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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

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 really 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 make a purchase through a link. More details here .

# Mørkgonga

It’s probably my favorite hike in close proximity to 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 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 kilometers 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 the 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 one hour 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 from. 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 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 center 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, which copy can be seen in the Tønsberg harbour. Or Mount Slottsfjell, the 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 the 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 definitely 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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Related posts:

• Hike to Trollpikken Norway – Interesting Rock Formation in Magma Geopark
• Hiking In Oslo & Around – 16 Best Oslo Hiking Trails With Panoramic Views
• Ice Skating in Oslo and Norway – Ice Rinks and Outdoors (Fjord & Lakes)
• 30 Best Hikes in Norway – The Spectacular Norway Hiking Trails + Map

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

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Oslo

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

Oslo Opera House

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

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

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

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

Munch Museum (MUNCH)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Akershus Fortress

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

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

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

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

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

OSLO Royal Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Norwegian Folk Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Fram Museum

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

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

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

Norsk Maritimt Museum

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

Kon-Tiki Museum

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

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

Viking Ship Museum and Viking Era Museum in Oslo

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

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

Oslo City Hall

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

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

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

Aker Brygge

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

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

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

Karl Johans Gate

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

Oslo Cathedral

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

Gamle Aker Kirke

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

Damstredet and Telthusbakken

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

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

Tjuvholmen and Astrup Fearnley Museum

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

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

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

Frogner Park and Vigeland Park

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

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

Grünerløkka

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

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

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

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

Ibsen Museum

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

Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

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

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

Natural History Museum at the University of Oslo

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

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

Mathallen Food Hall

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

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

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

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

Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ekebergparken

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

Deichman Bjørvika Library

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

Historisk Museum

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

KOK Floating Sauna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sightseeing Cruise through Oslo’s Fjords

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kayak tour in the Oslofjord

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Oslo by Cruise or Ship

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

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

Getting to Oslo by Train

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

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

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

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

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.

Oslo Fjord 3 Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise

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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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Munch Museum (Munchmuseet) Munch Museum (Munchmuseet)

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Oslo

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Oslo

1. Explore Vigeland Sculpture Park

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

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

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

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

Address: Nobels gate 32, N-0268 Oslo

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

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

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

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

Address: Akershus Festning, 0015 Oslo

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

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

Address: Museumsveien 10, Bygdøy, 0287 Oslo, Norway

Official site: www.norskfolkemuseum.no/en

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

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

Address: Universitetsgata 13, Oslo

Official site: www.nasjonalmuseet.no/en/

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

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

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

Address: Tøyengata 53, 0578 Oslo

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

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

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

Address: Slottsplassen 1, 0010 Oslo

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

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

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

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

Address: Frederiks gate 2, 0164 Oslo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Bygdøynesveien 39, 0286 Oslo

Official site: http://frammuseum.no

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

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

Address: Bygdøynesveien 37, Oslo

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

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

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

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

Address: Bygdøynesveien 36, 0286 Oslo

Official site: www.kon-tiki.no

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

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

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

Address: Kongeveien 5, 0787 Oslo

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

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

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

Address: Karl Johansgt. 11, 0154 Oslo

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

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

Address: Rådhuset, 0037 Oslo

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

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

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

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

Address: Bryggegata 9, 0120 Oslo

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

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

Address: Sars gate 1, 0562 Oslo

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

Hopping around Town:

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

All-Access Pass:

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

The Best of Oslo in One Day:

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

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

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

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

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The 22 Best Things to Do in Oslo

Balancing natural beauty, historic architecture, and a modern flair, Oslo , Norway’s beautiful capital, is a city that punches well above its weight.

Founded in 1040, Oslo was established as a Viking trading hub. It continued to grow and prosper over the centuries until 1624 when it was destroyed by a fire. Its name was changed briefly in the 19th century to Kristainia before the city embraced its past once more, renaming the capital Oslo.

Today, Oslo is a small city enveloped by islands and forests. Yet, while small, it’s bursting with things to see and do: there are countless museums, spacious parks, delicious restaurants, and its proximity to nature means there are plenty of hiking and biking trails at your disposal (as well as places to swim).

However, since it’s pricey (it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world), a lot of travelers pass Oslo by.

While a visit certainly will eat into your budget, Oslo is worth it.

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. enjoy the view at the opera house, 3. relax at aker brygge, 4. visit the historical museum, 5. explore the vigeland sculpture park, 6. tour the vigeland museum, 7. visit the norwegian folk museum, 8. wander holmenkollen, 9. go swimming, 10. visit the fram museum, 11. see the royal palace, 12. learn about the kon-tiki expedition, 13. visit the holocaust center, 14. see city hall, 15. explore akershus castle, 16. go tobogganing at korketrekkeren, 17. explore the national gallery/museum, 18. get off the beaten path, 19. spend time in the nordmarka wilderness area, 20. wander through the botanical garden, 21. take a fjord cruise, 22. visit the norwegian maritime museum, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

I always start my trips off with a free walking tour. They’re a budget-friendly way to see the main sights, learn a little history, meet other travelers, and get access to an expert local guide who can answer all my questions. Free Tour Oslo organizes daily tours that last 90 minutes. It’s a solid introduction to the city and covers all the main highlights. Just make sure to tip the guide when the tour ends!

You can also take a bike tour around the city if you want to cover more ground. And there are food tours available too if you’re a foodie like me.  

Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, +47 21 42 21 21, operaen.no. Box office open Monday-Saturday 11am–4pm , and Sundays 12pm–4pm . Admission to performances varies. Daily guided tours are available in English at 1pm Monday-Saturday and Sundays at 2pm. They last 50 minutes and cost 150 NOK.  

Located near the pier, the largest concentration of restaurants in Oslo can be found here, ranging from French cuisine to traditional Nordic dishes. Before the 1980s, it was primarily a shipyard and industrial area. Today, there is lots of window-shopping and architecture to admire as well. The wharf has something for everyone and is a great place to spend a couple of hours soaking up life in the city.  

This museum has lots of artifacts and information about Norway’s past, including lots of Viking content. There are also exhibitions on ancient Egypt (including mummies), Africa, the Stone Age, and the country’s arctic expeditions. It also has the country’s largest coin collection. You can also use your ticket to get free entry to the Viking Museum (and vice versa) if done within 48 hours (the Viking Museum is currently closed for renovations and will reopen in 2026).

Frederiks gate 2, +47 22 85 19 00, historiskmuseum.no/english. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11am-4pm (8pm on Thursdays). Admission is 140 NOK .  

Located in his studio and home, this sculpture museum is dedicated to the sculptor Gustav Vigeland. It comprises his portraits and monuments, as well as plaster models for the sculptures in Vigeland Park. The museum also has temporary contemporary art exhibitions.

The building itself is regarded as one of the finest examples of Neoclassical architecture in Norway. Vigeland’s apartment (open for tours by appointment), where he lived from 1924 until he died in 1943, is on the third floor and has been restored to look as it did when he lived there.

Vigelandmuseet, Nobels Gate (street) 32 (south of Vigeland Park), +47 23 49 37 00, vigeland.museum.no/en. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 12pm-4pm. Tickets cost 100 NOK.  

The Norsk Folkemuseum (Norwegian Museum of Cultural History) is an open-air museum home to relocated traditional Norwegian buildings. It’s near the Viking Ship Museum and showcases over 150 buildings from various periods throughout Norwegian history. The most stunning of its exhibitions is Gol Stave Church, an intricately carved wooden church that dates back to the 13th century. In the summer, you can also feed animals and take carriage rides around the area.

Museumsveien 10, +47 22 12 37 00, norskfolkemuseum.no. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11pm–4pm (10am-5pm in the summer). Admission is 180 NOK .  

From here you can also wander into Nordmarka for a hike. It’s a forested area north of the city, with hiking, walking, and cycling trails.  

This unique museum focuses on polar exploration, a prevalent topic in Norwegian history and culture. Opened in 1936, the museum honors explorers like Roald Amundsen (who led the first expedition to the south pole in 1911) and Fridtjof Nansen (who crossed the Greenland interior on skis in 1888).

The centerpiece is the Fram, the world’s first ice-breaking ship (and the last one made out of wood). In use between 1893 and 1912, the Fram made many trips to the North and South Poles and is said to have sailed farther north and farther south than any other wooden ship in history. The museum is very detailed and offers a lot of history, as well as photographs, tools, and artifacts.

Bygdøynesveien 39, +47 23 28 29 50, frammuseum.no. Open daily from 9:30am-6pm. Admission is 140 NOK.  

Slottsplassen 1, +47 22 04 87 00, royalcourt.no. Open late May to mid-August. Summer hours vary. See the website for details. The Palace reopens June 22 and is open until August 18, 2024 . Admission is 220 NOK.  

The Kon-Tiki Museum focuses on the works and expeditions of historian and explorer Thor Heyerdahl. Using a traditional balsa raft, Heyerdahl crossed the Pacific Ocean from South America to Polynesia, hoping to prove that the islands were populated from the Americas and not Asia, as had been previously thought. The journey took 101 days and was filmed, winning an Academy Award in 1951.

