Oslo

Oslo offers travellers a world of exciting experiences — from historical attractions and world-class museums to memorable culinary adventures and tranquil retreats into nature. Explore the best this vibrant city has to offer in this list of the 12 best things to do in Oslo, Norway.

Stroll down Karl Johans gate

The Royal Palace of Oslo on Karl Johans gate.

Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s central street, is a major landmark and a must-see destination. Packed with remarkable historical and architectural attractions, this bustling street runs from the central railway station to the majestic Royal Palace, built for the very person this avenue is named after — King Karl Johan. Other notable buildings include the 19th-century National Theatre, the impressive Stortinget (Parliament building), and the University of Oslo’s Faculty of Law.

The iconic Grand Hotel, also located in the heart of the city, has accommodated Nobel Peace Prize laureates throughout its history. Its café, still in operation today, was frequented by Henrik Ibsen, the renowned Norwegian playwright. Oslo Cathedral, referred to simply as Dom by locals, is another prominent landmark on the street, featuring stained-glass windows and bronze doors designed by Gustav Vigeland.

Cosy cafés with outdoor terraces and countless high-end boutiques line this lively street, making it a shopper’s paradise. In summer, the avenue attracts musicians and street performers, who contribute to its unique vibe. As night approaches, crowds of clubbers flock to Karl Johans gate, preparing for the long night ahead.

This bustling street in the city’s heart is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Oslo, offering a perfect combination of history, culture, and vibrant city life.

Climb the roof of the Oslo Opera House

Completed ahead of schedule and under budget, the futuristic Oslo Opera House quickly became one of the city’s iconic landmarks. Its innovative design, with a sloping roof that invites visitors to climb it, resembles a glacier floating in the waters of the Oslofjord. Travellers can join guided tours, available in Norwegian and English, to learn more about the building’s history, design, and artistic features.

Those seeking a genuine cultural experience can attend a performance in this extraordinary venue. Thanks to its phenomenal acoustics, the Oslo Opera House is popular not only among opera troupes but also with rock and metal bands. Enjoying a concert in this elegant opera house is arguably one of the best things to do in Oslo.

Visit the ancient Akershus Fortress

Overlooking the Oslofjord, the imposing Akershus Fortress stands guard over the city. This 13th-century brick fortress has protected Norway’s capital for centuries, having served as a military stronghold, a royal residence, and even a prison, especially during the dark times of occupation in World War II.

Today, visitors can explore this iconic fortress, wandering through its well-preserved grounds and stepping inside the medieval castle — Akershus Slott — with its historic chambers, ceremonial halls, and Gothic chapel. Akershus is home to Norway’s Royal Mausoleum and houses two war-related museums: the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum and Norway’s Resistance Museum.

Throughout the year, Akershus Fortress hosts exciting events and gatherings, such as festivals, concerts, and historical reenactments. After all, visitors can come to Akershus to enjoy stunning views of the fjord and a peaceful atmosphere — perfect for a picnic — within the fortress grounds. Akershus is undoubtedly one of the best things to see in Oslo, offering a fascinating insight into Norway’s dramatic history.

Explore the world-famous Vigeland Installation

Located just outside Oslo’s historic centre, Frogner Park is home to the acclaimed Vigeland installation (often mistakenly called Vigeland Park by tourists). This remarkable creation is the world’s largest open-air sculpture park by a single artist, comprising 212 bronze and granite sculptures depicting all stages of human life.

The thought-provoking installation culminates in the imposing Monolith, its centerpiece consisting of 121 intertwined figures reaching for the sky. Other famous sculptures in this masterpiece include the Angry Boy and the Wheel of Life — the latter symbolises the never-ending cycle of life and death.

The park is free to enter and open 24/7, making it easily accessible to all visitors. Experiencing this iconic landmark, which offers an unforgettable artistic journey and a unique insight into the human experience, is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Oslo, Norway.

Explore the city’s vibrant art scene

The building of the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art.

Oslo can delight and even shock art lovers, boasting a solid collection of world-class galleries and abundant street art. The absolute highlight of any trip to Norway’s capital is a visit to the recently reopened National Museum, which houses the largest collection of art in Scandinavia. This art museum is deservedly one of the best places to visit in Oslo, exhibiting artworks from all periods — from ancient artefacts to international contemporary works.

