On a budget? A stay in the Norwegian capital can be cheaper than you'd think. In fact, many activities and attractions in Oslo are totally free! Check out how you can save money on your next trip to Norway.
1. Outdoor art
Go on a treasure hunt for art in parks and streets!
Some of the largest parks have sculptures you can enjoy for free, like the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Ekebergparken. Enjoy the combination of vast green spaces and fascinating sculptures for all to see.
There's also a smaller and colourful sculpture park in Slottsparken, behind the Royal Palace. It's a great place to bring the kids.
In addition, you'll find beautiful street art and many world-class sculptures dotted around town. Get some fresh air and exercise while exploring the city's public art and statues!
OsloBotanical Garden
Large garden at Tøyen with ample botanical variety and diversity. Most of the area is designed as an Arboretum, with approximately 1800 different plants. The garden holds a large and varied collection of trees and shrubs planted in a systematic fashion after plant family. The Scent Garden is arranged as an experience for all, but especially the blind, mentally handicapped and wheelchair-bound. You will also find large, woven sculptures by the British artist Tom Hare around in the park. The greenhouses The Palm House from 1868 and The Victoria House from 1876 present exotic plants from other parts of the world. Norwegian name: Botanisk hage
Travel through Norway on a shoestring –
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2. Adventurous urban walks
The best way to see the city is on your steam and Oslo is extremely walkable (not to mention accessible to wheelchairs).
A great tip is to head along Oslo’s waterfront on the nine-kilometre long Harbour Promenade. This route is jam-packed with things to see and do, like swimming spots and beaches, a marina, stunning architecture, world-class art, an outdoor gym, and an absolute gem of a public library, Deichman Bjørvika. And all that's just the free stuff!
You can also follow one of the waterways that run through Oslo – the trail along the river Akerselva is the most popular by far. Let yourself get a bit lost whilst sightseeing in the city centre or in one of its many parks.
OsloFrogner Park
The largest park in central parts of Oslo and a popular recreational area for people from all over the city. Inside the park you find Vigeland Sculpture Park, one of Oslo's most popular attractions. On a nice day the park is full of people; here you can go for a run, walk the dog, have a picnic or barbecue, play badminton or just enjoy the sun. Frogner Park has Norway's biggest collection of roses; a total of 14,000 plants of 150 different species. Frogner Stadium and Frognerbadet open-air pool are located in the corner of the park that faces Majorstua. In the corner near Frogner plass you can visit Frogner Manor House and the Museum of Oslo. The park has a café and a restaurant and children can play on Norway's biggest playground, located near the main entrance.
OsloSt. Hanshaugen
St. Hanshaugen is one of Oslo's largest parks, located just north of the city centre. This popular recreational area is great for walks, and from the top of the hill you have a nice view of Oslo. St. Hanshaugen was originally a bare rock hill. In the 1840s the name St. Hanshaugen ("midsummer hill") came into use, as the hill was a popular place for midsummer celebrations. In 1936, an open-air café was built at Festplassen - the square on top of the hill - which is still a popular summer café today.
OsloSognsvann lake
Recreation area with great places for picnics, swimming, fishing, walking and running, as well as cross-country skiing tracks, ice skating and winter walking routes around the pond during winter. The two-mile (3.2-kilometre) path around the lake is one of Norway’s most popular walking and running trail. The path is illuminated and wheelchair-friendly.
OsloDamstredet & Telthusbakken
Charming and picturesque part of central Oslo with well-preserved and inhabited wooden houses from the late 1700s and the 1800s. Damstredet is a cobbled street with wooden houses from the first half of the 19th century. The street runs between Akersveien and Fredensborgveien and is just 160 metres long. Telthusbakken is located between Maridalsveien and Akersveien, just below the medieval church Gamle Aker kirke. On one side of the 260-metre street lies a series of small wooden houses, and on the other side is a large allotment garden area, Egebergløkka. Along the gardens you can walk the romantic Kjærlighetsstien ("The Love Trail").