The original raft can be found in the museum, along with information on Heyerdahl’s other expeditions and archeological discoveries. The journey inspired the 2012 historical drama film Kon-Tiki (an excellent travel film).

Bygdøynesveien 36, +47 23 08 67 67, kon-tiki.no. Open daily from 10am-5pm (6pm in the summer). Admission is 140 NOK.  

The Holocaust Center focuses on the Norwegian experience of the Holocaust, highlighting the tragic fate of Norwegian Jews, as well as the persecution of religious minorities around the world. Established in 2001, it moved from the university to the former residence of Vidkun Quisling, a fascist who headed the Norwegian government under Nazi occupation from 1942 to 1945 (he was executed for war crimes after the war ended). The center has all sorts of exhibitions, photos, films, artifacts, and interviews. It’s somber and sobering but worth a visit.

Villa Grande, Huk Aveny 56, +47 22 84 21 00, hlsenteret.no. Open daily 10am–4pm. Admission is 120 NOK.  

Oslo’s City Hall is open to the public and free to enter. While it might not sound like an interesting sight, the tours are actually quite informative. There are about 20 murals and works of art inside the building, covering everything from traditional Norwegian life to the Nazi occupation (which lasted from 1940-1945). You can also learn about the history of the Nobel Peace Prize, which is awarded here annually (the other Nobel Prizes are awarded in Stockholm ).

Rådhusplassen 1, +47 21 80 21 80, oslo.kommune.no/radhuset. Open daily 9am-4pm. Admission is free.  

Guided tours are available in the summer, and there are often concerts and events held here, so check the website to see if anything is occurring during your visit.

+47 23 09 39 17. The castle is open daily in the summer from 10am-4pm (winter hours vary), the fortress grounds are open 6am-9pm year round. Admission to the fortress and to the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum is free. It’s 100 NOK to go in the castle.  

Tobogganing is a traditional Norwegian winter activity and one you shouldn’t miss if you’re here during the winter. Stretching over 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) long and with an elevation drop of 255 meters (836 feet), the Korketrekkeren track is fun for adults and kids alike. Sleds and helmets are available for rent for 100-150 NOK, and you rent them by the day so you can enjoy as many rides as you like. A non-stop ride takes 8-10 minutes.  

The National Gallery, now part of the National Museum, contains Edvard Munch’s famous painting “The Scream” (which was made in 1893 and has been stolen twice). The gallery is small, but there are a lot of artists on display. It has some Impressionist and Dutch works, as well as some pieces by Picasso and El Greco. It’s not the most expansive collection, but it is still worth a visit, especially if you’re a fan of more classical art styles (like me).

Currently, over 53,000 items from the National Gallery are on display in the National Museum (they are merging). This includes “The Scream.”

Pb. 7014 St. Olavs plass, +47 21 98 20 00, nasjonalmuseet.no/en. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm (8pm Tuesday and Wednesday). Admission is 200 NOK.  

If you’re looking for something quirkier, here are some of the more off-the-beaten-path sights and museums the city has to offer:

• The Devil of Oslo – This statue is over 900 years old and depicts a man being attacked by a lion and a dragon. It’s a part of the Oslo Cathedral (though it’s much older than the cathedral itself).
• The Mini Bottle Gallery – Home to over 50,000 bottles, this quirky museum is the only mini bottle museum in the world. The bottles are filled with everything from food to bones to worms (and much, much more!). It’s only open on weekends.
• Edvard Munch’s grave – Munch painted the famous “The Scream” which you can see in the National Museum. His grave is in Our Savior’s Cemetery (Oslo also has an entire museum dedicated to Munch).
• She Lies – This huge glass and stainless steel sculpture by Monica Bonvicini sits out in the harbor and evokes the power and beauty of an iceberg.

Spanning over 174 hectares (430 acres) and only 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Oslo’s city center, you can find everything from biking to swimming to skiing in the Nordmarka Wilderness Area. There are huts available for overnight stays too. For a challenging day hike, try the “Voksenkollen til Bjørnsjøen” trail. It’s around 25 kilometers (15 miles) and takes just over 8 hours to complete. For something shorter, try the moderate “Frognerseteren til Sognsvann” trail, which is around 11 kilometers (8 miles) and takes 3.5-4 hours.  

With more than 1,800 different plants Oslo’s Botanical Garden is the perfect place to relax after exploring the city. It’s mostly set up as an Arboretum and has two greenhouses of exotic plants (dating to 1868 and 1876 respectively) plus a “Scent Garden” which was designed specifically for the blind to enjoy as a sensory experience. The garden has plenty of benches that are perfect for sitting down with a book to relax and there are also some nice works of art to admire throughout the garden.

Sars’ gate 1, +47 22 85 17 00, www.nhm.uio.no/english/exhibitions/botanical-garden/index.html. Open daily from 7am-9pm in summer and 7am-5pm in winter. Entry is free.  

Located right on the waterfront on the Bygdøy peninsula, here you can learn all about Norwegian maritime history, shipbuilding, and underwater technology. The exhibition includes Norway’s oldest boat (it dates to the year 200 BCE), more than 40 maritime paintings by famous painters, a photography exhibition about the mapping of Svalbard (a Norwegian archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole), plus stories about people’s sea travels over the past 1,000 years.

Bygdøynesveien 37, +47 24 11 41 50, marmuseum.no/en. Open daily from 10am-5pm (shorter hours in the off-season). Admission is 140 NOK.

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Oslo: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay in the city are:

• Oslo Hostel Ronningen

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Norway? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Norway for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The 12 best things to do in Oslo

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

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

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

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

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

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Oslo

1.  Oslo Fjord

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

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

2.  Nobel Peace Centre

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

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

3.  Oslo Opera House

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

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

4.  Vippa

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

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

5.  Urban sauna

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

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

6.  Ekeburg Sculpture Park

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

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

7.  Tim Wendelboe

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

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

8.  Bon Lío

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

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

9.  Holmenkollen

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

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

10.  Vaaghals

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

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

11.  Akerselva River

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

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

12.  Himkok

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

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

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

February 16, 2024 by Silvia 7 Comments

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

Quick Oslo Travel Guide

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

Top Oslo Activities: 

• Boat trip down Oslofjord 

Kayak down Oslofjord

• Dinner cruise
• Oslo walking tour or hipster walking tour

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

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

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

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

But my heart has finally warmed to Oslo.

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can purchase the Norway Travel Guides here .

Table of Contents

Walk up the roof of the Oslo Opera House

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go for a cook and dip at KOK

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

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

Take a boat trip down Oslofjord for some Oslo sightseeing

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

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

Eat dinner on a boat down Oslofjord

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

Visit Akershus Fortress

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

Have a drink and bite at Vippa

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

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

Aker Brygge

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

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

Island hop around Oslofjord

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

Walk down Karl Johan

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

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

Stock up at the Freia Store

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

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

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

The Royal Palace

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

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

Have a cocktail at HIMKOK

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

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

Visit some of Oslo’s wonderful cafés

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

Frogner Park + Vigeland Sculpture Park

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

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

Viking Ship Museum (Museum of the Viking Age)

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

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

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

Kon-Tiki Museum

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

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

Norwegian National Museum

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

Munch Museum

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

Nobel Peace Center

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

Take the tram up out of the city to Nordmarka

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

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

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

Holmenkollen Ski Jump

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

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

Walk along the Akerselva river

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

Take an electric scooter around town

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

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

Take a walking tour

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

Grünerløkka

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

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

Barcode Street Food

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

Have a cheap + delicious meal in Grønland

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

Damstredet and Telthusbakken

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

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

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

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

Visit Ibsen and Munch’s graves at Vår Frelsers

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

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

Go for a hike

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

Christmas markets

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

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LeeAnn says

March 4, 2020 at 2:56 am

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

Thomas says

February 6, 2021 at 8:58 pm

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

Travel girl in London says

February 9, 2022 at 11:32 am

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

Angela says

March 2, 2022 at 6:24 pm

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

May 9, 2022 at 11:16 am

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

Will definitely be doing many things on this list!

August 7, 2022 at 10:41 pm

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

Chaitanya tata says

November 16, 2022 at 9:54 pm

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

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

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The 8 best things to do in Oslo: art, culture and outrageously beautiful fjords

Jul 27, 2022 • 7 min read

Don't miss the Deichman when visiting Oslo – it's not your usual library

Whether you’re making the most of the midnight sun or deep in the dark depths of the northern winter, you’ll find plenty to do in Oslo , Norway ’s capital city.

New openings in recent years – the Deichman Library, Munch and the National Museum – reflect the city’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage for centuries to come. And there’s plenty of artistic and literary creativity to celebrate here: Not only did local landscapes inspire artworks by painter Edvard Munch , Oslo was also home to Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen for the last 15 years of his life. If you’re planning to make the most of the city’s many museums, it’s worth buying the Oslo Pass that gives free admission to 30 different sights as well as use of the public transportation system.

The Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset) remains closed until 2026 while construction of a new state-of-the-art building is ongoing, but there are many other amazing things you can do in Oslo right now. Here are the very best.

