The Opera House in Bjørvika in Oslo
A couple walking in front of the royal castle.
Overview of the Vigelandsparken at Frogner in Oslo, Eastern Norway
Woman by an opera house
The MUNCH museum in Bjørvika in Oslo.
A video of the National museum outside and inside of the museum.
A woman travelling from Oslo to Bygdøy by boat and visiting the Kon-Tiki museum and a stave church.

Top things to do in Oslo

Planning a trip to Norway's capital Oslo? Here are 10 top attractions you simply can not miss.

1. The Vigeland sculpture park

Visit the largest sculpture park in the world, created by a single artist! The park is located in Oslo's historic distric Frogner and features more than 200 sculptures.

Tour with a guide to get to know the parks many hidden secrets, and visit the close by Vigeland museum.

Explore the sculpture park

2. The Oslo opera house

The Oslo opera house invites you to walk on the roof, with epic views of the city centre. It's not only a cool building, it's also home to The Norwegian National Opera and Ballet.

Located just a few minutes walk from the Oslo central station!

Visit the opera house

3. MUNCH

Experience one of the world's most iconic paintings The Scream, and plenty other artworks by Edvard Munch, at the iconic MUNCH museumin the Bjørvika district.

Explore MUNCH

4. The National museum

Plan plenty of time to explore Norway's most extensive colleciton of art, arcitecture and design at the National Museum.

This is the largest museum of its kind in the Nordic region, located in the popular Aker Brygge area on Oslo's waterfront.

Get to know the museum

5. Bygdøy - The museum island

Discover Oslo's unique museum peninsula Bygdøy, just a short, scenic boat or bus trip from the city centre.

Bygdøy is home to some of the city's best-known museums, including the Viking Age Museum (opening late 2027), the Kon-Tiki museum, the Fram museum, the Norwegian Maritime museum, and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History.

Get to know Bygdøy

Art and culture

Museums and parks you shouldn't miss!

  • Gol stavechurch on a summerday. Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
    Oslo

    Norsk Folkemuseum – Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

    Travel back in time at one of the world's largest open-air museums.
    Book now
  • The Monolith seen from the sky
    Oslo

    Vigeland Sculpture Park

    Sculpture park by Gustav Vigeland inside the Frogner Park
  • Facade
    Oslo

    The National Museum

    Experience old and contemporary art at the new National Museum
    Book now
  • The sculpture "The Mother" with MUNCH in the background
    Oslo

    MUNCH

    Experience the world's largest collection of Edvard Munch paintings in 13 floors!
    Book now
  • Fram in the museum
    Oslo

    Fram Museum - The Polar Exploration Museum

    Learn more about the polar expeditions and see the original ship.
    Book now
  • Person looking at the Kon-Tiki raft in the exhibition
    Oslo

    The Kon-Tiki Museum

    Experience original vessels and up-to-date exhibits on Thor Heyerdahl's expeditions.
    Book now
  • Dilemma by Elmgreen & Dragset
    Oslo

    Ekebergparken Sculpture Park

    Park that combines nature, history and art
  • The Astrup Fearnley Museum seen from the fjord. Aker Brygge and the City Hall in the background
    Oslo

    Astrup Fearnley Museet

    Explore the international contemporary art scene in a stunning Oslo landmark.
    Book now
  • Various artefacts on display in the "Vikingr" exhibition.
    Oslo

    The Historical Museum

    Experience the world's best-preserved Viking helmet, incredible medieval art, and much more in one of Norway's most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, located in the heart of Oslo.
View all culture & attractions
Plan your trip to Oslo and try the floating sauna KOK Oslo in the Oslofjord, Eastern Norway

6. The floating sauna capital

Norway has a unique sauna culture, the badstue, dating back to the Vikings. Book a session at one of the many fjord saunas floating all around Oslo's waterfront, and combine it with a refreshing dip in the fjord (...or even a sightseeing!)!

Badstue: Norway's unique sauna culture

Heat up!

Bring your bading suit and flip flops on a trip to Oslo.