Akerselva Running Loops
Ready for a good run in beautiful surroundings? Whether your starting point is Grønland, Alexander Kiellands plass, Nydalen or anywhere in between, you should take full advantage of being so close to the river path along the Akerselva river. The entire path from Grønland up until Maridalsvannet lake is eight kilometres one way, making it perfect for a run of any length. There is a gradual climb up the whole way, but the hard work pays off on the downhill home! Difficulty level: Easy Elevation gain: 140 metres Time consumption: 0,5–2 hours Transportation: You can start from anywhere along the river. Good to know: The lower parts of the trail are paved, while the uppermost part from Sagene to the lake is gravel. Akerselva is also a great path for walks, biking and child strollers. Go to Outtt for more suggestions on how to experience the outdoors in Oslo.
OsloWalk along the river Akerselva
Follow the Akerselva river from Maridalsvannet lake to Vaterland Park in the centre of Oslo. The riverwalk is eight kilometres long, and takes you past forested areas, historical buildings, fishing and swimming spots and several waterfalls. The highest waterfall is next to Hønse-Lovisas hus and the Beier bridge.OsloBotanical Garden
Large garden at Tøyen with ample botanical variety and diversity. Most of the area is designed as an Arboretum, with approximately 1800 different plants. The garden holds a large and varied collection of trees and shrubs planted in a systematic fashion after plant family. The Scent Garden is arranged as an experience for all, but especially the blind, mentally handicapped and wheelchair-bound. You will also find large, woven sculptures by the British artist Tom Hare around in the park. The greenhouses The Palm House from 1868 and The Victoria House from 1876 present exotic plants from other parts of the world. Norwegian name: Botanisk hage
3. Design your own architectour
Do you prefer historical highlights or funky new landmarks? Or did you just come to walk on the roof of the Opera House? New neighbourhoods with exciting architecture and trendy cafes and restaurants are popping up all over town, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a few classics.
Discover cutting-edge Norwegian architecture in one of Oslo's newer areas, Oslobukta. Full of buzzing cafés, restaurants and shops, it's also right by the sea.
Walk from Bjørvika, a new and modern part of Oslo, all the way to the more historic neighbourhoods like Frogner. Experience the changes in architecture and enjoy the merging of modern and historic design.
- Oslo
Damstredet & Telthusbakken
Charming and picturesque part of central Oslo with well-preserved and inhabited wooden houses from the late 1700s and the 1800s. Damstredet is a cobbled street with wooden houses from the first half of the 19th century. The street runs between Akersveien and Fredensborgveien and is just 160 metres long. Telthusbakken is located between Maridalsveien and Akersveien, just below the medieval church Gamle Aker kirke. On one side of the 260-metre street lies a series of small wooden houses, and on the other side is a large allotment garden area, Egebergløkka. Along the gardens you can walk the romantic Kjærlighetsstien ("The Love Trail").
OsloMortensrud Church
Modern stone church known for its unusual architecture. It was consecrated in 2002 and is a beautiful and unconventional stone church - a natural cathedral where the where the architects have integrated nature in the construction of slate, glass and steel. Inside the church sees the bedrock in several places, and the room is light, with many interesting artistic details. The architects, Jensen & Skodvin, were awarded the prestigious Grosch medal for this work. Hidden in Gunnar Torvund's altarpiece are three special stones; one from the Berlin Wall, one from Robben Island (where Mandela was imprisoned) and one from Jerusalem. Norwegian name: Mortensrud Kirke
OsloCentral Jam-e-Mosque
The mosque in Åkebergveien is the headquarters of World Islamic Mission, one of the biggest Muslim congregations in Norway. The mosque has room for about 700 people and is one of the largest in Norway. When it opened in 1995, the Central Jam-e-Mosque was the first purpose-built mosque in Norway. The walls of the mosque are decorated with tiles from Iran and Spain, both on the inside and on the outside. Many tiles have calligrapic inscriptions from the Quran. The mosque also has Persian carpets and a Turkish chandelier in the main hall.