Visit the city’s newest attraction, the world-class National Museum

With the largest collection of art and design in Norway, the brand-new National Museum is now the biggest museum in the Nordics. Don’t rush your visit – there are 6500 objects on display across 86 rooms. Follow the chronological route to explore the best art, design, architecture, crafts, and fashions from antiquity to the present day, seeing how they have shaped or reflected society.

There’s a small collection of Munch’s paintings, including The Scream , and you’ll also spot familiar names such as Vincent van Gogh and Georgia O’Keeffe. Learn about Norway’s folk tales and legends in the Fairy Tale Room and be sure to visit the third-floor Light Hall, an unusual gallery space with walls made of a glass-and-marble composite, currently exhibiting works by contemporary Norwegian artists.

Experience a fjord-side sauna

Finnish sauna culture has been adopted by Oslo over the last 10 years or so and has become a popular thing to do on the harborside. Dress in swimwear and take a seat on a bench in a paneled room that’s heated to 80–95°C (176-200°F) by a wood-burning stove. A towel is recommended to stop an uncomfortable burn on your butt.

From private saunas to huge group events with comedy, DJs and theater entertainment, cultural hub SALT has a sauna that holds up to 80 people. With a maximum capacity of 10, KOK ’s floating saunas are found at Aker Brygge and Bjørvika. If a slow-cook near the harbor isn’t private enough for you, book yourself on a KOK cruise. The whole unit is a boat that can dock at a more secluded part of the fjord. Be sure to jump in, either from the roof or straight from the deck – it’s cold but exhilarating.

Celebrate Norway’s favorite sculptor, Gustav Vigeland

Vigelandsparken is a free-to-visit sculpture park dominating Frognerparken to the western suburbs of Oslo. More than 200 incredible granite, iron and bronze works here form the life’s work of prolific Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. He was inspired by the complex nature of humankind, which is reflected in the twisted positions and facial expressions of many of his figures.

Here you’ll see everything from a classic Greek-style fountain made up of muscular men weighed down by a dish, to family-like groups including mid-tantrum children with sulky expressions, and the distinctive bronze Little Hot-head , a child in a rage. The remarkable centerpiece is the 17m-tall (56ft) Monolith , a single piece of granite carved to form a huddle of 121 separate human figures. Nearby, the Vigeland Museum , housed in a Neoclassical building, offers a more in-depth look at the artist’s work.

Learn and create at Deichman Library

When you visit Deichman , throw away any thoughts of a traditional library. This six-floor airy art-filled space – voted Public Library of the Year in 2021 – aims to be not only a lender of books, but a warm and welcoming environment for people who want to learn, create, explore, work, and socialize.

Want to learn how to make clothes? There’s a whole section of sewing machines for you to reserve. Interested in how 3D-printing works? You can give it a go. There are music rooms where you can borrow and practice instruments, games to play, a stage overlooking the fjord, and even cinemas, all free for public use. For those preferring a more conventional library experience, don’t worry: The shelves hold 450,000 books with plenty of quiet seating areas dotted around the building.

Get out on the fjord by catamaran, boat, kayak or SUP

You can happily gaze at Oslo Fjord from the harborside, but it’s so much better to get out on the sparkling water for a closer look. Make a day of it on the impressive all-electric catamaran Legacy of the Fjords , which glides almost silently across the water on its two trips per day (1h 45mins) to the island of Oscarsborg (also served by commuter ferries B21 and B22), where you can explore the historic Oscarsborg Fortress .

For a shorter and cheaper fjord trip, head out on the commuter routes that are included in the Oslo Pass. Route B2 departs from Aker Brygge to nearby Hovedøya, Gressholmen and Langøyene, and B10 heads for Nesoddtangen, which takes around 20 minutes. If you’re looking for something a little more active, Mad Goats rents out kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and offers guided kayak tours of the fjord.

Delve deep into the works for Edvard Munch

Munch opened on the waterfront in Bjørvika in October 2021 as a new home for the collection that the artist Edvard Munch bequeathed to the city four years before his death in 1944. Across 11 galleries, you can see The Scream (yes, there’s a version here too), as well as paintings, prints and sketches exploring themes of sickness, melancholy, and nature. Changing exhibits with new interpretations of Munch’s art keep the displays fresh and engaging.

Enjoy wonderful fjord views from the higher levels of this glass-and-steel building, with fine dining in 12th-floor Bistro Tolvte and an elegant 13th-floor cocktail bar. Don’t miss The Mother by Tracey Emin. The curves of the new bronze sculpture contrast with all those harborside angles, sitting fjord-facing on the pier outside the museum.

Walk up the angled roof of the opera house

One of Oslo’s waterfront architectural masterpieces is the opera house , home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet . The glass-and-marble structure was designed by award-winning architects Snøhetta to resemble a glacier, with the aim of not only creating state-of-the-art rehearsal rooms and performance halls ( tours are available), but also to provide a new space for public use. The angled roof is accessed directly from ground level – through walking a series of steps or steep sloped sections you reach the rooftop where there are panoramic views over the harbor and the city.

Hear the good news outside the Nobel Peace Center

The Nobel Peace Center  changes its display every November to honor the latest winner or winners of the Peace Prize. In 2021-22 the prize went to Russian editor Dmitiri Muratov and Philippine journalist Marisa Ressa who have relentlessly worked for freedom of the press, questioning, challenging and pushing their governments for answers, often in dangerous circumstances.

A hands-on exhibit explores the legacy of the Peace Prize, giving visitors the chance to see what kind of peacemaker they might be. If you’re nearby at midday on a Friday (April to October) listen out for the “good news” announcement, where something positive that has happened in the world is recognized. A dove is symbolically released from a window of the museum to send the good news out into the world.

Claire traveled to Oslo by invitation from Visit Oslo .

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The Top 5 Attractions around Oslo

Det kongelige slott (royal palace)

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Beautiful park with the impressive palace. Park is public and free of charge - but the palace is not intended for the public. Great view from the palace to the Karl Johans gate.

Operahuset i Oslo

Anyone in Oslo can not miss the Opera House, thanks to its world-famous architecture. Even a little outdoor feeling arises, after all, the opera is modeled after a large iceberg … read more

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The port of Oslo is one of the largest seaports in Norway and is an important ferry port on the North Sea.

Karl Johans gate

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The street runs from the main train station to the Royal Palace of Oslo and was named after Charles III. John of Norway named.

Tip by Günni

Very nice pedestrian promenade with perfect architecture. Fantastically beautiful

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

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

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

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

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

Map of things to do in Oslo

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

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

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

Watch my vlog on the best things to do in Oslo

Here are 49 underrated things to do in Oslo in detail

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

2. Stroll along Aker Brygge Wharf

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

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

3. Walk along Akerselva river

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

4. Wander the gardens of Oscarshall palace

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

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

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

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

5. Wander along Karl Johans Gate

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

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

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

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

9. Visit the Vigeland Museum (Vigeland-museet)

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

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

Erotic figures cover the walls inside Emanuel Vigeland Museum

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

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

11. Have lunch on island at Lille Herbern

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

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

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

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

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

‘The Scream’ by Edvard Munch

Self-portrait by Edvard Munch

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

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

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

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

14. Explore Akershus Fortress (Akershus festning)

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

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

Visit the official Akershus Fortress website for more information.

15. Explore Oslo City Hall (Oslo Rådhuset)

16. Eat Oslo Street Food at Torggata bad

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

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

17. Buy some chocolate at the Freia shop

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

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

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

Kon-Tiki vessel

Ra II vessel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum)

Making traditional Norwwgian Lefse bread on the fire

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

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

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

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

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

‘The Sick Child’ by Edvard Munch

‘Madonna’ by Edvard Munch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Spend the day on Bygdøy island

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

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

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

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

Panoramic view from the rooftop platform

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

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

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

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

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

25. Join a free Guided Tour Inside Parliament House

26. Kayak around Oslofjord

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

27. Watch the sunset at Ekebergparken Sculpture Park 

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

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

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

28. Visit Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park

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

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

29. Take a dip in the Sørenga sea pool 

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

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

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

30. Have afternoon tea at Hønse-Lovisas House

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

Hønse-Lovisas House is open all year round: 

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

31. Have lunch at Vippa Oslo

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

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

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

32. Unwind in the University’s Botanical Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. Go skiing at Oslo Winter Park (Vinterpark)

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

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

35. Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art Museum

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

36. Walk across Ankerbrua, Oslo’s fairytale bridge

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

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

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

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

37. Explore the Barcode Project District

38. Ride the roller coaster at TusenFryd

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

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

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

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

40. Take a photo with “The Tiger”

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

41. Take a fjordside sauna at Urban Sauna

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

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

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

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

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

43. Take a Boat trip around Oslo fjord

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

44. Visit Kvadraturen, Oslo’s historical centre

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

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

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

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

45. Nobel Peace Center (Nobels Fredssenter)

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

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

46. Join a small bike tour

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

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

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

Eight rooftop bar is open:

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

48. Head to Mathallen for lunch

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

Mathallen is open: 

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

49. Have a cocktail at HIMKOK

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

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

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

Oslo Accommodation: Where to stay in Oslo

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

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

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

Plan your trip with my Oslo travel toolkit

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

Visiting Norway? Check out my other Norway posts

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

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Over to you!

