Oslo, the capital city of Norway, is known for its stunning natural surroundings, rich cultural heritage, and modern architecture. For those considering things to do in Oslo, exploring the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist, and visiting the Viking Ship Museum, home to well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts, are top activities.
The city’s Opera House, an architectural marvel with its sloping marble roof, offers not only world-class performances but also panoramic views of Oslo and the fjord. The Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle that has withstood many sieges throughout its history, provides insights into Norway’s past.
Beyond its cultural and historical landmarks, Oslo is celebrated for its outdoor activities, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and skiing in the nearby forests and hills. For those exploring the best places to visit in Norway, Oslo’s blend of urban sophistication, historical depth, and access to nature makes it a compelling and diverse destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Oslo, Norway
1. Vigeland Sculpture Park
Vigeland Sculpture Park, located within Frogner Park, is the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. This unique outdoor gallery features more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite, and wrought iron.
Location: Frogner Park, Oslo. Easily accessible by tram or bus.
Scenic Spot: Over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland set in a beautiful outdoor park.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and different light settings.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for families, but some sculptures may be more appreciated by adults.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit the park during early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and see the sculptures in different light settings.
2. Oslo Opera House
Home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, the Oslo Opera House is renowned for its contemporary architecture, resembling an iceberg jutting out of the fjord. Visitors can walk on its roof for stunning views of the city and the fjord.
Location: Bjørvika district, Oslo. Near Oslo Central Station.
Scenic Spot: A stunning modern building with a sloping roof that offers panoramic views of the Oslofjord.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the best lighting and views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children should be supervised on the rooftop.
Price: Free to walk on the roof; performance ticket prices vary.
Travel Tip: Attend a performance or take a guided tour to fully appreciate the building’s impressive design and acoustics.
3. The Viking Ship Museum
The Viking Ship Museum displays well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts from Viking tombs around the Oslo Fjord. It provides an insight into Viking maritime culture and their voyages.
Location: Bygdøy Peninsula, Oslo. Reachable by ferry or bus.
Scenic Spot: Well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts from the Oslofjord tombs.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid large tour groups.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but younger children may not find it as engaging.
Price: €12 for adults, €8 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: The museum is small but popular, so consider visiting early in the day to avoid large tour groups.
4. Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress, situated overlooking the Oslo Fjord, is a medieval castle that has been transformed into a Renaissance palace and military area. It offers a mix of architectural styles and a glimpse into Oslo’s history.
Location: Overlooking the Oslo Fjord, near Oslo’s city center.
Scenic Spot: A medieval castle with great views of the harbor and city.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for guided tours and better weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some cobblestone paths may be challenging for strollers and elderly visitors.
Price: Free to explore the grounds; museum entrance costs €10.
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk around the fortress grounds for beautiful views of the harbor and the city.
5. The Norwegian National Gallery
Home to Norway’s largest public collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures, the National Gallery features works by Norwegian artists, most famously Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.”
Location: Oslo city center, near Karl Johans Gate.
Scenic Spot: Home to Norway’s largest public collection of paintings, including Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.”
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may not find it as engaging.
Price: €12 for adults, €8 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Allocate enough time to explore the extensive collection, including works from the Romantic period to the 20th century.
6. Holmenkollen Ski Jump & Museum
The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is an iconic symbol of Oslo, offering panoramic views of the city. The adjacent ski museum, the oldest of its kind in the world, traces over 4,000 years of skiing history.
Location: Holmenkollen, Oslo. Reachable by metro (Line 1).
Scenic Spot: A ski jump tower with panoramic views of Oslo, plus a museum on skiing history.
Best Time to Visit: Winter for ski events or summer for clear views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the height may be intimidating for some.
Price: €15 for adults, €7 for children.
Travel Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try the ski simulator to experience jumping at Holmenkollen.
7. The Fram Museum
Dedicated to telling the story of Norwegian polar exploration, the Fram Museum houses the Fram, the strongest wooden ship ever built and used in expeditions of the Arctic and Antarctic regions by Norwegian explorers Nansen and Amundsen.
Location: Bygdøy Peninsula, Oslo. Reachable by ferry or bus.
Scenic Spot: The world’s strongest wooden ship used for Arctic and Antarctic explorations.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with interactive exhibits great for kids.
Price: €12 for adults, €5 for children.
Travel Tip: The museum is quite interactive and great for families, offering a chance to go aboard the ship and experience life as an explorer.
8. The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Oslo, at the end of Karl Johans gate, is the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. The changing of the guard here is a popular attraction.
Location: End of Karl Johans Gate, Oslo city center.
Scenic Spot: Official residence of the Norwegian monarch, with beautiful palace gardens.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for guided tours; daily at 1:30 PM for the changing of the guard.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but interior tours may be less engaging for young children.
Price: €14 for guided palace tours; garden access is free.
Travel Tip: Guided tours are available in summer, which is the best way to see the interior and learn about the palace’s history and architecture.
9. The Norwegian Folk Museum
The Norwegian Folk Museum is one of the largest open-air museums in Europe, showcasing traditional Norwegian houses from different regions and periods. It includes the famous Stave Church from Gol.
