travel event oslo

Language selection

By default we use your browser language. If you want to choose another language you can change it here at any time!

•   or  

Norway’s most inspiring travel event

TravelXpo is a huge new concept from Compass Fairs which aims to unite the travel and tourism industry in Norway and the rest of the world under a single roof.

The public fair will take place at the Telenor Arena just outside Oslo 14–16th of January 2022. In the future, we plan to take the concept out to other cities across Norway and Scandinavia.

TravelXpo will be a travel and experience event where those who dream about travelling and enjoying new experiences in Norway and the wider world will be able to find inspiration and information. Over the course of three days, the Telenor Arena will be filled with thousands of interested visitors in full purchasing mode. The event will be an important gathering place for the travel industry – a place where exhibitors can expand their networks and meet both new and existing customers alike.

Participation at the event will also provide the perfect opportunity to promote and launch new destinations and experiences.

This is TravelXpo:

• TravelXpo will unite the travel and tourism industry under one roof.
• TravelXpo will give a representative overview of the Norwegian travel and tourism industry.
• TravelXpo will be an innovative and inspiring experience.
• TravelXpo will be a place to make sales.
• TravelXpo will be entertaining and full of new experiences.
• TravelXpo will prioritise quality over quantity.
• TravelXpo will be a genuine place where new relationships are made.
• TravelXpo is being managed by experienced and renowned persons from within the travel and tourism industry.

Compass Fairs

One of the most experienced and inspiring fair organisers in the nordic region.

Compass Fairs AS was founded in 1996. We have 35 employees and our head office is located in Skedsmokorset in Akershus County, north of Oslo.

In addition to TravelXpo, we arrange 20 trade fairs each year all across the country, from Alta in the Arctic Circle down to Kristiansand in the south. Our first trade fair in Kristiansand in 1997, and since then we have established ourselves as a professional player that operates nationwide.

In addition to all of the fairs we organise in Norway, our subsidiaries also organise trade fairs in Sweden, Denmark and Germany. We are a turn-key supplier within events and provide all the equipment and services needed for fairs, congresses, conferences and other events, both large and small.

Visit the Compass Fairs website for more information about us.

Interested in participating at OUR FAIR?

Read more about the benefits of being an exhibitor with us!

Become an exhibitor!

We are the most popular home exhibitions organizer in the Nordic countries

Our company was established in 1996. We have approximately 30 employees, and our headquarter is located at Skedsmokorset Akershus county, Norway.

In addition to arranging our own housing exhibitions, we are a total supplier within the exhibition event. We provide all types of equipment and services for trade shows, conventions, conferences and other large and small events.

We hosted our first home exhibition of Kristiansand in 1997. It was a success with well over 10,000 visitors! Since that time we have grown us big, and today we are a nationwide, professional actor. Every year we organize about 20 housing fairs from Tromsø in the north to Kristiansand in the south.

Housing Fair is a public exhibition where both local and national exhibitors buying belay. At the fair offered everything from ceilings, walls, floors and foundation for bathrooms, kitchens, furniture, building materials, electronics and interior. A typical visitor will gladly started with renovation or building of houses, and coming on the show to get inspiration, expert advice and great deals from many suppliers as possible under one roof.

In addition to all Norwegian housing fairs organized our affiliates and subsidiaries similar fairs in Sweden, Denmark and Germany.

Visit Compass Fairs site for more information about us.

We are Norway's largest Housing exhibition

Come and meet thousands of potential customers

Boligmesse is an important meeting for the housing industry and those who are renovating or building a new house.

We gather everything about home, garden and holiday in one place. In three days, thousands of dedicated and affluent people stop at Boligmesse for tips, inspiration and great deals for their projects.

We travel to 20 cities each year, from Tromsø in the north to Kristiansand in the south.

Each booth weekend meetings with local and national exhibitors, new and existing customers and offers its products, services and expertise. It means many good customer calls!

Boligmesse is a super venue for promoting and launching all kind of products and services for the housing industry. Join as an exhibitor at the housing fair and get:

Are you interested in participating in one of our fairs? Learn more about the benefits of being one of our exhibitors!

36 Hours in Oslo

By Lisa Abend Updated Jan. 26, 2023

• Share full article

​​​​​​​​Has a city ever remade itself so quickly, or so thoroughly? The Norwegian capital had embarked on a plan to refashion itself as a major cultural destination well before the pandemic struck, but it is only now that the full impact of the initiative is being felt. In the last few years, Oslo has opened two major museums and a stunning public library. Striking neighborhoods have sprung up along the city’s iconic fjord, united by a harborside promenade and dotted with new restaurants and bars. Yet for all the transformation, Oslo retains its most distinguishing feature: its celebration of the outdoors. This is a city that, even in frigid winter, incorporates the natural world into urban life.

Recommendations

• National Museum , the city’s newest major museum, has some 6,500 objects, from ancient Greek sculptures to works by Edvard Munch and the Sami artist Máret Ánne Sara.
• Savage , one of Oslo’s newest upscale restaurants, keeps the focus on the food, which includes Nordic ingredients like lumpfish roe and scallops with global flourishes.
• Nordmarka forest , just outside the city, is where to go for a taste of the snowy outdoors.
• SALT is a combination public sauna and entertainment center, where you can sweat it out, then listen to music or relax at the outdoor bar.
• Sukkerbiten offers saunas alongside the freezing waters of Oslofjord, where you can take a dip before warming up.
• Holzweiler sells sleek clothing, while Norwegian Rain specializes in lightweight rain gear, Devold in woolen garments and Dapper in Scandinavian men’s wear brands.
• Annis Oslobukta is an upscale butcher in Oslobukta that sells local cheeses, preserved fruits and other delicious items.
• Spikersuppa is an outdoor skating rink in the middle of the city, where people of all ages take to the ice.
• Korketrekkeren is a free, more-than-mile-long tobogganing track in the Nordmarka forest.
• The Munch Museum is where to get your Edvard Munch fix.
• Deichman Bjørvika is Oslo’s new main library, with plenty of work spaces, a children’s section and an installation called “Future Library.”
• Holzweiler Platz offers sandwiches and salads and dips, but go there for the sleek space by the Norwegian starchitect firm Snøhetta.
• Åpent , a well-regarded bakery, has a branch in the Oslobukta neighborhood, where sandwiches and cakes are a budget lunch option.
• Bar Amour turns out stellar dishes with minimal ado in an atmospheric bar setting.
• Becco draws a relaxed crowd who sip natural wine and listen to D.J.s and the occasional band.
• The Vandelay is a perfect weekend brunch spot: Griddled pancakes, and ricotta and lavender honey on toast are among the menu items.
• Frognerseteren , housed in a 19th-century chalet in the Nordmarka recreational area, offers coffee, cocoa and homemade sweets.
• Oslo is well connected by bus and tram. The easiest way to travel on them is to download the Ruter app and buy digital tickets (starting at 39 nok, about $4). The Oslo Pass (also an app) includes all public transport, including ferries, as well as admission to museums for 24 to 72 hours; prices for adults start at 495 nok. There is Uber in Oslo, but both it and taxis are expensive.
• Sommerro , in the elegant Frogner neighborhood, is one of Oslo’s newest hotels, housed in the former Art Deco headquarters of an electrical company. All velvet upholstery and curved polished wood, the hotel has a wonderful pool; doubles star at 3,900 nok, or about $393.
• Amerikalinjen , across from the train station, occupies the former headquarters of the passenger line that once took Norwegian immigrants to New York. Rates cover a terrific breakfast that, in a nod to its New York connections, includes decent bagels. (Doubles from 1,900 nok.)
• K7 , near the water in the old part of town, is both a hotel and hostel, with tasteful private rooms and group accommodations, complete with kitchen, laundry and TV room. A bed in a 12-bed dorm room starts at 345 nok; private doubles start at around 900 nok.
• With its street art, cafes and vintage clothing shops, Grünerløkka is a good choice for finding a short-term rental. Efficient public transportation means it's only a 25-minute tram ride to the new developments along the fjord.

More From 36 Hours

Have a weekend to explore a destination we’ve got the perfect travel itinerary..

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art  in this city with stunning views in every direction.

Sarasota:   Kayak through mangroves, take a Black history trolley tour and spot dolphins  from a white-sand beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Mérida:   Rich in culture and history , this young and artsy Mexican city is an antidote to the wall-to-wall all-inclusive resorts of the Yucatán coast. ​​

Advertisement

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

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

Like it? Pin it for later

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.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Like what you see? Subscribe using the form below to have all of my posts delivered directly to your email.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

Get my best language and travel tips FREE by email...

Subscribe to my newsletter to receive detailed travel guides, exclusive travel and language learning tips, priority access to giveaways and more!

I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.

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

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

Domus aurea rome: visit rome’s secret hidden palace, you may also like, 22 absolutely free things to do in oslo..., oslo’s best kept secret: why you need to..., leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

If you don't know where you are , how do you know where you're going?   Find out how well you know Italian grammar today!

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 .

Explore related stories

Mar 12, 2024 • 7 min read

From cruising the fjords and wild camping to cities full of culture and incredible food, here are 13 top things to do on a visit to Norway.

Feb 21, 2017 • 6 min read

Oct 20, 2014 • 5 min read

Aug 8, 2013 • 6 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 19, 2024 • 9 min read

Oct 24, 2023 • 9 min read

Jul 28, 2023 • 6 min read

May 22, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 15, 2022 • 10 min read

Oslo: the new capital of Scandi cool

By Rick Jordan

The heat in the sauna is stupefying. The air shimmers. My bones shimmer. My two companions tell me about a sauna boat up in Tromsø where you can stagger out and topple straight into the Arctic sea. I'm handed a can of beer: the metal nearly scalds my hand but the liquid inside is deliciously cool and I hold it in my mouth a while, swishing it around. Then we're up and outside, running on Oslo 's harbour, skin steaming in the air; there's a tangle of pale limbs, laughter, and naked bodies hit the sea only to splutter and climb out immediately. Shards of ice glaze the water like scales. If the sauna is an extreme form of hygge - or koselig in Norwegian - then this is more frrrrrryge . Behind us rise huge wooden A-frames, like the spines of Jenga-brick dinosaurs, and a spectral soundtrack of whale wail, Stranger Things eerie, emerges from hidden speakers. A few curious passers-by with shopping bags stop and stare, wondering what the hell is going on.