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

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

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55 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Oslo, Norway

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Often overlooked because of its comparatively high prices to its southern neighbors, Norway’s capital city should sit high atop any European bucket list — for adventurers, history buffs, and nature lovers, that statement is multiplied tenfold.

Where Viking history meets modern architecture, with Mother Nature’s splendid fjord backdrops, you’ll find the Norwegian hub teeming with activities year-round. From fascinating museums to jaw-dropping fjord cruises, hidden microbreweries, and Michelin-starred restaurants, visitors are seldom disappointed to discover the diversity on offer in this Scandinavian metropolis.

And you’ll find plenty of great surprises as well, from beautiful sculptures and well-crafted espressos to lively outdoor festivals and floating saunas! It’s the kind of city that combines the leisurely and the adventurous, the intellectually provocative and the sensorily engaging. With its wonderful blend of nature and culture, this gorgeous city is bound to engage and delight you at every turn!

Even if you’re only planning on visiting for 2 or 3 days (longer is better, of course), take note of the long list of incredible things to do in Oslo and start piecing together your Nordic adventure!

1 – Wander around the famous Royal Palace

A sprawling, opulent building that currently acts as the home for King Harald V and Queen Sonja, the Royal Palace dates back to the early 19th century and features over 170 rooms, each decked out in only the highest degree of luxury.

Usually, the symbolic palace is open to the public during the summer months of late June until mid-August; tours wander through the Council Chamber, Banqueting Hall (which can host over 200 people for gala dinners), and truly beautiful guest rooms.

If you’d rather just explore the lush Slottsparken (Palace Park), make sure to check out the changing of the guards – a longstanding tradition – which happens daily at 1.30 pm.

• walking tours in Oslo

2 – Admire the longstanding Akershus Fortress

Perhaps the most impressive of all Oslo’s Norwegian Renaissance buildings, Akershus Fortress was originally built by King Haakon V at the turn of the 14th century to protect his harbor city from possible attacks.

The fortress – arguably the best-preserved medieval castle in Norway today – has been a key part of both military and civilian life throughout its history; it’s even the resting site of King Haakon VII, the country’s first modern independent king.

For history buffs, the on-site Norway Resistance Museum, which intricately documents its WWII history between 1940 and 1945, makes for essential viewing.

To this day, Akershus Fortress remains one of Oslo’s most popular tourist attractions; visitors can admire the architecture and wander through its history-packed halls on a guided tour, or admire its brilliant facade from the water on a boat cruise!

• Akershus Fortress tours

3 – Join an Oslo Fjord sightseeing cruise

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to take in the idyllic fjord scenery, look no further than an Oslo Fjord sightseeing cruise — on a traditional wooden ship or a modern ferry. Either way, the professional crew ensures that guests are treated with first-class service throughout their voyage; with live narration, delicious snacks, and a bar onboard – there isn’t much more you could possibly ask for!

While most boat tours (some of which include lunch or dinner and live entertainment) last 2 or 3 hours, a select handful make it all the way out to Bergen – a beautiful coastal city, and popular travel destination in its own right!

• Oslo Fjord tours

4 – Wander around Old Town

Like stepping back in time, Oslo’s Old Town oozes history and charm — a maze of cobbled streets, traditional shops offering handmade crafts, fish markets selling the freshest catch of the day/

With its fascinating mix of old-world architecture (much of which is brightly painted and dates back to when the city was named Christiania), contemporary street artists, and vibrant cafés that spill onto the sidewalks in the summertime, the area deserves at least a passerby stroll.

Whether you join a walking tour or explore solo, make sure to check out the St. Hallvard’s Cathedral ruins and the St. Olav’s Monastery, dating back to the 11th and 13th centuries respectively.

5 – Visit the National History Museum and Botanical Garden

For a more in-depth look into Norway’s fascinating history, there is no better place to visit than the National History Museum ; located in the Tøyen neighborhood, it’s within easy reach of most central districts.

With a diverse collection of both permanent and rotating exhibits, including a section on the country’s cultural history, several notable dinosaurs, and one dedicated to Nature’s most beautiful creatures, this is one attraction that will keep both children and adults fully entertained.

In addition to its historical exhibits, the peaceful grounds contain within it the Botanical Garden , offering visitors a chance to explore a lush green space where, alongside over 5,500 local and international plant species, they can relax and unwind.

6 – Step inside the Oslo Domkirke cathedral

Just a short walk from the city’s main square, Oslo Domkirke is one of Norway’s most recognizable landmarks; its towering spire reaching high above the rest of the surrounding buildings.

Completed in 1697 and now home to both a vibrant worshipping community as well as being a popular tourist attraction for those visiting the capital, it is a must-see for those fascinated by architecture.

If you’re planning on joining a free walking tour of the historic city center, expect to pass by this postcard-worthy landmark.

7 – Learn about an incredible adventurer at the Kon-Tiki Museum

A popular stop on the Bygdøy inlet, particularly for history buffs, the Kon-Tiki Museum offers visitors an exciting and interactive insight into the amazing story of Thor Heyerdahl, an intrepid Norwegian explorer who became famous for his daring raft expeditions across the world’s largest oceans – most notably, crossing the Pacific in 1947 on Kon-Tiki, a raft made of balsa wood.

Although the Kon-Tiki Museum’s main exhibition is highly informative, it also provides a wonderful glimpse into Heyerdahl’s colorful life; visitors can admire his handcrafted rafts and scale models of vessels he built around the world. Throw in the 8000-book library, and it’s easy to see why this is such a unique tourist attraction!

• Kon-Tiki Museum tickets

8 – Bike around Frogner Park and Vigeland Sculpture Park

Located west of the main city, Frogner Park and Vigeland Sculpture Park — the largest in central Oslo — is home to over 200 statues by Gustav Vigeland; famous for its remarkable collection of bronze and granite artwork inspired by humanity’s lifecycle and relationship with nature.

With a number of notable sculptures including ‘the Monolith’ (towering 17 meters high), it is one of Norway’s most popular attractions, with an open-air pool and restaurant, and the nation’s biggest playground and rose collection to boot.

Although many visitors choose to explore the park on foot, it is just as easy – and much more fun! – to join a bike tour (or rent your own) whilst you’re in town; especially considering that Oslo has one of the most bike-friendly layouts in all of Europe!

• bike tours in Oslo

9 – Soak in the summer sun at the beaches — Huk or Paradisbukta

A beach, in Scandinavia — a region known for bitter winters? Believe it or not, but Oslo is home to two intimate sandy beaches (Huk and Paradisbukta), both of which are located on the Bygdøy peninsula – about 15 minutes walk from one another.

Favorited by locals but little-known in tourist circles, these secluded spots offer hours’ worth of fun – whether you’re looking for a spot to sunbathe, play some beach volleyball, try out some surfing or kayaking, or perhaps even take a dip in the cool waters.

10 – Hear the bells ring at Oslo City Hall

Completed in 1950 after two decades of war-interrupted construction and located right in the very heart of Oslo, the City Hall is an architectural beauty that towers over all who visit.

Boasting a distinct Brutalist style, the 17-floor, 66-meter-tall icon plays host to the largest carillon in the Nordics, featuring 49 bells that chime on the hour, every hour, from 7 am to midnight!

11 – Get artsy at the Munch Museum

Known near and far as the man behind The Scream, adored Norwegian Edvard Munch’s life and work are celebrated in Oslo through several museums, none more grand and in-depth than the waterfront Munch Museum .

As one of the largest single-artist museums in the world, Munch’s talent is shown across 13 floors through over 26,000 different artifacts — including paintings, sketches, and writings — leaving you with a deeper understanding of the artist’s work.

12 – Sip an espresso at the Tim Wendelboe coffee roastery

Coffee lovers, ignore everything else on this list until after you’ve visited Tim Wendelboe !

The World Barista Champion and owner of the eponymous Tim Wendelboe coffee shop in Grünerløkka, Tim’s reputation for serving up some of the best cups in town is well-earned. Specializing in single-origin beans (he roasts his own), this place will make even the most experienced coffee geek smile.

13 – Soak in the charm of colorful Bergen

An ancient coastal city on the west coast of Norway, Bergen is one of those places that will make you fall immediately in love with this beautiful country; taking your breath away thanks to its striking landscapes and picturesque architecture surrounded by mountains and fjords.

Home to its iconic Bryggen harbor area, museums, markets, centuries-old buildings, and art galleries, as well as plenty of unique shopping opportunities, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only Norway’s second-largest city, but arguably its most underrated.

A range of tours – combing cruises, train journeys, or private road transport, depending on your preference is offered – each with its own uniquely picturesque routes.

Then take things up a notch with a jet boat tour !

Hot tip: if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss out on the chance of seeing one of Norway’s most beautiful places, consider joining a sleeper train and exploring Bergen by day.

• Bergen day trips from Oslo

Read more about the best things to do in Bergen .

14 – Check off the main attractions with a hop-on-hop-off bus trip

Short on time? Don’t feel like walking all over town? Then combine your sightseeing trip with a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket, allowing you to see all the major sights of Oslo – including landmarks such as Vigeland Sculpture Park, Frognerparken, and Stortinget (The Norwegian Parliament) – in just one day.

