the park, it also boasts interactive exhibitions at the new visitor center at Verdens Ende, meaning The World's End. It’s another recreational area with breathtaking fjord views, skerries, fishing spots, and rocks. You’ll also find the lighthouse made from stones from the local beaches. It’s a replica of a lighthouse constructed in 1932.

How to get to Færder National Park

Færder National Park can be accessed by boat, public transport, and car. You can drive from The World’s End to the national park’s border. It’s about a two-hour drive from Oslo, but you can also get there via ferry, which can take about three hours.

From Oslo to Kongsberg

More than an hour's drive from Oslo is another delightful stop during one of your weekend trips. The historical town of Kongsberg may not receive as much attention as other areas visiting Norway, but it provides a perfect respite from the busy streets of the city center.

Kongsberg is known for its lovely woods and silver mines, home to the Norwegian Mining Museum . The museum holds excellent collections that present the town’s rich mining history. It includes artifacts, objects, and records dating back to the sixteen hundreds when Kongsberg’s mining history began. You also find the world’s largest collection of native silver and a compilation of Norwegian rubies, emeralds, gold nuggets, and other gems.

About eight kilometers out of the Mining Museum is the famous Silver Mines . It is one of the museum’s top attractions, offering an exciting tour for adults and kids. Here, visitors will be guided around the mines and explore their depths.

How to get to Kongsberg

The fastest way to get to Kongsberg from Oslo is by driving, which may take an hour and ten minutes. You can also catch a train to Kongsberg stasjon Baneveien, with services that depart every hour. Alternatively, take a bus from Oslo to Kongsberg knutepunkt, leaving every two hours. A bus ride would typically take an hour and twenty minutes.

From Oslo to Lake Mjøsa

Lake Mjøsa is Norway’s largest lake, with a surface area of 365 sq km. Therefore, it goes without saying that Oslo day trips wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this renowned lake. Of course, there’s more to Lake Mjøsa than the beautiful sight of its calm waters.

The most famous attractions in Lake Mjøsa are Budor, The Norweigan Railway Museum, Ankerskogen swimming pool and spa, Hamar’s Beach Promenade, Atlungstad Brenneri, DS Skibladner, and Domkirkeodden. You can go biking, skiing, swimming, golfing, hiking, and more throughout the area.

Lake Mjøsa is located at Strandgata 45, 2317 Hamar, and it’s open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekends. As for how much you can expect to spend, this depends on the attractions and activities you want to try.

How to get to Lake Mjøsa

From Oslo S, ride a train to Eidsvoll Stasjon, then transfer on bus line 443 towards Feiring and stop at Tangenvegen. This will take you about two hours to get to the location. If you want a faster route, you can drive to the area about 85km north of Oslo for about one hour.

From Oslo to Gamle Fredrikstad

Gamle Fredrikstad is the best-preserved fortress town throughout Northern Europe. It’s frequently visited by people on Oslo day trips as it’s only about 59 miles (95km) south of the city center. However, more than its location, it’s more famous for its old town charm, brought about by its well-preserved buildings and shops, cobbled streets, and dedicated museums.

The best way to enjoy Gamle Fredrikstad is by going on a walking tour. Make sure to stop by the Fredrikstad Museum , Kongsten Fort, Østre Fredrikstad Church, and Model Railway Centre. While going around the town, consider checking out the cafés, restaurants, and shops. Specifically, visit Kortevaren, the oldest shop in Gamle Fredrikstad, established in 1939.

How to get to Gamle Fredrikstad

From Oslo S, get on a VY train towards Halden, and you’ll reach Fredrikstad in one hour. From there, walk straight to Jernbanegata, go left towards the city ferry port, then take a regular ferry for the two-minute crossing. You can also take a bus from the Oslo bus terminal as an alternative to the train, although this takes 20 minutes longer.

From Oslo to Drøbak

Drøbak is another charming town easily accessible from Oslo. Visitors will love chilling beside the crisp blue waters of the Oslo Fjord or relaxing in a boat in the harbor. Spend a day strolling the bustling market, shops, and tranquil streets, and end your day admiring the spectacular sunset.

As a favorite summer town, Drøbak takes pride in its pristine beaches and fresh seafood. During cold months, it becomes a beloved holiday town with ancient wooden houses and a delightful Christmas atmosphere in the town square. It also boasts a gorgeous city park with shrubs, flowers, and trees that have grown beautiful and majestic. In the evening, the park is illuminated with glowing lights and becomes more lively with parties, festivals, and events.

How to get to Drøbak

Besides driving, the best way to get to Drøbak from Oslo is by bus. The bus departs from Oslo Bus Terminal, close to the Oslo Central Station . It will take you to the old ferry terminal in the town’s southern harbor. You can take normal bus shuttles or express services, which take about forty to fifty minutes.

Escape from the City Through the Best Oslo Day Trips!

Take a break from the capital’s hustle and bustle and plan a day trip from Oslo. Once you’ve visited the main tourist spots, consider venturing further afield to expand your Norwegian experience. With excellent transport options and a reliable public transportation system, you can get to the small towns, villages, natural parks, and the coast in no time and return to Oslo the same day.

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6 Fun and Easy Day Trips from Oslo, Norway

There are plenty of interesting destinations to check out within a few hours from Oslo, Norway! Due to Norway’s excellent public transportation system, it is easy for visitors to get out of Oslo city for the day, even without a car. This post lists six fun locations that make easy day trips from Oslo city center.

Top day trips from Oslo, Norway

Let’s get started with some of my favorite options for day trips from Oslo!

Drøbak is an idyllic coastal town about 30 minutes south of Oslo by bus. It is best known for its beaches and panoramic views of Oslo Fjord, but Norwegians say that its claim to fame is that it was the birthplace of Santa Claus!

Drøbak also features a small aquarium and has a ferry that you can take to visit Oscarsborg Fortress, which is located on a nearby island out in the fjord.

For more about what to do when visiting Drøbak, check out this post !

2. Tønsberg

Tønsberg is about an hour and a half away from Oslo by train. Despite being relatively unknown to international tourists, it is full of history. Tønsberg is considered to be Norway’s oldest town, with some historians dating it back to the year 871.

This town features Viking burial mounds and church ruins, as well as Castle Rock Tower, a monument dating from 1888 and the area’s most famous landmark.

For more to do in Tønsberg, check out this post !

3. Lillehammer

About 2 hours north of Oslo by train or car, the town of Lillehammer is perhaps most famous abroad for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics and the 2016 Winter Youth Olympics. It is a popular winter sports destination for Norwegians.

Lillehammer is the site of several museums, including the Lillehammer Art Museum, the Norwegian Olympic Museum, and Maihaugen, a large open-air museum featuring Norwegian buildings throughout history. If amusement parks are your thing, or if you’re traveling with kids, Hunderfossen Adventure Park is a great option to check out!

To learn more about Lillehammer, you can check out this post for my list of the top things to do while visiting!

4. Fredrikstad

The 16th-century Old Town in Fredrikstad is one of the best-preserved historic fortress towns in the region and is definitely worth a walk around. Today, there are plenty of boutiques, stores, and places to eat contained within the fortress walls.

If you enjoy the Old Town, you can learn more about the area’s history at the Fredrikstad Museum.

Fredrikstad is about 1.5 hours by train from Oslo city center. For more to do in Fredrikstad, check out this post !

5. Ytre Hvaler National Park

A little bit further south of Fredrikstad is Ytre Hvaler National Park . The park is a bit remote, and it is a great place to spend time in nature!

Ytre Hvaler National Park is the place to go for beautiful coastal views. It covers 354 square kilometers of coastline and contains one of the largest coral reefs in Europe.

If you want to stay for more than a day, camping is allowed in the park. Remember to be respectful of nature and follow the Leave no Trace principles if you do end up camping here!

6. Tusenfryd amusement park

Tusenfryd amusement park is the place to go if you’re looking for some adrenaline! Only 20 minutes from Oslo, this park features rollercoasters, waterslides, and more and is open from April to October. It is an especially great place to visit if you’re traveling with kids!

This post lists just a few of the unique day trips you can take while staying in Oslo. I hope you have fun exploring this beautiful part of Norway!

For more inspiration on what to do while visiting Oslo, check out this guide to free things to do in the city and this list of Oslo museums.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on an affiliate link, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting This Wild Planet!

Useful Resources for Booking Your Trip

I like to use Google Flights to find flights. They have many helpful tools for comparing dates and itineraries.

Accommodations:

I use Hostelworld or Booking.com . Hostelworld has the best selection of hostels, and Booking.com is great if you’re looking for any other type of accommodation.

Travel insurance:

Don’t skimp on travel insurance – it’s important to be prepared if something goes wrong! Personally, I use SafetyWing travel insurance.