What's going on is that a nomadic arts project called SALT has pitched up on Oslo's waterfront and built itself an encampment. A Noah-sized wooden pyramid contains one of the world's biggest saunas, and there are small hut-tents on sledges, a form of neat hybrid technology that's actually a centuries-old Sami tradition. Those giant wooden A-frames are inspired by the wooden racks used in the north to hang out fish and dry them like socks.

Sitting on a deckchair at the top of the sauna pyramid, with more of those beers, I'm talking to SALT's Erland Mogård-Larsen and Inger Ommedal. A burly cruise ship swaggers by, just in from Copenhagen. 'That's the ugly one,' says Inger. 'We raise a glass to all the other boats as they go past, but not that one.' Erland's a one-time punk drummer who organised raves in the 1990s and then accidentally became involved in a cultural festival in the north of Norway . 'I'd had too many Cognacs one night and agreed to help run it, but the next morning I remembered nothing until I got the phone call,' he says, rubbing his head. 'But it reawakened my interest in my country's traditions, and its relationship with the ocean.'

His epiphany led to the first SALT festival, with those pyramids erected on an empty beach in Sandhornøy, a savagely beautiful island in the Arctic Circle. This wasn't a festival to turn up at rocking a pair of angel wings and sequins, but one that took at least a couple of flights, then a giddy voyage across a wild stretch of sea. When a storm huffed and puffed and blew his pyramids down, Erland thought his project was over but here they are, reborn in the embrace of Oslo, hosting a slow-burn series of happenings over the next two years before moving on to Greenland , the Faroe Islands and Scotland . There are talks about sustainability and seals, DJ nights and weekly sauna sessions with specially composed soundscapes, BBQs and salt-cod tacos. One hut has been kitted out to resemble a cabin dating from Erland's grandparent's generation, a fire in the grate, shelves filled with porcelain polar bears, family photographs and tasselled lamps. Erland nods up at the rowing boat slung upside down from the ceiling. 'It's been in my family for a century. I've fixed the bass speakers in there and if you're dancing underneath the sound will make your hair stand on end!'

Norwegians have a thing about cabins. They occupy a special part of the national psyche - a simple place to hole up in and face the elements, a reaction against urban decadence. Flick through Lars Mytting's Norwegian Wood , a surprise publishing hit in 2015, and you might start wondering about your own axemanship and whether you're a 'bark up' or 'bark down' kind of guy. Erland snorts when I mention the book; but Norway is a country fragranced by the scent of birch smoke, with a history trodden by raw-knuckled, thick-socked men who headed outdoors and just kept on going. Roald Amundsen. Thor Heyerdahl. My favourite bearded pin-up is Fridtjof Nansen, the Arctic explorer who stayed still - by purposely getting his boat stuck in ice and then drifting towards the pole (it didn't work, but he got a whole lot further north than anyone else). Oslo's stoicism can be symbolised by the enduring, bird-limed statues of Ibsen and Grieg, and the muscular redbrick town hall, with twin towers you want to wrap a scarf around when it's bitter.

So while many folk get out of Oslo whenever they can, strapping on skis or hiking boots to commune with the hill and forest gods, a new generation of creatives are staying put and nailing together their own cabins: personal, carefully crafted projects such as music studios and fashion labels and natural-wine bars. On a grander scale, too, cranes are gathering on the skyline like a mapmaker's compass. A new Munch gallery and national museum are rising on the harbourside, to open in 2020, joining the glacier-like opera house whose contours are pitched just right for Oslopolitans, who like to hike up and down the roof. There's also the Deichman library, one room of which will house the intriguing Future Library, a time-capsule project by Scottish artist Katie Paterson. It's a typically sustainable, far-sighted vision. A story is being written each year for a century (authors include David Mitchell and Margaret Atwood), to be unsealed and read in 2114 when a specially planted forest outside the capital will be lopped down and turned into paper for the books.

While other Scandi cities such as Stockholm and Copenhagen have become short-break destinations for their design, street culture and food, Oslo was always a little backwards in coming forward. It was the one in the corner, a little aloof after the surprise discovery of North Sea oil in 1968 made it one of the world's super-rich kids. But no longer. Norway's becoming more extrovert, having more fun. As I walk past Oslo town hall, its bells begin to chime. It takes me a few seconds to recognise the melody as the Kygo remix of Ed Sheeran's 'I See Fire'.

Embark on a tour of Oslo's sixties flirtation with Japanese minimalist design, and there is but one stop: an all-day coffee shop and cocktail bar called Fuglen. It's run by three thirtysomething friends, who matched its teak cabinets and biri-straw wallpaper with flamenco-haired Woolworths portraits and mid-century Scandi finds - all of it for sale, alongside concoctions such as a toasted oarweed and dill Martini. The night I visit there's a mutton-chopped DJ in one corner spinning early Prince and some yacht rock, who turns out to be Todd Terje.

If there's a soundtrack to this new Oslo, it's the dubby, Norwegian cosmic-disco that's been wibbling and wobbling in my headphones the past few years. The unlikely story of how this blissed-out Balearic sound took foothold in a country that was pretty much a cultural Galápagos, where skateboarding was banned for a decade, is told in a recently released documentary, Northern Disco Lights . Beanie-hatted veterans including Lindstrøm and Bjørn Torske recall how bedroom DJs from Tromsø and Bergen unspooled a fresh electronic sound into the capital. It was, and still is, a close-knit community of individuals making something fresh away from the cacophony of larger cities. But the musician who has really taken the sound global is Terje, cool enough to invite Bryan Ferry to guest on his album, and whose quite excellent track 'Inspector Norse' pings and shimmies like Pacman on roller skates. When I run into him at Fuglen, he has a pop-up store next door selling his own range of retro-Seventies underwear. Pants? 'Yeah, well, band T-shirts are so done these days, I wanted to do something different.'

'Restaurants here used to be super-boring. Uptight, French fine dining,' Andreas Viestad tells me, before admonishing me for only piling up half my plate with roast pork ('Ah, we have a vegetarian among us!'). The chef has a sly sense of humour and his St Lars bistro isn't for the squeamish: the patron saint is graced with a large painting depicting him being roasted naked over a grill. The unblinkered menu flags up pig's snout and ear, and horse-meat tartare alongside other small plates of scallops with sweetbread, and reindeer strewn with crispy black kale. (Oslo has a knack of challenging your notion of good taste. Elsewhere I'm offered - keep it quiet - minke-whale sashimi, and dried seal, black as liquorice, chewy like biltong. Well, what would an Arctic explorer have done?)

If Andreas helped untuck and ruffle his hometown's napkins, Danish-born Esben Holmboe Bang lobbed it in a whole new direction while placing Norway's terroir on the Nordic foodmap. His restaurant Maemmo has picked up three Michelin stars for putting ingredients such as fermented mountain trout and sea-buckthorn juice on the plate. 'Norway's coastline is incredibly long and the wild seafood is insane. There are langoustines as big as dogs,' he says. 'Mahogany clams that are 400 years old and taste of everything you thought the sea would taste like but never have.' He shrugs, 'Oslo was quite stagnant, and the unwritten Scandinavian law of jante - the idea that no one should stand out from the crowd - held things back a bit. But I think people are getting over that.'

I don't know about jante but places here don't exactly shout their whereabouts. This is a town of unintentional speakeasies, of disco bistros behind unassuming doors, knees on stools grazing counters, low-riding hip-hop and funky natural wines with labels that look like tattoos. Many fingers point me to Pjoltergeist, in a former Hell's Angels bar, which I walk past three times before seeing the handwritten sign. Here, the tasting menu is a succession of surprises: langoustine in vanilla sauce, confit of duck-leg dumplings, a skate wing that I'm instructed to eat - 'no cutlery for this one!' - with my fingers to appreciate the texture, ending with black coffee in a Moomin cup. The next evening, after a plate of poached eggs in mussel sauce at neighbourhood restaurant Smalhans, I take the tram to the recently opened Brutus bar, where burly men in black shorts, like a hipster Tweedledee and Tweedledum, bring over glasses of gooseberry-scented orange wine.

Brutus is in the shadow of the former police HQ in Tøyen, home to Jo Nesbø's grumpy fictional detective, the hard-drinking Harry Hole (fleshed out in cinemas this month by Michael Fassbender, in The Snowman ). If you really want to get to know a city, use its crime fiction as your compass - Nordic noir had mapped out Oslo's streets long before I came here. But it's a laughably safe place. I was able to amble down dark alleyways at night without once feeling the chill breath of a serial killer on my neck.

Oslo isn't the prettiest town in Scandinavia, despite the ribbons of red-faced cottages strewn like bunting on its outskirts. Dockland is being reclaimed, working-class neighbourhoods recast. The Barcode district has grown by the railway tracks, an ensemble of monochrome towers in pixellated urban camouflage; the almost-island of Tjuvholmen has become a shiny-shiny pocket of walkways and bridges, leading to The Thief hotel and Renzo Piano's Astrup Fearnley gallery, which skims the water like a catamaran and draws in big-swinging art names. While the city's version of Greenwich Village has long been Grunerløkka, where hip childrenswear outfits sell Star Wars babygros, other areas such as Toyen and Grønland are catching up; West African food and wig stores next to artist-run spaces and indie studios such as the 1857 and VII, VIII galleries. Away from the city's big-money projects, a more audacious, less-polished scene has grown in the folds - there's a raw, downtown feel about some spaces, a little Eighties Lower East Side. In the Old Town on the eastern fringes I wonder around what looks, well, like a pretty cool place to have your tyres pumped, until I spy a line of tea lights leading to a flight of stairs. At the top is a break-out gallery called Island, curated by Christian Torp for a solo show by Sebastian Helling - large, gauzy abstracts disrupted by outbursts of random scribbling. 'Most people still prefer to strap their skis and walking boots on rather than go and see art,' Torp says drily, 'but there's a growing appetite. Norwegians tend to move in packs. First food and wine, then coffee. Contemporary art is next.'

There are strange things in the woods outside Oslo. 'You think a squirrel rampaged through here?' says the main character in recent shlock-horror flick Trollhunter , surveying a flattened section of forest. Further east from Torp's gallery is Ekeburg Park, where I encounter a talking lamppost, an unruly mob of clownish skeletons and a pair of entwined figures pirouetting in the trees. All sculptures, by Louise Bourgeoise and the Chapman Brothers among others. An underground water tank has been turned into a hammam-like space by land artist James Turrell, to sit and contemplate the sky, with walkways of colour-changing light giving the unsettling feeling of being too close to a precipice.

