Discover the vibrant Norwegian capital with this comprehensive Oslo travel guide. From the majestic Royal Palace and historic Akershus Fortress to the world-class art at the Munch Museum and the stunning architecture of the Opera House, Oslo offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern design. Explore scenic fjords, charming islands, and unique sculpture parks for an unforgettable Scandinavian adventure.
The Royal Palace
Home to Norwegian royalty, the palace is set amongst acres of greenspace and features soldiers guarding the palace with a Changing of the Guard ceremony; tours inside are available with advance booking.
Akershus Fortress & Castle
A castle overlooking the sea with views across Oslo, featuring royal-themed items, the Royal Mausoleum, a Royal Chapel, King Christian's room, the Prince's Chamber, and the Hall of Olaf V.
The National Museum
An art gallery with traditional and non-traditional works, sculptures, and paintings, including a version of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream,” claimed to be the most valuable painting in the world.
Oslo Cathedral
One of the two most famous churches in Oslo, described as very nice inside.
The Norwegian Parliament
Where the Norwegian government meets, offering free guided tours where visitors can learn about the history of the building and Norway itself, and see the Parliament chamber.
The Folk Museum
An open-air museum resembling an old-style Norwegian village with actors in costumes, offering the chance to try Norwegian Lefse and explore traditional wood huts and churches.
Vigeland Sculpture Park
An area within Frogner Park displaying the works of Gustav Vigeland, featuring suggestive statues, including “the angry baby” and a giant monolith comprised of sculpted naked bodies.
the Opera House
The country's foremost opera venue, where visitors can climb on its roof for views.
the Munch Museum
An art gallery filled with the works of Edvard Munch, home to a rooftop bar and some of his works displayed free of charge around the building.
Karl Johans Gate
A main street similar to the Champs Elysees in Paris, where people can saunter, explore green spaces, relax by fountains, and shop for souvenirs.
Oslo City Hall
A noticeable landmark with a red brick exterior and clock tower, featuring a stunning Great Hall where Nobel Peace Prize ceremonies are held, and offering free guided tours.
Holmenkollen Ski Jump
One of the most fearsome ski jumps in the world, offering virtual simulators, a lift to the top for views, and the option to zipline down.
Oslo Central Station
The main transportation hub in Oslo, where visitors arrive from the airport via Flytorget train or Torp Expressen bus, and where they can find the Oslo Visitor Center.
National Opera House of Oslo
The country's foremost opera venue, where visitors can climb on its roof for views.
Edvard Munch Museum
An art gallery filled with the works of Edvard Munch, home to a rooftop bar and some of his works displayed free of charge around the building.
Oslo Harbour
A waterfront area where people sunbathe, paddle board, walk, get married, or enjoy waterfront saunas, and where cruise ships dock.
Norwegian Armed Forces Museum
A museum for history and firearms enthusiasts, located near the harbour and Akershus Fortress.
Nobel Peace Center
An interactive museum where visitors can learn about the Nobel Peace Prize awards and its recipients.
National Museum of Oslo
An art gallery with traditional and non-traditional works, sculptures, and paintings, including a version of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream,” claimed to be the most valuable painting in the world.
Aker Brygge
An area famous for its pier, waterfront, eateries, up-market shopping, and connection to several islands, where the most expensive hotel in Oslo, ‘The Thief,’ is located.
Historical Museum
An attraction on Karl Johans Gate that was closed for renovations during the visit.
National Theatre
A venue on Karl Johans Gate to check out a play or a show, featuring statues of Mr Ibsen and Mr Bjornson.
St Olav’s Church
One of the two most famous churches in Oslo, described as more colourful than the cathedral.
Frogner Park
A manicured greenspace, most famously known for the Vigeland Sculpture Park.
Viking Ship Museum
A museum to learn about Vikings, currently closed for renovations until 2025.
Norwegian Maritime Museum
A museum to learn about the maritime history of Norway, located near the Kon-Tiki Museum and the Fram Museum.
Kon-Tiki Museum
A museum displaying the Kon-Tiki raft, where visitors can learn about the story behind it and its film/TV adaptations.
Fram Museum
A museum featuring the actual Fram ship that sailed around Antarctica, where visitors can climb aboard and see what life was like for discoverers.
Hovedøya
A picturesque island with a disused monastery, park space, and views of Oslo.
Lindøya
An island with colourful houses and a church on the water.
Nakholmen
An island similar to Lindøya, offering a picturesque setting.
Gressholmen
An island similar to Lindøya, offering a picturesque setting.
Bleikøya
An island similar to Lindøya, offering a picturesque setting.
Ekeberg Park
Home to green spaces with views over Oslo Harbour and buildings, as well as strange statues.
Holmenkollen Ski Jump & Museum
One of the most fearsome ski jumps in the world, offering virtual simulators, a lift to the top for views, and the option to zipline down.
Oslo Gardermoen International Airport
The main airport serving Oslo, connected to Oslo Central Station by the Flytorget train.
Sandefjord Torp Airport
An airport served by Ryanair, located a 2-hour bus ride from Oslo bus terminal via the Torp Expressen Bus.
Oslo Visitor Center
A place to pick up a free paper map and buy an Oslo pass for access to museums and public transport.
Oslo Street Food
An indoor foodie market where you can try various cuisines.