MUNCH, another remarkable museum, showcases a vast collection of artworks by renowned Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, including the iconic “The Scream.” And those who appreciate contemporary art can visit the privately-owned Astrup Fearnley Museet, which exhibits works — some quite shocking — by acclaimed international artists.

Beyond these major venues, smaller, artist-run galleries thrive in the Norwegian capital, drawing large crowds to appreciate modern art. The street art scene is also flourishing in Oslo, with numerous beautiful murals and graffiti adding a unique touch to the cityscape. Joining a guided tour through the bohemian districts of Grünerløkka and Tøyen to discover local street art is undeniably one of the best things to do in Oslo.

Take a ferry to Bygdøy

Visitors aboard the legendary Fram Vessel in the namesake museum in Bygdøy, Oslo.

A short and scenic ferry ride from Aker Brygge, Oslo’s vibrant wharf area, will transport travellers to Bygdøy, a tranquil peninsula boasting spectacular nature and some of Scandinavia’s most remarkable museums.

The Viking Ship Museum — currently under renovation and set to reopen in 2027 — exhibits three well-preserved Viking ships and numerous artefacts from the Viking era, making it an absolute gem of Norway’s capital. The Norsk Folkemuseum, a captivating open-air museum in Bygdøy, is home to many buildings from different eras and regions of the country, including the historic Gol Stave Church and an early-20th-century oil station.

Adventure enthusiasts will undoubtedly enjoy a visit to the remaining two museums on the peninsula. The Fram Museum is home to the renowned namesake vessel, which was used in legendary expeditions by prominent Norwegian explorers to the North and South Poles. Visitors can step aboard this unique vessel, explore its cabins, and head to another room to witness the Gjøa — the ship Roald Amundsen used to cross the Northwest Passage.

The other fascinating place in Bygdøy is the Kon-Tiki Museum, which tells the story of Thor Heyerdahl’s epic adventure crossing the Pacific on a wooden raft. And, of course, the Kon-Tiki raft itself is on display.

Beyond the museums, Bygdøy’s stunning nature provides a fantastic escape from the city’s bustle, especially during the warm summer months. The ferry trip from Aker Brygge to Bygdøy is an adventure in itself, offering an unforgettable cruise and a great perspective of the city from the sea. Taking a ferry to explore this picturesque peninsula, with its fascinating museums and tranquil atmosphere, is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Oslo.

Visit the monumental Oslo City Hall

The monumental, red-brick City Hall is a major landmark and one of the best things to see in Oslo. Constructed over several decades and completed in 1950 in what was then a poor area of Aker Brygge, it signified the beginning of the district’s transformation into the affluent neighbourhood it is today.

Visitors can freely enter this iconic building, adorned with colourful frescoes on its exterior and interior. These vivid pictures relate to Norse folklore and important turning points in Norway’s history. The highlight of Oslo City Hall is the spacious Main Hall, featuring a soaring ceiling and expansive murals.

Guests can also step inside the Munch Room, named after the renowned artist and exhibiting several of his works. In December, the City Hall takes centre stage, hosting the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony and attracting worldwide attention.

Head to Holmenkollen for a bird eye’s view of Oslo

Views of Oslo from Holmenkollen.

For panoramic views of Norway’s vibrant capital, travellers can hop on the metro (the blue line to Frognerseteren) and head to Holmenkollen. This hill overlooking Oslo is home to one of the world’s oldest ski jump, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.

The Holmenkollen complex also houses the world’s oldest ski museum, which takes visitors on a journey through the fascinating history of skiing, exhibiting unique artefacts and ski equipment from the sport’s early years. One of the best things to do in Oslo is to ascend to the top of the Holmenkollbakken ski jump tower, where a viewing platform offers spectacular panoramic views of the city.

Step back in time in the historic Damstredet and Telthusbakken districts

The historic district of Damstredet, Oslo.

Visiting the historic districts of Damstredet and Telthusbakken, tucked away from the touristy areas, is one of the unique things to do in Oslo. These charming neighbourhoods, known for their cobblestone streets and colourful 18th- and 19th-century wooden houses, offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.

Travellers can admire the intricate details of the local architecture, showcasing a traditional style once commonplace in Oslo. Many buildings conceal gardens and courtyards, filled with lush greenery.