Tripping down the hillside from Ekeburg like Billy-Goat Gruff, trip trip trip, thinking I'd seen all there was to see, I pause by a plain metal rectangle. It turns out to be a work by vampish performance artist Marina Abramovich, framing the view of the city that apparently inspired Munch to paint The Scream in 1893, with a sign encouraging you to stick your head in and do just that: let all that anguish out. But the crisp sweep of this inventive harbour town, islands in the blue like humpback whales, doesn't make me want to scream, but just exhale contentedly, as if I was hunkered down in a sauna and had taken a deep mouthful of Norwegian beer.

Where to eat in Oslo

Two of the city's most sought-after set menus are those at Pjoltergeist ( pjoltergeist.no ) and Maemmo ( maaemo.no ). The first is a sort of petri dish for Icelandic chef Atly Mar Yngvason, who flips Scandi ingredients with Asian spices; at the three-starred Maemmo, the 21-course menu include tiny cornets of caramelised yeast and smoked fish roe. Maemmo's co-founder opened Kolonialen ( kolonialenbislett.no ) recently near the Forties-era Bislett stadium, with sea-buckthorn curd among the hits. Nearby St Lars ( stlars.no ) is a velvet-clad, NYC-style bistro for a serious meaty feast. Oslo's waterfront scene is bouncing, with new arrivals including the curvaceous, Kebony-clad Ling Ling ( lingling.hakkasan.com ) - Hakkasan's little sister - for Norwegian king-crab dumplings and rooftop harbour views, and Vippa ( vippa.no ), an inside-outside food hall set in shipping containers for pizza and Syrian streetfood.

If there's a poster boy for Oslo's new foodscape it's Even Ramsvik, who with his beard, tattoo sleeve and many hats could easily pass for a member of hip Norwegian indie band Highasakite. Since closing his Michelin-starred restaurant Ylajali, he's been roaming the city with a team of kitchen gunslingers - a little like London's Young Turks crew. Head to the redbrick Mathallen food hall ( mathallenoslo.no ) and Ramsvik's Hitchhiker joint for streetfood-inspired bites and craft ales, and to neighbourhood restaurant Smalhans ( smalhans.no ) for small plates such as BBQ lamb with pumpkin or ramen. His most recent menu can be found at Sentralen ( sentralen.no ), an on-the-money new cultural hub in a former bank, where sharing plates include smoked beet, and beef tartare with rye crumbs (drop in early the next morning for a rave exercise class).

Where to drink in Oslo

Oslo's bars bulge at the seams on weekend nights - square up your shoulders and head to the hothouse Torggata Botaniske for herby cocktails such as the Braetur (with basil-infused gin), and Himkok ( himkok.no ), marked by a simple '27' on the door, where drinks include a tingling aquavit with yuzu sake and spruce syrup. Mid-century hepcat Fuglen ( fuglen.com ) stirs up Nordic-style tiki drinks using foraged leaves and flowers. Buying wine in an off-licence in Oslo is akin to sourcing bananas in wartime London, so no wonder the city's so fascinated by it. With 300 labels by the glass to dally with, Territoriet ( territoriet.no ) is the best place to while away a Sunday afternoon; for a lesson in funky natural wines head to Brutus ( barbrutus.no ), run by former Noma sommelier John Sonnichsen, or Bar Lardo (its naturalist website barlardo.no is great fun). This city takes coffee mighty seriously, none more so than champion barista Tim Wendelboe ( timwendelboe.no ), who has his own bean farm in Colombia: fuel up at his café before browsing the Grunerløkka district.

Where to get an art-fix in Oslo

As the neon sign atop Oslo's National Academy of the Arts says, 'This Is It'. The city's art profile has grown and grown, with the Astrup Fearnley having drawn smaller galleries into its orbit such as Peder Lund and Branstrup, while tricky-to-find backstreet spaces such as STANDARD pack a serious punch. 'That place has really driven the scene by bringing in rising new artists, and establishing Norwegian artists globally,' says gallerist Christian Torp ( christiantorp.com ). 'Some of the best artist-run spaces are 1857, Schloss and NoPlace.' For photography, head to Shoot, a new gallery in Barcode. Torp's latest group show is Concrete Island, fittingly enough held in a disused concrete tower until the end of October.

Where to stay in Oslo

The Thief hotel is set on the Tjuvholmen waterfront, with gold trim and touchy-feely textures, an underground tunnel leading to the spa, and heron's-eye views over the harbour and Astrup Fearnley Museum. The hotel has its own curator (spot works by Peter Blake and Jeff Koons), while the bar creates incredible film-inspired cocktails such as the Matrix (rum, sherry, pistachio syrup).

Address: The Thief, Landgangen 1, 0252 Oslo, Norway Telephone: +47 24 00 40 00 Website: thethief.com Price: Double rooms from about £295

For more on the SALT festival visit salted.no ; for further Oslo details see visitoslo.com . For reports on the city's food scene, see andershusa.com . Norwegian ( norwegian.com ) flies direct to Oslo from London.

By Emma Love

By Michelle Jana Chan

By Jonathan Bastable

This feature first appeared in Condé Nast Traveller November 2017

Torggata Botaniske bar

Kolonialen restaurant in the Bislett district

A bedroom at The Thief

Sophie Pierce

Madison Flager

Flora Vesterberg

Connor Sturges

A traditional clapboard house in Grunerløkka

Inside Brutus bar

Details at Fuglen bar

Biri-straw wallpaper at Fuglen

Photography at Kolonialen

Homewares at Eske, adjourning Kolonialen restaurant

Design for sale at Eske

The opera house

Shoot photography gallery

The Horse Thief , a Richard Prince lithograph at The Thief

Street view on Tjuvholmen

Vintage adverts at Fuglen

Head by Christopher Wool at the Astrup Fearnley

Artwork at Territoriet

The Barcode area

Books at Fuglen

FAQ , an artwork by Jan Freuchen at a show curated by Christian Torp

Design details at Fuglen

A reel-to-reel tape machine at Fuglen

A fan at Kolonialen

YME Universe fashion store

The opera house on the harbourside in Oslo

Shelves at Fuglen

Cold dip after a sauna

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 .

Popular Tours

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

(55 reviews)

from $ 342.25

Oslo City Highlights with Fjord Cruise

(90 reviews)

from $ 92.48

Private sightseeing in a Volvo XC 90 All inclusive museum / guiding

(13 reviews)

from $ 330.29

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 .

Oslo Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

(40 reviews)

from $ 60.33

Oslo Combo Tour: Grand City Tour and Oslo Fjord Cruise

(332 reviews)

from $ 132.12

City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

(331 reviews)

from $ 44.97

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 Private Airport Transfer Service || English Speaking Driver

(24 reviews)

from $ 153.57

Electric Mountain Bike Tour in the forest of Oslo

(10 reviews)

from $ 178.36

Oslo Panorama Tour with Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Vigeland Park

(96 reviews)

from $ 53.79

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

Read More »

Astrup Fearnley Museet Astrup Fearnley Museet

Oslo Active Tours Oslo Active Tours

Munch Museum (Munchmuseet) Munch Museum (Munchmuseet)

Private One-way Airport Transfer (Oslo Airport To / From Oslo)

(3 reviews)

from $ 89.15

Discover Oslo on foot

(29 reviews)

from $ 314.56

Oslo : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour )

from $ 59.24

Explore More of Oslo

Best hotels.

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Oslo Itinerary

Last Updated on February 26, 2024

by Emily Marty

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Norway is one of the world’s most beautiful and tourist-friendly countries. If you’re planning on mapping out a 2 to 3 days in Oslo itinerary, then read on.

The charming city is located on Norway’s southern coast. A compact, cosmopolitan metropolis, Oslo has an air of laidback sophistication to it; with a thriving bar and craft beer scene, plenty of interesting galleries, great restaurants, gorgeous natural surrounds, and beautiful architecture to take in, there’s so much for tourists to do and see here.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Oslo?

If you’re currently planning a trip to Norway , you may be wondering how many days to spend in Oslo. While it’s true that the city is very compact and most of the main attractions are in the centre of the city, it’s worthwhile trying to spend 2 days in Oslo, at least.

Having two days in the city is virtually a must if you’re thinking of visiting some of the larger museums on the Bygdøy Peninsula, for example, which is worth devoting a whole day to on its own.

And, if you can, planning to spend 3 days is an even better idea.

A third day in the Norwegian capital gives you the opportunity to go on a day trip or explore some of the gorgeous nature areas surrounding Oslo, which, frankly, are a massive part of what makes it such a special place to begin with.

Getting To & Around Oslo

Oslo and the wider Akershus region are primarily served by the Gardermoen and Torp airports. Both are connected to a variety of domestic and international flight routes, with Gardermoen being the larger of the two.

The quickest way to reach Oslo Sentrum from Gardermoen is with the Flytoget express trains service; trains run throughout the day and night and take approximately 20 minutes to reach Oslo Central Station. You can also book private transfers here .

Torp is the preferred airport of the two for several budget airlines, including Ryanair, and is a short drive from the nearby city of Sandefjord; bus and train transfers from Sandefjord to Oslo are available, with fairly frequent departures throughout the day. 

Several carriers also operate bus routes from Gothenburg in Sweden to Oslo; this is a great option for budget travellers, as the journey only takes a few hours and costs a fraction of the price of flying into Norway. You can view schedules here .

It’s also possible to reach Oslo from other parts of Norway via train (the Bergen -Oslo railway, Bergensbanen , is particularly well-known, thanks to its stunning scenery).

However, this is a more time-consuming option than flying, so it might not be the most pragmatic choice if you’re, say, trying to see as much as you can of Oslo in 2 days.

Public transport in Oslo is reliable, comprehensive, and easy to use, and central Oslo itself (or Sentrum, as it’s known locally) is compact and very walkable. Because of this, renting a car for travelling within Oslo or its surrounds isn’t necessary.

Public transit services run frequently and, on many routes, operate fairly late into the night. Downloading the Ruter app is highly recommended; it can be used for planning your journey, viewing departures and timetables, buying tickets, and more.

If you intend to use the public transit system frequently along with visiting a number of the city’s museums, it can be worth it to purchase an Oslo Pass .

This will give you access to the public transport network along with entry into a number of museums and attractions, such as the Akershus Fortress, the National Museum, the Fram Museum, the Nobel Peace Centre, the Munch Museum, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and more!

