It's impossible to visit Norway without passing through its main jewel: Oslo, the capital of this magnificent Scandinavian country. Between sparkling fjords and modern design, discover a capital that elegantly balances its Viking heritage with contemporary dynamism. It's great to stroll along the Oslo fjord, soaking up its serene atmosphere, while immersing yourself in an urban experience where Nordic charm has retained its place. That's the appeal of this wonderful city: successfully navigating between city life and natural wonders. Discover the 15 must-sees and must-dos in Oslo.
1. The Akershus citadel, immersion in the Norway of yesteryear
Did you know? Akershus Citadel is one of the top 10 haunted places in the world to visit at least once. Its guardian, a dog named Malcanisten, watches over the castle's spirits..
Built as early as the end of the XIIIᵉ century, the Akershus Citadel still has much to offer curious travelers. From its ramparts to the royal crypt, via the remains of the original castle, you'll be full of exciting discoveries. The castle park is also home to the Museum of the Norwegian Resistance. Here, you'll plunge into a part of history that touches us all: the Second World War. From medieval to 20th-century history, this legendary (and haunted!) fortress takes you on a journey through the country's history.
We recommend booking a hop-on hop-off bus ticket right here , which is one of the most convenient ways to visit Oslo and its must-sees, including the Akershus citadel.
2. The Viking Ship Museum, a playful plunge into Scandinavia
Discover 3 authentic and perfectly preserved longships at the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo:
- Oseberg,
- Gokstade,
- Tune.
One of them, the Oseberg ship, was the tomb of a Viking queen. Fascinating! Numerous objects have also been recovered, offering a captivating insight into the Viking world. You can see traditional objects, as well as more unusual artifacts from trade with Asian peoples.
Travelling with children? This is definitely a visit that will fascinate them as much as it does you! Good news: admission is free for children under 18.
3. The Fram Museum and its legendary ship
The Fram is the name of the spectacular ship on display at the Fram Museum, another Oslo must-see. Considered the world's strongest ship, it took part in three major polar expeditions between 1893 and 1912.
Polar history is outlined around this exceptional ship, which is hard to take your eyes off. This immersion in the nautical world of yesteryear is both fascinating and unusual. This visit, which complements that of the previous museum, is accessible with theOslo Pass. You pay nothing more than the price of the pass, which includes many places of interest, so you can save money on your vacation in Oslo.
4. Vigeland Sculpture Park, an unusual walk in Oslo
Explore the Vigeland Sculpture Park and discover the works of the artist of the same name. A lifetime of work is on display. More than a million visitors come each year to admire these bronze works, some of which have become famous:
- Sinnataggen, the angry boy,
- Monolitten, the monolith,
- Livshjulet, the Wheel of Life.
In all, more than 200 sculptures share the grounds of this magnificently well-maintained park, making for an unusual walk. Enjoy your visit? Complete it at the Musée Vigeland, located in Nobels gate. Housed in what was once the artist's studio and apartment, you'll find other stunning sculptures. His early works, as well as portraits, monuments and molds of the sculptures in the park, are exhibited here as part of a huge collection. You'll see that the artist was not idle during his inspired career, as no fewer than 1,600 sculptures and around 12,000 drawings can be found in this exceptional venue.
5. Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen, the soul of the city
While Oslo has retained some of its old-world charm, it has also successfully modernized. This contemporary aspect of the city is reflected in theAker Brygge district, where restaurants and boutiques follow one another. Fancy a drink overlooking the Oslo Fjord? You've come to the right place! Several small bridges then lead you to the Tjuvholmen district, where art has found its place with brio. Here you'll find the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, with its fascinating exhibitions. Take the opportunity to admire the Tjuvholmen Sculpture Park, before heading off to visit other parts of Oslo with artistic images in your head.
Discover the historic city of Oslo at your own pace by booking this guided walking tour that will take you to Oslo's most beautiful and important districts!
6. Oslo Cathedral: Domkirke, a treasure from the past
The majestic Oslo Cathedral, also known as theChurch of Our Savior, is much more than a 17th-century Baroque edifice. A living testimony to the city's history, it houses five ancient bells, remnants of the destroyed Trinity Cathedral. Its central location makes it a must-see.
Good to know the adjoining cemetery contains the graves of some of Oslo's most prominent personalities.
Inside the cathedral, the simplicity of certain elements contrasts with the dazzling frescoes adorning the vaults. The Baroque altar, preserved through the ages, and the organ are architectural gems that are a must-see if you're in the neighborhood. Inaugurated in 1697, the cathedral is much more than a place of worship... It embodies Oslo's cultural heritage.