Location: Bygdøy Peninsula, Oslo. Reachable by ferry or bus.
Scenic Spot: One of the largest open-air museums in Europe, featuring a 13th-century Stave Church.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for live demonstrations and reenactments.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially fun for children with farm animals and interactive displays.
Price: €12 for adults, €5 for children.
Travel Tip: Visit during one of the museum’s special events or festivals to experience Norwegian culture and history come to life.
10. Karl Johans Gate
Karl Johans Gate is Oslo’s main street, lined with shops, cafes, and landmarks like the National Theatre, the Parliament, and the Royal Palace. It’s a vibrant area perfect for shopping, dining, or just people-watching.
Location: Oslo’s main shopping street, stretching from Oslo Central Station to the Royal Palace.
Scenic Spot: A lively pedestrian area with shops, cafes, and historical landmarks.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for shopping and people-watching.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but can be crowded during peak times.
Price: Free to explore; shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the street, and don’t miss the beautiful gardens and fountains near the Palace.
Plan Your Perfect Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
Oslo, Norway: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Oslo: 8/10 – Oslo offers a wealth of activities for families, including the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology, the Oslo Reptile Park, and the Vigeland Sculpture Park. The city also has numerous parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly events throughout the year.
Nightlife in Oslo: 8/10 – Oslo has a vibrant nightlife scene with a wide array of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Areas like Grünerløkka and Aker Brygge are known for their lively atmosphere, offering everything from trendy cocktail bars to energetic nightclubs.
Sport in Oslo: 9/10 – Oslo is a hub for sports activities, offering excellent opportunities for skiing, hiking, and cycling. The Holmenkollen Ski Jump and the surrounding Nordmarka forest are popular spots for winter sports and outdoor adventures. The city also hosts various sports events and has numerous sports facilities.
Culture and Attractions in Oslo: 9/10 – Oslo boasts a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites. Highlights include the Viking Ship Museum, the Munch Museum, and the Royal Palace. The city’s diverse cultural events, such as the Oslo Jazz Festival and the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, add to its appeal.
Gastronomy in Oslo: 8/10 – Oslo’s food scene is diverse and innovative, featuring both traditional Norwegian dishes and international cuisine. The city’s waterfront area, particularly Aker Brygge, is known for its excellent seafood restaurants. Oslo also has a vibrant café culture and numerous food festivals.
Shopping in Oslo: 8/10 – Oslo offers a broad range of shopping options, from luxury boutiques and designer stores to local markets and vintage shops. Areas like Karl Johans gate and Bogstadveien are popular shopping streets, offering a mix of high-end and mainstream retail options.
Prices in Oslo: 4/10 – Oslo is known for being one of the most expensive cities in Europe, with high costs for accommodation, dining, and general expenses.
Average price for a hotel night: 200 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 25 €
Price of a beer: 9 €
Price of a coffee: 4 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Oslo, Norway
For those looking to explore beyond the urban charm of Oslo, top day trips near Oslo offer a diverse array of experiences, from the tranquil waters of the Oslofjord to the historical depths of the Viking Ship Museum in Bygdøy, each destination providing a unique glimpse into the rich cultural fabric and natural beauty of Norway.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Oslo accommodations cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and budgets. From sleek, design-forward hotels in the bustling city center to peaceful retreats nestled in the surrounding forests, visitors are assured a restful and rejuvenating stay in Norway’s capital.
FAQ About Things to Do in Oslo, Norway
What are the top attractions in Oslo, Norway?
Oslo’s must-see attractions include the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Oslo Opera House, the Viking Ship Museum, and the Akershus Fortress.
Can I explore Norwegian history in Oslo?
Absolutely! The Viking Ship Museum and the Norwegian Folk Museum are fantastic places to learn about Norway’s rich history and culture.
Are there outdoor activities to do in Oslo?
Yes, Oslo offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking in Nordmarka, skiing at Holmenkollen, and island-hopping in the Oslo Fjord.
What cultural experiences does Oslo offer?
Oslo is rich in culture, offering experiences such as opera and ballet at the Oslo Opera House, and exploring contemporary art at the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art.
Is Oslo a good destination for family visits?
Yes, Oslo is great for families, with attractions like the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology, the Oslo Reptile Park, and the TusenFryd Amusement Park nearby.
Can I find traditional Norwegian cuisine in Oslo?
Definitely! Be sure to try traditional dishes like Rakfisk, Kjøttkaker, and Norwegian waffles in Oslo’s restaurants and cafes.
What are some unique shopping experiences in Oslo?
In Oslo, you can enjoy shopping at the Mathallen food hall, the Aker Brygge waterfront, and the boutiques in Grünerløkka for unique Norwegian designs and products.
Are there any natural landmarks near Oslo?
Yes, the Oslo Fjord is a stunning natural landmark, offering beautiful views, boat tours, and a chance to visit the picturesque islands nearby.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oslo
https://www.getyourguide.com/oslo-l38/
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