2 to 3-Day Oslo Itinerary 

The following itinerary suggests a range of activities and locations that you might want to check out if you’re planning on spending 2 days in Oslo or more.

Not only does it cover most of the city’s museums and cultural highlights, but it also provides a few recommendations for hiking trails on the outskirts of the city, in the Oslomarka recreation areas. 

Day 1 – Exploring Oslo Sentrum 

The first day will take you to some of the city’s best-loved attractions, all of which are within easy walking distance of each other. If you want to learn more about the history of the city, you can consider booking a walking tour or going on a bike tour .

It’s worth noting that one of the city’s top attractions, the Viking Ship Museum, is currently closed for renovations for the next few years. Keep this in mind when planning out your time in Oslo to avoid any disappointment!

The National Museum 

Oslo’s National Museum is home to Norway’s largest and most comprehensive collection of art, architecture, and design.

Perhaps most noteworthy is the museum’s Edvard Munch Room, which is home to some of the artist’s most important and groundbreaking works, including The Scream , Madonna , and The Girls on the Pier . It also boasts historic and more contemporary works from a range of both Norwegian and international artists. 

Additionally, the Museum hosts a range of temporary exhibitions and is open throughout the year. 

The Royal Palace

Initially built in the 19th century for King Charles III John, who was the ruler of Norway and Sweden at the time, Oslo’s Royal Palace is easily one of the entire country’s grandest, most impressive buildings.

The current residence of Norway’s King Harald V, the Royal Palace is typically open to visitors from June to August, while its grounds ( Slottsparken) are open year-round and make for a fantastic place for a picnic in the warmer weather.  

Oslo Domkirke 

While certainly humbler in appearance than other, major European cathedrals like Notre Dame in Paris or St. Paul’s in London, Oslo’s Domkirke (the Oslo Cathedral) – located at the end of Karl Johans gate – has significant historical value, as well as being a striking example of typical Norwegian architecture.

Built in 1697, Oslo Domkirke was Norway’s third-ever cathedral and is still used by the royal family for weddings and other events of significance.

Admission into Oslo Domkirke is free, and the richly-decorated ceiling in particular, with its multitude of frescoes, is well worth checking out. 

Akershus Festning 

Akershus Festning is a fortress and castle complex built to protect one of Oslo’s royal residences, with the fortress itself having been constructed all the way back in the early 1300s. While still in use as a military base, the fortress is open to the public and guided tours are available in the summer.

And, thanks to its being placed on a hill just above the water, Akershus Festning also offers lovely views of the Oslofjord (Oslo Fjord) below. You can even take a short boat ride for views and you’ll also pass by the Oslo City Hall while en route to the fortress, which is the host of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Oslo Opera House 

Famed for its ultra-modern design, no trip to Oslo is complete without heading here. The Oslo Opera House is found right on the waterfront in the Bjørvika district.

Also home to art installations and a distinct, serene atmosphere, the Opera House is definitely worth a visit even if you aren’t planning on attending any concerts there.

It’s also home to some great restaurants which, paired with the building’s fantastic view over the Oslofjord, make for the perfect place for lunch or dinner.

Neseblod Record Shop

While unlikely to appeal to everyone, fans of heavy music (and vinyl in general) will want to make sure to check out Neseblod Records, an infamous record shop-cum-museum dedicated to Norway’s black metal scene.

Black metal has become a bonafide cultural export for the country, and Neseblod was founded and initially run by Euronymous, a central member of the Norwegian band Mayhem, until he was brutally murdered by a member of a rival band. 

Despite its grim backstory, the shop is a place of pilgrimage for metal fans from around the world, and it’s not hard to see why.

In addition to stocking an enormous array of hard-to-get merch and records, Neseblodwas featured in the 2018 feature film Lords of Chaos ; if you do go, make sure to check out the notorious ‘black metal’ painted wall in the shop’s basement. 

Day 2 – Vigeland Park and Bygdøy Museums

If you’re looking to spend 2 days at least, a great way to make use of your second day in the city is by visiting the beautiful Vigeland Park, as well as some of the fascinating museums on Bygdøy Peninsula, which is easily accessed via public transit from Oslo Sentrum.  

Vigeland Sculpture Park 

One of Oslo’s absolute highlights no matter what the season, Vigeland Park is a subsection of Frogner Park that is home to a diverse collection of statues by the artist Gustav Vigeland.

These artworks are scattered throughout the Park, which offers free admission, and provide plenty of entertainment and opportunity for reflection; it’s worth setting aside a few hours to be able to see the whole display.

Norsk Folkemuseum/Gol Stavkirke 

Found on Oslo’s Bygdøy peninsula, the Norsk Folkemuseum (the Museum of Cultural History) is a museum dedicated to the social and cultural history of Norway. Part of its collection incorporates the world’s oldest open-air museum, which aims to recreate scenes from Norwegian urban and rural life throughout different historical periods.

Gol Stavkirke is one of the museum’s highlights; Norway is known for its distinctive, stunning stave churches, and Gol Stavkirke is one of the oldest examples of these, having been originally built in the 1200s and relocated to Bygdøy in the early 1900s to save it from being demolished.

With exquisite wooden carvings and painted murals, this humble church is a far cry from the colourful splendour of Oslo Domkirke, but is just as, if not more interesting to visit. 

The Norsk Folkemuseum is fairly large; you can probably devote up to half a day to it, depending on how much time you aim to spend in the museum’s open-air display. 

Fram Museum

Also located on Bygdøy, the Fram Museum is dedicated to Norway’s lengthy history of polar exploration.

With a particular focus on the explorers Otto Sverdrup, Fridtjof Nansen, and Roald Amundsen, the Fram Museum’s permanent collection is also home to displays of arctic wildlife, including penguins and polar bears, as well as housing the ship Fram , which was used in a number of Arctic and Antarctic expeditions.

The museum is also home to Gjøa , a sloop which, captained by Roald Amundsen in 1906, was the first ever vessel to successfully navigate the Northwest Passage, a treacherous sea route that stretches from Greenland to Alaska.

Dinner at Fiskeriet

Located in Oslo Sentrum, specialty seafood restaurant Fiskeriet is a must-visit for (non-plant-based) foodies. The restaurant’s menu is expansive and varied, and the ingredients used are some of the freshest money can buy. Booking in advance is strongly recommended, as Fiskeriet tends to be packed.

Day 3 – Hiking in Oslomarka 

One of Norway’s most unique attractions is the country’s stunning, varied natural landscapes.

While the sloping hills and forests of southern Norway are perhaps less dramatic than the towering mountains and glaciers of the western and northern parts of the country, Oslomarka (an umbrella name for all of the recreational/wilderness areas surrounding the city of Oslo) is the perfect place for hiking/walking day trips, most of which are accessible via public transport. 

If you’re planning on spending 3 days in Oslo, then tackling one (or all) of the hikes suggested below is a fantastic way to enjoy your final day here. Getting out into nature is absolutely one of the best things to do in Oslo.

Option #1 – Bygdøy Loop

Not far from Oslo Sentrum, there is a number of pleasant walks that you can take in Bygdøy, a peninsula in the western part of Oslo. The easiest way to reach Bygdøy from Oslo Sentrum is via the 30 bus; with frequent departures from Nationaltheatret, the journey takes around 15 minutes. 

Disembark at the Karenslyst Allé stop, where you’ll find the start of the walking trail. From there, you can branch off in a number of directions; walking out to Huk, a beach on the far end of Bygdøy, is especially recommended for the views. 

Option #2 – Grefsenkollen

Grefsenkollen is a fairly popular walk and viewpoint with minimal elevation gain that offers pleasant views of the greater Oslo area. Take the tram or bus from Oslo Sentrum to Grefsekollveien; from there, the walk to the viewpoint (Grefsenkollen utsikt) is fairly straightforward.

This is a fairly short route which will likely take no longer than two hours to complete, so you might like to combine it with another walk or activity to get the most out of your final day in Oslo.

Option #3 – Kolsåstoppen 

Kolsåstoppen is said to be the most popular hike in Oslomarka, and for good reason. Offering views of the Oslofjord and Bærum, the walk is 7.5 km long and provides plenty of stunning scenery. If you want to get the most that you can out of Oslo in 3 days, then Kolsåstoppen is probably going to be the hike for you. 

There are multiple routes to Kolsåstoppen, but it’s easiest to start the walk from a farm called Stein Gård; the 150 bus will take you there from Oslo Sentrum, with a journey time of roughly 40 minutes. From Stein Gård, there’s a looping track that will take you to the viewpoint on Kolsåstoppen and back to the farm again.

Expect the hike to take somewhere between three or four hours, though this will depend on conditions on the path and what time of year you’re visiting.

Evening Activity – Craft Beer at Røør

Another haven for craft beer enthusiasts, Røør is a popular local haunt perfect for sampling unusual or rarer craft beers.

The bar has a constantly changing selection of 70 craft beers and 4 kinds of mead, 71 of which are on tap. Note that Røør doesn’t have a food menu, so you’ll need to make other arrangements for either eating out or self-catering. 

Where to Stay in Oslo

Hotell Bondeheimen – Mid-range travellers will love this 3-star hotel in the centre of Oslo. There are a number of comfortable rooms on offer along with a number of other great amenities for guests to enjoy.

Clarion Hotel Oslo – This chic and sophisticated hotel in central Oslo is great for those travelling on a bit of a higher budget in Norway. They have a number of modern and comfortable rooms on offer, a great location for exploring the highlights of the city and plenty of other amenities available for guests.

Frogner House Apartments – If you’d like your own flat while visiting Oslo, then this aparthotel is a great choice. They have a range of different apartments available while also being located centrally. Thre are also a number of other great amenities to choose from.

K7 Hotel Oslo – Backpackers and those travelling solo will love this sleek hostel in central Oslo. Offering both dorms and private rooms, there are also great common areas and self-catering facilities for guests to use.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Oslo hotels!

Planning to visit Oslo is one of the best things you can do when mapping out your trip to Norway. The capital has a lot to offer visitors and it is truly a joy to explore.

Are you planning a trip to Oslo? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Tromso Itinerary

The Ultimate 3, 4 or 5 Days in Lofoten Itinerary

Is Norway Expensive? A Norway Trip Cost Guide

About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

How to Spend An Incredible Three Days in Oslo (A 2023 Itinerary)

At the top of the Oslo Fjord at the southern tip of Norway, Oslo is Norway’s biggest county and capital city. It’s not very often one gets urged to visit the city because it is often overshadowed by its stunning fjords and natural settings. Well, I’m here to change that. 

