Best 20 things to do in Oslo, Norway
Welcome to Oslo, the vibrant city where Scandinavian charm meets the ethereal beauty of fjords! Brace yourselves for an electrifying journey as we unveil the best 20 things to do in this quirky capital. Get ready to wander through the mesmerizing Vigeland Sculpture Park, where 212 peculiar-looking bronze and granite statues coax you into pondering the mysteries of life. Then, embark on a culinary adventure by embracing your inner Viking and feasting on a plate of lutefisk – a gelatinous, jellied fish dish that will either leave you questioning culinary sanity or craving for more. Finally, embrace your inner child by hopping on the Holmenkollen Ski Jump simulator, where you'll experience the delightful sensation of soaring through the frosty air – without the inevitable snow-in-your-underwear mishap. Oslo is waiting to charm, thrill, and confuse you in the most delightful ways possible.
Save destination1. Akershus Fortress
0150 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to the majestic Akershus Fortress in the heart of Oslo, where history and stunning views come together like happy penguins on a skiing trip! This magnificent fortress stands tall like a guardian angel, keeping a watchful eye over the city, and reminding tourists that no, you can't pass through wearing a Viking helmet proclaiming yourself the ruler of all ice cream. Marvel at its medieval charm, explore the hidden nooks and crannies that are perfect for imagining dramatic Viking battles, or simply enjoy a picnic on the grassy ramparts with a side of swan-watching – but remember, feathers are not to be used as quills for autographing unsuspecting geese!
Learn more2. Oslo Fjord
Oslo, Norway
Welcome to Oslo, where the city's own natural playground, Oslo Fjord, eagerly awaits your arrival! This astonishing fjord, affectionately named by locals as the "Seas the Day" spot, seamlessly combines picturesque landscapes with Norse mythology and enough fish to satisfy even the most enthusiastic penguin. Whether you're up for a leisurely boat ride, a chance encounter with a mischievous mermaid, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility away from the hectic city vibes, Oslo Fjord has got you covered, just don't forget your floaties!
Learn more3. The Munch Museum
Edvard Munchs Plass 1, 0194 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to The Munch Museum in Oslo, where art meets a never-ending maze of emotions! As you step inside this homage to a renowned Norwegian painter, prepare to feast your eyes on more than just the delicious café offerings (no, the paintings are not edible). You'll find yourself navigating through a collection that elevates the concept of "what's on your wall" to "what's on your mind" - be ready to ponder life, love, and why on earth Munch's famous figure in "The Scream" didn't just try earplugs instead of a silent scream.
Learn more4. Holmenkollen Ski Museum
Kongeveien 5, 0787 Oslo, Norway
Nestled amidst the stunning Norwegian landscape in Oslo, the Holmenkollen Ski Museum awaits your arrival with open snowy slopes - well, more like wide welcoming doors. Encased in a towering ski jump, the museum itself is a clever disguise - it’s almost as if it wants to show off its athletic prowess while hosting a history lesson too. From medieval wooden skis to futuristic snowboarding gear, you'll witness the evolution of winter sports like a snowball rolling downhill - gathering knowledge along the way and avoiding any unexpected avalanches of boredom.
Learn more5. The National Museum of Science and Technology
Kjelsåsveien 143, 0491 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to the National Museum of Science and Technology in Oslo, where the nerdy side of life is celebrated with gusto! Explore the wonders of this museum as you navigate through a labyrinth of gadgets, gizmos, and gadgets that make you ponder, "What even is this?" From the quirky exhibits on cosmic calculations to mind-boggling displays on how to toast your bread juuust right, get ready for an adventure that will make you want to wear a lab coat and call yourself a scientist, even if just for a day!