Prefer to explore the city via its waterways? You’re in luck – there are also hop-on-hop-off boat tours!

• bus tours in Oslo

15 – Visit the Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower

While Norway’s ski history dates back centuries, it was not until the mid-19th Century that its first major developments took place; most notably at Holmenkollen‚ a hill that overlooks the city.

Now holding the title of the world’s oldest ski museum, the Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Towe r is home to over 2500 pairs of skis, along with a collection of other sports memorabilia and its own restaurants. Plus, it hosts plenty of regular events and exhibitions, and dishes up a stellar view from the top!

Craving a more in-depth look at the structure and its history? Guided tours of both the Ski Museum and Jump tower are available on request.

Directions in Google Maps

16 – Meet slithery snakes at the Oslo Reptile Park

If you’re a fan of wildlife and exotic creatures, then you’ll love Oslo Reptile Park ; conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the heart of downtown.

With over 100 different animals from all four corners of the globe, including crocodiles, snakes, lizards, and scorpions – not to mention various breeds of birds and a handful of mammals to keep them company – it is one attraction that will appeal to all ages.

Hot tip: to see a feeding up close, plan a visit on Tuesday around 5pm, when feedings are made open to the public.

17 – Shop till you drop on Karl Johan street

As Oslo’s main shopping street, linking the Central Station square at one end to the Royal Palace at the other, Karl Johan (named after a former king) is the perfect spot to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, people-watch, or dig into a classic Scandinavian meal.

In every nook and cranny, you’ll find clothing stores of all kinds (Louis Vuitton, Mulberry, Moods of Norway, just to name a few) alongside specialty shops that sell everything from designer homeware and handicrafts to Norwegian designed furniture.

Every sweet tooth loves the Freia chocolate shop , while shoe collectors typically head straight to the Grensen area.

18 – Step back in time at the Viking Ship Museum

Sitting on the picturesque Bygdøy peninsula, the one-of-a-kind Viking Ship Museum offers a chance to see the nation’s past come to life thanks to its impressive collection of five 1000-year-old original ships!

What’s more, given that Oslo used to be home to one of Norway’s biggest Viking settlements (prior to it becoming a major city), you’ll struggle to find many better places in all Scandinavia for learning about this fascinating period of history.

• Viking Ship Museum tours

19 – Spend a day exploring Sognefjord

What should be top of the list of things to do in Oslo for any outdoor enthusiast, photographer, or nature lover, is a trip to what’s been dubbed “King of the Fjords” Sognefjord.

One of Norway’s most famous and longest fjords, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers tremendous views from any vantage point — whether you choose to take it easy on a sightseeing cruise or challenge yourself with some kayaking, biking, or hiking along its shores!

Take note: book a tour that includes a ride on the Flam railway, arguably the world’s most beautiful train journey!

• Sognefjord tours from Oslo

20 – Spend the morning at the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art

Located right next to the Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park, this modern art mecca is housed in a highly recognizable building designed by leading Italian architect Renzo Piano and features several floors exhibiting modern art from both Nordic and international artists.

There’s plenty of American and European pop art, German Abstract Expressionism, and English modern painting at Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art  – an eclectic combination sure to scratch any artsy itch.

21 – Ride the roller coasters at Tusenfryd

Just 30 minutes by metro from Oslo, Tusenfryd is an amusement park (the largest in Norway, in fact) that’s known to make even grown adults scream; serving up over 40 rides and attractions (including both rollercoasters and family-friendly options) in a fun but safe environment.

With plenty of food outlets dotted around the site, as well as the BadeFryd water park and a roster of live entertainment, it sells itself as one of the best things to do in Oslo for families and thrillseekers alike.

22 – Wander around the Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park

For a breath of fresh air and an alternative art experience, head to Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park — an outdoor wharf gallery sitting next to the Tjuvholmen beach that offers both peculiar art installations as well as stellar views of the harbor.

After admiring the view and the artwork. there’s no shortage of restaurants and attractions nearby to spend most of the afternoon.

23 – Feel arctic cold at the Fram Museum

Diving into the elaborate story of Norwegian polar exploration, the Fram Museum in Bygdøy is a must-see for any nautical nerds and geography enthusiasts visiting Oslo.

This impressive museum located next to the Norwegian Maritime Museum and Kon-Tiki Museum explores the history of Arctic exploration — all centered around the incredible Fram, the ship responsible for most of that discovery!

For the chance to experience what those pioneers did some 100 years ago, dress warm and step inside the polar simulator!

• Fram Museum tickets

24 – Take a hike in Nordmarka

Adventurers, listen up! Nordmarka is a vast slice of Norwegian wilderness that sits just beyond the city limits.

In this haven for nature lovers, you’ll find trails and tracks to explore as well as hundreds of lakes waiting to be dipped in — so what are you waiting for? Pack your hiking boots!

For something extra special (and sure to light up any social media feed), consider a guided hiking excursion that also includes a moose meeting or farmhouse tour!

• hiking in Oslo

25 – Travel back in time at Norsk Folkemuseum

If you’re fascinated by Norwegian history, then the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum) is a must-see. Centered around traditional and historic buildings from across Norway — including an 18th-century farmhouse, fishermen’s huts, and shops showing how residents lived from the 1500s to today — this museum provides visitors with a unique look into life in times gone by.

Hot tip: as one of the world’s largest open-air museums, it’s best explored on a sunny summer day.

26 – Get your culture fix at the Norwegian National Museum

For art lovers, no visit to Norway would not be complete without a stop at its National Museum — located just minutes from the city’s main square and home to the country’s largest collections of art, architecture, and design, the Museum has just undergone a 700-plus-million-dollar renovation, and its new-look galleries are stunning.

With some 45,000 objects on display – including everything from Viking artifacts to contemporary Norwegian art and Edvard Munch’s scream (who is considered one of Norway’s foremost artists), it’s easy for the hours to pass by here.

27 – Take a scooter tour through the Aker Brygge neighborhood

Fed up with walking? Anyone looking for a fun way to discover Oslo’s hidden attractions should consider doing it by scooter!

Tours are available in several languages and will take you past some of the most iconic landmarks in Oslo, including the Opera House, Karl Johan street, Akershus Fortress, and the Royal Palace. It’s the Aker Brygge neighborhood, however, which sits at the mouth of the harbor and is lined with shops and restaurants, that deserves the most time.

While scooter tours are the most popular, you can also rent a Segway or electric bike to explore at your own pace.

• scooter tours in Oslo

28 – Play detective with a scavenger game

For when exploring Oslo at a leisurely pace becomes too mainstream (read: boring), why not take it up a notch with a fast-tracked adventure around the city, Amazing Race style?

With a range of interactive exploration games – operated from the convenience of your phone – you’ll be led around Oslo by a virtual local guide, visiting various destinations and cracking clues along the way.

• scavenger games in Oslo

29 – Walk down the Damstredet & Telthusbakken streets

Off the beaten track and not on most tourist guides, Damstredet & Telthusbakken are the two main cobbled streets in a quaint residential area in central Oslo lined by traditional wooden houses dating back to the late 1700s and 1800s.

Sandwiched in between Our Savior’s Cemetery and the Akerselva river, this area is best known for its old timber buildings and quiet charm, but is also home to a nice garden walkway dubbed Kjærlighetsstien or, ‘The Love Trail’.

30 – Consider the bigger questions at the Nobel Peace Center

For a better understanding of the history and current affairs that affect our lives, as well as a unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating lives and projects of various Nobel Peace Prize laureates, head to the Nobel Peace Center — housed in an art-deco style building in the historic 150-year-old Vestbanen building at City Hall Square.

The museum’s exhibits provide insight into how social structures are formed by political systems; why peace is important for both individuals and societies at large; as well as triggering more philosophical questions — a must for the politically savvy.

31 – Hit the slopes at Skimore Oslo

As the most popular ski resort in Norway — thanks to its convenience just 30 minutes from downtown Oslo — with 18 slopes and 11 lifts, there’s no shortage of activities on offer that Skimore ‘s Oslo location (the Oslo Winter Park).

If you happen to be visiting in the warmer months, Skimore is a haven for adventurers, with a treetop climbing park (zipline included), mountain biking trails, and an array of guided bike tours!

32 – Stuff your face on a food tour!

Foodies, rejoice! While Norway is far from the most famous gastronomic European destination, there is still plenty of local food to discover guaranteed to tantalize the taste buds.

While there’s nothing wrong with frequenting the top-rated establishments, we all know that locals know best; on locally-led walking tours, you’ll uncover the true hidden gems, sampling everything from local cheeses to craft beers, Raspeball (potato dumplings) and Kjøttkaker (meatballs).

Can’t decide where to start? The Mathallen Oslo food court dishes up more than 30 specialty cafés and eateries, perfect for tasting a bit of everything, while Vippa , Oslo’s newest food hall, is perched at the end of the pier, offering stunning waterside views.

• food tours in Oslo

33 – Browse through the Vigeland Museum

Just around the corner from Frogner Park (home to the diverse Vigeland pieces mentioned in #8), the indoor Vigeland Museum is dedicated near-exclusively to Norway’s most famous sculptor.