Oslo is an incredible Scandinavian city, bursting at the seams with greenery, fun outdoor activities, exciting museums, and tons of excellent seafood. It’s one of the fastest-growing capital cities on the continent, with an ultra-modern build of incredible contemporary architecture. 

But this modern facade covers a long and fascinating history. Founded as a city at the end of the Viking Age in 1040, the city has been home to Vikings, Medieval communities, and still-reigning royals before it became the modern city it is today.

The city is clean, quiet, and overflowing with green spaces. While the capital is only home to around 700 thousand people (one of the smaller capitals in Europe), locals are friendly and welcoming and live an excellent quality of life.

With an international airport, a seaport, and major train stations, the city is a fantastic base to explore southern Norway and even branch into Sweden and Denmark. While it’s certainly not the cheapest city on the bucket list, the incredible natural scenery, impressive architecture, and cleanliness will make up for it. There are also tons of free activities that you can do in the city that make it possible to travel without breaking the bank.

Norwegians love to spend time outdoors. Even in the midst of winter, when the sun only shines for a few hours each day, locals like to take advantage of the sunshine and spend time skiing, cross-country skiing, and hiking through snowy trails. That said, the city really comes alive in the summer, when some fantastic hiking and biking trails open up to the public, along with opportunities to swim, fish, waterski, and go boating.

In this article, I will look at how to spend three days in Oslo, Norway’s capital and most diverse city. Continue reading if you’re in the market for a relaxing yet exciting Scandinavian adventure!

How Long Should I Spend in Oslo?

If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Oslo, the capital of Norway is the perfect destination for a long weekend visit. It’s small enough to explore the highlights of the city as well as its surroundings, dive into the city’s historical background, and enjoy some of Norway’s most pristine nature. 

With three days in Oslo, you could easily fit in all the major attractions without rushing around from destination to destination, all while waking up at a reasonable hour and enjoying a bunch of time to relax.

Conveniently, the city is super easy to walk around, with few hills and abundant pedestrian footpaths. Of course, Oslo also has an efficient public transport network that connects the inner city with just about any residential area you might want to visit during a short trip. This ease of getting around means you won’t have to spend hours in transit from one attraction to the next and can make more of the little time you have in the city.

That being said, I highly advise following our efficient itinerary and making some changes according to what interests you most. Fitting in the best highlights of any capital city in three days can be overwhelming, so make sure you plan out your routes to ensure you don’t skip out on anything important!

Day 1 – The City Center: Exploring Gamle Oslo and Sentrum

Whenever I visit a new city, my favorite thing to do is walk. Walking is one of the best ways to see the ins and outs of a city, passing by places and people you would otherwise miss if using public transport. This route runs through the entire center of the city, hitting all the classic landmarks and beginning and ending at two gorgeous spots to swim in the fjords. 

The route begins at the Sorenga Waterfront on the city’s eastern side. This area houses one of Oslo’s best seawater pools, with clean and safe water perfect for a morning dip. Sorenga is a new neighborhood with a vibrant young community. The pool is open year-round, with saunas popular during winter, and cold water swimming is encouraged for summer dips when the weather is warm.

After a refreshing start to the day, enjoy a stroll through the lush Kongsgarden just around the corner, one of several medieval historical sites in the city. Just a ten-minute walk through the harbor, the Oslo Opera House is one of the city’s most iconic modern architectural feats. With incredible glass walls, mirrored sides, and an angular concrete hill to climb, this gleaming building looks like an abstract boat emerging from the harbor. Wander around it and enjoy incredible city views from the slanted walkway.

Once you’ve marveled at ancient and modern Oslo, stroll seventeen minutes along the harbor to Vippa , a vibrant food court marketplace on the edge of the Oslo Fjord. The space allows farmers, producers, and chefs starting out in the field to sell their products to visitors, all while doing so sustainably. Grab a bite to eat and fuel up for a day of walking and exploring.

Next, it’s an eleven-minute walk to Akershus Fortress , a medieval castle built in the 12th century to protect and provide a royal residence for the royals in the city. For a small fee, you can enter the fortress and tour the castle, but it is free to walk around the grounds.

Walk along the harbor for another ten minutes, passing incredibly manicured flower beds along the way, to reach the Oslo City Hall (Radhuset ). This iconic municipal building is the capital city council of the country and is the setting for the annual Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony. This stark modern structure was built during the Second World War.

Right beside this modern structure sits the Oslo National Theatre. As one of Norway’s largest and most prominent venues for performing arts, you would be lucky to get a ticket to watch a performance in this incredible building that has been standing since 1899.

Next, enjoy a slow loop up and down Karl Johans Gate , arguably the most famous street in Oslo, ending by heading back up towards Oslo Cathedral and The Royal Palace. The road is lined with incredible restaurants, boutique stores, and brand-name shops, so even though the walk is only ten minutes, you could spend hours on this street.

If you continue walking down the street, you’ll run into the Oslo Cathedral , an impressive structure built by the King of Norway in the 12th century. The building was one of the most important places in the city for 500 years until a fire destroyed it in 1624. The current structure you see today was built in 1694 and was restored in the 1800s and 2000s.

At the end of Karl Johans Gate, end your walking tour at the iconic Royal Palace . Locally known as the Det Kongelige Slott in Norwegian, the palace is the current residence of the Norwegian royal family. It was built in the 1800s and is surrounded by manicured public parks and private gardens. It continues to be one of the country’s most iconic symbols and is open to the public during the summer months.

After a day out and about on your feet, end the day as you started it – with a dip in the waters of the Oslo fjord. Aker Brygge is a small commercial area along the water that houses many restaurants, cafes, and shops in a modern complex. If you continue walking down the dock, you’ll pass over some incredible bridges, residential buildings, and the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art; which is well worth a browse if you have the time.

At the very end of the pavilion, there are a few artificial beaches and floating docks, usually dotted with locals sunning themselves during the warmer months. Enjoy an afternoon swim and a cold shower before heading to one of the fjord-side restaurants in Aker Brygge for a well-deserved meal. The Salmon is a great seafood restaurant known for its fresh Norwegian catch.

Day 2 – Art, Culture, and History: Oslo’s Best Museums and Gardens

With a small taste of Olso’s modern art the evening before, I hope you’ll have wet your appetite for a much-needed day soaking in some of Oslo’s art, culture, and history.

Start your second day in Oslo at the Munch Museum , an incredible modernist building in east Oslo, filled with thousands of works of art produced by the famous artist Edvard Munch, along with his private collection of tools, books, and art supplies. This museum is in the same waterfront area as the Opera House you would have visited the day before and is home to three versions of Munch’s iconic ‘The Scream’; a painting, a drawing, and a print.

While you’re by the water, grab a bite to eat at BonBon Oslo , serving delicious crepes with savory and sweet fillings. It’s a little pricy but well worth it for a tasty crepe outside in Oslo! The Vandelay is another excellent breakfast and brunch spot, serving classic dishes with streetside seating.

After a relaxing meal, take a twenty-minute bus journey up north to The Oslo Botanical Gardens and Natural History Museum / Botanisk Hage Naturhistorisk Museum (or walk the twenty-minute journey). Located in Toyen, this expansive botanical garden has manicured lawns and incredibly diverse local flora. Most of the area is designed as an Arboretum, with over 5500 different types of plants. The area is used as a recreational space for the city, so it is as popular with locals as it is with tourists. The Botanical Gardens are a living museum featuring two greenhouses and various themed gardens.

At the northern corner of the gardens, the Natural History Museum offers the chance to explore over 4.5 billion years of natural history, focusing on the Scandinavian region. If you’re interested in geology and archeology, this museum could keep you occupied for hours.

Next on the agenda is a visit to the historical neighborhoods of Damstredet and Telthusbakken . Just over a mile walk from the Botanical Gardens, the journey should take at most 25 minutes whether you walk or use public transport. Damstredet and Telthusbakken are two picturesque cobblestone streets lined with wooden houses built in the first half of the 19th century. Well preserved and still inhabited today, walking in this area is a sure way to make you feel like you’ve taken a step back in time.

Taking a journey even further back in time, a trip to Oslo wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Viking Ship Museum . Just 30 minutes away by public transport, the Viking Ship Museum sits on a peninsula called Bygdoy, just across the fjord from Oslo Sentrum. This museum houses three of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world. Take note that the museum is closed for renovation until 2025/2026.

But don’t worry; there are many more museums to visit if you’re visiting before 2026. A short walk away on the same peninsula, The Fram Museum might just be the most exciting museum in Oslo. This museum houses the original expedition ship used to explore the Arctic and Antarctic by famous Norwegian explorers during the Heroic Age. The child-friendly museum uses interactive technology to make you feel like you are on board the original vessel.

Your final museum for the trip, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, or Norske Folkemuseum (about one mile away), depicts how Norwegian people have been living from the 16th century up until today. The open-air museum includes 160 historic buildings surrounded by lush foliage, showing what life is like in different regions in Norway. From cities to mountains, it’s one of the most incredible museums to enjoy a taste of life in Norway centuries ago.

Day 3 – A Day in Nature: From Vigeland Park to the Oslo Fjords 

Day three calls for a bit of relaxation and nature therapy. Start your day in west Oslo at the famous Frogner Park. Oslo’s equivalent of Central Park, this incredible park features incredible rose gardens, color-coordinated flower beds, lush lawns, and impressive fountains where one can enjoy a light stroll or lay around on the grass. 

Inside Frogner Park, Vigeland Sculpture Park is an incredible park packed with over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. These bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures are an icon of the city, and Vigeland Sculpture Park is currently the largest sculpture park by one single artist.

After a morning in the park, I recommend taking advantage of the gorgeous location and enjoying the natural scenery of the Oslo fjord. Hovedoya Island is the closest island to Oslo city, located just a seventeen-minute ferry ride from the port at Aker Brygge. There are plenty of ferries and boat tours that can bring you to and from the island year-round. 

The island is home to incredible forests, beaches, and cultural sites, which will make you feel a million miles from the hustle of the city center. There are two popular beaches on the west of the island, while inland is best for hiking. Part of the island is protected as a nature reserve.

On the island’s northern part, you can visit the ruins of a Cistercian monastery built in 1147. In the same area, a couple of cannon batteries made by Norway’s army in 1808 stand tall and strong.

