Did you know Oslo is 25.9% pricier than Stockholm, but despite this, it attracts 20% more visitors? It’s a city that balances high costs with charm, stunning views, and rich culture. This makes it a must-see spot. I love it every time I visit Oslo and never want to go back. You may have heard all these about Oslo and started to plan a trip. Now, you are looking into the top things to do in Oslo or how you can create the best Oslo itinerary.
Check this article out, too: Camping in Norway: The Ultimate Guide
From historic sites like the Akershus Fortress and modern spots like the Oslo Opera House to Grünerlokken, where the youngsters come together for wine, beer, and some fun, there is something for everyone. You can also see over 200 sculptures in the Vigeland Sculpture Park or go into a floating sauna next to the Opera House. Things to do in Oslo are endless. No way you will be bored and have problems finding something that fits what you want. Because there are many things in this city, you need to be aware of everything and select things you like instead of visiting everything. Here’s my list of top things to do in Oslo and the places you can add to your Oslo itinerary.
Oslo and Why it’s ‘Nordic Capital of Cool’
One thing about Oslo is that even though it’s a smaller capital and probably not as active as other capitals in Europe (like Lisbon), it has a special charm. It’s vibrant with stunning views, and it’s where new ideas were born. Munch was from here, but his art didn’t come from himself alone. It’s the perfect city to create cool memories and experiences and explore a new world. I mean, you also can’t forget the Northern Lights! You can see them way better in Trondheim, Tromso, Lofoten Islands, or anywhere up in the North but if you are extremely lucky, you can see it briefly in Oslo, too!
In 1968, Oslo’s luck changed with the discovery of North Sea oil. After this, Norway became rich, and Oslo took its share of that richness. It became one of Europe’s richest cities. You can see this wealth in Oslo’s culture nowadays. From Grünerløkka’s busy streets to the calm near the Oslo Fjord, its minimalism is at its peak with quiet richness. Oslo is more than just wealth, though. It’s how they use that wealth-they’re a leader in sustainability and innovation. For example, the city aims to cut its carbon emissions in half by 2030. This shows in its green living, from walks in the Oslomarka forest to days by its 343 lakes.
Norway has never been the country of food, I’ll give you that. Oslo is no different. Whenever I’m in Oslo, I always try to find a nice and unique Norwegian restaurant to try their dishes. I found it, but it took me a lot of time. There isn’t much. You’ll find most of the cuisines of other countries here – Italian, for example. You can try Maemmo, a three-Michelin-star restaurant, though. Here, you can enjoy dishes like fermented mountain trout. It’s a taste of Norway’s culinary art.
Art & Culture in Oslo
A definitely top thing in Oslo is its art and culture scene. It’s vibrant, modern, constantly evolving, and extremely good. The city is full of parks, gardens, museums, and art history. If you are into this, Oslo will be your golden mine. Oslo brings modern art and Nordic traditions together in a beautiful way. Oslo’s art scene is as varied as its beautiful landscapes. The city is full of cultural gems waiting to be found, from green parks to lively streets.
Parks and Gardens
When you say parks in Oslo, you have to remember that they are not just ordinary parks. Some of them are outdoor galleries, and some of them are sculpture galleries. As the most famous tourist park – you have to see Frogner Park, where you can find Vigeland Sculpture Park. You’ll find over 200 sculptures here alone. If plants are your thing, go to the Botanical Garden (Botanisk Hage). There are thousands of plant species all around the world. You don’t want or are not interested in art, sculptures, or plants? Go to Palace Park (Slottsparken) next to the Royal Palace. Amazing place for a quiet picnic and stroll.
Outdoor Art
Outdoor art in Oslo turns the city into a colorful canvas. Explore areas like Tjuvholmen to see contemporary art in public spaces. Aker Brygge and Astrup Fearnley Museum have vibrant installations that mix art with city life. You’ll find whimsical statues and grand murals everywhere. Walk around the city – you won’t regret it. It’s a small city, anyway.