7. Visit Oslo's Holmenkollbakken Ski Museum
The ideal place to enjoy the best views in Oslo is the Holmenkollbakken Ski Museum, with its impressive ski jump. You'll also discover more than 4,000 years of the history of skiing, an essential sport in this Nordic country. Expeditions by famous adventurers such as Amundsen are also on show. Want a little more? Discover the ski simulator at the top of the building.
More than a museum, you're visiting a mecca for skiing in all its forms. With its playful activities, breathtaking panoramic views and Alpine and Nordic skiing culture, you'll be stepping into an exciting world!
8. Grünerløkka, Oslo's new-generation district
Discover the relaxed Norwegian atmosphere of the Grünerløkka district. To discover this picturesque district is to immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere, where artistic energy and community spirit blend harmoniously. A stroll through the district allows you to lose yourself in its authentic charm. Following the meandering Akerselva River, you'll discover the industrial remains of the past, as well as soothing green spaces. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in Oslo's authentic street food culture on this guided walking tour guided walking tour including a tasting of Norwegian waffles!
North of Grünerløkka, in the Torshov district, the Soria Moria and Trikkestallen theaters open the doors to Norwegian culture. As you can see, this is a district rich in diversity and entertainment!
9. Stroll through the Mathallen market
Immerse yourself in world cuisine at the Mathallen market in Vulkan. From bakeries to fishmongers, butchers and delicatessens, you'll find everything you're looking for (and everything you're about to find!). Organic and fair-trade products also find their place among the stalls. Some vendors even offer ready-made meals, which you can enjoy on the spot. The perfect way to enjoy fresh produce straight from the source!
10. The Norwegian Folklore Museum, an unusual visit to Oslo
More than just a museum, the Norwegian Folk Museum in Oslo is a huge park with 155 traditional houses. Its most famous building is the unusual wooden church, but the rest of the complex is just as extraordinary. Stroll the aisles of this open-air museum, discovering many aspects of local culture: traditional clothing, songs, language, customs and more. Travelling with children? Good news: there's plenty to keep them entertained in this exceptional venue:
- folk dancing,
- galette-making,
- farm animals,
- horse-drawn carriages,
- old-fashioned games.
It's the ideal place to immerse yourself in Norwegian culture, even at Christmas, when the magical festivities begin. Open year-round from Tuesday to Sunday, it's free for children under 18. It's THE place to be if you want to immerse yourself 100% in Norwegian culture, past and present. A real favorite!
11. Oslo Fjord cruise: a little bit of paradise
Have you visited Oslo from the mainland? Now it's time to step back and discover it from the fjord. Come aboardan electric boat, sailboat or motorboat for a dream experience. From the boat, you'll rediscover the city in a whole new way... You'll admire the view of the Munch Museum, the Opera House and many other buildings, as well as the surrounding natural landscapes. With a drink, or even a dinner cruise, you'll be able to observe this city nestled between modernity and wilderness at your leisure: absolutely enchanting!
Are you visiting Norway as a couple and looking for something romantic to do in Oslo? If so, a meal on board one of these boats is just what you're looking for! We recommend you book this combined tour, which includes a 2-hour cruise on the Oslofjord to see the Holmenkollen ski jump, the Vigeland sculpture park, the Fram Museum and the Norwegian Folk Museum.
12. Oslo Opera House, culture reinvented
We've been talking about theOslo Opera House, and now here it is! This landmark building rises like a work of art from the water, redefining the skyline of the Norwegian capital. Built in 2008, this ascending marble edifice has become the cultural heart of Oslo. Set on the edge of the North Sea, the opera house offers an exceptional harmony of glass and marble, while its refined interior, trimmed in oak wood, contrasts with the light flooding in from the windows.
The icing on the cake: from the terraces, you can enjoy an exceptional panorama of the city.
From classic shows to the most extravagant, there's something for everyone, so don't hesitate to push open the doors of Oslo's most emblematic building!
13. Admire the Royal Palace, residence of the royal family
If you're traveling in summer, you'll have the chance to visit the castle and gardens of Oslo's Royal Palace, home to the Norwegian royal family. Attention, history'time! In 1905, Norway gained independence from Sweden, becoming a constitutional monarchy under the reign of King Harald V. The monarch then took up residence in the Royal Palace, designed by Hans Linstow in the XIXᵉ century. Among its treasures, you can admire numerous works by Norwegian artists.