Learn more6. The Fram Museum
Bygdøynesveien 39, 0286 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to The Fram Museum in Oslo, where you can experience the exhilarating world of polar exploration without getting frostbite or surviving on a diet of fish and seal blubber! Step inside this cozy museum and behold the grandeur of the largest wooden ship ever built, the Fram. Feel the urge to shout "Ahoy!" as you join the ranks of daring explorers like Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, who braved ice-cold waters and encountered more penguins than they bargained for. Don't forget to grab your parka and embark on a virtual journey to the Arctic, where temperatures can make even Santa Claus reconsider his career choices!
Learn more7. The Viking Biking Experience
DFDS boat terminal, Akershusstranda 31, 0150 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to the Viking Biking Experience in Oslo, where modern-day explorers can pedal their way through Viking history with more enthusiasm than Thor chasing his misplaced hammer! Hop on your trusty two-wheeler and embark on a hilarious journey, dodging seagulls determined to steal your snacks as you glide past mesmerizing fjords and quaint villages. Unleash your inner Viking and conquer the city's streets, feeling as victorious as Erik the Red after discovering a sale on horned helmets!
Learn more8. The Opera House
Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to the Opera House in Oslo; a harmonious blend of architectural magnificence and the occasional wayward seagull. This modern masterpiece, lovingly nicknamed "The Viking Ship on Stilts," stands majestically by the water's edge, daring you to resist its operatic charm. As you ascend the striking marble roof, be prepared for a rooftop panoramic view interrupted only by brave tourists trying to look suave while attempting not to trip on their bell-bottom pants.
Learn more9. The Historical Museum
Frederiks gate 2, 0164 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to The Historical Museum in Oslo, where ancient artifacts and exhibits cozy up to each other like long-lost siblings at a family reunion. Delve into the past as you wander through the museum's rooms, feeling like a secret time traveler who accidentally stumbled upon this hub of history. With its knack for preserving Norway's rich heritage, this museum is like an archaeological rock concert, leaving you wondering: "Who knew history could be so entertaining?"
Learn more10. The Museum of Oslo
Frognerveien 67, 0266 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to The Museum of Oslo, the ultimate destination for quirky history lovers and fans of weird artifacts. Get ready to embark on a journey through Oslo's past, cheekily referred to as "the city with a thousand stories, and a few odd ones too." Unleash your inner detective as you explore this treasure trove of curiosities, where even the humblest of objects has a tale to tell.
Learn more11. Karl Johans Gate
Karl Johans gt., Oslo, Norway
Welcome to Karl Johans Gate, the bustling heart of Oslo where you can embark on a splendid adventure of people-watching and window shopping. This charming street offers a delightful amalgamation of towering Norwegian architecture, trendy boutiques, and enough cafes to satisfy all your caffeine cravings. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to strut down this boulevard, feeling like the most fashionable tourist on the block.
Learn more12. Nobel Peace Center
Brynjulf Bulls plass 1, 0250 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, where peace reigns supreme, but cellular reception might not! Step into a world of serenity, where you can immerse yourself in the extraordinary stories of individuals who have mastered the art of global tranquility. Marvel at the stunning exhibitions that will enlighten your mind and leave you feeling as peaceful as a Norwegian fjord... just remember to bring a carrier pigeon for communication backup!
Learn more13. Vigeland Sculpture Park
Nobels gate 32, 0268 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to Vigeland Sculpture Park, where statues outnumber trees, and Instagram opportunities are in abundance! This quirky park in Oslo is like a whimsical labyrinth, where you can wander through a world of frozen bodies striking peculiar poses. From a toddler tantrum frozen in bronze, to a couple locked in an eternal embrace (awkward for family photos), this park will not only leave you questioning your perspective on art, but also provide endless material for your next meme creation.
Learn more14. The Royal Palace
Slottsplassen 1, 0010 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to The Royal Palace in Oslo, where fairy tales meet reality! This majestic architectural wonder serves as the official residence of Norway's royal family—yes, that means you can't just move in with your collection of garden gnomes. Stroll through the immaculate gardens and marvel at the palace's impressive façade, but please refrain from knocking on the door and asking the King if he wants to play hide-and-seek.