Damstredet, a popular district among artists, boasts many small art galleries and studios, where visitors can browse diverse artworks and connect with the local creative community. These quaint streets also attract photographers with their picturesque spots, including the medieval Old Aker Church and the romantic Kjærlighetsstien (or “Love Trail”) from Telthusbakken to Fredensborgveien.

These historic neighbourhoods undoubtedly deserve a spot on the list of the best places to visit in Oslo, offering a glimpse into the city’s past and a tranquil escape from its modern pace.

Escape to the islands of the Oslofjord

Hovedøya, a small island near Oslo.

In summer, the Oslofjord comes alive with boats and yachts, offering passengers outstanding recreational opportunities. And island-hopping in the waters near the city is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Oslo in summer. Peaceful retreats, historical attractions, and outdoor adventures lie just a short ferry ride from the city centre.

Hovedøya, the closest island to Oslo, offers a perfect combination of nature and history. This picturesque island is home to the well-preserved ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery and boasts a rich military heritage, evident in the remnants of fortifications and cannons. Hovedøya is also perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking, enjoying a picnic, or relaxing on the beach.

Other islands in the Oslofjord near the city offer similar outdoor experiences. Lindøya, Gressholmen, Bleikøya, and Langøyene are popular among visitors seeking recreation and beachgoers. Langøyene even allows overnight camping and is served by only one ferry, making for a more secluded experience.

Explore the trendy districts of Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen

Aker Brygge, a vibrant waterfront district in Oslo.

Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen, two neighbouring waterfront districts in Oslo, have transformed in recent decades into affluent neighbourhoods, brimming with high-end boutiques and exquisite Michelin-starred restaurants.

Today, Aker Brygge is a popular venue for locals and tourists alike, attracting crowds with its waterfront promenade and lively harbour. Tjuvholmen entices visitors with its namesake open-air sculpture park and the Astrup Fearnley Museet, exhibiting exceptional contemporary art.

In addition to being popular recreational spaces, these vibrant districts are renowned as a paradise for foodies and shoppers. The endless lines of high-end boutiques and design stores — featuring both international brands and local Norwegian designers — draw crowds eager to splash on unique and fashionable finds.

Gourmets will be spoiled for choice, enjoying the opportunities to savour fresh seafood, explore international cuisines, or relish a delicious meal at a waterfront restaurant. Local Norwegian restaurants and the seafood market are among the best places to visit in Oslo, where visitors can savour fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared with traditional techniques.

Travel to charming towns near Oslo

Fredrikstad, a military town located within an hour’s train ride from Oslo.

Those staying in Oslo for longer than two days can venture outside the city and explore the charming towns nearby. Just a short journey from the vibrant capital, a collection of enchanting destinations awaits, offering several options for a memorable day trip.

One of the best things to do in Oslo in winter is to take a trip to Drøbak, a coastal town with a well-preserved historic centre and a unique, festive atmosphere. Famous in Norway as the “Christmas Town,” Drøbak is home to Tregaarden’s Christmas House, a festive shop that houses the residence of the Norwegian Santa Claus, open year-round.

Another remarkable town worth visiting is Fredrikstad, located on the border with Sweden. Regarded as one of the best-preserved fortified towns in Northern Europe, Fredrikstad entices travellers with historic ramparts, a mix of Scandinavian and Dutch Renaissance architecture, and proximity to the formidable Fredriksten Fortress.

Tønsberg, nestled on the shore of the Oslofjord, is renowned as the country’s oldest city, with its history tracing back to the Viking Age. While remaining a reasonably understated destination, Tønsberg attracts visitors with a charming old town and numerous historical attractions.

And these are just a few of the many amazing towns and villages near Oslo that deserve a place on everyone’s itinerary.

Getting around

Norway’s capital boasts a well-developed and efficient public transportation system, called Ruter, which includes trams, buses, subways (T-bane), ferries, and local trains. This network of public transport provides easy access to all corners of the city, including the airport, nearby islands, and surrounding suburbs.

With frequent service, getting around Oslo on public transport is a breeze. Travellers have the option of purchasing the Oslo Pass for free public transportation and free access to many tourist attractions.

Oslo is also a compact and pedestrian-friendly city, making it easy to explore on foot. For those who prefer two wheels, Oslo is extremely bike-friendly and offers a bike-sharing system called Oslo City Bikes, providing a convenient option for short rides.