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One Day in Oslo Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Oslo, Norway

Oslo is one of Europe’s fastest-growing cities – its population is approaching 700,000 and new neighborhoods with eye-catching architecture are popping up all the time. The largest city in Norway is quickly transforming into a cosmopolitan hub with an abundance of world-class museums, restaurants, and art but still maintains the relaxed atmosphere of a much smaller town. It is therefore a city that definitely should have a place on any traveler’s bucket list. Yes, one day in Oslo can be a real treat, so here’s how to make the most of the time you have here. Prepare for a beautiful day of sightseeing!

GUEST POST BY KEVIN HODGON BLOG: Kevin’s Travel Diary

Oslo is nestled between the Oslo fjord and hundreds of square miles of forested hills and is a green city in more ways than one. The compact city center is easily explored on foot or by bike, and an efficient public transport system makes the whole city accessible without a car.

Norway’s capital since 1814, Oslo is home to the Norwegian government and the Royal Family.

The country’s largest cultural institutions, which include the Norwegian Opera & Ballet, the National Theatre and the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, present first-rate art exhibitions and opera, ballet and theater performances.

What’s the best time to visit Oslo?

The best time to visit Oslo is from May to August when the temperatures rise, but the room rates in the city remain surprisingly affordable. This is also the best time to experience some mild temperatures, which average in the mid-60s, but it can get chillier, so make sure to bring a jacket. Oslo’s spring and summer are the most popular travel periods, especially between May and July. July tends to see a dip in business travel, so leisure tourists might have a chance to save on traditionally expensive accommodations at this time.

Like Stockholm, Oslo can experience nearly 24 hours of daylight, with the famous Midnight Sun usually appearing in June or July. On the flip side, there are winter days of near-total darkness. This is matched with frigid weather and temperatures diving into the teens.

As for the events, you will want to keep an eye out for St . Hallvard’s Feast Day , Downtown Summer Festival , or Oslo Live Festival if you’re visiting from May to August. However, there is a lot to enjoy in the city during Christmas time too thanks to the Great Annual Christmas Fair .

One final tip – the quietest (and likely cheapest) month in Oslo is October. The summer is over, but the ski season hasn’t started yet. May and September are also good months to visit if you want to avoid crowds.

A few facts about Oslo

Oslo is the home of the Nobel Peace Prize, which is awarded in this city every year in December.

The city also has a strong connection with London seeing how the Christmas tree that is set up at Trafalgar Square every year comes from Oslo’s beautiful forests. In fact, this tradition goes back more than 75 years. The tree is carefully chosen and its moving from the forest is overseen by the British ambassador and Oslo’s mayor. Neat, huh?

Oslo was also Europe’s Green Capital in 2019, and environmentalism is very much alive and kicking around here. In fact, the city has the largest percentage of electric cars in the whole world – more than 50,000 of them roam the streets every day! Also, about one-half of the city’s waste gets recycled.

One more impressive fact – about two-thirds of the city’s population have a university degree.

One Day in Oslo Itinerary

Oslo is not a big city, so like always I recommend walking. You can walk almost anywhere, but for this itinerary, you will need a city transport card . I hope you’re ready, you’re going to need to get an early start as I’m going to take you around Oslo’s best attractions in one day. Start at 9 am at the latest and finish around 6 pm. Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Oslo.

Start your day at Akershus Fortress

Start things off at the Akershus Fortress . This is an amazing place to walk around on historical grounds, and from the top, you have stunning views of the harbor. During clear summer months, the sunset views are incredible from here, although the sunset is can come quite late, especially in summer.

Stroll around the harbor

After you’ve explored the historical grounds, head down towards the harbor. On route, you will pass the City Hall on the right, so go and explore it. After that, you will see the harbor on the left, and if you continue forward you’ll see the dazzling white tiles of the famous Opera House straight ahead.

The Opera House offers great views over the Oslofjord, it’s free to walk inside the foyer and on the roof of the building, so do go and explore – it will be well worth it.

Stop at Munch

Edvard Munch is probably the best-known Norwegian painter, and he left his collection to Oslo after his death. And the city is indeed taking very good care of it! Munch, the museum, is actually next to the Opera House, so you won’t have to go very far. And apart from the artist’s collection, this beautiful building has other contemporary pieces on display.

Munch’s most famous creation, The Scream, is also in this museum. Do keep in mind that there are several versions of the masterpiece, and Munch houses eight at the moment. At least one will always be displayed on the 4th floor.

Find a nice place for lunch

By now, you must be getting hungry, so head back down to the city center and go towards the harbor. There are plenty of great restaurants here serving all kinds of dishes.

Seaport Restaurant , for example, serves seafood, pizzas, but also some Turkish dishes, all very, very tasty. Den Glade Gris is a bit away from the harbor, but it serves excellent traditional Norwegian dishes and boasts a wonderfully comfortable atmosphere. Ruffino is a great Italian place, and Mehfel will satisfy anyone who is looking for some good Indian food.

Check out the Holmenkollen ski museum and ski jump

Next, with your back to the harbor, head forward and towards the nearest subway station. You will take a trip to see the Holmenkollen ski museum and ski jump , one of Oslo’s top attractions. Take metro 1 for about 15 minutes and get off at stop Holmenkollen (the view from the top of the subway station alone is worth the trip). From here, it takes around 10 minutes to walk uphill to the ski jump (follow the signs), so be prepared for the most stunning 360 – degree view –   it really is nothing short of breathtaking

Once you’re back in the harbor, jump onto tram 12 and get off at the entrance of Vigeland Park.

Visit Vigeland Park and its artwork

Vigeland Park is the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist and again one of Oslo’s most popular attractions. This unique park has more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite, and wrought iron. Take a little stroll around this park, but don’t miss the spectacular artwork in the middle.

For this next part, and for someone who doesn’t know the city, it’s easier if you catch the tram back to the harbor again. Then over to the bus station and catch bus 30 towards Bygdoy from Radhuset. Now we are heading towards the Folkemuseet.

The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

The next stop on your Oslo itinerary is the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History . The Folk Museum is an open-air museum with around 150 traditional houses from all parts of Norway and a stave church from the year 1200.

The indoor museum shows traditional handicraft items, Sami culture, weapons, toys and folk costumes. Plenty of exciting things to see and experience, and learning about the Sami is very fascinating indeed. Do not miss out!

Spend an evening at the harbor promenade

Once you have finished exploring the museum, head back to the city centre for one last time today. To the side of the harbor is the harbor promenade where you will find plenty of restaurants and bars. Now, I don’t know about you but after this itinerary, I’m knackered and I deserve a nice cold beer, on an outside terrace overlooking the harbor! But a nice dinner sure wouldn’t go amiss, either.

Louise Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place for that, but I would recommend HIMKOK Storgata Destilleri if you’re in the mood for a cocktail – it’s the best cocktail place in town! Dr . Jekyll’s Pub also comes highly recommended, and if you don’t mind leaving this area, head to the Summit Bar for a drink with a spectacular view. In any case – enjoy!

Where to stay in Oslo?

Oslo, being the capital of Norway, offers a vast number of possibilities when it comes to accommodation. Of course, it offers not just luxury options, since you can literally find just about anything in accordance with your budget. There are plenty of hotels and hostels for any type of traveler, but here are a few of my favorites:

Hotel Bristol

Kristian IVs Gate 7, 0164 Oslo, Norway

When it comes to choosing a luxurious stay in Oslo, Hotel Bristol is the one to beat. Its lavish interior will leave you speechless, and the location is pretty much perfect. You can easily explore the city here, plus the hotel offers a great gym and sauna. Furthermore, Bristol Grill serves excellent Norwegian food, and the Library Bar tops everything off with live piano music for a truly exquisite feeling. This bar has been around for a century, so it’s really worth checking out. Enjoy!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Clarion Hotel Oslo

15 Donning Eufemias gate, Gamle Oslo, 0510 Oslo

A wonderful modern hotel, Clarion Hotel Oslo has everything you need for a fantastic stay. The location is excellent, the fitness room is well-equipped, and the rooms are extremely comfortable and come with free toiletries. The incredible breakfast simply needs to be mentioned separately because here you get a fantastic buffet full of organic products. The bar and the restaurant are also on an exceptionally high level. Wonderful!

Citybox Oslo Hotel

Prinsens gate 6, 0152 Oslo, Norway

Another great place with great service is the Citybox Oslo Hotel . The Citybox Oslo Hotel is within 10 minutes of all the main attractions, so if you want to explore the city this is the place to stay in. The service is very friendly, and clean modern rooms provide plenty of comfort. Citybox is extremely popular among travelers for these reasons, and if you want a reasonably-priced hotel ideal for sightseeing, this is most certainly it. You can’t go wrong with this one!