Learn more15. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
Museumsveien 10, 0287 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History in Oslo, where history comes to life like a Viking in a time machine! Wander through this incredible open-air museum, where you can stroll back in time without sprouting a time-turning mustache. As you explore the quaint streets and charming buildings, you might just stumble upon trolls playing hide-and-seek with ancient Norwegian relics.
Learn more16. The Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art
Strandpromenaden 2, 0252 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art in Oslo, where modern art gets its own eccentric hangout! Step inside and be prepared to scratch your head, gasp in wonder, or ponder the meaning of life. With striking architecture resembling a spaceship drenched in natural light, this museum is like the cool, artsy cousin you always wanted. Inside, you'll find an array of mind-bending contemporary artworks that will make your brain go on a rollercoaster ride. From abstract paintings that look like someone spilled a box of crayons on canvas to sculptures that seem to challenge the laws of gravity, this place never shies away from being weirdly fascinating. Oh, and if you're lucky, you might even stumble upon an art piece that makes you think, "Wait, is this the work of a creative genius or a mischievous toddler?" Either way, embrace the madness, snap some Instagram-worthy shots, and leave feeling like a modern art connoisseur... or just utterly confused.
Learn more17. Nordmarka Forest
Nordmarka, Asker Municipality, Norway
Welcome to Nordmarka Forest in Oslo, where the trees are as tall as basketball players and the squirrels are busy plotting world domination. This woodland paradise is the ultimate escape from the concrete jungle, where you can frolic in the wilderness and convince yourself that you're a rugged explorer, even if you're wearing flip-flops. With picturesque lakes that couldn't be more Instagram-worthy if they had their own filters, Nordmarka Forest is the place to visit if you want to commune with nature and snag a selfie with a reindeer who may or may not be a secret spy.
Learn more18. The National Gallery
Brynjulf Bulls plass 3, 0250 Oslo, Norway
Step into the awe-inspiring maze of artistry at The National Gallery in Oslo, where even Picasso would raise an eyebrow. This gallery is not for the weak-kneed, for it houses a mind-boggling mix of classic art, avant-garde masterpieces, and a charming collection of perplexing sculptures that will make you question your very existence. Get ready to unleash your inner art enthusiast and prepare to be dazzled by a museum that takes 'art appreciation' to a whole new level.
Learn more19. The Viking Ship Museum
Huk Aveny 35, 0287 Oslo, Norway
Take a journey back in time at The Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, where long-lost warriors and their magnificent ships are waiting for you! Marvel at the sight of these ancient vessels, perfectly preserved despite going out of style like last year's fashion trend. While you're at it, imagine yourself rowing in one of these, feeling like a Viking conqueror until you remember you can barely row a paddleboat at your local pond.
Learn more20. The Botanical Gardens
Sars' gate 1, 0562 Oslo, Norway
Welcome to the beautiful and slightly wild world of Oslo's Botanical Gardens! Nestled in the heart of the city, this green oasis is like a Tinder match between Mother Nature and urban planning. Stroll through the enchanting gardens, where flowers compete in a colorful beauty pageant, eager to impress. Don't forget to say hi to the resident ducks, who have become experts in the art of shamelessly begging for snacks.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Oslo by plane is to fly into Oslo Gardermoen Airport from your nearest international airport.
Car
Driving from Stockholm, Sweden to Oslo, Norway is a beautiful journey. The E18 highway runs between these two capital cities.
Train
If you would like to travel to Oslo by train, take the Oslo to Bergen Railway, one of the most scenic trains in Europe.
Boat
Traveling by boat from Copenhagen, Denmark to Oslo, Norway is one of the most picturesque ways to explore the country. The boat ride traverses through the beautiful Oslo Fjord and will drop you off at the Oslo Ferry Terminal.
Bus
Taking the bus from Copenhagen, Denmark to Oslo is a comfortable and scenic option. Companies like Eurolines and Swebus offer daily services from Copenhagen to Oslo.