The collections are primarily sculptures, but also include paintings and drawings as well as a small collection of decorative art inspired by folk crafts. It’s an absolute must-see for those who love his work!

Make sure to book a tour of the 3rd-floor apartment, where Vigeland lived from 1924 until his passing in 1943.

34 – Read a few chapters at the Deichman library

An underrated attraction that manages to satisfy both literature lovers and architecture buffs, Diechman is Norway’s oldest and largest public library, with hundreds of thousands of books spread across 22 different locations.

Its main location, Deichman Bjørvika, sits on top of a former shipyard and offers stunning views over the fjord while visitors enjoy its impressive collections.

After turning a few pages, consider checking out the modern library’s host of other attractions: movie theatre, media workshops, gaming zones, or restaurant!

35 – Visit the Norwegian Parliament

As foreboding a building as any in the Kingdom (country), Norway’s Parliament is one of the most visited attractions in Norway due to its combination of historical significance and architectural brilliance.

In summer, spring, and autumn, curious travelers can join a guided tour and explore what’s been the seat of the Norwegian National Assembly since 1866.

Thanks to its location adjacent to a park on Karl Johans Gate, it’s the perfect pre-picnic attraction.

36 – Wet your whistle with a beer tasting

Spirits not your thing? No worries, there’s a stack of microbreweries ready to accommodate all beer-lovers.

Norway has a long and rich history of beer brewing thanks to its Vikings (not surprising), so if you’re looking for something new to tickle your hops it is safe to say Oslo won’t disappoint.

There are many breweries in the city offering tours as well as tastings, few more famous than Schouskjelleren Mikrobryggeri (with German beer hall vibes), RØØR (centrally located with over 70 beers on tap), and Oslo Microbrewery (the oldest Scandinavian bar to brew its own beer!).

• beer tasting in Oslo

37 – Treat your curious mind at the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

A crowd favorite for anyone traveling with kids in tow, the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology is a must-see for anyone with even the slightest interest in technology and innovation.

With over 100 interactive installations, decades-old airplanes and cars, and several guided tours of its state-of-the-art workshops, this award-winning attraction will have you interacting with robots on Mars one moment before exploring Norway’s history of medicine the next!

Don’t forget to visit the museum’s gift shop for all kinds of quirky souvenirs.

38 – Spend the day at Sognsvann Lake

More of a nature spot than an attraction, the Sognsvann Lake is located in Nordmarka and very close to Oslo (just 15 minutes by car).

Perfect for cross-country skiing in winter months, come springtime its pristine waters attract picnickers from all over the city who flock here on sunny days to fish, jog, or hike.

Fancy yourself a landscape photographer? Then add this spot to the bucket list!

39 – Pamper AND party at SALT

A wonderful concoction of all things Scandinavian culture — part sauna, part music venue, part food hall, and part festival center — SALT is a one-stop-shop for entertainment.

Open all year round, with cool fjord breezes in summer and toasty fireplaces in winter, this centrally-located culture mecca is the place to be for a drink, food, or anything in between.

The Árdna sauna can house 80 people, but if they’re full, the two-barrel Himmelsauna can accommodate plenty of travelers too. With regular film screenings and dance performances, what’s not to love?

40 – Catch a concert at the Oslo Opera House

Fans of fine arts and grand, elegant buildings will love the Oslo Opera House !

Designed by architecture firm Snøhetta in 2008 with inspiration from Norway’s dramatic coastline and icebergs, the building is an architectural wonder that hosts over 100 shows a year.

Whilst you’re there don’t forget to check out its beautiful exterior as well as check the website to secure a seat at what is one of the hottest shows in town — be it a National Opera and Ballet show or a visiting pop star.

41 – Take a tour of the Ibsenmuseet museum and apartment

Famous for housing the iconic Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, Ibsenmuseet (on the southern side of Slottsparken at Henrik Ibsens gate) is a must-see for anyone who has enjoyed any of his plays.

The museum’s permanent exhibition is one of the most popular in Norway and includes exclusive photographs, letters, and manuscripts from Ibsen himself.

Hot tip: past visitors rave about the guided apartment tour (must be pre-booked), and don’t forget to grab something from the bookshop that displays all of Ibsen’s works.

42 – Watch a play at the Nationaltheatret

A top attraction for culture vultures and entertainment buffs, the National Theatre is where the biggest Norwegian productions are shown year after year.

The building itself dates back to the 1800s but has been refurbished several times since then and now epitomizes opulence in its red and gold main auditorium.

Check the website to see the performance calendar, or simply stroll past it for a quick selfie.

43 – Go kayaking around the islands of Oslo

Whether you’re a keen kayaker or just looking for an alternative way to see Oslo up close, why not try paddling around some of the city’s many islands and fjords?

Typically, the best place to rent is from Bygdøy where several operators are offering water-sports activities including canoeing and sea kayaking. However, most travelers who hit the water prefer to do so with a pre-arranged tour that includes a savvy local guide, all the necessary equipment, and a lesson to ensure you can paddle like a pro!

• kayaking in Oslo

44 – Indulge your gamer side at Tilt Arcade Bar

Beeps and boops, bright lights and blocky pixels, Pac-Man and pinball flippers… it’s every nerd’s dream!

At Tilt Arcade Bar , there’s more to sample than just beverages (although the selection of microbrews is top-notch); you can also enjoy a blast from the past with a whole range of diversions!

Test your skills on one of the 29 machines in the basement, or grab some friends and give the shuffleboard courts a go.

And there are plenty of great live events throughout the week as well, from trivia to DJ sets.

It’s an electronic extravaganza well worth visiting!

45 – Dine at some Michelin-starred restaurants

Oslo has several Michelin-starred restaurants that are definitely worth checking out, like Statholdergaarden (classic Norweignan food) or Omakase by Vladimir Park (sushi), if you have the budget, of course.

Even on a more humble budget, it’s possible to get your taste buds tickled with Norwegian dishes at Kontrast (located in the north) or Maaemo (downtown, which has 3 stars) for lunchtime menus — just be sure to book in advance.

So, who’s hungry?

46 – Book your own KOK floating sauna!

A new way to relax in Norway’s capital city, these saunas are floating on the water in the Bjørvika area, serving up intimate zen beyond compare, ideal for traveling groups.

Built out of sustainable wood and with a sleek design that is both modern and cozy at once, this concept has quickly become an Oslo favorite.

Best of all, when the sauna gets a little too hot, just jump into the chilly Oslo Fjord waters for some hot-cold therapy!

47 – Sip of handcrafted cocktails at the HIMKOK Distillery

Ranked as one of the world’s 50 best bars (for 2020), HIMKOK is the local go-to for all things Aquavit, Gin, and Vodka. Part speakeasy, part distillery, this place oozes sophistication, with its historic surroundings and urban interior in one of the oldest brick buildings in downtown Oslo.

Whether you’re a seasoned vodka connoisseur or just here for the cocktails, this place is bound to impress.

It’s also the perfect pre-game stop before a pub crawl…

48 – Try a scenic round of golf

When the weather is nice, there are better things to do in Oslo than tee off on the golf course!

Oslo Golf Club is the only spot directly in town for this endeavor, with an exceptional 18-hole green that’s been beloved by Norwegians and international visitors alike since 1924.

With a breathtaking location next to Lake Bogstad, the scenery is almost worth the trip itself; it’s one of the very few courses to have its own waterfall!

In between rounds, head over to the clubhouse and grab a bite at the cafe, then stop by the pro shop for some souvenirs.

49 – Lace on the skates at the Spikersuppa rink

Akin to New York City’s Rockefeller rink, Spikersuppa is Oslo’s winter wonderland, found smack-bang in the middle of the city (between Parliament and the National Theatre). Unlike its American counterpart, however, it’s open and free for everybody to enjoy.

Hot tip: if you happening to be visiting during the holiday period, the Christmas market , full of mulled wine and handmade crafts, is as charming as any.

50 – Go fishing!

Considering that Oslo – and Norway, in general – is made up of fjords, waterways, and lakes, it should come as no surprise that fishing is a popular pastime for both locals and tourists.

If you’re keen to give saltwater fishing go, there’s no better place than the Bygdøy peninsula — and while the beaches turn up plenty of bites, joining a charted boat trip will be your best bet for reeling in something trophy-worthy.

On the other hand, freshwater fishing requires a permit — another reason to leave it to the expert and book a pre-organized tour.

51 – Kick back on the rooftops in Oslo

“Up on the rooftop” isn’t just a classic Christmas carol… it’s a stylish way to enjoy the Oslo skyline!

There are several excellent bars and restaurants around town that offer a new perspective on the city.

Thief Roof Grill and Bar boasts great views of cityscapes and hills alike, lovely live music, and some fantastic cocktails for sampling, while Nodee Sky pairs its glorious scenery with delicious, contemporary Japanese dishes.

Eight Rooftop Bar provides mixed drinks, beers, and an impressive wine selection to choose from, and Norda features elegant North American meals and a gorgeous, garden-filled atmosphere.

Eat, drink, and enjoy the splendid sights!