Oslo Hostel Rønningen

Myrerskogveinen 54 A, 0495, Oslo, Norway

For those of you looking for an Oslo hostel, Oslo Hostel Rønningen is the place to visit. Now, this hostel is in a quiet location outside of the city centre, but the heart of the city can be reached quite easily. What’s particularly interesting is that you can enjoy plenty of activities, from volleyball to table games. They even have a soccer field! If you’re traveling in a group, you’ll love it, and if you’re alone, you’ll have plenty of ways to meet new friends.

Norway is not exactly the cheapest country in the world, so every opportunity you get to save should be taken without too much thought. LockTrip is one such opportunity because it allows you to book accommodation at the lowest possible prices. This translates to up to one-third of the standard price remaining in your pocket, which really is a spectacular deal. Check the website and see which Oslo accommodations you can find there – you won’t be sorry!

Day trips from Oslo

For those of you staying more than one day here, Oslo has plenty of interesting day trip options. The nature in this part of the world is quite stunning, but you may also get an opportunity to visit some other towns and cities (maybe even countries) to get a better feeling of Scandinavia. Here are a few popular day trip destinations that are certainly worth considering.

Lillehammer

Heading to Lillehammer is always a good idea. After all, this is the city that hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics. But the place offers so much more than just a reminder of that! Check out Maihaugen, an open-air museum with jaw-dropping exhibits, enjoy the city’s art scene, and generally get a better feel of Norway, its history, and its way of life. Lillehammer really is a fantastic place to visit, and you won’t regret investing a day to explore it.

Norway is famous around the globe for its fjords, and you can easily organize a day trip from Oslo to explore them. There are plenty of fjord cruises that take off from the city’s harbor, so you can just hop on a boat and enjoy. Be they half-day cruises or full-day cruises, you won’t regret booking them! Explore the options and choose the one that suits you best – the nature will leave you speechless.

Oslo is fairly close to the Swedish border, so it may be quite tempting to hop over and visit another country while you’re here. The ideal destination for that is the city of Karlstad, a place with plenty of museums and the wonderful Lake Vänern to enjoy. The city also gets plenty of sun, so you can really have a very pleasant day trip here. Investing between two and a half and three hours to get here seems like a small price to pay, especially if you get an early start!

A day trip from Oslo to Flåm will probably be the most scenic train trip you ever take. The untouched nature of this part of the world is absolutely magical, and after a while on the train, any trace of humans will literally disappear. Eventually, you will reach Flåm, a charming little town northwest of Oslo where you can rest, relax and thoroughly enjoy the view of the fjords. Perfect for those who want to leave city life behind them for a while.

Extra tips for visiting Oslo

From the airport.

Oslo Gardermoen International Airport has a motorway and high-speed rail link to the city center.

Numerous domestic flights also go in and out of Gardermoen.

The harbor is the most expensive area for restaurants. If you’re on a budget, head about 10 minutes away from the harbor for a cheap option on restaurants. For a bigger guide on Oslo’s prices see this great guide.

Transport card

A 24-hour ticket will cost 90 NOK, other options are available for a longer stay.

There are banks with ATMs throughout the city centre, with a particular concentration along with Karl Johans gate. The tourist office and post office in Oslo S exchange money (into Norwegian kroner only) at a less advantageous rate (usually 3% less than banks). Forex is the largest foreign-exchange service in Scandinavia.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Oslo Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Kevin Hodgon

Kevin Hodgon is a travel blogger who loves unusual trips. On his travels, he likes to explore at a fast pace cramming as much as possible into his day, but not overdoing it to miss the beauty around him. Kevin loves to talk about his experiences and share his travel knowledge via guides and articles on his blog. More of Kevin’s work can be found on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or his Blog.

Great itinerary! Would love to visit Oslo one day.

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21 BEST Day Trips from Oslo [2023!]

The capital city of Norway is notorious for being pristine clean. You can expect Oslo to be uber modern, neat, and orderly, with wonderful public facilities for all the savvy travelers out there. Oslo just happens to be the 9th safest country in the world, and it sure shows.

A few days in Oslo is all you’ll need to experience all the city has to offer: wonderful museums, romantic city walks, and great shopping. However, you may want to venture out a bit to check out some of those incredible forests, fjords, and other Norwegian treasures outside of Oslo! Let me be your guide to the best day trips from Oslo.

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Oslo

• Best Day Trip from Oslo by Train – Lillehammer
• Best Day Trips from Oslo by Car – Kongsberg
• Best Romantic Day Trip from Oslo for Couples – Bergen
• Best Day Trip from Oslo with Kids – Ålesund
• Best Cheap Day Trip from Oslo – Bygdøy

Best Places to Stay in Oslo

When going to a city capital, it can be overwhelming to choose where to stay. To make things a little easier for you, I’ve compiled a quick list of three great accommodation choices for you. Depending on your budget, choose one of those sure-to-please accommodation options.

• Best Hostel in Oslo •

Anker hostel.

• Best budget deal and super close to the train station.

For less than 30 euros a night, you can stay in the super conveniently located Anker hostel that is close to the train station and the botanical gardens. It has an elevator for those who don’t like to lug their luggage upstairs!

Not finding the right hostel? Oslo has a selection of party hostels too!

• Best Budget Hotel in Oslo •

Cochs pensjonat.

• Convenient location and rooms have attached kitchenettes!

The Cochs Pensjonat is known for being conveniently located, about a ten-minute walk from the city center. The building itself is stunningly old and historic. Inside, you’ll find the rooms are very clean and the staff is known for being friendly and helpful. A simple complimentary breakfast is provided.

• Best Luxury Hotel in Oslo •

The grand hotel.

• Located directly in the city center with a huge swimming pool!

You can’t get closer to the city center than the historic and extravagant Grand Hotel. The Grand Hotel has saunas, hot tubs, an indoor pool, spa, and a fitness center. The Grand Hotel is for travelers who do indeed want a grand stay!

Travel can be expensive! But then again, Oslo’s cheap hostels will show you how little it can cost!

#1 – Lillehammer

Best day trip from oslo by train.

• Visit Maihaugen, the open-air museum
• Experience winter festivities like skiing and dog sledding
• Check out the Fabrikken for handmade artisan treasures

Lillehammer is just a quick two-hour train ride from Oslo. Lillehammer is home to a plethora of museums to check out from the Postal Museum to the Road Museum to the infamous Maihaugen open-air museum. The Maihaugen displays buildings way back from the 1200s all the way up to the present day. It’s drool-worthy for the architecture lovers out there!

Known for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer has five ski resorts to enjoy. If you’re not a ski-bunny or snowboarding-extraordinaire, there are plenty of other winter activities to enjoy from sleigh rides, dog sledding, and ice fishing.

Lastly, the Fabrikken is a very cool and hip spot for tourists to check out. It is an old factory building that has been converted into a stunning artist workspace.

#2 – Old Town Fredrikstad

Great for history lovers.

• Walk the Fortress path
• Visit the Kongsten Fort and the island-bound Akerøya Fort
• Meander around the boatyard

Hop on a train and after just a bit over an hour, you’ll find yourself in a darling 17th century Old Town of Fredrikstad, which is actually the best-preserved fortress town in Scandinavia. Interestingly, the fortress was constructed in a star shape out of water-filled moats.

The Fortress Path is a self-guided walk around the city that is marked with handy little signs that will lead you to places and buildings that are historically significant. Moreover, the Kongsten Fort is about a fifteen-minute walk from the Old Town’s fortress and sits atop a steep hill. It offers a lovely view of the fortress below, as well as having a vast garden to walk around.

Also, the Akerøya Fort is situated on an uninhabited island just off the Old Town and is stunning to take in from the shoreline. Lastly, take a walk through the boatyard to observe the workers repair and build wooden boats.

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#3 – Kongsberg

Best day trips from oslo by car.

• Hit the ski slopes
• Tour the King’s Silver Mine
• Hike the surrounding forests

Kongsberg is just over an hour drive from Oslo. And if you don’t have a car, you can get to Kongsberg from Oslo by train. The Kongsberg Ski Resort has a chairlift that will 1600 meters to the top of the mountain so you can barrel down the snowy mountainside.

The King’s Mines was an active mine from 1623 to 1958 and has more than 200 individual mines tunneled kilometers deep into the mountain. During the months of May through August, you can tour the mine using a rail system.

Gorgeous, lush green forests surround Kongsberg, and it is worth taking a break from the streets and taking a stroll through the nature. Knute is a mountain located approximately 10 kilometers outside of Kongsberg, and it’s a lovely place to go hiking too.