From June to August, you can admire the interior, with guided tours conducted in English. The gardens can be visited from mid-May to October. Dotted with superb artistic sculptures, they are a pure splendor! The highlight of the show, visible to all, is the changing of the royal guard. It departs from the Akershus Citadel, arriving in front of the palace at 1:30 pm. You're in for 40 minutes of a ballet you'll never see again!
14. Discover the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design
More than just an art building, the National Museum Oslo is an artistic and cultural gem in the Nordic region. When it opens its doors in 2022, the new National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design will be one of the largest art museums in the Nordic countries. Over 5,000 works - including Munch's famous Scream - reveal a remarkable collection of Norwegian and international art. From ancient works to contemporary creations, the various genres, from painting to sculpture, captivate visitors. Johan Christian Dahl, Harriet Backer, Karen Holtsmark, Edvard Munch, Bendik Riis and many other artists are presented in this exceptional museum.
15. Taste Norwegian specialties
Fish, such as salmon, and seafood play a major role in Norwegian cuisine. Dried cod is a dish of choice, as are king crab and Rakfish, made from salted trout. And surprise! Whale meat is also eaten in Norway.
Game is also cooked with taste, notably reindeer or elk. Fårikål , for example, is a dish featuring this type of meat. Then enjoy a good Kjøttkaker, a veal meatball with pea purée.
On the cheese side, we invite you to discover Geitost, a brown cheese with a half-bitter, half-caramelized taste, made from goat's milk buttermilk. Finally, let's end on a high note with Norwegian sweet delights, such as :
- Julekake, a traditional Christmas cake with dried fruit and spices.
- Fyrstekake, a tart made with almonds and cardamom.
- Tilslørte bondepiker, a dessert of apple purée and whipped cream, arranged in a mille-feuilles pattern on toasted bread.
Ready to enjoy?
Where to stay in Oslo?
If you're looking for efficient accommodation, opt for the Sentrum, Tjuvholmen and Aker Brygge districts, ideally placed for maximum sightseeing. If you've got more time on your hands and want to reduce your accommodation costs, you can also opt for Frogner or the area around the railway station.
- The most complete
The Saga Hotel Oslo offers a full range of services: good location, period architecture, buffet breakfast, pets allowed, quality amenities. Here's a great address in Frogner to base your suitcases for a stay in Oslo, which you can book right here !
- The best location
Close to the Royal Palace, the Art Museum and the metro, Thon Hotel Gyldenløve is ideally located in downtown Oslo. Its comprehensive services, which you can book here make it the ideal choice for a weekend in the Norwegian capital. Buffet breakfast is included in the room rate, so you'll start your visits on the right foot!
- Top of the range
Alongside the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, the Thon Hotel Opera is one of Oslo's most luxurious establishments. From its refined dining room to its comfortable guest rooms, this modern, well-located hotel is the perfect choice for an upscale stay in Oslo. Click here to book your room!
What to do in Oslo in 3 days
Day 1: Discover Oslo's cultural heritage
Start your day at the Akershus citadel, then head to the Royal Palace to watch the changing of the guard. Spend the afternoon exploring Oslo's historic districts. In the evening, a trip to the Opera House is a must!
Day 2: Museum day!
Start with the Viking Ship Museum or the Fram Museum, two of Oslo's must-sees. In the afternoon, head for the Norwegian Folk Museum, which only opens from 11am to 4pm.
Day 3: Modernity and relaxation
Discover the modern district ofAker Brygge, with its boutiques, restaurants and the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Contemporary Art. Spend the afternoon in Ekeberg Park, with its panoramic views over the city.
What to do in Oslo in winter
It's not difficult to find out what to do in Oslo in winter, as the city practically lives to the rhythm of the season! In the Nordic countries, winter doesn't scare anyone. We invite you to visit Holmenkollen, famous for its Ski Museum and its famous Springboard. They're right in season! Nearby, you can visit the Château de la Rose, commemorating 80 years since the German occupation. This place of remembrance and humanity is pure splendor.
And why not keep warm? There are saunas on the banks of the Oslo Fjord to warm you up while admiring the superb view. Even more fun, opt for KOK's sauna boats, to enjoy this experience on the water, while visiting Oslo from the fjord. Just the kind of unusual activity we love! Of course, the snow also comes in winter, and with it come winter activities. There are ski resorts not far from the capital, but you can already take the kids to the Korketrekkeren toboggan run. The Spikersuppa ice rink, next to Karl Johans gate, is a delight for the whole family.
You won't get bored in Oslo, even if you spend several days here! The city has a rich history, from the Vikings to modern times. Discover it in its museums and cultural venues, but also with every step you take in this exceptional capital. Sailing between nature and culture, Oslo is a compendium of pleasures to be discovered without restraint!
