Things To Do
in Oslo
Oslo is a compact, waterfront capital that blends modern architecture and vibrant culture with vast forests and fjords on its doorstep. The city centers on a walkable core around the harbor, royal palaces, museums, and a thriving dining scene. Surrounding hills and lakes invite year-round outdoor life, from summer boat trips to winter skiing.
With a strong emphasis on sustainability and design, Oslo rewards curious travelers with accessible art, cuisine, and scenery at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the Akershus Fortress, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Oslo Fjord. Take your time exploring the castle grounds and learning about its history at the small museum inside. Stop by the nearby Oslo City Hall to admire its striking architecture and impressive murals.
After lunch at one of the charming cafes in the historic center, head to the National Gallery to explore its extensive collection of Norwegian masterpieces, including Edvard Munch's iconic 'The Scream'. Wander through the vibrant streets of Karl Johans gate, lined with shops and street performers. As the afternoon unfolds, visit the Royal Palace and take a leisurely stroll in the surrounding park, soaking in the atmosphere.
For dinner, indulge in traditional Norwegian cuisine at a cozy restaurant in the city center. After your meal, take a scenic evening walk along the waterfront, where the sunset casts a golden glow over the fjord. Conclude your day with a visit to one of Oslo's lively bars or cafes to experience the local nightlife.
Begin your day at the Vigeland Park, where you can wander among over 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. Spend time appreciating the artistry and the beauty of the park's gardens, taking photos of the famous Monolith and other notable pieces. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café before heading to the Frogner Museum.
Explore the Frogner Museum to learn more about the life and work of Vigeland, including his sketches and designs. After your visit, take a relaxing walk through the Frogner Park, where you can enjoy the greenery and perhaps even have a little picnic. As the afternoon winds down, consider renting a bike to explore the surrounding areas or visit the nearby Oslo's Botanical Garden.
Choose a restaurant in the vibrant Frogner neighborhood for a delightful dinner, featuring local dishes and perhaps some fresh seafood. After your meal, head to the nearby Aker Brygge area for a waterfront walk and enjoy the lively atmosphere with street musicians and local art vendors. End your evening with a drink at one of the bars overlooking the fjord, taking in the serene night views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit monthly pass | $70-100 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-100 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $120-260 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city center and easy access to nature
- Excellent seafood and Nordic cuisine
- Strong public transport and walkability
- High prices compared to many destinations
- Long, cold winters may limit outdoor access for some travelers
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Hvor mye koster dette?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kan jeg få regningen?" - Can I have the bill?
Places to Visit in Oslo
Visit one of these nice places.
Angled marble roof that looks over the fjord and city; great for sunrise silhouettes.
A row of modern, block-like buildings along Bjørvika for architectural photography.
Harbor views with colorful boats, bridges, and sunset reflections.
Extensive outdoor sculpture garden featuring iconic figures set in lush grounds.
Golden hour photos among monumental sculptures framed by park greenery.
Hilltop park with city views and contemporary sculptures.
Food in Oslo
Oslo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Norway’s national dish of lamb and cabbage, most widely enjoyed in colder months.
Must-Try!
Dried white fish treated with lye, traditionally served around Christmas.
Open-faced sandwiches piled with fish, seafood, or cured meats on dense rye.
Fermented freshwater fish often served with flatbread and sour cream.
Cured salmon served with dill, mustard sauce, and rye bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Indoor market in Vulkan with a variety of Norwegian and international stalls.
Harbor-front food court featuring seafood, street food, and global snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for meetings and reservations; Norwegians value time and reliability.
Most Norwegians speak excellent English; use English to communicate if unsure.
Queue politely; keep noise calmly at restaurants and public spaces.
Follow Allemannsretten principles—respect nature, leave no trace, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Oslo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common; cash is accepted but not required.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, frequent outdoor markets, ferry trips to the fjord, and vibrant nightlife; daylight lingers past 10pm.
Cold and snowy with short days; enjoy Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and winter sports in nearby hills.
Mild days with blooming parks; great for walking tours and outdoor dining as trees leaf out.
Colorful foliage and harvest menus; comfortable temperatures for city strolls and hiking in the surrounding forests.
Oslo at Night
Hiking in Oslo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Large forest north of Oslo with lakes, trails, and cabins; accessible by bus or subway extensions.
Forest area east of the city with varied trails and peaceful lake settings.
Hiking hill near Bærum with views across the Oslofjord; short to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Oslo by plane.
Main international airport located about 50 km north of Oslo; connected by high-speed rail, express trains, and buses.
Secondary airport about 110-120 km from Oslo; accessible by train connections and road transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Native population with a growing international presence.
Significant populations from Poland, Somalia, Pakistan, Sweden, and other countries.
A thriving education and startup scene; diverse age groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across all ages with local clubs and international events.
A staple winter sport with accessible trails in Nordmarka and Østmarka.
Common in winter with local teams and arenas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oslo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Oslo places offer vegetarian options; ask for mushrooms, root vegetables, and plant-based menus; many markets have fresh produce and ready-made meat-free dishes.