#4 – Stavanger

A must do for nature lovers.

• Tackle the famous cliff Preikestolen
• Beer and Bacalao tasting tour
• Stand on a special boulder in the Kjerag Kjeragbolten

Stavanger is about 7.5 hours away from Oslo by car. Given the distance, you may want to turn this little road trip rendezvous into an overnight experience, but Stavanger is a not to miss spot for all nature lovers out there.

Preikestolen, which translates to Pulpit Rock, is just a quick hour car ride from Stavanger. Preikestolen does offer hikers gorgeous views of the Lysefjorden fjord, and is worth the uphill four to six-hour trek!

When you’re in Stavanger, after a long car trip or a strenuous day hiking what is better than cozying up in good restaurants with good drinks and good food! Try the local beer, breads, cheeses, and bacalao—a quintessential Norwegian dish!

1084 meters above Lysefjorden, there just happens to be a giant boulder tightly sandwiched in mountain crevasse called the Kjerag Kjeragbolten. What a unique spot to snap a photo and to take in some breathtaking views!

Norway is amazing! And the best hostels in Oslo  will blow you away!

#5 – Bergen

Best romantic day trip from oslo for couples.

• Follow the Hanseatic trail and walk along the wharf
• Private tour to Sognefjord, Gudvangen, & Flåm
• Check out the Bergenhus fortress

Bergen is most easily reached by a quick flight. Around 20 flights run every day from Oslo to Bergen, so it’s easy as pie to catch a convenient flight time. If you’re interested in a train ride, expect it to take around 7 hours.

Hold hands with your partner as you stroll the streets of Bergen. You’ll find yourselves dazzled with the maritime ambiance. There is a charming wharf to walk along and there is also a trail that you can follow— the trail of the Hanseatic merchants!

While it isn’t technically in Bergen city proper, there is nothing more romantic than taking a private tour to the Sognefjord, Gudvangen, and Flåm from Bergen. Bergen is the perfect spot to take-off from. Enjoy a ferry ride along the fjords and a gorgeous train journey.

The Bergenhus Fortress is located just inside the entrance of the Bergen harbour and is a stunning stone castle— day-trip date perfection!

#6 – Ålesund

Best day trip from oslo with kids.

• Atlantic Sea Park
• Lighthouse tour with a local
• Hang out with Alpacas at the Hakallegarden

Located a 7-hour drive from Oslo, or just a quick flight away, Ålesund makes for a wonderful day trip. There are plenty of hiking, fishing, and kayaking opportunities in the area, as well as ski slopes to enjoy in the winter.  

The Atlantic Sea Park is one of Scandinavia’s largest saltwater aquariums. It has 11 large landscape aquariums, 2 touch pools, and 2 activity pools to keep the whole family engaged and entertained! There’s not much to complain about when you get to watch otters, seals, and penguins play.

The lighthouse tour with a local is a wonderful way to get to know the ins and outs of Ålesund. As part of your tour, you’ll drive up to the Aksla viewpoint to take in the breathtaking views of Ålesund and from up high.

The Hakallegarden is an alpaca farm that is also home to other barnyard animals. It’s the perfect place for kids to interact with animals, all set in the lovely Norwegian countryside right next to the bay.

#7 – Bygdøy

Best cheap day trip from oslo.

• Hike and Bike
• Tour the Royal Manor and organic farm
• Cruise the Fjords

You can’t get much cheaper or closer to Oslo than Bygdøy. Bygdøy is located on a forested peninsula just four miles west of Oslo. You can reach Bygdøy easily by public transportation or by car.

Take a day not spending a dollar by walking the coastline, which is sprinkled with quiet and calm beaches. There are also wonderful hiking and biking trails that weave throughout the woods and forests.

The Bygdøy Royal Manor is actually a 200-acre organic farm. It is a historic manor that has been a part of the Norwegian Royal Family since 1305. Now, it is a scenic area and historic farm that offers visitors plenty of walking paths.

It may be a tiny splurge for the budget travelers out there, but this is worth every penny! On a traditional wooden sailing ship, you’ll get to cruise by various islands, which includes Hovedøya, the Dyna Lighthouse, and of course, Bygdøy.

Staying Safe in Oslo

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Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Norway!

#8 – Tromsø

• Visit the Arctic Cathedral
• Cruise around the Fjords
• Visit the World’s Northernmost Botanical Garden

Tromsø is renowned for being a spectacular place to view the Northern lights. It is a city in Northern Norway that is above the Arctic Circle that will take about 21 hours to reach by car, or just take a quick two-hour flight. Tromsø is known for its famous Arctic Cathedral which was built in 1965, a stunning glass church that brightens the Tromsø skyline!

Take a cruise of the fjords and spot puffins, whales, and dolphins from the water or take a Northern Lights tour . You might even catch sight of reindeer on the shoreline! On the cruise, you will stay snuggled inside the warm cabin or you can wear insulated body suits to stay on the deck.

Tromsø is also home to the world’s northernmost botanical garden. Quite a gorgeous garden to take a stroll through!

#9 – Eidfjord

• Sample fresh peaches and tour the orchards
• Visit Hardangervidda
• Tour the Simadal Fjord and see the waterfalls

Eidfjord is a small village situated along the second biggest fjord in Norway. Surprisingly, it is known for its beautiful orchards. Eidfjord is actually called the Fruit Garden of Norway. Expect to see flowering apple, peach, pear, and cherry trees!

Eidfjord is just a quick trip away from Hardangervidda, which is the biggest high mountain plateau in all of Europe. In this National park, you will see wild reindeer and giant waterfalls.

It’s also worthwhile to take a tour out of Eidfjord Harbor towards Simadal Fjord. On this water cruise, you’ll spot seals and a lot of seabirds. You will also pass by a waterfall that will almost fall directly onto the boat!

Why are you visiting Oslo? Find out where to stay in Oslo  based on what you want to do there!

#10 – Tønsberg

Great day trip for couples.

• See the world-famous Oseberg ship
• Walk around the Mount Slottsfjell fortress
• Visit the next door island’s communities: Nøtterøy and Tjøm

Tønsberg is Norway’s oldest city. The famous Oseberg Viking ship was found in Tønsberg in 1904, but a full-scale replica is on display in the harbor. It’s quite the majestic ship to behold!

Additionally, Tønsberg has the largest ruin site in Scandinavia, Mount Slottsfjell. When you visit Mount Slottsfjell you’ll see the stunning 13th-century fortress and tower, as well as the interesting Slottsfjel Museum. In the summer there is a popular international musical festival there called Slottsfjellfestivalen.

Just a stone’s throw away from Tønsberg sits the small island communities of Nøtterøy and Tjøme. You can stay on the islands themselves if you want to turn your day trip into an overnight excursion!

#11 – Drøbak

Perfect for seafood lovers.

• Shop at the Christmas Market
• Visit the Lutefisk Museum
• Sample Shrimp in the Harbor

Drøbak is less than an hour bus ride from Oslo. You can also reach Drøbak by boat, which is actually a cheaper way to reach Drøbak. The 1.5-hour boat ride will offer great sightseeing opportunities along the ride!

Drøbak is also known as “Christmas Town” and has a stellar Christmas Market each year. You can find anything and everything at this market!

The Lutefisk Museum is the only one of its kind in the world! That’s not surprising though, as it’s a museum that features one of Norway’s most traditional dishes. Lutefisk is made from stock fish of cod, soaked in an alkaline solution and then steamed. Delicious or not? Visit the museum and then head over to a local restaurant to try it!

If Lutefisk isn’t your thing, you can always sample fresh shrimp in the harbor. The catch of the day is sure to be scrumptious.

#12 – Henie Onstad Kunstsenter Art Center

Recommended day trip for art lovers.

• Walk around the sculpture park
• Check out the contemporary and modern art exhibits
• Catch a concert or theatrical production

The Henie Onstad Kunstsenter is an incredible art museum located in Oslo. It’s just 15 minutes outside of the city center and is a must-do for every art lover out there! This museum showcases modern and contemporary art, with six or seven big exhibitions a year. There is also a wonderful sculpture park outside of the museum to peruse.

Along with the featuring leading contemporary local and international artists, the Henie Onstad Kunstsenter also has a substantial collection from renowned artists from Matisse to Picasso.

The museum is also a hub for other art mediums past the paintbrush and palette. Lots of music concerts and theatrical performances are held on-site throughout the year, so when you plan your visit make sure you check out their schedule of events.

#13 – Ytre Hvaler National Park

• Snorkel to see the coral reefs and kelp forests
• Kayak to explore the coastal landscape

Ytre Hvaler National Park is quite easy to reach as it is just under a two-hour drive from Oslo. Ytre Hvaler is known for its rich underwater ecosystem full of flourishing coral and kelp. When you think of Norway, you probably don’t think of snorkeling. But in the summertime, grab a mask and fins and take a peek at the underwater world! Interestingly, there are over 50 submarine wrecks to try to find!

