Oslo is the capital city of Norway, and this vibrant city sitting on the south coast has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you gravitate towards green spaces, the shopping mall, good food, or interesting museums – you’ll find it all here in Oslo. So, if you’ve got an upcoming trip and you’re unsure of all the things to do in Oslo, don’t worry, we’ve got your back.
This article serves as a guide to all the interesting things to see in Oslo as well as all the exciting activities one can do in Oslo. So, use our list below and start planning the trip itinerary of a lifetime to Norway:
Vigeland Park
Vigeland Park is not only a place where one can have a relaxing stroll in nature but is dedicated to the works of the artist, Gustav Vigeland. Walking through the park will get you up close and personal with a few of his sculptures in bronze, granite or cast iron, and you’ll often also get treated to temporary exhibitions and the works of other invited artists.
Royal Palace
This is considered one of the most impressive things to see in Oslo for obvious reasons. The Royal Palace is seeped in history, erected in the 19th century, and has been the home of the reigning king of Norway and Sweden. Today, the palace is still the official home of the current Norwegian monarch. However, visitors can go on tours to explore the royal splendor for themselves.
Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress is also known as Akershus Castle. What makes Akershus such a famous attraction in Oslo is the fact that the structure dates back to the Middle Ages. In typical “fortress” fashion, one can find the headquarters of the Norwegian Ministry of Defence there as well as the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum.
Nobel Peace Center
As the country where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded each year, it’s only logical that a center celebrating the history and the ideals of this prestigious accolade be found there. At the Nobel Peace Center, you’ll learn all about past laureates and, perhaps, dream about the ways you can make the world a better place and be the recipient of one of these one day.
Munch Museum
Even those who’ve never heard of Edvard Munch know of his most famous work of art, The Scream. The Munch Museum is an art gallery dedicated to the life and artistic works of Munch and is one of the best things to do in Oslo as an art lover.
Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum)
The Norsk Folkemuseum celebrates all the different cultures and folk groups that have been interwoven into the fabric of Norway as a country since 1500. Here, you can walk through time, check out artifacts, learn about the different dress codes throughout the ages, and even experience a massive open-air museum with over 150 buildings!
The Troll Sculpture (Kollentrollet)
This is one of the best activities to do in Oslo if you have smaller kids in your party. This gigantic but friendly troll has a great view of the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and makes for a great photo opp as the kids love clambering over the lovable 6.7-meter stone troll.
Forest of the Future Library
The Forest of the Future Library is one of the most special things to see in Oslo (or rather right outside it). This is nothing more than a 100 year-long commitment. The entire forest’s care has been placed in the hands of a trust, thereafter, in the year 2114, the trees will be used to publish anthologies.
Oslo Opera House
The Oslo Opera House might just look like an interesting architectural gem sitting on the waterfront of Oslo, but if you’re not watching the opera or ballet inside, you can actually capture the most magnificent views by walking on its roof.
‘She Lies’ Sculpture
This sculpture, made from stainless steel and glass, floats just outside the Opera House. This incredible structure rises 12 meters into the air and is created to change with the wind and the tide.
The Devil of Oslo
The Devil of Oslo is not actually a devil, but it is still not something one would expect on the side of a cathedral. This relic of a man being devoured by a lion and a dragon was already 900 years old when it was found in the rubble of the St. Hallvards Cathedral. It was then built into the wall of the Oslo cathedral, just right of the main entrance.
St. Hallvard’s Church and Monastery
Speaking of the devil, the St. Halvard's Church and Monastery is technically not the same as the one mentioned above. The rebuilt version can be found a short distance from its medieval version's location, and is the largest catholic parish in Norway.
Neseblod Records
This independent record store specializes in alternative music genres like metal and punk. Whether you're looking for something specific, or have something interesting to donate-Noseblod Records is the place to go.
Gol Stave Church
The original structure is pretty impressive. The historic structure was made of wood and over 800 years old, having been constructed in the 12th century, with all sorts of intricate carvings. Originally from Gol, it is a rebuilt replica that can be found at the Norwegian Folk Museum, where it can be viewed and appreciated today.
Holmenkollen Ski Jump
This ski-jumping hill is a staggering 60 meters high. Not only do you get some of the most amazing views of the city and the fjord from the top of the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, but it's also home to the world's oldest ski museum.
The Polar Exploration Museum (Fram Museum)
This is another of the best things to do in Oslo if you're traveling with your family. This Museum is dedicated to Polar Exploration (so expect a lot of Polar bears and penguins), with a special focus on three famous Norwegian explorers, Fridtjof Nansen, Roald Amundsen, and Otto Sverdrup. The Polar Exploration Museum doesn't just showcase everything about Polar Exploration but also has many interactive fun activities.
Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisk Museum)
From geology, zoology, or botanical gardens - your preferences will be catered to in Norway's biggest Natural History Museum. Experience the diversity of Norway's nature and learn how the Norway you see and love today came to be.
Oslo Fjord Cruise
The most relaxing and unique way of going sightseeing in Oslo is to take one of our fjord boat cruises. Whether ferry, catamaran, sailboat, you name it, there will be a boat tour that suits every need and every budget. The fjord is a UNESCO-protected site, and you can look forward to breathtaking mountain sceneries along with certain Oslo city highlights.
Frognerparken
Frognerparken is Oslo's largest park that's open to the public. Historically, the park used to form part of Frogner Manor as a baroque garden in 1750. Many come to the park to enjoy all sorts of fun recreational activities walking along streams and ponds, having picnics underneath the shady trees, and much, much more. You'll also find Vigeland Park inside Frognerparken.
Kon-Tiki Museum
The Kon-Tiki Museum celebrates everything surrounding the Kon-Tiki sailing exhibition, from the actual vessels and maps to a library of 8000 books. This exhibition was still very primitive and went all the way from Peru to Polynesia, which took roughly 3.5 months.
As you can see, any concerns about what to do in Oslo will disappear quickly once you start planning your trip itinerary using our helpful guide. And we’re merely scratching the surface of this incredible city. Also, don’t forget to explore the rest of the country and the exciting experiences it offers. Rent a motorhome in Norway so you can have the road trip adventure of a lifetime.