Art Festivals
With all this art going on both in and out of the street, it wouldn’t be a surprise to hear that art festivals in Oslo are a big deal. The best art festival you can participate in is the Oslo Street Art Festival – running from August to October. Since it’s also a months-long program, it’s easier to catch it. In addition to this, you can check out Oslo Art Weekend, Munch Festival, Oslo Night, and Urban Art Festival. They happen at different times, so it’s best to check it out before you plan. Head to Eastern Norway, just under 1.5 hours from Oslo, for more art. Visit the Kistefos Museum or the Henie Onstad Art Center. These spots offer a deeper look into Norwegian and international art, and they make for a great day trip from Oslo.
The Nobel Peace Center and Its Significance
Oslo doesn’t just have art and culture – it also has a great story with science. Scandinavian (actually, the Nordics) countries are known for their focus on science and development. Oslo is no exception. The Nobel Peace Center is one of Oslo’s most important landmarks. It celebrates the Nobel Peace Prize and its winners, and it’s at the heart of Oslo. It stands as a symbol of peace and solving conflicts.
Built in the old Oslo West railway station in 1872, it was designed by British architect David Adjaye. Every year, it welcomes about 250,000 visitors. Inside, you can explore exhibits that highlight the work of past Peace Prize laureates. The displays are interactive and inspiring. If you are not familiar with the history, it makes it easy to learn about their efforts for peace and human rights. The center also hosts temporary exhibitions on important global issues from time to time.
It also hosts over 700 school groups. The center has 2-3 exhibitions a year, teaching people about the Nobel Peace Prize. Also, the Center runs thanks to donations, government help, and ticket sales. Its exhibitions are fully sponsored. It’s a non-profit in Norway and the US
Important Museums and Buildings
Oslo’s rich history and vibrant culture shine through its iconic museums and buildings. Whether you love art, history, or just exploring, Oslo will have something for you. Its museums and architectural wonders are a treat for all. It’s a great addition to the art culture and the art museums.
The Opera House
This building is probably the most famous building in Oslo. When you leave the Central Train Station after taking the train from the airport, the first thing you see is the Opera House. It’s a must-see, from the inside and from the outside. You can even walk on its roof for breathtaking views of the city and Oslofjord. It’s more than an opera house; it’s an unforgettable experience. You can also go and see the stunning performances inside if you are lucky.
The MUNCH Museum
Everyone knows “The Scream” painting, right? Well, the painter of that painting, Edvard Munch, was a Norwegian guy. He is perhaps the most famous artist from Norway, and Norwegians know how to celebrate him! The MUNCH Museum is a paradise for art lovers. It showcases the works of Edvard Munch, including ‘The Scream’. The museum also offers interactive activities and events if that’s your thing. It’s a huge building in the center of Oslo (I think it was 5 stories, but I might be off).
Viking Ship Museum
Well, you probably know the Vikings and their history partially. Norwegians were those Vikings! You can travel back in time at the Viking Ship Museum. It houses some of the world’s finest Viking artifacts. You’ll see three 9th-century Viking ships that have been beautifully restored, giving you a glimpse into Norway’s Viking past. Although as of February 2025, the museum is closed until 2027 for renovations.
You can check the latest status here: Museum of the Viking Age
Vigeland Sculpture Park
The Vigeland Park, also known as Vigelandsparken, is the world’s largest sculpture park by a single artist—Gustav Vigeland. It has over 200 sculptures in bronze, granite, and wrought iron. These sculptures show the full range of human emotions and life stages. Walking through this park is both inspiring and thought-provoking. This is free to enter since it’s a park. You can go here on a sunny and warm day and take a nice stroll and you can also sit at the benches and have a very small picnic, too. You can make a very chill day out of it, and you should.
What’s on: Nordic Cultural Event Capital
Oslo is buzzing with cultural events; that’s why many people call Oslo the Nordic Cultural Event Capital. The city hosts music festivals and literary events every year. This draws quite a bit of locals and tourists. For example, The Literature House hosts readings, debates, and book launches, enriching the city’s culture. Craft fairs showcase traditional Norwegian crafts, letting artisans share their work.
Apart from the annual events that are sure to happen every year, there are also one-time cultural, musical, and literary events that happen in the cultural buildings. Opera House, Sculpture Park, and some others I mentioned above host these. I suggest that you check their website before your trip to find something interesting for you.