Take in the beautiful Ytre Hvaler coastline by kayak. It’s a great way to explore the park and to get to take in a new perspective of the unique coastal woodland that has been crafted over the millennia by wind, waves, and ice.

If you are looking for a more relaxing afternoon, pass the time with a fishing pole in hand. If you just don’t think a day trip is enough, you can rent a cabin or you can go camping!

#14 – Færder National Park, Vestfold

• Plan a canoe trip
• Visit the “Worlds End”
• Relax on the shoreline and go fishing

Færder National Park is located in Vestfold, which is just over an hour and a half by car from Oslo. The Færder National Park is mostly a marine park that has some small islands to visit and there’s plenty of activities to do off the coastline!

It’s always a fun idea to take a more active role in your time on the water, isn’t it?. Instead of sitting passively in the cabin of a boat, why not pick up a paddle and canoe down the coast! Swimming is also a popular activity and so are water sports.

The “Worlds End,” also called the Verdens Ende, is located at the southernmost tip of the island of Tjøme in Færder National Park. It is a gorgeous spot to visit as it offers panoramic views of the Skagerrak.

If you feel like really basking in the scenic landscape, grab a fishing pole and sit by the water’s edge. There are no fishing fees in Norway, so enjoy catching a cod or two!

#15 – Ekeberg

• See the ancient petroglyphs
• Stroll through the sculpture park
• Visit the Ekeberg Park and former Nautical College

Ekeberg is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Oslo. It’s just 2 miles southeast of the city center. It’s a nice walk if you’re in the mood for putting on your walking shoes or if not, just hop on a local bus.

Ekeberg is home to incredible 5,000-year-old rock carvings. These petroglyphs feature 13 figures, which are mostly elks and one solitary human body. These petroglyphs are incredible pieces of ancient history to catch a glimpse of!

The Ekeberg Park has a handful of outdoor art sculptures that you can spot on your walk through the tree-studded paths. You can expect to see works of art from famous international artists like Salvador Dalí! The park also gives a great view of the Oslo Harbor and Oslofjord. Don’t miss out on the picture-perfect views.

#16 – Lake Mjøsa

• Hook a trout and go fishing
• Enjoy a Boat Ride
• Alpine Ski in the Winter

Hop on a train from Oslo and within a quick hour you’ll find yourself at the largest lake in Norway, Lake Mjøsa. Curiously, it is also one of the deepest lakes in all of Europe.

Lake Mjøsa is home to over 20 species of fish, which makes fishing one of the most popular activities. It’s fairly common for visitors to hook a large trout. How big? We’re talking around 10 kilos!

As the lake is so deep, it stays fairly cold year round. It is not recommended to go swimming there or to do water sports there, as the depth adds a danger element to the mix. So if you want to venture out into the lake, do it by boat! To the North of Lake Mjosa is wonderful hiking trails and even alpine skiing in the wintertime. There are also all different winter activities and sports to enjoy in the winter too!

#17 – TusenFryd Family Park

Recommended day trip for families.

• Ride the Roller Coasters
• Get spooked in the 5D Haunted House
• Get your splash on at the BadeFryd water park

The TusenFryd Family Park is just a brief 20-minute drive south of Oslo. There is also a convenient bus that can take you there if you’re not traveling with a car. The TusenFryd Family Park is renowned for its huge roller coasters and 5D haunted houses. Did you think 4D was cool, well get ready for 5D!

Definitely ride the roller coasters if you’re up for the giant ups, downs, and all around! If you’re not in the mood for roller coaster mania, try out the other fun rides like SuperSplash, SpaceShot, ThunderCoaster, SpeedMonster and SpinSpider. There are over twenty rides to enjoy.

Nearby to the TusenFryd is the BadeFryd water park which is the perfect place to cool off in the summer heat! There are big water slides and lots of fun water rides.

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#18 – Geiranger

• Visit the Seven Sisters Waterfall
• Geirangerfjord
• Flydalsjuvet

Geiranger is about a six-hour car ride from Oslo. The Seven Sisters waterfall has seven different streams that all fall down from up high, as high as 250 meters! It is truly one of the most incredible waterfalls in all of Norway to visit.

Geirangerfjord is oftentimes called the “jewel in the crown” of the fjords of Norway. It is known for having almost fairytale landscape and for inducing an atmosphere of wonder and awe. The 20-kilometer section of the fjord between Hellesylt and Geiranger is in the shape of an “S”, and that “definitely stands for stunning!

Visit Flydalsjuvet to snag an impressive view of Geiranger and Geirangerfjorden. Flydalsjuvet is very easy to reach from the road, which makes it even better as you don’t have to trek too far to reach it. There are two different viewpoints to survey the landscape from in Flydalsjuvet, an upper and lower plateau, with a gangway running through it.

#19 – Lofoten

• Bicycle across the islands
• Sea kayaking
• Nature Cruise Safari

Lofoten is in Northern tip of Norway, so it’s best to take a quick 3-hour plane ride as a car trip could clock in around 22 hours. Lofoten is renowned for its gorgeous scenery with lots of steep mountains and charming, colorful buildings. Lofoten has bicycle routes covering the islands, so it couldn’t be more convenient to hop on a bicycle and take the city by storm!

Lofoten is the perfect place for sea kayaking. You can cruise the Trollfjord, and all around the Skrova Island. What makes sea kayaking in Lofoten even better is that there are plenty of wildlife to observe from the water. You’ll likely see birds, seals, porpoises, and even whales!

If you’d rather not explore with a paddle in hand, a sea cruise is a nice and comfortable way to check out the islands. Relax and watch the Trollfjord landscape unfold and keep your eyes out for the sea and land creatures too.

#20 – Jostedal Glacier

Recommended day trip for hiking enthusiasts.

• See the glaciers
• Kayak the glacier lakes

The Jostedal Glacier is about a 10-hour bus ride from Oslo. 10 hours is nothing to spend in a car or bus when we’re talking about visiting the biggest glacier in continental Europe!

The Jostedal Glacier is part of the Jostedalsbreen National Park which also has many other glaciers, both big and small, inside the park as well. What is also incredible is that the Jostedal Glacier divides two of the longest fjords in the world, the Sognefjord and the Nordfjord.

Most of the national park has to be visited on foot, as the landscape is relatively untouched. Definitely a perfect place for hiking! If you’d rather check out the glacial lakes for by kayaking, you can kayak in early summer through autumn when it isn’t frozen.

#21 – Molde

• Take in the view of 222 mountains
• Visit the Romsdal Museum
• Go for a scenic drive

Molde is about 7 hours by car from Oslo. It is a fairly busy town, despite the fact that it has only 24,000 inhabitants. Molde is known as the “Town of Roses,” and has a famous International Jazz Festival and International Literature Festival each year. The most stunning view is the view of 222 mountain peaks at the Molde Panorama. Take in this incredible sight by a nice hike up the Varden trail, or you can always just drive a car up the mountain if you’re feeling tired!

The Romsdal Museum is a fascinating and free museum that is made up of several different buildings that each signify a different era in the history of Norway. You can also catch a show of traditional Norweigan dances and fiddle music playing!

Sit back and enjoy a drive through the Romsdal mountains. Although this drive is not for the faint hearted as it’s full of hairpin curves and mountain cliffs, it’s worth it for the breath-taking views!

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Oslo

The capital of Norway offers travelers many exciting activity options, from lovely museums to scenic streets to stroll down. In general, people say that 3 days in Oslo is more than enough, so if you’re in Norway for a bit more time and you’re hungry for more Norwegian delights I hope that this article proved to be insightful and informative! From Bergen to Bygdøy, Norway has a lot more to offer than just Oslo!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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Oslo   Travel Guide

Courtesy of william87 | iStock

18 Best Things To Do in Oslo

Updated June 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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Astrup Fearnley Museet Astrup Fearnley Museet

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Munch Museum (Munchmuseet) Munch Museum (Munchmuseet)

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Bergen & Oslo in 2 Days: A Scenic Norwegian Adventure

April 20, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a captivating 2-day journey through the heart of Norway, exploring the cultural and scenic highlights of Bergen and Oslo. Begin your adventure in Oslo with a visit to the stunning Oslo Opera House, where architecture meets art, and spend an hour immersed in its grandeur. Next, delve into history at the Akershus Fortress, a majestic castle that promises to transport you back in time during a 3-hour exploration. Continue to the Rådhuset, Oslo's impressive town hall, for an hour of architectural admiration. Conclude your first day amidst the enchanting sculptures of The Vigeland Park, a city park that doubles as an open-air gallery. On day two, ascend to the heights of Ulriken in Bergen for an exhilarating air tour, offering panoramic views that will take your breath away. Follow this with a funicular ride up Mount Floyen, where the cityscape meets the sky. Delve into the wonders of nature at the Bergen University Museum - Natural History for an enlightening hour. Stroll through the vibrant Fishmarket in Bergen, a sensory feast, before wandering the historic alleyways of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cap off your Norwegian escapade with a visit to Fløibanen, a resort that promises a perfect end to your 2-day itinerary. With each attraction offering a unique experience, your travel story is sure to be rich with culture, history, and natural beauty.