OsloBarcode
Bjørvika Barcode consists of twelve narrow high-rise buildings of different heights and widths. The buildings are built with some space in between them, thus jointly resembling a barcode. Barcode houses leading national and international businesses, and 10 000 people work here on a daily basis. The buildings also contain 400 apartments and a daycare center. On street level, you'll find a varied and attractive selection of restaurants, shops, galleries and other service providers. The Barcode architecture The BARCODE architecture concept was developed by the Norwegian firms DARK and a-lab, in collaboration with the Dutch agency MVRDV. The BARCODE concept is designed as a geometric system that stands out architecturally. The concept incorporates values such as openness to the fjord, admittance of light and airiness. Based on the BARCODE concept, the twelve buildings are designed by different architectural firms. Besides the overall shape, the buildings are very different. Each building has its own distinctive character, and enjoyable architectonic details and quirks make Barcode an architectural experience quite out of the ordinary.
OsloAker Brygge wharf
Popular area along the inner harbour with restaurants, shopping, apartments and office buildings. After a thorough renovation, the area has a fresh look and lots of new restaurants and shops. At street level Aker Brygge a vibrant commercial district, and the large open-air areas and indoor shopping street are often used for photo exhibitions, concerts and pop-up events for fashion, art and culture. For more than a century Aker Brygge was the site of a shipyard, Akers Mekaniske Verksted. The architecture at Aker Brygge is distinctive, with its combination of old, venerable shipyard buildings and modern architecture. When the sun is shining Aker Brygge is teeming with people day and night. The pedestrian area along the waterfront is lined with restaurants with great views of the marina and the Oslo Fjord. In total, Aker Brygge's restaurants have 2,500 chairs outdoors. Are you coming to Oslo by private boat? Aker Brygge Marina's guest harbour has 50 spaces.
4. Oslo by bike
Oslo is an ideal city for cycling, with short distances between the city centre and the countryside. Many of the city’s streets have separate bicycle lanes. Rent a bike from a rental place,or use your phone to unlock Oslo city bikes at more than 100 stations in and around the city centre for a small fee.
How about a bike ride with a picnic stop in one of the lovely green spaces in the city, like the Botanical Gardens in Tøyen? Or travel a bit further out to the parks and beaches at Bygdøy. The nine-kilometre long Harbour Promenade along Oslo's waterfront has bike paths most of the way and plenty of exciting places to stop.
Bicycle route: Around lakes Nøklevann and Ulsrudvann
Forest bicycle ride around Nøklevann and Ulsrudvann lakes. Starting point: Rustadsaga Take the tram to Bogerud Station (line 3), about 20 minutes from the centre of Oslo. From there 1 km east to Rustadsaga sportstue. Distance: 10 km Incline: 125 hm Roadway: gravel The route around Nøklevann lake is one of the most popular bike rides in Østmarka. The road is slightly rolling and varied and offers lovely views of the lake. Places like Kattisa and Bråten are great for a dip in the lake. Less than one kilometre north of here Bremsrud is great for a break, with a view of many of Nøklevann's rock faces. Please note that many hikers frequent this area on weekends, so please show consideration! If you prefer to ride more undisturbed, you should plan your ride in the early morning or late afternoon.
Bicycle route: The River Ride "Jungle Tour"
The River Ride is a "Jungle tour" of the west side by bicycle, in the valley Mærradalen, Oslo. Starting point: Radiumhospitalet, Ullern Easy arrival along the cycling route on Ring 3, from Smestad tram station (approx. 1.5 km) Route: Radium Hospital - Mærradalen - Hovseterskogen - Bogstad Farm Between Ringveien and the heavily trafficked highway 168, you will find a dense, "enchanted" forest in a little-known river valley; Mærradalen. This is a scenic route all summer long and a nice bicycle ride. Leave Ringveien one and a half kilometres west of Smestad Station and cycle uphill towards Husby along the stream Mærradalsbekken. Distance: 6 km Incline: 100 m Road surface: mostly gravel, a bit rough in places. To lengthen the ride a bit, head for Bogstad Manor, which you will reach by going under Highway 168, across the Hovseter fields and past Bogstad Camping. The road surface of the last kilometre before Bogstad Camping is slightly rough, but fully "cyclable" for those on a mountain bike.
