Oslo, Norway’s capital, is a vibrant and modern city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and cutting-edge architecture. Whether you’re into art, history, or outdoor adventures, Oslo has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things you should do when visiting this Scandinavian gem.
1. Visit the Viking Ship Museum
The Viking Ship Museum is a must-see for history buffs. Located on the Bygdøy Peninsula, this museum is home to well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts that date back over 1,000 years. You can explore the ships, learn about Viking culture, and see ancient tools and weapons that were used during the Viking Age. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Norway’s past.
2. Explore the Oslo Opera House
One of Oslo’s architectural masterpieces, the Oslo Opera House sits right on the edge of the Oslo Fjord. Designed to resemble a glacier, the building is famous for its stunning modern architecture. You can take a guided tour, enjoy a performance, or simply walk up to the roof for panoramic views of the fjord and the city.
3. Stroll Through Vigeland Park
Vigeland Park is the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. This 80-acre park features over 200 bronze, granite, and wrought iron sculptures, including the famous “Monolith” and “Angry Boy.” It’s a peaceful place to walk, relax, and admire some of the most iconic sculptures in the world.
4. Walk Along Karl Johans Gate
Karl Johans Gate is Oslo’s main shopping street and a great place to experience the city’s atmosphere. Stretching from the Royal Palace to Oslo Central Station, this pedestrian street is lined with shops, cafes, and landmarks like the National Theatre and the Parliament building. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, shopping, or people-watching.
5. Tour the Munch Museum
Home to one of Norway’s most famous artists, Edvard Munch, the Munch Museum houses an impressive collection of his works, including the iconic painting “The Scream.” The museum offers insight into Munch’s life and his impact on modern art. The new building, which opened in 2021, is a stunning addition to Oslo’s cultural scene, with spectacular views of the city and the fjord.
6. Discover the Fram Museum
Located on Bygdøy, the Fram Museum is dedicated to Norway’s polar exploration history. It’s home to the Fram, the ship used in historic Arctic and Antarctic expeditions by explorers like Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. You can step aboard the ship, learn about the explorers’ adventures, and experience exhibits about the harsh conditions of polar expeditions.
7. Visit the Royal Palace and Park
The Royal Palace, located at the end of Karl Johans Gate, is the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. While the palace itself is not open to the public year-round, you can enjoy the beautiful surrounding park, the Palace Gardens, and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily in summer.
8. Take a Fjord Cruise
No visit to Oslo is complete without experiencing the Oslo Fjord. A boat tour gives you the chance to explore the stunning scenery surrounding the city, including small islands, forests, and quaint villages. You can choose from short sightseeing cruises or longer trips, some of which include stops for hiking or swimming in the summer months.
9. Visit Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle that offers a fascinating mix of history and views. The fortress, located near the harbor, dates back to the 13th century and has served as a royal residence, military base, and prison. Today, it houses several museums, including the Norwegian Resistance Museum, which tells the story of Norway during World War II.
10. Relax at Oslo’s Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen
Aker Brygge and the nearby Tjuvholmen district are vibrant waterfront areas filled with restaurants, bars, and galleries. In the summer, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal by the water or to take a stroll along the docks. Tjuvholmen is home to several art galleries, including the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, which features a wide range of contemporary works.
Oslo is a city that perfectly blends modern urban life with natural beauty and rich history. Whether you’re exploring its world-class museums, strolling through its parks, or taking in breathtaking views of the fjord, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy in Norway’s capital.