• Day 1: Exploring Oslo's Architectural Marvels and Historical Gems

Oslo Opera House

Begin your Oslo adventure at the iconic Oslo Opera House, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture that seems to rise from the waters of the Oslofjord. With about an hour to immerse yourself in its striking design, you'll have ample time to admire the building's sleek lines and the panoramic views from its accessible roof. The Opera House is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a cultural hub where the harmonies of opera and ballet resonate.

Attraction Info

• Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo, Norway
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Akershus Fortress

Next, step back in time with a visit to the formidable Akershus Fortress, a sentinel of Oslo's past. Allotting three hours here allows you to explore the castle's grounds and delve into its history as a medieval castle, royal residence, and military bastion. Wander through the fortress's corridors and battlements, and feel the weight of centuries in its stone walls.

• 0150 Oslo, Norway
• Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
• Open from 10/1-4/30,6:00am-9:00pm，From October 1st to April 30th, the main entrance opening hours are: 06:00-21:00, and the side entrance opening hours are 07:00-18:00.

Continue your cultural journey at Rådhuset, Oslo's Town Hall, where the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony is held annually. With an hour to explore, you can appreciate the building's unique architecture and the intricate artworks that adorn its interiors, all while soaking in the civic spirit of Oslo.

• Rådhusplassen 1, 0037 Oslo, Norway
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open from 9:00am-4:00pm，Rest days in 2024 May 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 25th and 26th June 6,June 21 October 1

The Vigeland Park

Conclude your day with a tranquil stroll through The Vigeland Park, Oslo's largest city park, known for its vast collection of sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Spend an hour meandering among over 200 sculptures in bronze, granite, and wrought iron, set amidst the park's greenery. This open-air gallery offers a serene retreat and a chance to ponder the human condition as depicted by Vigeland's expressive art.

• Nobels gate 32, 0268 Oslo, Norway
• Open 24 hours

Where to Stay Tonight

A-one homes - frogner, frogner house apartments - odins gate 10.

• Day 2: Soaring Heights and Historic Sights in Bergen

Kickstart your second day with an air tour at Ulriken, the highest of Bergen's seven mountains. Offering a panoramic view of the city, this one-hour adventure will elevate your spirits and provide a unique perspective. Glide above the scenic landscapes and capture the beauty of Bergen from the skies, setting a high bar for the day's experiences.

• Ulriken 1, 5009 Bergen

Mount Floyen and the Funicular

Next, descend from the heavens to Mount Floyen and the Funicular, where a charming ride awaits. In just one hour, you'll ascend the mountain and be treated to stunning views of Bergen below. It's the perfect spot for a scenic photo or a contemplative moment, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.

• 5014 Bergen, Norway
• Open on Mon-Fri,7:30am-11:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,8:00am-11:00pm

Bergen University Museum - Natural History

Continue your journey of discovery at the Bergen University Museum - Natural History. Spend an hour immersed in the wonders of science, exploring collections that span from the depths of the oceans to the far reaches of the cosmos. It's an educational experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

• Muséplassen 3, 5007 Bergen, Norway
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open on Tue-Sat,10:00am-4:00pm;Open on Sun,11:00am-5:00pm

Fishmarket in Bergen

As the day progresses, dive into the local culture at the Fishmarket in Bergen. With just an hour at this bustling market, you'll get a taste of the local life, sample fresh seafood, and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs. It's a feast for the senses and a chance to mingle with the locals.

• Torget 5, 5014 Bergen, Norway
• Open on Mon-Thu,10:00am-9:00pm;Open on Fri-Sat,10:00am-11:00pm;Open on Sun,12:00pm-9:00pm

No visit to Bergen would be complete without a stroll through the historic Bryggen. Set aside an hour to wander through the old Hanseatic wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where colorful wooden buildings line the waterfront, each telling a story of Bergen's rich maritime history.

• Bryggen, 5003 Bergen, Norway
• Open on Mon-Sat,9:00am-4:00pm

Conclude your Bergen adventure with a relaxing hour at Fløibanen, a resort that promises a serene escape. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or simply enjoy the picturesque surroundings, Fløibanen offers the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

• Vetrlidsallmenningen 23A, 5014 Bergen, Norway
• Open from 1/1-3/22,Mon-Fri,7:30am-11:00pm;Open from 1/1-3/22,Sat-Sun,9:00am-11:00pm;Open from 3/23-9/1,Mon-Fri,7:30am-0:00am;Open from 3/23-9/1,Sat-Sun,8:00am-0:00am，Please see the official website for details of public holiday business hours and ticket sales. The specific business status is subject to the opening conditions on that day.

Bergen Harbour Hotel, WorldHotels Crafted

Det hanseatiske hotel.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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7 Day Norway Itinerary: How to Spend One Week in Norway

N orway is maybe the most beautiful place I’ve ever been. It’s full of mountains and waterfalls and fjords along with delicious food and incredible cities. If you’re looking to plan a trip to Scandinavia, this 7 day Norway itinerary will help you easily see some of the best parts of Norway.

This is an itinerary you won’t need a car for, so it’s super easy for every traveler, especially if you are hesitant about renting a car in another country.

Keep in mind, Norway is a HUGE country with TONS to see though. Seven days in Norway won’t let you see everything, but it is a manageable trip that will let you see some of the best and most popular parts of Norway!

Why Visit Norway?

Norway is a country on so many people’s bucket lists. And for good reason! It is a beautiful country with breathtaking mountains and fjords, refreshing forests, and dramatic landscapes. Here are some reasons you may want to visit Norway:

• To stand on top of some of the most beautiful mountains (and you don’t even have to hike to them!)
• To take a bucket-list worthy fjord tour that I promise you will remember forever!
• To go to some amazing museums where you can learn about Vikings, see some of the most famous art in the world, and even let your kids play.
• To enjoy some of the most photogenic (i.e. Instragrammable, because let’s just be honest here) architecture and landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Norway

Every season in Norway can be a good one to visit, even winter! Each season is just very different.

But I think the best time to visit Norway is summer. You’ll get the best weather, with mild temperatures and less rain. Plus the sun hardly sets at all, which gives you extended daylight hours to enjoy all Norway has to offer!

When we visited in the summer, temperatures hovered around 60 degrees. So we needed light jackets, but we were perfectly comfortable!

Getting to Norway

If you arrive at the Oslo Airport, you’ll need to take a train into the city center. Oslo Gardermoen airport is about 35 km (or 22 miles) northeast of Oslo. But it’s super easy to take a train to the Central Train Station in downtown Oslo.

Likewise, the Bergen airport is several miles from the city center, but you can easily take the light rail into the city. It takes about 45 minutes or so. You can also choose to take the bus, which takes about 30 minutes.

If you are coming from a nearby country, you may choose to arrive by train. In that case, you should arrive at the central train station for each city, and from there it should be easy to walk or find public transportation to your accomodations.

Getting Around Norway

If you wanted to, you could definitely rent a car to get around Norway. However, it is NOT necessary! Norway has a fantastic public transportation system, with trains that can take you from city to city as well as around the city you are staying in.

On our trip, we didn’t rent a car at all and instead relied on trains and buses. And while going back to Norway and renting a car to drive around ourselves is definitely on my bucket list, we didn’t have any issues or feel like we missed anything by just taking public transportation!

Plus, since we bought the Oslo Pass and Bergen Card , all of our transportation (except for our longer train ride between Bergen and Oslo) was included!

7 Day Norway Itinerary Summary

Before we dive into the details of each day, let’s take a look a summary of this 7 day Norway Itinerary.

• Day 1: Arrive in Oslo and Explore Oslo
• Day 2: Explore Oslo with Akershus Fortress and Holmenkollen Ski Jump
• Day 3: Go to the Bygdøy Peninsula Museums in Oslo
• Day 4: Take the train from Oslo to Bergen

Day 5: Explore Bergen’s Mountains

Day 6: take a fjord tour.

• Day 7: Tour Bergen’s Best Museums

Norway Travel Resources

Do the cost analysis and consider getting an Oslo Pass and a Bergen Card . These passes include free (or sometimes discounted) admission to almost all of the city’s attractions and include free public transportation.