City Strolls
Oslo is not as hilly as some European cities – like Lisbon or Porto. The city is extremely walkable, and you can walk from one end to the other in about an hour or two if the weather is good (I mean, Norwegians are known for their spirit in hiking, so they like it! Check out my Hiking in Norway article). If it’s your thing, you can bike easily, too. I strongly recommend taking a stroll by the ocean that starts right across the Central Station – next to the Opera House. But there are some must-see areas that you should walk in.
Oslo Street Food Hall
Oslo’s Street Food Hall is in Grünerlokka. The place I mentioned above is where people come for a drink or a meal with their friends. It’s at the heart of that region, and it’s got some great food! You can find local and international flavors. Try spicy Indian dishes at Nimbu, aromatic ramen at Koie Ramen Munch, or doughnuts from Talormade Oslobukta. For a calm spot, enjoy fine wines at Vin Bjørvika or Mediterranean food at Mirabel.
Karl Johans Gate
Karl Johans Gate is the city’s lively heart. It’s filled with shops, cafés, and markets. Here, you’ll see landmarks like Oslo City Hall and the Astrup Fearnley Museum. You can start your walk from the Central Train Station (like always) and walk towards the Royal Palace, where you’ll also pass through Karl Johans Gate. There are some amazing photo opportunities, or you can just sit at a bank overlooking the ocean on a sunny day and be present.
Island Hopping
If islands are your thing and you are looking for more of a longer trip with a scenic escape, try island hopping. You can simply hop on a ferry and explore the Oslofjord islands in a day. Try island hopping in the Oslo Fjord for a unique experience. Popular choices include Hovedøya, Gressholmen, and Lindøya. Each island has its own charm, with walking trails, picnic spots, and breathtaking views of the fjord. Research each island to find what you like doing and spend more time on those.
Take a Fjord Cruise
Prefer to see the city from the water and just simply relax while seeing everything? Go on a fjord cruise! Amazing experience that you can do either in 1.5 hours, half a day, or even an entire day. The cruise is a peaceful break from the city’s noise. You’ll see Norway’s stunning views from the electric hybrid catamaran Vision of The Fjords. Many cruises offer guided tours to provide insights into Oslo’s history and landmarks.
There are several routes, and some of them are quite popular. Popular fjord sightseeing Oslo routes take you through beautiful inlets and islands. You’ll see Dyna, Nakkholmen, and Gressholmen, perfect for hiking and swimming. The Oslo Fjord is great for island-hopping. There are ferries every 10 to 15 minutes. Use the “Voice of Norway” app to listen to the background story during your Oslo Fjord cruise. I suggest bringing your snacks while spending your time on the cruise; it’s great! You can also get stuff from the onboard café. Although the prices may be a bit more expensive.
Must-Try: Norwegian Floating Sauna
One of the most unique experiences in Oslo you can’t miss is the floating sauna on Oslo Fjord. It offers stunning views and a mix of relaxation and adventure. You’re in for a treat! Oslo’s saunas are world-famous. There is a thing called Norwegian sauna, after all! They are not as popular or good as Finns, but they have some serious stuff. Floating saunas – which you can also see right in front of the Opera House – are amazing. You can just stay in the sauna and dip yourself in the cold ocean water right after.
Check out my Hot Springs in Norway article that includes the sauna experience, as well here.
Types of Sauna Experiences
It’s not just floating saunas that you can go in, though. There are many sauna experiences to choose from. Each has a different character, and even though many people like several, you may like all of them or none. But you have to try. You can pick communal saunas to meet new people or private ones for luxury. For example, Oslo Badstuforening has everything from cozy spots to big communal ones.
Public saunas cost about 195 NOK ($18 USD) for 90 minutes. Private ones are 1,300 NOK ($118 USD) for up to eight people. KOK offers special experiences like sauna cruises on the fjord. Prices start at 290 NOK ($26 USD) for public access and go up to 3,600 NOK ($328 USD) for a private group of ten.