52 – Pay your respects at the historic Our Savior’s Cemetery

If you’re interested in a trip down Norway’s past, consider adding Our Savior’s Cemetery to your list of things to do in Oslo.

This hauntingly beautiful graveyard in the Gamle Aker district dates back all the way to the early 1800s — today it provides visitors with a unique insight into Norwegian history by providing tombstones from each period in time, as well as famous plots of national icons such as Edvard Munch, Henrik Ibsen, and Henrik Wergeland.

53 – Get your fill of tunes with some live music

Pull up a chair and tune up your ears, because the city’s live music scene is not to be missed!

Swing by BLA for an eclectic mix of genres and artists,, with jazz, electronic works, and rock all on the itinerary, and a lively dance club atmosphere to match.

Or head over to Parkteatret Scene , a small but mighty former cinema that is currently known for its exciting and eclectic blend of international and local acts.

No matter what type of scene you prefer, there’s a great night out on the town available for you!

54 – Get a natural sampler platter whilst island hopping

Fun fact: this cosmopolitan capital actually has a pretty great set of islands to explore!

Simply step aboard the local ferry system, and putter between one idyllic stretch of land and the next, getting off for forested hikes, bits of beach time, and leisurely strolls through quaint traditional villages.

You’ll see a whole different side of Norway, without ever leaving the city!

• island hopping in Oslo

55 – Party the night away in Grünerløkka

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not get a little wild with a night of debauchery in Oslo’s most famous nightlife district, Grünerløkka?

Popular with both locals and visitors alike, Grünerløkkahas a vibrant music scene with a wide array of bars (including over 100 places to get your hands on the world’s best beer), clubs for all tastes, and even some quaint cafes.

Love a cocktail? Make a beeline for retro-bar Bar Boca is a must if you appreciate good cocktails.

Prefer something more romantic? The Nedre Løkka Cocktailbar & Lounge ought to do the trick. If you can’t decide where to start, there’s always the option for a locally-led pub crawl!

Or sip a decadent cocktail in the immersive tropical wonderland of Aku-Aku Tiki Bar .

How to get to Oslo?

For first-time Oslo visitors (or even seasoned visitors for that matter), why try to decipher the public transport system and carry your suitcase from the metro station when you can book a private airport transfer instead?

With a range of vehicles available – some more luxurious, some more affordable – you can expect the highest standards of service and convenience when you book an airport transfer that takes you directly to your hotel.

Plus, with a friendly driver happy to spill a few local secrets along the way, you’ll be given the inside scoop into the city’s best restaurants and attractions (so long as you ask nicely, of course).

Where to stay in Oslo?

Alright, you’ve decided to visit Oslo — amazing! The question now is where’s the best place to stay? With so many choices, Booking.com has made the process simple, offering the best rates no matter the season.

The Thon Hotel Opera is a four-star property that has been recently renovated and offers visitors an elegant, cozy spot with all of the amenities you could want at your fingertips. For 5-star luxury, the Grand Hotel Oslo By Scandic and The Thief deliver exquisite service, while Amerikalinjen and Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel provide lavish touches at more affordable prices.

Regardless of your priorities and budget, the best Oslo deals are always found on comparison sites like Booking.com. So check it out now and save up to 40%!

• best hotels in Oslo

Visiting Oslo on a budget?

Valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours (depending on your preference) the Oslo Pass is a tourist-friendly ticket that grants you access to over 30 museums across the city, including big-ticket attractions like the Munch Museum, and smaller spots like the Oslo Reptile Museum or Nobel Peace Center.

Plus, it gives you free public transportation (in Zones 1, 2V, 2S, and 2Ø), free access to guided walking tours, and exclusive discounts on an array of shops, restaurants, and ticketed landmarks!

Traveling on a student budget? You’ll be pleased to know that students under 30 get a 30% discount. Just make sure you have a valid student ID or ISIC card.

Where to go next?

For a healthy dash of Arctic atmosphere with some amazing culture thrown in, head north to Tromso , home to stunning cathedrals, reindeer, and the Northern Lights!

Or pop over to Sweden to explore Kiruna , a former mining site turned outdoor paradise, with sports and nature to enjoy all year round – plus bustling markets and egg-shaped saunas!

Then head south to Stockholm , the capital of the country, where art, culture, nightlife, and day trips all come together to form an irresistible destination.

And in nearby Denmark, you have the charms of Copenhagen , where the buildings are colorful, the lakes are stunning, and every space – from the finest palace to the literary landmarks and the cozy cafes – thrums with a welcoming energy.

Oslo is also a popular port of call for cruises, so if you’re pressed for time, consider booking some shore excursions to maximize your time in the city.

Final thoughts

Stylish and spontaneous, filled with little treasures and big spectacles, this wonderful city is one worth visiting – and revisiting!

As you try all of the different things in Oslo, you’ll be amazed at how many more you discover – it’s the city that keeps on giving!

So set your sights to the north, and enjoy some true Norwegian hospitality!

As always, happy travels.

10 Best Islands Near Oslo

What are the most beautiful islands to visit in oslo.

Oslo's nearest neighbor is the fjord, and the area's islands are beautiful and popular places to visit. A short trip by boats that are part of Oslo 's public transportation system, takes you to landscapes that feel much farther from the city streets than they actually are as the crow flies.

Some of the islands are densely populated with cabins, others have clear traces of an industrial society, while others are more or less untouched. Common to them all is a wonderful sense of proximity to the fjord landscape and the sea. The Oslo fjord climate has a rich fauna and excellent bathing conditions in summer - as well as some wonderful outdoor experiences all year round.

History, Culture and Idyllic Bathing Spot Outside Vippetangen

Hovedøya is the innermost of the islands in the Oslo Fjord, municipally owned and protected, with historical ruins and idyllic nature. It is only eight minutes by boat from the mainland, with a good boat connection from Rådhusbrygge 4, and is thus a quick and easy destination for a short excursion.

The local climate and soil provide an exceptionally rich and varied flora that helps create an idyllic and scenic landscape. Central to the island are the ruins of a monastery, founded in 1147 by British monks. Only the walls remain, but they have a historical buzz about them and are fun to explore and play hide and seek in. The island also has a cannon battery and other military historical facilities - as well as a nice beach in the far south.

Location: Hovedøya, 0150 Oslo, Norway

Cabins and Nature in the Inner Oslo Fjord

Lindøya is one of the large islands in the inner Oslo Fjord, half of which consists of a cabin field and half with a nature reserve, with a rich plant and animal life. There are two piers with a boat connection to the mainland, one on the east side and one on the west side, and the boat trip takes just under 20 minutes.

A network of paths and roads makes it easy to explore the island. In addition to the small forest, the island also has the occasional bathing spot (unfortunately not very suitable for small children), a simple public bathroom, a small shop that is open during the summer season and plenty of cabins - more than on any of the other islands in the Oslo Fjord.

Location: Lindøya, 0150 Oslo, Norway

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Bathing gem in bunnefjorden.

Ulvøya is a densely populated island with a bridge connection to the mainland in the district of Nordstrand, which is especially known for the popular seaside resort Sydstranda. Since the bridge was built in 1928, most of the area has gradually filled with residential buildings, so that now around a thousand people live here, about 6 kilometers south of Oslo city centre.

The local welfare association is active and manages the bathing area of Sydstranda, which is one of Oslo's most popular bathing resorts. The charity demands payment for admission and uses the income to manage the well-maintained facilities, where the public can enjoy fjord life and the view of Nesoddtangen. There is a bus stop and grocery store in the middle of the island.

Location: Ulvøya, 0139 Oslo, Norway

Uninhabited Idyll for Those Who Like Peace, Quiet and Seabirds

Rambergøya is a small uninhabited island in the inner Oslo Fjord, connected to Gressholmen and Heggholmen, and with a municipal bathing area and outdoor area. Via Gressholmen there is a good bus connection from Rådhusplassen in the port of Oslo.

The island is part of a nature reserve and is one of the most pristine in the area, with several rare plants and important nesting and grazing neighborhoods for seabirds. Restricted automobile and boat traffic helps to make this a suitable place for those looking for peace and quiet in untouched nature.

Location: Rambergøya, 0150 Oslo, Norway

photo by Tore Sætre ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Cabin Island By Oslo Harbor

Bleikøya is located right by Hovedøya in the very heart of the Oslo Fjord, and although it is known for its many cabins, it has a beautiful cultural landscape and vast green neighborhoods that make it worth a visit. There is a good boat connection with the mainland all year round.

The cabin owners' welfare association ensures that it is kept tidy and pleasant, and several hundred years of history with buildings and farms have created an attractive landscape and vegetation. This is also home to the only farm on the Oslo Islands, Bleikøyplassen. Northeast of the island there is a nature reserve, and you need to be mindful of the bird life here, especially during the breeding season.

Location: Bleikøya, 0150 Oslo, Norway

Restored Nature on Former Industrial Island

Heggholmen is a small island that has been turned into a nature reserve, but which was previously used for industry and also boasts the oldest lighthouse in the inner Oslo Fjord. Holmen is connected to Rambergøya and Gressholmen, where there is a pier with a boat connection to the mainland.