  • Floating sauna in the fjord.
    Oslo

    KOK Oslo

    Floating saunas in the Oslo Fjord and tours with solar powered boats
    Book now
  • Two women bathing during winter
    Oslo

    Oslo Sauna Association: Sukkerbiten

    Sauna rafts at Sørenga wharf.
    Book now
  • Summer at Bademaschinen in Oslo.
    Oslo

    Oslo Sauna Association: "Bademaschinen" sauna raft

    Fabulous sauna and bathing facility at Langkaia, open for drop-in every day.
    Book now
  • Inside Árdna
    Oslo

    Sauna at SALT

    Enjoy three different saunas at the pier right by the Opera House
    Book now
  • Exterior of restaurant with outdoor seating by the sea
    Oslo

    Kongen Marina

    "Miami Vice" esque beach club, bar and restaurant.
    Book now
A couple in front of a wharf in Oslo
A boat just outside of Oslo.

7. The Harbour promenade

Walk or cycle along the Oslofjord! Stretching almost 9 km along Oslo’s revitalised waterfront, the Harbour Promenade connects vibrant neighbourhoods, striking architecture, cultural landmarks, and inviting spots to swim, chill, eat, drink and enjoy life by the fjord.

  • Explore the Harbour promenade

8. A silent fjord cruise

Another must-do, is to go on a silent, dreamy fjordcruise with one of the state-of-the-art electrical ships sailing the Oslofjord. Brim Explorer, The Fjords and several more offers daily cruises.

Cruise Oslo

Explore the capital from the seaside.

  • Drone image of the boat in the fjord with the city in the background.
    Oslo

    Brim Explorer

    Dinner cruise and other fjord experiences by electric boat with a live tour guide.
    Book now
  • Modern electrical boat on the Oslo Fjord.
    Oslo

    The Fjords: Oslo City Cruise

    Electric boat inspired by Norwegian nature. Suitable for everyone.
    Book now
  • Large electric ferry on the Oslo Fjord
    Oslo

    Island hopping in the Oslo Fjord

    Take a ferry and go island hopping between the islands in the inner Oslo Fjord! With a regular public transportation ticket or an Oslo Pass you can easily get on and off any of the ferries going between Aker brygge, Hovedøya, Lindøya, Nakholmen, Bleikøya, Gressholmen and Langøyene. The islands are popular places to go swimming in the summer, but each island has its unique character and history worth exploring. Bring a picnic basket and a blanket and enjoy the peace and quiet just minutes away from the city centre. Ferry lines from Aker brygge Line B1: Hovedøya > Lindøya øst > Gressholmen > Bleikøya > Nakholmen > Lindøya vest > Hovedøya Line B1X (Summer): Aker Brygge > Hovedøya > Aker Brygge Line B2: Hovedøya > Gressholmen > Langøyene Ferry line from City Hall Pier 3 Route B9: Dronningen > Bygdøynes (Mar/Apr–Sep/Oct, covered by the Oslo Pass, but not by the regular tickets) Check ruter.no for updated timetables. Note: Do NOT miss the last ferry back from the islands to the city centre! There is no water taxi service available in Oslo. The Norwegian Society for Sea’s main purpose is to save lives at sea and help people in need. The same goes for the police and fire department: they are NOT transportation services. On rare occasions, the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue can transport people back to the city centre but the fee for this journey will be a minimum of 5.000 NOK.
The old Akershus Fortress in Oslo

9. Oslo's royal places

Norway is Europe’s second-oldest monarchy! Ever since the Viking Age, Norway has had uninterrupted kingdoms for over a thousand years.

Plan for a royal tour in Oslo with visits to the Royal Palace, the Bygdø Royal Farm, the Oscarshall Summer Palace, and the majestic Akershus Fortress.

Guide full guide to royal Norway

Royal sightseeing

Explore castles, fortresses and royal places.