The next island, Lindoya, is another stunning fjord island worth visiting. It will take you about 20 minutes to travel by ferry from Aker Brygge, transiting through Hovedoya on the way. The idyllic island is home to around 300 summer cottages, owned mainly by locals, painted a classic red, yellow, green, and white. The island looks like something out of a postcard, with picture-perfect traditional wooden cottages overlooking the ocean.

The beauty of this holiday island is that there isn’t much to do here. Other than swimming in the pristine water or enjoying boating activities, the island has a football field and a small kiosk shop in the center of the island. Similarly to Hovedoya Island, the northern part of the island is preserved as a park.

If you feel like a guided tour might suit you best, this Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise on an Electric Boat cruises past all the major attractions along the waterfront that you would have already visited on days one and two of your adventure. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

By the time you return to mainland Oslo, I have no doubt you’ll be peckish for a tasty meal. Your most convenient option would be to grab a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants on Aker Brygge. Olivia Aker Brygge serves up delicious and affordable Italian food, while Pastis Bistrobar beside it is one of the area’s top modern French restaurants. Although slightly busy with tourists during the summer months, this remains one of the most beautiful places to watch the traditional Norwegian sailboats docked alongside the Oslo fjord.

What to Know Before you Go

Where to Stay for Three Days in Oslo

If you only have three days in Oslo, I highly recommend finding a place to stay in the center of town. Luckily enough, the city is so small and compact that even staying outside the city center means you won’t be too far from the heart of Oslo.

Your best bet would be to find a hotel, Airbnb, or guesthouse in Sentrum or Gamle Oslo, two of the busiest parts of town.

Camillas Hus is a boutique hotel in the center of Oslo Frogner. Located just above the Royal Palace and Gardens, this hotel is just a short walk to the beautiful Homansbyen high street lined with shops and restaurants and just a short walk or tram ride from the harbor and other main attractions in the city.

Set in a historic converted home, each room is beautifully designed with a blend of antique and bespoke modern interiors, with warm wallpapers, luxurious linens, and tons of natural light. All rooms come equipped with a desk, private bathroom, wardrobe, and tea and coffee facilities. Some even include a private balcony.

Wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread and breakfast pastries, which you can enjoy along with your a la carte breakfast each morning.

With such a cozy atmosphere and incredibly friendly and helpful staff, Camillas Hus is bound to make you feel right at home in Oslo.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Oslo

There’s no doubt about it; the best time of year to visit Oslo is in the summer months, between June and August. During summer, the weather is warm, and the days are long – really, really long. The entire country comes alive during the summer when locals from other Scandinavian countries visit their holiday homes in Norway. 

That being said, just like the Danish and Swedish visit to catch a break from the city, so do most Norweigian locals take a few weeks off to spend time in the Southern Oslo Fjords or further afield. This means that during school holidays, in particular, the city of Oslo is quiet, often populated with more tourists exploring the streets than locals. 

Nevertheless, summer brings about tons of events and fun activities to do in Oslo when temperatures hover at a moderate 20 degrees celsius – not too hot, not too cold. 

Norway’s summer is very short, around three months, to be precise. So, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid losing out. Attractions begin to close up shop or limit their hours around late September or early October when the days are shorter. However, you will usually find more affordable flights and accommodations during shoulder tourist season.

Winter in Oslo is freezing cold and dark. With daylight only lasting a few hours each day. Even then, with most days being overcast, you can expect a lot of snow, rain, and cold temperatures. Of course, there are some exciting things to do in winter in and around Oslo, from skiing at the local ski resort to ice skating and dining in cozy restaurants. Accommodation is undoubtedly the cheapest during winter when few tourists journey to this northern Scandinavian city.

Getting Around Oslo

One of the things that make Oslo so great for a weekend visit is that it’s super small and easy to get around. With most major attractions just a few short miles from one another, the city is relatively easy to explore on foot or bike.

Like any European capital city, Oslo has an efficient, safe, and reliable public transport network connecting all parts of the inner city to the surrounding suburbs. Tickets are priced by zone, and all buses, trams, trains, and undergrounds are included in one easy-to-use ticketing system. 

Take heed: you need to scan into every bus, tram, or train you catch. If you try your luck traveling without a ticket, ticket patrols are common, and fines are hefty – don’t risk it just because of the small fee!

If you’re staying within the city center (which I recommend you do for a short trip), a one-way journey within Zone 1 costs around $3.75. Zone 1 includes the Oslo city center, while Zone 2 tickets can get you into Oslo’s residential suburbs. A 24-hour Zone 1 ticket costs $11.30, while students and children under the age of 18 travel for discounted prices.

If you are staying in the outskirts of the city center in areas like Sandvika, Lillestrom, or Asker (only a short distance from the city), you will need to make use of a Zone 2 ticket to get into the city. A single ticket within Zone 2 costs $6.20, while a 24-hour pass will set you back $18.50

The easiest way to plan your trips is using the Ruter App on IOS or Android. Buying tickets using this app is the cheaper option, as riders are required to pay an additional fee of $2 to purchase a ticket on board the transportation.

Oslo is the central hub of transportation for the entire country. The city is home to Oslo Gardermoen International Airport (OSL), which services flights from within Norway, Europe, and across the globe.

Oslo Central Station (locally referred to as Oslo S) is the central railway station in Oslo and the largest in the country. The station services international and local trains that connect the city to all four corners of Europe by rail. It also includes a bus terminal that services express buses across Norway and into Scandinavia.

You can also catch an airport express train from this station, which is just a ten-minute sprint from the city and is operated by Flytoget. Local trains are operated by VY and are often cheaper than Flytoget, covering the same distance for a reduced fare.

Uber is available in Oslo, although this is the only city in the whole country where you will find an Uber. Taxis are abundant, and prices are similar to Uber.

Safety Advice

Oslo is easily one of the safer cities in Europe, if not the world. Although international crime figures label the city as extremely safe, there are a few less secure areas and neighborhoods where you should be extra careful, like in any big city. 

With a high quality of living and low poverty rate, most of the crime experienced here is petty theft of an opportunistic nature. Regarding crime, the city is super safe to walk around at any time of the day. However, you should always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when walking alone to avoid petty theft like pickpocketing or muggings. 

There are also a few scams to look out for in Oslo:

The first is a common taxi scam, where taxi drivers pretend their meters are broken just to charge you an inflated price for your trip. When taking a cab, ensure the driver turns on the meter and that it works. I also advise opening out your own map of the journey to ensure you aren’t taken on a whirlwind ride to make the trip longer and more expensive.

Second, if someone approaches you outside an ATM cash machine and mentions that they can help you ‘avoid local bank fees,’ they are not to be believed. Instead, these scammers will skim your card and watch for your PIN, only to duplicate your details and drain your account at a later stage. ALWAYS make sure you cover your hand when putting in your PIN.

While not so common, there have been reports of locals distracting tourists by throwing bird poop on you, offering to help you clean up your shirt while pickpocketing you in the process. Another pickpocketing scam is known as the ‘Guessing Game Scam,’ where a busker on the side of the street will distract passers-by with an intriguing guessing game while their accomplice pickpockets innocent bystanders in the crowd.

The best way to avoid these scams is to keep your personal belongings close to you, especially in crowded areas.

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

Related Posts

How to Spend One Week in Mauritius: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

What’s it Like to Travel in Liechtenstein?

What to Take On the Camino Primitivo: My Detailed Packing List

Exploring the Abandoned Monte Palace Hotel in Sao Miguel

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors

13 Reasons to Plan a Trip to the Azores

Laura , I loved your post about Oslo! We are from São Paulo ,Brazil. if you need some information about Brasil, you can count on me The way you write and explain are lovely!!! Thanks a lot! we are going on beginning of September

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Meet Lauren Juliff

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

What to eat in Singapore? — 10+ must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Nha Trang — 45+ best street food in…

How to prepare for trekking in Nepal? — 10+ Nepal trekking…

Where to go & what to do in Varanasi? — 15+…

What to buy in Indonesia? — Top +9 famous gifts, souvenirs…

What to buy in Kyoto? — 31+ must-buy Kyoto souvenirs, gifts…

What to buy in India? — 29+ best gifts from India…

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

Must eat in Hong Kong — 7+ must eat & must…

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Oslo travel blog — the fullest oslo travel guide for a beautiful budget trip for first-timers.

There are not many cities in the world where you can swim in the summer and ski in the winter like Oslo – The Norway’s largest city and also its capital. Oslo is a charming Scandinavian city in Northern Europe (Nordic countries), but it has many interesting hybrid cultures associated with the Southern Europe. Oslo is not only the capital of Norway but also considered the home of the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize. Oslo is also known as the “city of museums” because it has nearly 100 all kinds of different large and small museums. So, traveling to Oslo, Norway: Should you go or not and if so, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Oslo for the first-time? Let’s check out our Oslo travel blog (Oslo blog) with the fullest Oslo travel guide (Oslo guide, Oslo Norway travel guide, Oslo tourist guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• Flam Norway travel blog — The fullest Flam guide for first-timers
• Lofoten travel blog — The fullest Lofoten travel guide & what to do in Lofoten for first-timers
• Scandinavia itinerary — How to make a best itinerary for Scandinavia for 8 days?
• Trolltunga blog — The fullest Trolltunga guided hike & How to get to Troll’s Tongue Norway?
• Bergen travel blog — The fullest Bergen travel guide & suggested how to spend 3 days in Bergen perfectly?

Oslo travel blog: Overview of Oslo

Oslo city was established in the early 11th century, but it was not until two centuries later that it officially became the capital of Norway. Since then, this city has made great progress and became a luxury city that everyone wants to once set foot in.

Oslo is also the most populous city of the country with an area of ​​454 km² and a population of more than 1 million people. It was founded by King Harald III in 1048. However by 1624 it was severely destroyed by a fire.

Oslo travel blog: Should I travel to Oslo and how long is enough?

As I posed the question at the beginning of this article, there are many people will indeed wonder whether to travel to Oslo or not? – A Nordic country has always been praised as one of the most livable places in the world. For me, the answer is probably both yes and no. If you only have 2-3 weeks to explore Europe while there are so many other fascinating destinations, the answer based on my European travel experience will be perfectly appropriate for.