Bicycle route: The Vantage Point Ekeberg
Several nice vantage points are found within cycling distance from the centre of Oslo. The Valhall curve has one of the best views in the city. It is also known as the place where Edvard Munch was inspired to paint his world-famous painting "Scream". You will recognise the painting's landscape contours as you enjoy the view from Valhallveien. The Vantage Point: Valhallveien, Ekeberg, second highest curve Starting point: Oslo gate, Gamlebyen Distance: 2.8 km Incline: 120 hm Roadway: asphalt Recommended route (from Gamlebyen): from Oslo gate via Dyvekes vei, Konowsgt to Valhallveien, stop in the last tight curve below Ekeberg Camping.
Akerselva river
Through the centre of Oslo, from Maridalsvannet to the Oslo Fjord, runs the Akerselva river – a popular recreation area with a vibrant history. The river is eight kilometres long and passes waterfalls, swimming spots, fishing grounds, forested areas and wildlife. Akerselva's most spectacular waterfall is located by the Beier Bridge. Other famous attractions linked to the river are Bjølsen Rolling Mill, Lilleborg Factories, Aamot Bridge, Hønse-Lovisa's House and Nedre Foss.
OsloBicycle route: Around Bygdøy
A bicycle tour around Bygdøy is one of most delightful, romantic two-wheel rides in Oslo: Lush woods, park-like countryside, view of the sea, beaches, historic buildings and the royal cows are some of the sights along the way. Starting point: Hengsengveien (arrive from Aker Brygge via the 3-km cycle route along Frognerstranda to Hengsengveien). Continue to Holsts vei - Rideveien - Huk - P.T. Mallingsvei - Langviksvei - Huk Aveny - Museumsveien - Wedels vei - Dronning Biancas vei Distance: 7 km Incline: insignificant Road surface: primarily fine gravel
Bicycle route: To Nordstrand for a swim
Bicycle trip from the city centre to the bathing spot Nordstrand Bad. This is the shortest and easiest cycling route from the city centre to a nice place to go for a swim. Nordstrand Bad is in a well-sheltered location and cannot be seen from the road. Thanks to poor parking conditions it doesn't really get overcrowded here. Starting point: The intersection of Kongsveien and Konows gate. Route: Follow the pavement/cycle route south along Mosseveien. Roughly 500 metres after passing Ulvøybrua (the bridge to Ulvøya), look for a side road that curves sharply to the right before you reach Furubråtveien. Distance: 4.7 km Surface: asphalt Facilities at the end point: toilets, 100-metre stone pier
5. Hit the beach
Oslo’s unique position between the sea and forest means there are plenty of swimming spots whether you prefer fresh or salty waters.
If you don’t even want to spend money on a metro or boat ticket (which are pretty inexpensive, by the way), you can dive off the piers in the city centre at Sørenga, Sukkerbiten, and Tjuvholmen. There's also a free city beach right in front of the Opera House.
Otherwise, we recommend that you go island hopping on the Oslofjord or find a private spot by a forest lake.
- Oslo
Sognsvann lake
Recreation area with great places for picnics, swimming, fishing, walking and running, as well as cross-country skiing tracks, ice skating and winter walking routes around the pond during winter. The two-mile (3.2-kilometre) path around the lake is one of Norway’s most popular walking and running trail. The path is illuminated and wheelchair-friendly.
