Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a dynamic city surrounded by unspoiled nature and home to award-winning cultural attractions. It is perfect for a varied city break all year round. Over the past few decades, Oslo has undergone a major transformation, with a reorientation of its waterfront from industry to recreation and well-being. Today, you will find world-class cultural institutions, striking modern architecture, and a multitude of places to swim, cycle, and stroll. Here are the ten best activities to include in your Oslo itinerary.
1. Discover Centuries of Art at the National Museum
Do not be fooled by the discreet and sleek exterior of the National Museum of Norway. Inside, you will discover a luminous treasure trove of art and design spanning millennia. The permanent collection brings to life over 6,500 objects and artworks spread across 86 chronologically arranged rooms. The ground floor exhibitions explore design in the context of major societal themes. One floor up, you will find works by renowned Norwegian and international artists from 1500 to the present day, including a vibrant version of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream”, as well as pieces by Monet and van Gogh.
2. Climb onto the Roof of the Oslo Opera House
The Oslo Opera House, located on the waterfront at Bjorvika, is a white marble masterpiece designed by award-winning Norwegian architects Snohetta. The opera house’s exterior invites everyone to walk on the sloping roof to enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and the city. Inside, the Opera House houses state-of-the-art rehearsal and performance halls that you can explore on guided tours.
3. Imitate Gustav Vigeland’s Sculptures at Vigelandsparken
Vigelandsparken is a free sculpture park containing over 200 expressive pieces by the beloved Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. The park, located within Frognerparken, brings together a vast collection of sculptures in granite, iron, and bronze, reflecting the full range of human emotions, from joy to anger.
4. Visit the Deichman Bjorvika Library
The Deichman Bjorvika library is a six-story space filled with art and voted the best public library of the year in 2021. Designed by architects Lundhagem and Atelier Oslo, the library is a welcoming place where visitors can discover breakdance competitions, sewing workshops, and even a 3D printer.
5. Dive into the Work of Edvard Munch
The Munch Museum, opened in 2021, is dedicated to the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. Spread across 13 floors, the museum preserves and displays the collection of works that Munch bequeathed to the city. The permanent exhibitions of his paintings, prints, and sketches explore recurring themes such as illness, melancholy, and nature. Three versions of “The Scream” are on display: a painting, a print, and a drawing.
6. Take a Walk Along the Akerselva River
The 9 km long Akerselva River is a natural treasure complemented by parks and picturesque bridges. A walk along this river will give you a glimpse of the city’s industrial heritage. Join the river at Gronland and follow the path along its banks to admire the old factories converted into offices, apartments, and concert halls.
7. Relax in a Floating Sauna
Floating saunas, inspired by Finnish sauna culture, have become a popular way for locals and visitors to warm up and relax. KOK offers communal floating saunas at Aker Brygge and Bjorvika, as well as a sauna cruise, where you can sail to a quieter spot on the fjord.
8. Go Vintage Shopping in Grunerlokka
The artistic and alternative neighborhood of Grunerlokka is filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. It is the ideal place to find unique vintage clothing. The parallel streets Thorvald Meyers gate and Markveien are home to several vintage stores where you can find pieces ranging from 70s disco to 90s grunge.
9. Hike the Forest Trails of Nordmarka
Nordmarka, north of the city center, is a vast, easily accessible forest crisscrossed by hiking and skiing trails. You can reach this 430 km² forest in less than 40 minutes. Take the T-bane line 1 to Frognerseteren, then choose from the well-marked trails that wind through pine, birch, and spruce trees.
10. Go Island-Hopping on the Oslo Fjord
The Oslo Fjord has a unique charm. Several public electric ferries navigate between the islands of the Oslo Fjord, allowing you to visit them at your own pace. Hovedoya, the nearest island, is less than 10 minutes from the shore. Continue on to Gressholmen, a protected nature reserve site, ideal for birdwatching. End your day on Langoyene, a lively island with a sandy beach, a campground, and even public artworks.
Oslo offers a variety of captivating activities to suit all tastes. Whether you are an art lover, a history enthusiast, or a nature lover, this dynamic city will not fail to charm you.