  • Evening shot of the fortress seen from the sea.
    Oslo

    Akershus Fortress

    Discover Oslo's history in the middle of the city centre.
  • The Royal Palace in the evening
    Oslo

    The Royal Palace

    The royal residence at the top of Karl Johans gate.
  • From the outdoor seating at Bygdø Royal Manor
    Oslo

    Bygdø Royal Manor

    Historic farm in full operation, surrounded by beautiful scenery and Royal heritage sites.
  • Oscarshall seen from the outside
    Oslo

    Oscarshall

    Summer palace surrounded by a beautiful park at Bygdøy.
Ida Elise Eide Einarsdottir enters Livid store in Oslo

10. Shop the Scandi style

Oslo have developed into a new fashion hot spot, with cute vintage and second-hand shops, popular chains, luxury retailers, and high-end Norwegian and international fashion brands. In other words: There's something for every taste!

Best places to shop in Oslo

Oslo inspiration

Get even more inspiration to things to do and places to visit!

  • A girl cycling along the harbour in Oslo

    Experience Oslo by bike

    Oslo is an ideal city for cycling, with short distances between vibrant city life and tranquil nature. Here are three routes that let you experience the best of Norway's capital.
  • The Opera house in Oslo in November light

    Oslo Opera House: Please walk on the roof!

    In Norway, climbing mountains feels like the most natural thing to do – so why should this not also apply to buildings?
  • The Scream painting by Edvard Munch

    The echo of The Scream

    Visit the spot in Oslo where Edvard Munch found inspiration for one of the world’s most famous paintings: The Scream.
  • Four women relaxing by the indoor pool at Engø gård at Tjøme, Eastern Norway

    The Oslo region with the girls

    Planning a trip with your besties? How about a long weekend in the Oslo region, which has something for everyone? These tips are all within easy reach of Norway's capital.
  • Two people sightseeing at Akershus Fortress in Oslo

    The locals’ guide to Oslo: top insider tips

    World-class dining experiences, music, and museums and some of the country’s finest urban walks! Get the locals’ best tips on what to do in the city between the forest and the fjord.
  • A child sits in the front seat of a red ladybug ride vehicle, holding the steering wheel, while an older child sits behind.

    Top things to do in Oslo with kids

    Dive into our list of top activities for kids in Oslo and create memories for life!
  • Bee on a lilac

    The bee highway through Oslo

    Thanks to urban beekeepers, businesses, and locals, Oslo's bees can now safely fly all the way across the city.
  • Morten Krogvold by the Munch Museum

    Photographer Krogvold's top cultural tips in Oslo

    Explore photographer Morten Krogvold's hot spots in Oslo. Get tips on the best things to do, what to eat, and where to stay in the capital of Norway.
  • Man and woman walking the Oslo harbour promenade, the Opera house in the back

    The Harbour promenade in Oslo

    Havnepromenaden, Oslo's harbour promenade, is a 9-kilometer long walk full of delightful surprises, where the big city meets the fjord. Experience world-class architecture, food, and culture year round, in sun or snow.
  • A woman walks past the MUNCH museum

    One day in Oslo: City walks

    Experience Oslo city highlights by foot. Top tips to walking routes in Oslo: Go hiking in Nordmarka, take a stroll beside the Akerselva river or an urban hike like no other along Oslo's waterfront.
  • The sculptures in the Vigeland installation, the Vigeland Park, Oslo, Norway

    Free things to do in Oslo

    Travelling on a budget? A stay in the Norwegian capital can be quite cheap. In fact, many activities and attractions in Oslo are totally free! See how you can save money on your trip to Norway.
  • Two women at the Christmas market in Oslo, Eastern Norway

    The Christmas Town Oslo

    Explore the best Christmas markets and holiday shopping and taste delicious Norwegian Christmas treats. Try ice skating! Our cosy capital is also a hotspot for art, culture, and nightlife.
  • Ida Elise Eide Einarsdottir shopping at Holzweiler in Oslo

    Best places to shop in Oslo

    Fashion editor of KK, Ida Elise Eide Einarsdóttir, reveals her favourite shopping places in Oslo. From vintage treasures to high-end fashion, these are the spots you need to know!
  • The city farm Losæter in front of Sørenga in Oslo

    The Loseter City Farm

    At Loseter in Sørenga, Oslo, you can learn how to grow, preserve and cook your own vegetables
  • Overview of the Vigelandsparken at Frogner in Oslo, Eastern Norway