OsloBogstadvannet lake
Bogstadvannet is a lake on the border between Oslo and Bærum with beach areas on both sides. The lake has perch, whitefish and trout and is a popular fishing spot all year round. Bogstadvannet and surroundings is a popular area for all types of outdoor recreation, and there are ski trails on the west side. Bogstad Manor, Bogstad Camping and Oslo Golf Club Bogstad are all located along the idyllic lakefront.
6. Free museums
If you want to go to a museum in Oslo, you usually have to buy a ticket. But most art galleries show their works for free, and some museums have free admission for their permanent collections or on selected days.
The 22nd of July Centre is always free to visit, whilst Munch is free on Wednesday evenings, and the Museum of Oslo and the Intercultural Museum have free entry on Thursdays.
Oslo City Hall is open to everyone and has plenty of exciting history, architecture and art by major artists like Edvard Munch. You can even get free guided tours during the summer months.
7. Find inner peace in the forest
A short metro ride from Oslo city centre, 2,000 square kilometres of forest are waiting to fill your mind with tranquillity. A network of marked trails for hiking and skiing means that you can roam around the forest for days without getting lost, and every few hours you can stop by a cabin for a cinnamon roll.
Friluftsliv, or free-air-living, is very important in Norway. A lot of Norwegian's enjoy spending their free time in nature, and Oslo is perfect for combining city life with calmer days in the great outdoors.
Hike to Vettakollen
A peak on the northern edge of the city between Holmenkollen and Sognsvann, Vettakollen provides some of the best views of Oslo. Located just minutes from the closest metro stop, this is one of the most accessible hikes from downtown. Difficulty level: Easy Distance, one way: 1.2 kilometres (0.75 miles) Elevation gain: 180 metres (590 feet) Time consumption: 1–1,5 hours Transportation: Take metro no.1 (Frognerseteren) to Vettakollen station and walk from there. Read more information about this adventure on Outtt. Download the Outtt app from Google Play or App Store for more outdoor activity suggestions in Oslo.
Experience Maridalen's Alps
This hike takes you through the lush forest of Nordmarka, past Øyungen lake, and up to the viewpoint on top of Mellomkollen, which offers great views of Oslo and the surrounding forest. Difficulty level: Medium Distance, one way: 12.3 kilometres (7.7 miles) Elevation change: 500 metres (1,640 feet) Time consumption: 2,5–3,5 hours Transportation: From Jernbanetorget, take bus 54 (Kjelsås) to Godals vei. Switch there to bus 51 (Maridalen) and exit at Skar. Read more information about this adventure on Outtt. Download the Outtt app from Google Play or App Store for more outdoor activity suggestions in Oslo.
Forest walk from Østmarksetra to Mariholtet
The hike from Østmarksetra to the Mariholtet cabin on the eastern side of Oslo takes you through a lush forest and alongside several lakes. The lakes provide many opportunities to swim or to relax on a beach after a fun hike. Difficulty level: Easy Distance: 7.8 kilometres (4.9 miles) Elevation change: 330 metres (1,100 feet) Time consumption: 2.5–3.5 hours Transportation: Take metro 3 (Mortensrud) to Ulsrud station and walk from there. Read more information about this adventure on Outtt. Download the Outtt app from Google Play or App Store for more outdoor activity suggestions in Oslo.OsloSognsvann lake
Recreation area with great places for picnics, swimming, fishing, walking and running, as well as cross-country skiing tracks, ice skating and winter walking routes around the pond during winter. The two-mile (3.2-kilometre) path around the lake is one of Norway’s most popular walking and running trail. The path is illuminated and wheelchair-friendly.
Hike to Grefsenkollen
Situated just north of downtown, Grefsenkollen provides great views of Oslo, the fjord, Holmenkollen and the surrounding forests. From the top there are many opportunities to hike further into the beautiful forests of Nordmarka. There is also a café and restaurant at the end of the route. Difficulty level: Easy Distance, one way: 3.1 kilometres (1.9 miles) Elevation gain: 140 metres (460 feet) Time consumption: 1–1,5 hours Public transportation: Take bus 31 (Grorud T) from Jernbanetorget to the stop Årvoll senter. Switch to bus 25 (Majorstuen) and hop off at Grefsenkollveien. Read more information about this adventure on Outtt. Download the Outtt app from Google Play or App Store for more outdoor activity suggestions in Oslo.