YES, if you intend to go to fjords in Bergen or other majestic natural landscapes, and NO, if you are only traveling to Oslo! Referring to Norway, perhaps the most outstanding thing is its enchanting, breathtaking natural landscapes with majestic mountains or spectacular, stunning fjords and beautiful lakes. For example, the Sognefjorden is considered one of the most beautiful fjords and one of the most beautiful places on earth. Nature lovers absolutely should not miss this land if you intend to come to Norway. However, if you have already been to Norway, of course you should visit Oslo. Because from here you will easily traveling to Bergen or other surrounding areas.

My personal feeling when I first arrived here is that this place is quite open to foreigners. Like the little America of Europe. It must be said that it is complete opposite of Denmark. Here I see a lot of the expat community.

Besides the popular groups of Chinese or Japanese tourists, the settlers from Asia, Turkey, Somalia … are not less at all. In the heart of Oslo, there is a separate street of Asian or Turkish grocery stores (There are several Vietnamese stores). Said that but if you travel alone here is also very safe compared to other countries.

Norway is like other Nordic countries, the architecture is often quite simple, so you will not see epic architectures like the Parliament of Budapest or magnificent beautiful works like Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Even the Norwegian Royal Palace is designed in a very simple style.

So in my opinion, you should spend 1-2 days here is enough, you should still focus on discovering other beautiful places in Norway. A perfect Norway travel itinerary will including 1 day for Oslo capital, 1 day for Trolltunga (Devil’s Tongue) and 2 days to exploring Bergen city. When I haven’t traveled to Oslo, I think Helsinki is boring, there’s nothing to play or see there. But when I went to Norway and saw it, well, there was also Oslo city, too :)). But in short, when you have come here, you also need to know how to travel, where to go and what to do… Right?!! Let’s get started!

Oslo blog: When to visit?

The weather and climate in Oslo are like many other cities in Northern Europe with very cold winters and cool, pleasant summers. The best time to come here is from June to September during summer season with pleasant weather, the average temperature is about 20 degrees Celsius. The sunshine time is long and the sunset time last until 10 pm. So, it is very suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Late October to early November, snow starts to fall. During the period from November to January, sunny hours are very short, it usually starts at 10am and get dark at 3pm or 4pm and most of times are rainy and snowy days. This time is more suitable for visiting museums.

In March, the sunshine duration lasting longer which is suitable for some ice sports such as skiing, snowboarding, etc. Late March and early April, the snow will begin to melt and spring begins in May.

If you want to participate in winter outdoor activities like skiing or ice skating, you can also visit Oslo in winter which starts from December to March every year.

Oslo travel guide: How to get to Oslo?

From Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries, there are many international flights such as Aeroflot, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Airways… can take you to Norway with a quite convenient route, you only have to transit once.

Getting from the airport to the city center of Oslo

Oslo Airport is located in Gardermoen, 35 km (22 miles) to the northeast of Oslo. The cheapest way is to take NSB train. From Oslo Airport (OSL), you should take a normal train to Oslo S (Oslo Central Station). Ticket price is 101 kroner / adult, valid within 2.5 hours. You can take the trains with R10 symbol for Drammen direction, R11 for Skien direction and L12 for Kongsberg direction. Details of train departure times can be found HERE .

Children and the elderly (4-15 years old or over 67 years old) off 50%, students off 25%. If you stay far from the center you can use this ticket to continue moving to the hotel if still within the valid time of the ticket. Please do not take the Flytoget train (the Airport Express Train), the fare is much more expensive with €20 /one-way.

Norway in particular and other European countries in general have a convenient public transport system and well connected. In addition getting here by air, from neighboring countries you can reach Norway by boat. Due to being part of Scandinavian peninsula, Norway has a fairly long coastline with many large ports with ferries and cruise ships connecting countries in the same region which is convenient for tourists to getting here by boat. You can refer to some direct ferries from Copenhaghen, UK, and other Nordic countries to Oslo here .

Oslo travel blog: Getting around Oslo

Getting around in Oslo city center. Below are types of tickets you should consider to buy to traveling around Oslo as well as Norway.

Oslo Hop On – Hop Off Sightseeing Bus 24h

Ticket price: €36 / 24h

There is only one ticket type for this time frame. With this ticket you can reach up to 18 points in the city and 1 trip every 30 minutes.

• Oslo City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass

With this ticket, you can travel within Zone 1 and Zone 2 of Oslo and get free admission at most attractions. Note: Not applicable for airport-city center route.

Ticket price:

• €45 / 24h (starting from 2019 this price takes effect).
• €66 / 48h for adult.

Child tickets (6-15 years old) are half the price above and seniors over 67 are equivalent to €36 and €52. (Remember to bring personal proof papers if you are eligible for a discount). I find this pass is quite cheap compared to the neighboring Denmark.

Buy Oslo Pass in advance here.

Public transport when traveling in Norway

If you buy single tickets or daily tickets to travel by public transport (tram, train, bus…), you should download the RuterBillett app ( iOS , Android ) to buy tickets. You refer to the price list below and note that the price does not apply to ferry to get to Bygdøy Island.

Single ticket pre-bought (free transfer / return within 1 hour) Adult NOK 35 = €3.5 (you use rate: NOK 10 = €1 for easy calculation) Child / senior: NOK 18

Single ticket, bought from driver (free transfer / return within 1 hour) Adult: NOK 55 Child / senior: NOK 28

24-hour ticket (flexible start time, non-personal ticket) Adult: NOK 105 Child / senior: NOK 53

7-day ticket (flexible start date, non-personal ticket) Adult: NOK 249 Child / youth / senior: NOK 125

In short, traveling in Oslo is quite expensive. Particularly, the cost for the airport-hotel route is about 20 Euros, adding a daily ticket if you choose a day ticket is about 10 Euros and for Oslo pass it is 41 Euros.

In addition, you can get around Oslo by ferry. All information about timetables, routes, tickets… can be found here .

Oslo travel blog: What to do and where to go?

Vigeland sculpture park.

Vigeland Sculpture Park (Vigeland Nudist Park) (Norwegian: Vigelandsparken) is one of the places that attracts the most tourists in Oslo with more than 1 million visitors annually. This is a famous sculpture park was established in 1939-1949 with 212 sculptures in bronze, granite and cast iron created by Gustav Vigeland and are placed along the 850 meter long avenue of Frogner Park.

One of the most famous sculptures in Vigelandsparken is the Monolith work. This is a “Human Tower” over 14 meters high and was carved from just one single granite block. The tower consists of 121 human figures arranged from foot to top.

In addition, there is an Angry Boy statue with one-legged standing. Any visitor who comes here will rub and hold his hand as if to comfort him … to lessen his anger :), so that his left hand is much more shiny.

The fountain is also one of the park’s notable stops which surrounded by 20 statues that representing different stages in human life from childhood to death.

You can also visit the Vigeland Museum, the designer studio with plaster mold castings, a 5-minute walk from the park. I am quite impressed with this park, perhaps this is one of the places I like the most when traveling to Oslo.

Located in: Frogner Park Address: Nobels gate 32, 0268 Oslo, Norway Opened: 1907 Hours: Open 24 hours Admission: Free

Akershus Castle

The castle (also a fortress) was built in 1299, used to the residence of the Norwegian royal family, then the castle became a fortress in 1592, and was rebuilt as a Renaissance castle in 1637-1648.

Akershus consists of several large halls, the Akershus church and the Royal Mausoleum, the government’s reception rooms and the halls where the banquets are held. The small historic church at Akershus castle is now the royal grave of Norway.

Address: 0150 Oslo, Norway Opened: 1300 Hours: 6AM–9PM Architectural style: Medieval architecture

The Norwegian Opera and Ballet

The Oslo Opera House is the largest cultural center built in Norway since the beginning of the 14th century. The theater has three stages and more than 1,000 rooms.

The building’s standout design feature is the roof that slopes up from the water of the Oslo Fjord. The roof is also a walkable public plaza. In summer, there are many people sunbathing and picnic on its rooftop.

This theater is located right next to the coast, so the view is also very beautiful, but it is located close to the Oslo central station, so it is also very convenient to travel. Ticket prices vary depending on the types of shows, but if you want to buy a short time tour with the guide, the price is the same as I mentioned below.

Address: Kirsten Flagstads Pl. 1, Oslo 0150, Norway Opened: April 12, 2008 Capacity: 1,400 Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Admission fee: €10 / adult; €6 / child or student.

Det kongelige Slott (The Royal Palace)

The Norwegian Royal Palace is where the King and Queen live and was built in the early 19th century.

You can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony when the palace guards finish their duty and the new guards take over their positions at 1:30pm everyday and last for about 40 minutes.

During summer, the palace is open to guided tours at the same fare mentioned below. If not, you just looking and walking around the royal park right there is enough. The park is extremely large and is considered as the largest public park in the city of Oslo. The Norwegian Royal Palace and its park are also considered one of the must-visit places in Oslo.

Address: Slottsplassen 1, 0010 Oslo, Norway Opened: July 26, 1849 Construction started: 1825 Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture Architect: Hans Linstow Admission fee: €10 / adult; €9 / Children

Karl Johans gate (Karl Johan Street)

This is the main shopping street in the capital of Oslo with a length of 1.02km, mainly focused on branded shops, souvenir shops, cafes etc … You just need to strolling along the street to know more about the city. If you are a shopping lover with abundant budget can drop by branded shops to freely shopping.

Viking Ship Museum

Viking pirates used to lay down the law in Europe in Middle Ages are terrifying for many people. Coming to this museum you will see the Viking ancient ships which were built more than 1000 years ago, these are long and narrow ships with a length of more than 20 meters, used to for long journeys with masts about 20 meters high. There is a total of 5 Viking ships intact and some are under restored. In addition to boats, the museum also displays items such as clothing, weapons, hats and jewelry, and other household items.

• Oslo City and Viking Ship Museum Private Walking Tour

The museum is a large hall, specifically designed to display three ships from 9th century: the Gokstad, the Tune and the Oseberg. These three ships were found in the 12th century in southern Norway.

Address: Huk Aveny 35, 0287 Oslo, Norway Opened: 1926 Architect: Arnstein Arneberg

The Fram Polarship Museum

The Fram Museum is home to recreate one of the most dangerous expeditions in the history of steam or sail ships. In the museum, the Fram is the central and strongest wooden ship ever made by the Nowaygeian to bring explorer Roald Amundsen to the Antarctica and where he discovered the South Pole.

From 1893 to 1912, the ship Fram took part in three major expeditions to both polar regions. Currently, around the three floors of the ship are artifacts from those expeditions.

