Surrounded by forests, hills and shimmering lakes, Oslo is one of Europe’s most scenic capitals. One of its biggest draws is its proximity to nature, with plenty of opportunities to hike, bike, ski and boat. Oslo offers a dose of rich culture, with a string of world-class museums and galleries to explore. For architecture buffs, Oslo is a fascinating city, mastering the art of old and new.It’s not unusual to see ultra-modern buildings standing alongside medieval gems.
Things to Do
Oslo serves up an eclectic mix of attractions, with most clustered around the city centre. The neoclassical Royal Palace sits at the western end of Karl Johans Gate and is one of the city’s top attractions.
The open-air Norwegian Museum of Cultural History showcases life-size artefacts, while the 13th-century Akershus Fortress houses a military museum. Oslo’s Viking roots run deep, with the seafaring warriors ruling Norway for more than 250 years. Today, there’s no better place to soak it all up than Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum.
Find the city’s best shopping along Karl Johans Gate and its surrounding streets. For refreshments with a view, hit up the trendy bars and restaurants along the redeveloped waterfront area. You can admire the futuristic Oslo Opera House and take a stroll around the skyscraper-studded Barcode district.
If you love art, an afternoon at Frogner Park is a must. The public space is famous for its confronting sculpture installation, designed by legendary Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland.
Getting Around
Oslo is powered by an efficient public transport system, with buses, trams, subway trains and ferries running throughout the city. The downtown core is pedestrian friendly, with plenty of major sights and attractions within walking distance. Departing from the City Hall Pier, boat cruises are a popular way to see the islands of the inner Oslo Fjord.