Where to Stay in Oslo: The Clarion Collection Hotel Bastion for families. Thon Hotel Opera for a super convenient location.

Where to Stay in Bergen: The Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekonteret for families. Opus XVI for a splurge.

Or use VRBO in either city to find a vacation rental.

You can buy a train ticket for the journey between Oslo and Bergen directly on Vy.no .

7 Day Norway Itinerary

Now let’s dive into the details of this itinerary! We’ve broken each section up into morning, afternoon, and evening to help you plan each day.

Also feel free to switch days around based on what works best for your schedule or even what the weather looks like! I mean, you don’t want to be going up mountains on the rainy day and touring museums on the sunny day!

One note: We did choose to start this itinerary in Oslo for a reason. Mostly because you know that travel advice to go from low to high or budget to luxury when moving resorts? I’m going to apply it to cities here too. Oslo is great and fine and good. And there are some incredible things to do here. But Bergen is one of our favorite cities ever, so it’s the best note to end on! BUT if it works better for you to reverse that order, definitely do it!

Planning a trip to Norway? Here are some books set in Norway to read before you go!

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo

Day 1 morning: get settled.

We’re going to assume you’re arriving to Oslo in the morning, so some of your morning time will obviously be taken up with travel logistics. We won’t pack a lot into the first morning, because you’ll want to find your bearings.

Once you get into the city, head straight to the Oslo Opera House . This is one of the most iconic sites in Oslo. It sits right on the water and you can WALK on the roof, which is pretty cool. I think this is a great place to start out because it’s a quick stop and it gives you some beautiful views, which I always appreciate after traveling.

Day 1 Afternoon: MUNCH Museum

Grab some lunch from one of many restaurants in the area near the Opera House and then head to the MUNCH Museum !

This new museum opened in 2021. It featured the works of famed Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, but it also has galleries featuring other artists and an exhibit about the life of Edvard Munch.

There are so many great things about this museum:

• Bright spaces and large galleries.
• Incredible views of Oslo!
• Fun, interactive displays and activities for kids in almost every different gallery space!
• You can see different versions of the famous painting, The Scream , here.

And if you bought the Oslo Pass , you can use it for admission into MUNCH.

Day 1 Evening: Frogner Park

Hop on the cable car near MUNCH at Dronningens gate (you’ll walk back past the Opera House) and get off at Vigelandsparken to go to Frogner Park . This is a large park in a central part of Oslo. It’s also where you’ll find the Vigeland Sculpture Park , a free outdoor museum featuring the work of Gustav Vigeland.

This is a great place to spend an evening walking the beautiful grounds and seeing some incredible (and free!) art!

Day 2: Explore Oslo

Day 2 morning: oslo’s royal history.

Let’s start day two of our 7 days in Norway visiting the royals! Well…kind of.

Start the morning off at Akershus Fortress where you can visit Akershus Castle . This complex was built in the late 1200s and has been used as a fortress and a royal residence. Today, you can tour the rooms and see the Royal Mausoleum.

While Akershus Castle is the main draw, Akershus Fortress is home to other Oslo attractions as well. You can visit the Norway Resistance Museum , which tells the story of Norway’s occupation and resistance during WWII. Or you can go to the Armed Forces Museum , which has exhibits of Norwegian military history from the Viking Age to modern day.

While entrance into the grounds of Akershus Fortress are free, you will need to use either an Oslo Pass or pay an admission fee for the museums.

After your time at Akershus, head to The Royal Palace . It’s about a 20 minute walk, or you can take the bus from Wessels plass to Nationaltheatret.

You can tour the inside of the Royal Palace from late June to mid-August, usually. But most of the time you’ll just stop by and see the outside of it. Depending on how long your morning took, you may decide to stick around and see the changing of the guard, which takes place at 1:30 p.m. each day.

Day 2 Afternoon: Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum

Note: The Holmenkollen Ski Museum is closed for renovations until the end of 2023. Until then, head to some of Oslo’s other museums like the National Gallery or the Nobel Peace Center.

For the afternoon, take the train to Holmenkollen to go to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum . (Remember, your Olso Pass gets you free access to local transportation including the regional trains like this one!). To get there, you’ll take the train from the Nationaltheatret station to the Holmenkollen station.

Pro Tip: To find the train station, you’ll go under the road from the park behind the Nationaltheatret. It’s a little hidden if you aren’t looking for it!

Once you get to Holmenkollen, it’s about a 15 minute walk (and kind of uphill, so be prepared!) to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum.

This ski jump has been operating since 1892, although of course it has been rebuilt since then. Inside the Ski Museum you’ll find exhibits about the history of skiing and the ski jump as well as the cutest indoor children’s play area I’ve ever seen.

Then you can take an elevator to the top of the ski jump for some incredible views!

Want more adventure? You can also go ziplining from the top of the ski jump!

Day 2 Evening: Oslo Street Food

For the evening, head to one of Oslo’s popular food halls, Oslo Street Food . Here you can get dinner from a variety of different food stalls that have food from around the world. Options include burgers, tacos, Hawaiian food, Korean food, and more. This is a popular place to go, so it will be busy! So find some great food and enjoy the atmosphere.

Day 3: Tour Oslo’s Bygdøy Peninsula

Day 3 morning: norsk folkemuseum.

For most of our third day in Norway, we’re going to enjoy the museums on Oslo’s Bygdøy Peninsula, which are some of the best museums in Oslo . To get there, you can easily take a bus from several spots in the city center.

The Norsk Folkemuseum , also known at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, is one of my favorite museums in Oslo. It’s a step back in time, as you can tour historic buildings in their open-air space and enjoy exhibits on Norwegian history in several indoor spaces.

Really though, my favorite thing about this museum is that you get to enjoy some peaceful nature in the middle of Norway’s capital city !

There are several highlights to see here:

• 160 historic buildings in the outdoor open-air museum.
• Gol Stave church, which is a great, easily accessible (as in, you don’t have to travel far) place to see a traditional Stave church.
• Wessels gate 15 Apartment House with rooms decorated from different time periods.
• Old Town area with buildings from Oslo, including old shops.
• Seter Summer Dairy Farm with fam animals.

This really is a beautiful museum, and is especially a great place to take kids because there’s so much outdoor space for them to run around in. Plus, on the weekends they have demonstrations that kids will enjoy like baking traditional lefse, seeing the blacksmith at work, and listening to fairytales.

While you are touring the museum, you can also enjoy lunch here at the Kafe Arkadia.

Admission to this museum is free with the Oslo Pass.

Day 3 Afternoon: Bygdøy Ship Museums

Spend your afternoon touring the rest of Bygdøy’s famous museums that all revolve of sea exploration. There are three you can choose from, and honestly, I recommend going to as many as you can. None of them are particularly huge museums, so you can spend an hour or two in each one and be able to see so much! Plus an Oslo Pass will give you free admission to all of them.

Bonus: They are all within walking distance of each other!

• Fram Museum — This museum is all about polar exploration. Climb aboard the Fram ship, learn about the race to reach the poles, go inside a sub-zero room, and test your skills as an explorer in interactive elements. This museum is really so much fun for the whole family!
• Kon-Tiki Museum — This is a smaller museum than the Fram Museum, and is all about the Kon-Tiki expedition where a Norwegian man build a balsa wood raft and sailed it with a small crew across the Pacific. The backstory of the expedition and the expedition itself are fascinating! I highly recommend this museum.
• Norwegian Maritime Museum — If you are interested in general maritime history, this is a great museum to go to! Here you can see different ships from Norway’s seafaring history, view an exhibit about what a sailor’s life has been like throughout history, and see a Viking boat being reconstructed.

Note: Normally the Viking Ship Museum is another popular museum to visit on Bygdøy. However, this museum is currently closed as they build the new Museum of the Viking Age which will open in 2026.

Day 3 Evening: Vippa

Take the ferry back across the fjord and then spend your evening at another popular Oslo food court: Vippa . This food court is located right on the Oslo fjord, which means you can enjoy your food and some great outdoor space at the same time. Here you’ll be able to find things like Syrian street food, Polish Pirogis, Chinese food, and more. They frequently switch up the food offerings, so you should find different options all the time!

This is a perfect way to end your time in Oslo — eating some great food and admiring the Oslo fjord. (And knowing that even more spectacular fjords are in your future!)

Day 4: Take the Train from Oslo to Bergen

We’re up to day four of our seven day Norway itinerary, and today you’ll be spending most of it traveling. Which can sound dull, but I promise you this mode of travel IS NOT.