    The Vigeland Sculpture park

    The Vigeland Park is a public sculpture park located within Frogner Park in Oslo. The park features more than 200 sculptures by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland, depicting human figures in various stages of life and relationships.
  • The Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway, during sunset

    Explore the MUNCH museum

    In order to honour Munch's legacy, Oslo has built the MUNCH museum, one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to a single artist.
  • Exterior The National Museum of Norway in Oslo

    The spectacular National Museum

    Welcome to the National Museum of Norway – the largest museum of art, architecture and design, from antiquity to the present, in the Nordic countries!

Eat and drink something special

Oslo offers both Norwegian treats and international top level cuisine. And some of the world's best coffee!

  • Apple juice, oyster and razor shell served at the Credo restaurant at The National Library in Oslo

    Credo at the National Library

    Food is a vital part of Norway’s cultural heritage. That's why the National Library has partnered with renowned chef Heidi Bjerkan and her restaurant, Credo. Here, guests can learn about (and taste!) the history of Norwegian cuisine.
  • Portrait of Tim Wendelboe in front of his cafe

    Visit one of the world's best coffee bars

    World Barista Champion Tim Wendelboe helped redefine Norwegian coffee culture and turned a small café in Oslo into a destination for coffee lovers from around the world.
  • Food and drink at Solsiden Restaurant in Oslo, Eastern Norway

    Food and drink in Oslo

    From Michelin-starred restaurants and Nordic cuisine to street food from all over the world on the corner. Oslo offers a vast range of good restaurants, cafés, and bars.
  • April serving from Statholdergaarden

    Michelin-starred restaurants

    Sink your teeth into tasty and exclusive Nordic culinary treasures at Norway's incredible Michelin-starred restaurants.

Oslo in every season

Plan you trip to the capital.

Oslo opera house in Winter.
Oslo
Plan your trip to Oslo, Norway and visit Vigelandsparken Sculpture Park
Plan your trip to Oslo
Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel in Oslo, Eastern Norway
Where to stay in Oslo
  • Overview of the Vigelandsparken at Frogner in Oslo, Eastern Norway
    Oslo in summer
  • Woman taking selfies in Oslo
    Oslo in winter
  • A musican performing in front of a large crowd at OsloOslo music festival at Grefsenkollen in Oslo, Eastern Norway
    What’s on in Oslo
  • Apple juice, oyster and razor shell served at the Credo restaurant at The National Library in Oslo
    Credo at the National Library

Take advantage of top offers

See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

  • Food - Brim Explorer
    Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
  • Performancce Marketing
    CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
  • Blazerbu - Norgesbooking
    NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
  • Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel in Oslo, Eastern Norway
    Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
  • The Thief - A lifestyle boutique hotel in Oslo
    StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
  • Standard Room - Svolvær - Thon Hotel
    Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
  • Valevåg Camping
    CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
  • Hotell Refsnes Gods - fasade
    Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
  • Two people sitting in a sofa in Eagle Nest Eco Lodge in Eastern Norway
    50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
  • Family in outdoor pool in winter at Radisson Blu mountain resort & residences in Trysil, Eastern Norway
    Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
  • Hardangerfjord - Authentic Scandinavia
    Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
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    Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
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    Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
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    Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
  • The Hurtigruten ship MS Nordkapp in Geirangerfjord in Fjord Norway
    HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
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    Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
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    Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
  • Happy family taking a selfie in an airport after arriving to Norway
    Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
  • Hop on hop off bus - Stromma
    StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
  • Hikers approaching a small wooden cabin with grass roof in mountainous landscape
    Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
  • Woodward - Arctic Campers
    Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
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    Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
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    NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
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    Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
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    SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
  • A bus driving along the coast in Norway, Vy express route vy146
    Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
  • Vy Train travelling on a scenic railway line between Bergen and Hønefoss, Norway
    Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
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    My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
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    CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
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    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.
  • Kviknes Hotel on the shores of the Sognefjord, surrounded by mountains.
    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.
  • A woman hiking in the summer mountains by the fjord.
    CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.