Hike Barlindåsen Ridge
A great hike on a clear day, going up Barlindåsen Ridge is relatively easy and comes with a big reward as you look down on Oslo from the northeastern side of the city. The trail is located near Maridalsvannet, Oslo’s largest lake. Difficulty level: Medium Distance, one way: 5.7 kilometres (3.6 miles) Elevation change: 200 metres (656 feet) Time consumption: 2–2,5 hours Transportation: Park your car at Sandermosen train station. The train does not stop there. Read more information about this adventure on Outtt. Download the Outtt app from Google Play or App Store for more outdoor activity suggestions in Oslo.
Hike along Maridalsvannet
The eastern side of Maridalsvannet, Oslo’s largest lake, is a beautiful area with great views overlooking the thick forest and the water, and a vast amount of trails to explore. Taking the tram from downtown will provide easy access to the trail and to the rest of the Nordmarka forest. Difficulty level: Easy Distance, one way: 8.1 kilometres (5 miles) Elevation gain: 250 metres (820 feet) Time consumption: 2–2.5 hours Transportation: From Jernbanetorget, take tram 12 to Kjelsås. Read more information about this adventure on Outtt. Download the Outtt app from Google Play or App Store for more outdoor activity suggestions in Oslo.Hike to Øyungen Lake
Located on the northern side of Maridalen, Øyungen is a great hike for adventurers of all ages. Although you are on a well-maintained gravel trail, you are completely immersed in nature, walking side by side the Skarselva River, which runs down to Maridalsvannet, Oslo’s largest lake. Difficulty level: Easy Distance, one way: 5.1 kilometres (3.2 miles) Elevation change: 140 metres (460 feet) Time consumption: 1,5–2 hours Transportation: From Oslo Central Station, take bus 54 (Kjelsås) to Godals vei. Switch there to bus 51 (Maridalen) and exit at Skar. Read more information about this adventure on Outtt. Download the Outtt app from Google Play or App Store for more outdoor activity suggestions in Oslo.
8. Historical Oslo
Oslo is packed with historic sites that you can still experience today. Discover rock carvings from the Stone Age, ruins from the Middle Ages, and buildings from the Dano–Norwegian Realm on your way through the city.
Let the Akershus Fortress take you back in time. Marvel at the impressive fortress complex that was completed in the 1300s. The historic fort also offers panoramic views of the stunning Oslofjord.
Enjoy a picnic in Middelalderparken, a park where you'll find the ruins of St. Clemens church from the 12th century. It actually helped archaeologists determine when Oslo was founded.
On the Bygdøy peninsula, you can visit Bygdø Royal Manor, a historic organic farm in full operation, surrounded by Royal heritage sites and beautiful scenery.
OsloStolpersteine: memorial cobblestones
The Stolpersteine (literally "stumbling stones") are World War II memorials placed into the sidewalk in places where Jews and other victims lived until they were deported and killed by the Nazis. Each stone represents a single person, and includes a brass plate engraved with their name, birth year, deportation year, and date and place of death. In Oslo there are 393 such stones as of September 2020. At snublestein.no (in Norwegian) you can see where the stones in Oslo are located and find information about each of the commemorated individuals. About the Stolpestein project The project was started by German artist Gunter Demnig in 1994, when he placed the first stone on the sidewalk in Cologne. Since then more than 60,000 stones have been placed in 22 European countries. In 2010 the Oslo Jewish Museum brought the project to Norway and placed the first stones at Calmeyers gate 15, where the museum is located in a former synagogue. The house in front of the synagogue was home to 28 Jews in 1942, and 19 of them, several of them children, were deported and killed in Auschwitz. Each of these 19 victims are remembered with a stone outside the museum. The other 217 stones in Oslo are spread across large parts of the city, including Frogner, Vika, St. Hanshaugen, Grünerløkka, Tøyen and Grønland. The stones on the photo above are located in Uelands gate 14 near Alexander Kiellands plass.