In its time, soap was produced here, and remnants of the small industrial community still exist. You will also find a couple of private cabins and an elegantly restored small wooden lighthouse. Otherwise, the islet consists of boulders, varied vegetation and a maze of paths and small beaches that are good for bathing and enjoying the fjord landscape.

Location: Heggholmen, 0150 Oslo, Norway

Attractive Cabin Island Outside Bygdøy

Nakkholmen is located between Lindøya and Bygdøy on the mainland and is known for its collection of small, colorful cabins nestled close together. A boat connection to Rådhusbrygga and Bygdøy brings you to Nakkholmen in approximately ten minutes.

Despite its small size, there are 200 cabins here in a cabin community that began as a cheap vacation alternate for the working classs, but which is now known for its sky-high price per square meter. Even though it is densely populated, it is accessible to everyone on Nakkholmen and a nice place to enjoy nature and the proximity to the fjord.

Location: 0150 Oslo, Norway

Store Herbern

Small untouched island outside bygdøy.

Store Herbern is a small island outside Bygdøy and is completely uninhabited and used as a nature reserve. The hostel is municipally owned and available for public use as a recreation area. To get there you need a private boat or other craft, or you can swim the short distance from the mainland or the neighboring island of Lille Herbern.

As an almost untouched natural area, Herbern offers rare varied vegetation and biological diversity. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring this islet, which also has some great bathing spots with cliffs and boulders and the occasional small beach.

Location: 0286 Oslo, Norway

photo by Helge Høifødt ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Gressholmen

Pleasant, wooded islet in the inner oslo fjord.

Gressholmen is a state-owned, protected small island with a rich plant and animal life in the inner Oslofjord. Gressholmen was previously used for soap production, as a shooting range, seaplane port and defense facilities. Remains of these activities are still prominent in the landscape and are considered interesting from an industrial historical perspective.

Most visitors are probably most interested in Gressholmen as a nature area. Holmen is connected to the neighboring islets Rambergøya and Heggholmen with rockfills, and the area is an important habitat for seabirds. There is also a rich plant life and otherwise idyllic fjord landscape that is easily accessible by boat connection from Rådhusbrygga on the mainland.

Location: Gressholmen, 0150 Oslo, Norway

From Landfill Site to Bathing Spot

Langøyene consists of two former islands connected by a filled strait, with grasslands and shallow beaches used for bathing. For many years, these long islands served as landfill sites, which consisted of waste covered with gravel and soil masses. A lot of work goes into maintaining Langøyene to make them suitable for outdoor life.

Good boat connections with the mainland, a large, flat grassy plain that is perfect for ball games and play, the opportunity to pitch a tent on your own tent site and Oslo's largest sandy beach all make Langøyene an attractive place to visit and stay. A good accommodations option for groups is the Norwegian Tourist Association's house with 15 beds.

Location: Langøyene, 1450 Nesoddtangen, Norway

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Oslo with Kids: Best Things To Do in Oslo, Norway

O slo, Norway makes for an unforgettable, adventure-filled family vacation spot full of stunning natural landscapes and family-friendly activities. As Norway's capital, Oslo is an international city with great museums, cultural sites, and attractions the whole family will enjoy.

Oslo is also easy to navigate with kids. The city is very walkable, and its great transportation system (including buses, trams, trains, and ferries) makes it convenient to get around without a car. Oslo is clean and safe, and most people speak English. While there is plenty to do indoors in the winter, summer is also a great time to visit, when the temperature is pleasantly balmy and the sun doesn't set until almost midnight.

Read on for some of our favorite things to in Oslo, Norway with kids, including family-friendly Oslo hotels. Find more European family vacation destinations, including London and Amsterdam , in our  Europe Family Travel Guide .

Note: While Oslo, Norway is generally pretty expensive, kids often get in free to many museums, and tickets to various attractions are discounted. For even more savings, purchase the Oslo Pass and get in free to 30 museums and attractions.

Kids might recognize the famous painting The Scream at the Munch Museum .

Top Things To Do in Oslo, Norway with Kids

1. munch museum.

The Munch Museum is dedicated to the works of Norway's most famous artist, Edvard Munch. Head to the fourth floor to see The Scream up close, of which there are several versions. My kids listened to audio guides, which helped them learn more about the artist and his works.

Kon-tiki Museum showcases objects from Thor Heyerdahl's voyage across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa-wood raft.

2. Fram Museum

My son's favorite museum was the Fram Museum, where we learned about Norway's seafaring explorations. We were able to go inside the real Fram ship, Norway's premier polar exploration vessel. With a combined ticket, we also visited the Kon-tiki Museum right next door, which showcased objects from Thor Heyerdahl's voyage across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa-wood raft.

3. Explore the Fjords by Boat

Norway is famous for its breathtaking fjords—long, narrow inlets of water with steep cliffs on either side. Naturally, the best way to view the fjords is on a boat. There are a variety of tour operators that offer all sorts of boat rides , from short ones to longer scenic cruises.

If you're really adventurous and have older kids, try a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) safari adventure . Geared up in a dry suit and goggles, you'll zip through the fjords at incredibly fast speeds. This was one of my kids' favorite activities.

4. Swim in the Fjords

Swimming and saunas are hugely popular activities in Norway, even in cold weather. Oslo has a number of swimming spots where you can swim in the fjords.

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Flam Railway treats passengers to breathtaking views on their way from Oslo to Bergen.

5. Flam Railway

Embark on one of the world's most beautiful train journeys aboard the Flam Railway, which takes passengers from Oslo to Bergen. The ride offers the best views of Norway's breathtaking natural landscape. We saw incredible fjords, spectacular waterfalls, and stunning mountains.

Watch a baker make fresh lefse at the Norsk Folkemuseum—and then enjoy eating it!

6. Norsk Folkemuseum

Experience how Norwegians lived from as far back as 1500 at the Norsk Folkemuseum. The museum's 160 buildings and open-air areas represent different regions, time periods, and social classes in Norway. See old medieval stave churches and eat lefse (traditional Norwegian flatbreads) cooked the old-fashioned way.

Choose your favorite topping for delicious Norwegian waffles.

7. Eat Waffles

Oslo, Norway has some of the best waffles around. Often shaped into hearts, they're soft, airy, and light with a hint of sweetness. Norwegians often eat waffles with brown cheese, but you can eat them with cream, Nutella, jam, or even sausages.

8. Holmenkollen Ski Jump

While you don't have to jump it, the Holmenkollen Ski Jump is a great place to explore with kids. You'll find some of the best views of Oslo at the top and can even zip line down the mountain. Try the ski simulator to see what it feels like to ski down the mountain, and check out the ski museum once it reopens at the end of 2023.

The Deichman Bjørvika Library has unique touches, like this living wall and hiding places.

9. Deichman Bjørvika Library

The Deichman Bjørvika Library is an architectural wonder, with huge wall-to-ceiling windows that allow light to fill every floor. It doubles as a repository of knowledge and public space for meetings, exhibits, and performances. The library has a great children's section (with English books) filled with whimsical touches like hiding places and modern artwork. Be sure to take a peek at the Future Library , a cool project that enlists popular authors to write texts that will be published in 100 years.

10. Oslo Opera House

Perched on the edge of the Oslofjord, this iconic landmark serves as both a performance venue and a public gathering space. People like to walk around the Opera House as well as on its slanted roof to experience amazing views of the harbor, the boats, and even an iceberg art installation.

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Free-to-enter Vigeland Park is one of Norway's top tourist attractions.

11. Vigeland Sculpture Park

Take a stroll through Frogner Park, Oslo's largest public park, where you'll see over 200 sculptures designed by Gustave Vigeland. The sculptures in the Vigeland Sculpture Park are really fun to look at, and there's also a huge playground in Frogner Park.

12. International Museum of Children's Art

Take the kids to this unique children's museum, which showcases works created by talented kids from over 180 countries. The museum also offers young visitors the chance to create their own art.

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Stroll the streets of Trondheim, a former Viking capital.

13. Explore Beyond Oslo

The railway connects Oslo to other major cities in Norway including Bergen and Trondheim, each with its own unique character and charm. Bergen has some beautiful natural landscapes and children's playgrounds, while Trondheim—the former Viking capital—is rich in history. Head up to the Arctic Circle and see the Northern Lights if you're lucky.

All of these Oslo hotels puts visitors in the center of the city.

Great Oslo Hotels for Families

14. scandic oslo city.

Kids 12 and under stay free at this great hotel in the heart of Oslo, right near the Opera House, shops, and restaurants. If you have teens, you can book them a room next to yours at a discounted price. A complimentary organic breakfast buffet and a welcome gift for kids at check-in make this hotel a no-brainer for families.

15. Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Oslo

Another great hotel in the center of Oslo, the Radisson Blu offers a variety of family rooms with sofabeds and minibars (some have refrigerators and terraces). A free breakfast buffet, an indoor pool and sauna, stunning views from the higher floors, and close proximity to area attractions add to this hotel's family appeal.

16. Thon Hotel Opera

Thon Hotel Opera is located right next to the Opera House and very close to the Munch Museum and the Deichman Bjørvika Library. It offers suites for families, a lavish free breakfast buffet, a gym for ages 15 and up, and other amenities for families.

Photos by the author