The museum is located on the Bygdøy Peninsula and you can easily reach by bus from the center of Oslo (The bus number 30 minutes and takes 20 minutes, every 10 minutes with a trip) or in summer by boat from the port in front of the city hall (1 trip every 20 minutes and travel time is about 10 minutes).

Oslo Fram Museum and Kon-Tiki Museum Private Tour

Address: Bygdøynesveien 39, 0286 Oslo, Norway Established: May 20, 1936 Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Admission fee: €13

There are also many other museums around such as the Kon-Tiki Museum , the Norwegian Maritime Museum , The Viking Ship Museum , Norwegian Folk Museum is about 15-minute walk away from there. If you have a Oslo Pass, you can freely visit without worrying about the fares. For me personally, this is the most beautiful museum among the museums I have visited while traveling to Oslo, Norway.

Nobel Peace Center

Everyone knows that the annual Nobel Prize is awarded in the capital of Stockholm, Sweden. But did you know that only the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo? This center displays artifacts related to the settlement of war, peace and conflicts in Norway as well as abroad.

Admission is 120 kroner (it’s free if you have Oslo Pass), but if you’re just walking outside it’s free, of course. In front of the building is a fairly spacious plaza overlooking the Oslo harbour and ferry terminal, perfect for… check-in photo taking!

Address: Brynjulf Bulls plass 1, 0250 Oslo, Norway Hours: Saturday; Sunday: 10AM–5PM

Rådhuset (Oslo City Hall)

Oslo City Hall is similar in architecture to Stockholm city hall and is another free place to visit in the city!

Inside, the walls are decorated with paintings in the style of the first half of the twentieth century with the content about the culture and life of the Norwegian people. Alternatively, you can also visit the other rooms inside Rådhuset.

Address: Rådhusplassen 1, 0037 Oslo, Norway Hours: 9AM–4PM Construction started: 1931

Oslo Domkirke (Oslo Cathedral)

Norwegian people in particular and Northern Europe in general are mostly atheists, or if they do follow the Lutheran lineage, so the church here is not as majestic as in the south (France, Italy, Spain …). The Oslo Domkirke is the cathedral in Oslo, but on the outside it is very modest, no one knows it is the cathedral!

In the summer of 2011, after the terrible massacre on the island of Utøya performed by Breivik (Norwegian), the entire church seemed to be covered with roses to commemorating the dead.

Behind the church is Basarhallene (The bazaar halls) with very beautiful arched architecture. The houses here are now cafes, shops for antiques and handicrafts.

Address: Karl Johans gate 11, 0154 Oslo, Norway Architectural style: Baroque architecture

Damstredet & Telthusbakken

These are 2 streets located close to each other in the Gamle Aker area. The special feature in these two streets is the wooden houses and brick houses dating from the 18th century bearing the Nordic traditional house style. Telthusbakken street is a bit steep (bakken means steep hill) but the street is longer and more houses.

Also, from Telthusbakken you can look up Google Maps to get to Kjærlighetsstien – The Love Trail. This is a short walk street, I saw the pictures on the internet and found it quite beautiful and also romantic. Maybe that’s why it got a name like this ?!

Address: Damstredet 4A, 0177 Oslo, Norway Hours: Open 24 hours

Holmenkollen

Holmenkollen Ski Jump can be seen from every corner of Oslo. You can walk to visit the Ski Jump Museum (the oldest ski museum in the world) if you want to learn more about this seemingly crazy sport. Ski Jump Holmenkollen is 60 meters high and has room for around 70,000 spectators (Norwegians love winter sports!).

From here, you can also walk to Nordmarka for hiking. It’s a forested area in the north of Oslo, with hiking and cycling trails.

Oslo blog: Shopping in Oslo

Aker brygge.

Previously, Aker Brygge was a very large shipyard in Norway. From 1982 until today, it has “turned” into a bustling entertainment and shopping area. This place attracts about 12 million visitors each year. They come here to shop for fashion items, jewelry, hair salon, photography, dining …

At various times of the year, the Aker Brygge area hosts large-scale public events such as the Midsummer celebration or the Oslo Wine Festival. You can follow, update information and planning your trip during such festivals.

You can buy lovely products as souvenirs such as: key chains, t-shirts, ..

Oslo travel blog: How much you will spend for a Oslo trip?

The mid-range cost when solo traveling to Oslo, you can refer to as follows:

• Traveling cost from the airport to Oslo city center: €20
• Traveling cost in the city of Oslo: €20 / 2 days
• Hotel in Oslo: €80 / 2 nights
• Meals: €70 / 2 days
• Total: €190 / 2 days excluding the entrance tickets of the attractions.

• Norwegian people are friendly, speak English well.
• Like other Nordic countries, Norwegian architecture is simple, not too massive and majestic.
• The cost of traveling and eating when traveling to Norway is quite expensive.

Oslo blog: What to eat?

Tip to eat cheap.

To save money, it is best to rent an apartment with a convenient kitchen and then go to the supermarket to buy food and prepare breakfast for yourself. The supermarket in Norway is quite similar to Denmark and slightly different from the rest of Europe because there is no Lidl chain. Here the cheapest supermarket is Rema 1000 then Kiwi. If you stay in Airbnb or other accommodation types with kitchen, remember the order of supermarkets in Norway from cheap to expensive as follows: Rema 1000 – Kiwi – Coop – Spar – Meny. In addition, the Rema 1000 has a very delicious salad bar, priced at only 15 kroner / 100g.

I see that the food prices here are the same as those of Denmark, Sweden. So in general, if you know how to shop economically, you can still get it, for example fruit: €2-4 /1 kg, sweet bread €0.5-2, pizza about €3-5, a box of grilled chicken or other Bacon costs €2-5. I often buy them for breakfast and side meals.

At noon, I have a habit of visiting a restaurant near the place I am visiting, so I rarely note what the restaurant name. Generally, cheapest foods maybe are pizza, kebab, normally the minimum price for a meal is €12.

Rakfisk (Norwegian fermented fish)

This dish is made from trout or char, salted and fermented in water for two to 3 months, or even up to a year. To prepare this dish, fish will filter out all the bones, leaving only the fish meat, then salted for a few days and then dried. Until the fish is dried and smell, it is soaked in alkaline solution to create a specific viscosity and flavor.

Rakfisk is often eaten without cooking and has a mild and slightly salty flavor and strong smell or it also served with cooked butter, potatoes or dried peas and sliced ​​bread will make you remember forever. I ate this dish once and it really tastes bad, so terrible. I don’t know how to describe it. But true to the name of fermented fish. But this dish is very proud of Norwegian cuisine.

It is a traditional dish of the Oslo people in particular and the Norwegians in general. At first, visitors will find it difficult to eat, but full of excitement and curiosity. The sincere advice for you is to boldly taste this dish once. Make sure its taste will quickly defeat the initial fear as its name.

Some other dishes you should try in Oslo: Smoked Salmon or Røkt Laks ; Tørrfisk ; Kjøttboller (meatballs); Fårikål (mutton stew); Krumkake (paper-thin rolls of a waffle, filled with whipped cream or any other desired filling); Pinnekjøtt (lamb-based dish); Smalahove (sheep’s head); Akevitt (Norway’s national drink).

Where to stay?

During my trip, I chose to stay at Central City Apartments for €78 / 1 night. I feel quite ok, about 15 minutes walk from the center of Oslo, clean room with full kitchen and cooking utensils. Generally speaking, traveling in one of Europe’s most expensive cities and finding a room like this is too good. (You can check rates, reviews and book on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $152/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $188/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Thon Hotel Opera , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $188/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Bristol , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $200/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Saga Hotel Oslo , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $137/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

The hotel here is definitely not cheap at all. You can check carefully at  Booking.com or Agoda.com before booking. I still prefer a place with a kitchen when going to expensive countries like Norway.

Oslo travel blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Oslo you can refer to

• The Viking Planet Digital Museum Ticket in Oslo
• Oslo City Highlights Walking Tour
• Oslo Must-Sees Walking Tour
• Oslo Fjord 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise
• Oslo Off the Beaten Path Bike Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Oslo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Where to go & what to do in varanasi — 15+ places to visit & best things to do in varanasi, what to buy in indonesia — top +9 famous gifts, souvenirs & best things to buy in indonesia, what to buy in kyoto — 31+ must-buy kyoto souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in kyoto, what to buy in india — 29+ best gifts from india & best things to buy in india.

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous & best things to buy in Korea

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA & best things to buy in USA

What to buy in Italy? — 19+ top souvenirs & best things to buy in Italy

What to buy in Guangzhou? — 11+ best things to buy in Guangzhou & best shopping places in Guangzhou

What to buy in Tibet? — Top 9+ tibet souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Tibet

Editor picks.

What to eat in Singapore? — 10+ must-eat & best street...

Must eat in Nha Trang — 45+ best street food in...

How to prepare for trekking in Nepal? — 10+ Nepal trekking...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous &...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1462
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Food + Drink 210
• Thailand 209
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 167
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

17 easy day trips from Oslo

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

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

5 super-easy day trips

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

1. Sensational swimming spots

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

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

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

2. Go island hopping in the Oslofjord

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

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

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

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

Is the Oslo Pass worth buying?

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

3. Hike up Vettakollen mountain

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

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

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

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

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

4. Take a day-trip to Drøbak

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

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

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

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

5. Explore the Bygdøy Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Tønsberg 

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

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

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

7. See Oslo from the water 

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

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

8. Experience the Holmenkollbacken ski jump

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

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

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

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

9. Go wild-swimming at Solbergfossen waterfall

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

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

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

10. Pay your respects at Utøya

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

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

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

11. Go hiking in Nordmarka 

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

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

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

12. Explore Akershus Fortress

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

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

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

13. Spend the day at Kistefos Museum

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

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

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

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

14. Visit Frederikstad’s fortress 

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

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

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

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

15. Go skiing in Lillehammer

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

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

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

16. Norway in a nutshell

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Have fun in the fjords

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

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

• 17 hours by car

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

9 beautiful castles and palaces to visit near Copenhagen

You may also like.

Visiting Oslo in winter

Stockholm vs Oslo: which one should you visit? 

Oslo for book lovers

Oslo’s best local breweries

50 free things to do in Oslo

9 of the best fjord tours from Oslo

Is Oslo’s Munch Museum worth visiting?

Exploring the Oslofjord in Norway

The best hostels in Oslo

Get the Routes North newsletter delivered once a month. No spam.