OsloRock carvings at Ekeberg
The rock carvings at Ekeberg were created during the stone age, 4,000-5,000 years ago. There are 13 carvings, ten of which portray animals, one that portrays a person, one that depicts something resempling a trap, and one bird-like figure. Rock carvings have been found at two other places in Oslo; at the University at Blindern (in and next to the chemistry building), and in Niels Juels gate (these can be seen in the Historical Museum).
OsloThe ruins of St. Clemens' church
Ruins of the medieval church of St. Clemens, which was built in the 12th century. It had two naves and was east-west oriented. The church was torn down after about 400 years, and the ruins excavated in 1920-21. The ruins of the Clemens church have helped archaeologists determine that Oslo was founded around 1000 years ago.
OsloSt. Olav's Monastery and St. Hallvard's Cathedral
Memorial park in the Old Town with ruins of some of medieval Oslo's most important buildings. The park is open to the public. St. Olav's Monastery from the 13th century is the best-preserved town monastery in the country. The old rooms inside are only accessible as part of a guided tour or in connection with events. Next to the monastery are the ruins of the St. Hallvard's Cathedral, a grand church dedicated to Oslo's patron saint, built around the year 1070 AD. Oslo ladegård offers guided tours of the medieval town.
OsloMemorial cemetery: Æreslunden
Cemetery dating back to 1808, known primarily for Æreslunden, Norway's main honorary burial ground. Æreslunden was established in 1904, and famous Norwegians such as Edvard Munch, Henrik Ibsen, Henrik Wergeland, Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, Richard Nordrak, Christian Krogh and Alf Prøysen are buried here.
Kvadraturen
Kvadraturen is the area between Akershus Fortress and Grensen, Jernbanetorget and Egertorget. This was King Christian IV's town from the Renaissance. Only a few buildings from the 17th and 18th century can still be seen. In Kvadraturen you find the square Christiania torv, known for its fountain with a sculpture of a hand pointing to the ground. After the big town fire in 1624, the Danish-Norwegian King Christian IV decided to rebuild the town in this area and name it after himself. He supposedly pointed to this spot and said: "The new town will lie here!" The area is today known as Kvadraturen ("the quadrature") because of the rectangular street pattern of Christian IV's renaissance town. Several well-preserved buildings from the 17th century can be seen in Kvadraturen, such as the building that housed Oslo's first town hall, and the city's oldest restaurant, Café Engebret.
OsloChurch ruins in Maridalen
Ruins after the Margareta Church in the Maridalen valley, one of few remains in Oslo from the Middle Ages. About the Margareta Church The church, built around the year 1250, was a small, single-nave church with choir, dedicated to St. Margareta. The medieval church was partly excavated and restored in 1934, and is beautifully situated at Kirkeby in the north end of the lake Maridalsvannet. The historical play "Maridalsspillet" is performed in the ruins every summer.
OsloOld Aker Church
Old Aker Church (Gamle Aker kirke) is Oslo's oldest remaining building and the only remaining church from the Middle Ages. It is assumed that it was built around the year 1150. It is a stone church, built as a three-naved Roman-style basilica. The church has been pillaged and ravaged by fire several times. The oldest part of the surrounding churchyard dates back to the 12th century. The church has a baroque pulpit and baptismal font from 1715. The tower was built in 1861. Service in Norwegian on Sundays at 11 am
OsloMonastery ruins at Hovedøya
Monastery ruins from the Middle Ages in green surroundings on the island Hovedøya, a short ferry trip from the city centre. About the monastery The monastery was founded by English Cistercian monks. Abbot Philippus arrived to the island from Kirkstead, Lincolnshire in May of 1147, together with 12 monks and some lay brothers. They found a small church, which they extended it. Later, they built a monastery on the south side of the church and dedicated it to the Virgin Mary. In 1532 the monastery was pillaged and burned down, and the ruins weren't excavated until 1845-47.