Day 4 Morning & Afternoon: Train to Bergen

Today, take the train from Oslo to Bergen . This train, known as the Bergensbanen , is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. And I have to say, I agree!

You’ll start in Oslo and travel out into its suburbs before climbing mountains that still sometimes have snow in the summer, passing through forests, and getting a preview of some of Norway’s best fjords.

The train journey itself takes about 7 hours. But it doesn’t seem that long at all!

Besides the most amazing scenery, there are some other great perks to this train journey:

• A family car, with a cushioned play area kids can play and climb in.
• A café car that offers food and drink. I got a warm sandwich here and honestly though it was pretty great!
• Wi-Fi, although it can be a bit spotty in some areas.
• Lots of tunnels, which are just fun!

Day 4 Evening: Dinner in Bergen’s Fish Market

Depending on when you leave Oslo, you’ll probably get into Bergen in the late afternoon. Once you get settled, head to the central area of Bergen and find some dinner at the Bergen Fish Market .

Bergen has long been known for their fishing history, and this area in the center part of town has several restaurants you can choose from. During the summer, there are also outdoor stands that offer different menus.

Then find a bench along the water and take a deep breath of fresh Bergen air and enjoy your evening people-watching and boat-watching!

Day 5 Morning: Bryggen

Start your first morning in Bergen with a stop at it’s most photographed area — Bryggen . These wooden buildings were once used as harbor warehouses and office buildings, but are now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

And while this place can get super crowded later in the afternoon and evening, I love exploring it in the morning before the crowds are out! Be sure to go down the different alleyways and walk along the wooden planks. The architecture of this area has so much character.

Plus, morning is a great time to get photographs of beautiful Bryggen without the crowds!

Day 5 Afternoon: Mount Ulriken

Grab an early lunch, and then head to Ulriken643 to go up to the top of Mount Ulriken . You’ll have to take a bus to get here and then walk about 10 minute (kind of uphill), but I promise it is worth it!

This cable car will take you to the top of Mount Ulriken, where you’ll find amazing views of Bergen and the surrounding area. There are all kinds of hiking trails and places to explore up here. Although my favorite honestly might just be standing at the top of the mountain and looking at all the other mountains surrounding you. You can even see the lakes on top of some of them!

Ulriken is an incredible place and I definitely recommend making the time for it, even if getting to the cable car is a little out of the way.

If you are really up for an adventure, you can make a whole afternoon of hiking here too! You can hike from Ulriken to our next stop, Fløyen, across the mountaintops! It’s a medium-difficultly hike with some challenging areas and takes about 5+ hours. (And be sure to hike safely !)

Day 5 Evening: Mount Fløyen

End your day at my favorite spot in Bergen: Mount Fløyen ! This is another mountain in Bergen that offers amazing scenery and views of Bergen.

It’s a bit easier to get here than Ulriken. You can take the Fløbanen funicular, which departs just a couple blocks from the city center.

The terrain here is also very different from Ulriken. This mountain is forested, which gives you some really fun areas to explore. There are also fun things like a several playground areas, a troll forest, and ice cream stand, and a café.

You can grab dinner here, and then spend your evening exploring the forests and finding a spot at the overlook to watch the sun dip down. (Although, depending on what time of year you are visiting, it might not actually go down before you need to head to bed!)

Day 6 All Day: Fjord Tour

Bergen is known as “The Gateway to the Fjords” because it’s a great home base for seeing some of Norway’s most spectacular fjords in a day trip.

There are lots of different tours you can take to see the fjords, but we recommend the Norway in a Nutshell tour .

This tour is a self-guided tour that takes you through multiple modes of transportation (seriously, a train to a bus to a boat to another train, etc.) to popular fjords. You can choose to either book all of these tickets on your own, or pay a higher prices to have Norway in a Nutshell book the tickets for you .

When they book the tickets for you, they make sure all of your timings are worked out perfectly and they give you step-by-step instructions on how to follow the itinerary. Honestly, if it’s your first time in Norway or you feel remotely nervous about managing your own travel plans, I think this is the way to go!

This tour will take you through some of the most amazing places:

• The popular Nærøyfjord , which has to be one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway.
• Aurlandsfjord , which is a lot wider and definitely different, but still beautiful.
• Flåm , a small town situated at the base of the fjords
• The historic Flåm Railway , which takes you through the mountains and has you stop at an incredible waterfall.

I mean, did you really go to Norway if you didn’t see the fjords? So definitely make sure you set aside a day during your 7 days in Norway for a full day-trip of fjord-touring.

Day 7: Explore Bergen’s Museums

It’s your last full day in Norway, and since yesterday was so busy, we’ll take it a bit easier today with some of Bergen’s best museums.

Day 7 Morning: Gamle Bergen Museum

Start your morning off at the Old Bergen Museum (Gamle Bergen). You can take the bus from Bryggen and get off at the Gamle Bergen stop. Then it’s just a short walk under the road to the museum.

The Old Bergen Museum is an open-air museum with houses from…well, Old Bergen. They have been reconstructed to create a small town that shows what life was like in Bergen in the 1800s. You’ll find houses from community leaders, an old grocery store, and historic actors that tell you about Old Bergen.

Plus, this spot has some beautiful views out into the fjord. Besides all the things we learned about Old Bergen, I really loved this place because it felt so peaceful!

Admission to this museum is free with the Bergen Card.

Day 7 Afternoon: More Museums

Bergen has so many more museums! So after you grab lunch (maybe in Bryggen?), find one or two of these museums which sound most interesting to you!

Most of these museums have free admission with the Bergen Card.

• Norwegian Fisheries Museum — A small museum along the water that teaches you about the history of fishing in Norway and current fishing practices. Plus they have some great interactive exhibits that both kids and adults will enjoy!
• VilVite (Bergen Science Center) — If you are traveling with kids, this is a must! This museum is full of science experiments for kids. They will learn a lot, but they will really feel like they are playing the whole time!
• Bryggens Museum (Bergen City Museum) — If you want to learn more about the history and restoration process of Bryggen, then head here!
• Leprosy Museum — This is definitely one of the more unique museums in Bergen! Late 1800s, Bergen was home to the largest concentration of leprosy patients in Europe, and you can learn about this at what used to the be leprosy hospital.
• Fantoft Stave Church — If you want to venture out of town just a bit, you can take the bus to see the Fantoft Stave Church. This is less of a museum and more of just a sight to see, but if you are interested in Stave churches you’ll want to add this to your list.

Day 7 Evening: Bryggen

There’s no better way to end your last evening in Norway than back in Bryggen , where you can grab some dinner, relax by the water, and maybe do some souvenir shopping. (Although try to hit the shopping before dinner since stores will start to close!)

We’ll keep it low-key this evening, since you probably need to head back to your hotel and start packing up. But stay out for a bit and soak up a bit more of that fresh mountain air that you will wish you could bottle up and take home with you.

Tips for Visiting Norway

If you’re coming from the United States, Norway is a relatively easy country to visit. Most Norwegians are comfortable speaking English, most restaurants and shops take credit cards (in fact, lots don’t take cash!), and cars still drive on the right side of the road.

Here are a few tips to make your travels to Norway a little smoother though:

• Expect rain! It can rain a lot in Norway, and weather can easily change from clear skies to rain within the day. Always have rain gear with you! And wear shoes that will be okay in the rain.
• Wear layers. Temperatures during the day can vary, so always be prepared with layers.
• Wear sunscreen! This is just a good all around travel tip, and since Norway can sometimes be gray or rainy, you may not think to put sunscreen on. But always apply it!
• Budget for food expenses. Norway is known to be one of the most expensive countries to visit, and we definitely saw that in the food prices! So make sure you have plenty of room in your budget for food. We definitely found Oslo to be more expensive than Bergen though.
• Learn some Norwegian. Even though Norwegians are comfortable speaking English, learn a few words like “hello” and “thank you” in Norwegian to be polite.
• Don’t be surprised with you don’t get a response. If you are trying to be polite and say “thank you” don’t be surprised if you don’t get a “you’re welcome” back. It’s just one of those cultural things, but no one is being rude!
• Consider City Passes. If you plan to see a lot of sights in Oslo and Bergen during your 7 day Norway itinerary, consider getting the Oslo Pass and Bergen Card to save money. They also include local transportation!
• Check attraction times and dates. Always be sure you know what time something opens. And check the dates too! Some museums may be closed on certain days or even during the winter entirely!

More Norway Posts

• Norway in a Nutshell Review: How to See Norway’s Incredible Fjords
• 3 Days in Bergen, Norway: What to See and Do
• 13 Best Museums in Oslo, Norway
• How to Spend One Day is Oslo, Norway

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The post 7 Day Norway Itinerary: How to Spend One Week in Norway appeared first on Flying Off The Bookshelf .