Day Trips from Oslo
Oslo is not just a typical downtown European capital. It’s got much more than that, and taking day trips from Oslo is one of those things you must do. You can find amazing scenery, history, activities, and much more with a short trip from Oslo. Generally, public transportation is amazing unless you go to a very distant location. Take the train, and you will be happy as a clam.
Hadeland Glassverk
Hadeland Glassverk is an iconic glassblowing factory about an hour from Oslo. Here, you can take glassblowing tours and see the artistry up close. It’s a hands-on day trip from Oslo. You can find beautiful glassware and souvenirs and take your time in this factory. You can also take a look around outside, but there isn’t much.
Bærums Verk
Bærums Verk is a short drive from Oslo. There are trains you can take that take only 42 minutes from Oslo Central Station. It’s a must-visit area with its historical markets and ironworks from the 17th century. Explore quaint shops filled with local crafts and enjoy the river views. It’s a treasure among visits near Oslo.
Eidsvoll
This city is not so much of a day trip from Oslo; I think it’s still within the limits of the greater Oslo region, but it’s still a different city. When you take the train from Oslo Gardermoen Airport (where you will land), the train you take goes through Eidsvoll before reaching Oslo Central. You can visit Eidsvoll to learn about Norway’s political history. It’s where the Norwegian Constitution was signed in 1814. The Eidsvoll Manor offers guided tours that take you back to this important moment. It’s a compelling day trip from Oslo for history lovers.
Drøbak
Drøbak is a charming coastal town known for its maritime history and the famous Christmas house, Tregaarden’s Christmas House. Walk along the harbor, see the wooden houses, and enjoy fresh seafood. This quaint town is a delightful visit near Oslo, full of festive spirit all year. It’s about an hour’s train ride from Oslo Central Station. You can also take a bus if you’re closer to the bus station.
Conclusion
Oslo is one of the most vibrant, culturally mixed, full of history, and calm cities in Scandinavia – in my opinion. It’s a small city with a modern vibe to it. Even though it’s a capital, it has less than 1 million people, which makes it even better for visitors since it’s not crowded.
You can explore world-class museums like the MUNCH Museum, with over 26,000 pieces. Or visit the Fram Museum, which showcases a 19th-century polar ship. The city’s cultural scene is lively, with the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Oslo Opera House. Oslo also offers a chance to enjoy nature, as well. Take a walk along Karl Johans Gate or ride a bike around the city. Try the Norwegian Floating Sauna or explore the city’s islands.
I suggest visiting in summer months, more like between May to September. Other seasons are dark, cold, snowy, and rainy. You can get some great stuff in the fjords, but the city isn’t as fun. In summer, the daylight is also much longer than in the rest of mainland Europe. Plan your trip early, stay at affordable places, and take a stroll at the Food Hall. You can keep your budget this way while enjoying the city to the fullest.
FAQ
What are the top things to do in Oslo?
Oslo is full of attractions. You can see the Oslo Opera House and the MUNCH Museum. Don’t miss the Viking Ship Museum and Vigeland Sculpture Park. For outdoor fun, try the floating saunas. Or take a bike tour around the city.
Why is Oslo referred to as the ‘Nordic Capital of Cool’?
Oslo mixes old history with new tech. It’s all about sustainable living and a lively culture. The city’s beauty, architecture, and art make it truly cool.
What are some must-visit art and cultural sites in Oslo?
Frogner Park and the Vigeland Sculpture Park are must-sees. The city also has outdoor art and the Oslo Art Festival. These places show off local and international art.
Which museums and buildings are essential to visit in Oslo?
You should see the Oslo Opera House for its views. The MUNCH Museum is home to Edvard Munch’s art. The Viking Ship Museum and Vigeland Sculpture Park are also key.
What are the best spots for a city stroll in Oslo?
Start at the Oslo Street Food Hall. Then, explore bike trails and walk through Karl Johans Gate. Island hopping in the Oslo Fjord is also a great experience.
What are some recommended day trips from Oslo?
For a day trip, visit Hadeland Glassverk for glassblowing. Explore historical markets at Bærums Verk. Learn about Norway’s past in Eidsvoll. Drøbak’s coastal charm is also worth seeing.