OsloOslo ladegård
Baroque manor house with history back to the 1720s, when it was built over the arched cellar of Bispeborgen (The Bishop's Castle). Oslo ladegård is located in the heart of Oslo's medieval town, with restored rooms featuring antique furnitue and paintings. The medieval hall in the cellar is what is left of Bispeborgen from the 13th century. In the cellar you can see a sound and light show presenting burial customs from the Middle Ages to the 17th century. It tells the story from the Middle Ages up until the present time, as well as the many interesting people who lived in and visited the building. Did you know that it hosted a royal wedding in 1589? Open guided tours in Norwegian on Saturdays and Sundays in June–September. Group tours can be booked all year. You can explore Medieval Oslo and Pilegrimsleden: St. Olav Ways to Trondheim by following the signposts. There are seven stops along the way, all of them creates a link from modern times to medieval Oslo. The 1,7 km walk takes about 30 minutes. Read more at oppdagmiddelalderbyen.no. Concerts on Wednesdays. Café open all year. Norwegian name: Oslo ladegård
9. Winter activities
In the winter months, you can go cross-country skiing on groomed and lit trails in the Oslomarka forest or slide down the Korketrekkeren toboggan run. It's free to sled down the hill with your own toboggan, but if you don't have one you can easily rent one at the top.
If you want to stay in the city centre, try ice skating in Spikersuppa or the many local ice skating rinks, or enjoy wandering around the cosy booths at a festive Christmas market.
There are also beautiful frozen lakes just outside of the city centre that are great for ice skating. If you're feeling brave, you can give ice bathing a go. There are certain areas where people drill though the ice in lakes or the sea for bathing or fishing.
OsloØstensjøvannet lake
Oslo's richest wetland and bird reserve area, just five kilometres from the city centre and easily accessed by metro. Walk around the lake The graveled/paved trail around the lake is 4.5 kilometres (2.8 miles) long and is connected to a large network of trails in the Oslo forests. It takes less than an hour to walk around the water. Trails that start along the path can take you in the direction of Østmarka via Skullerud in the southeast or Svartdalsparken via Alnavassdraget in the northwest. Biodiversity The many natural habitats around Østensjø has given the area great biodiversity. In and around the lake, observers have counted 228 bird species and more than 20 mammals, as well as salamanders, frogs and lizards. Facts about Østensjøvannet lake Area: 0.29 square kilometres Length: 1770 metres Width: 260 metres The lake has been protected since 1992, and the area became an environmental park in 2002. In 2012, the site was authorised as a national wetland centre.
10. Buy the Oslo Pass
Fancy a good deal? The Oslo Pass gives you free entrance to museums and other attractions, free use of public transport, and discounts on everything from sightseeing tours to restaurants.
The pass is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Get it online, as an app, or at a variety of places in Oslo, including the Oslo Visitor Centre, where they will tell you everything you need to know about the city.
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
Fjord Travel NorwaySleep in an ice hotel, hunt the northern lights, and discover the magical fjords. Book your tour now!
Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
Cabin CampersExperience the road trip of a lifetime with our cabins on four wheels.
My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.
Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.
Get inspired
Find your next adventure in Oslo and the surrounding area!
Enjoy the harbour promenade
Come and see what the city has to offer!
Plan your trip to Oslo
Explore all the options below, or go directly to:
Discover more
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
- Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.Fjord Travel NorwaySleep in an ice hotel, hunt the northern lights, and discover the magical fjords. Book your tour now!Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the trainVy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.Cabin CampersExperience the road trip of a lifetime with our cabins on four wheels.My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.