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Oslo, the vibrant capital of Norway, offers a perfect blend of historical richness, cultural depth, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or an adventure seeker, Oslo has something special for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top activities that will make your visit to Oslo truly memorable.

Oslo Opera House

1. Bygdøyfergene: A Scenic Boat Ride to Historical Treasures

View of Oslo Marina from the ferry (Bygdøyfergene)

Start your Oslo adventure with a scenic boat ride on the Bygdøyfergene. This ferry service offers picturesque views of Oslo’s harbor and takes you to Bygdøy, a peninsula home to some of the city’s most renowned museums. The journey itself is a treat, offering a serene introduction to the natural beauty surrounding Oslo.

Cost: Adult NOK 104, Children Under 18 NOK 52, Children Under 6 Free
Free with the Oslo Pass

2. Norsk Folkemuseum: A Journey Through Norway’s Cultural History

Norsk Folkmuseum

A short walk from the Viking Ship Museum, the Norsk Folkemuseum offers an immersive experience of Norway’s cultural history. This open-air museum features over 150 historical buildings relocated from different parts of Norway. Highlights include traditional Sami dwellings, a stave church from the 13th century, and exhibitions on Norwegian folk art and daily life. 

Cost: Adult NOK 180, Senior NOK 140, Under 18 Free
Free with the Oslo Pass

3. Norwegian Maritime Museum: Celebrating Norway’s Seafaring Heritage

Discover Tivoli Gardens, the inspiration for Walt Disney and the creation of Disneyland. With vibrant gardens, attractions, and charming architecture, this 19th-century amusement park blends old-world charm with modern thrills for a magical experience. My favorite? The stunning tulip gardens!

Cost: Adult NOK 140, Children 0-17 Free, Student/Senior NOK 120
Free with the Oslo Pass

4. Fram Museum: Tales of Polar Exploration

Fram Museum

Adjacent to the Maritime Museum is the Fram Museum, dedicated to the legendary polar exploration ship, Fram. The Fram, used by explorers like Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, is preserved in its entirety and accessible to visitors. The museum offers detailed exhibitions on the expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic, showcasing the harsh conditions and heroic efforts of the explorers.

Tour Cost: Adult NOK 140, Children/Students NOK 50, Seniors NOK 100
Free with the Oslo Pass

5. Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower: Soaring Views and Winter Sports History

Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower

Situated on the hills overlooking the city, Holmenkollen is a famous landmark and a symbol of Norway’s skiing tradition. The museum, the world’s oldest dedicated to skiing, chronicles over 4,000 years of skiing history. Exhibits cover everything from ancient ski artifacts to modern Olympic memorabilia. After exploring the museum, take the elevator to the top of the ski jump tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Oslo and the surrounding fjords. The observation deck offers one of the best vantage points in the city.

Cost: Adult NOK 190, Senior/Student NOK 170, Children 6-17 NOK 95, Children Under 6 Free
Free with the Oslo Pass

6. Oslo Opera House: Architectural Marvel and Cultural Hub

Oslo Opera House

The Oslo Opera House, with its striking design resembling an iceberg, is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. Located at the waterfront, the building allows visitors to walk on its roof, offering fantastic views of the city and the Oslo Fjord. Inside, the Opera House hosts a variety of performances, from opera and ballet to concerts. Even if you’re not attending a performance, a guided tour of the building reveals its architectural wonders and behind-the-scenes operations.

Cost (Guided Tour): Adults NOK 150, Children NOK 85
Free to walk on the roof

7. Ekebergparken Sculpture Park: Art and Nature Intertwined

Elmgreen & Dragset Sculpture at Ekebergparken

Ekebergparken Sculpture Park combines contemporary art with stunning natural scenery. Located on a hillside overlooking Oslo, the park features works by renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Damien Hirst, and Louise Bourgeois. As you wander through the park’s trails, you’ll encounter sculptures seamlessly integrated into the landscape, offering a peaceful and thought-provoking experience. The park also provides panoramic views of Oslo, making it a perfect spot for both art and nature lovers.

Cost: Free

8. Akershus Fortress: Journey Through Oslo’s Military History

Akershus Fortress
Jonathan, Flickr, License CC-BY-SA

Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and fortress, stands as a testament to Oslo’s historical and military significance. Located near the city center, the fortress offers expansive views of the Oslo Fjord. Visitors can explore the castle’s interiors, which include the Akershus Castle Church and the Norwegian Resistance Museum. The fortress grounds are open to the public, providing a scenic and historical backdrop for leisurely walks and picnics.

Cost: Adults NOK 100, Senior/Student NOK 60, Children 6-18 NOK 40
Free with the Oslo Pass

9. Vigeland Park: A Sculptural Masterpiece in the Heart of Oslo

Vigeland Park

Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and fortress, stands as a testament to Oslo’s historical and military significance. Located near the city center, the fortress offers expansive views of the Oslo Fjord. Visitors can explore the castle’s interiors, which include the Akershus Castle Church and the Norwegian Resistance Museum. The fortress grounds are open to the public, providing a scenic and historical backdrop for leisurely walks and picnics.

Cost: Free

10. Barcode Oslo: A Modern Architectural Masterpiece

Barcode Project

Located in the Bjørvika neighborhood, this collection of high-rise buildings is characterized by its unique barcode-like appearance, with varying widths and heights creating a visually dynamic effect. The Barcode Project, completed between 2005 and 2016, comprises twelve buildings housing a mix of offices, residential spaces, retail shops, and restaurants. While constructing the Barcode Project, workers made a remarkable discovery: remnants of Viking ships buried beneath the site.

Cost: Free

11. Floating Sauna: A Unique Nordic Experience

Floating Sauna

The floating saunas in Oslo offer a quintessential Nordic experience, combining relaxation with the natural beauty of the Oslo Fjord. These innovative saunas, built on floating platforms, provide a unique way to unwind while enjoying stunning waterfront views. Visitors can enjoy the warmth of the sauna, and then take a refreshing dip in the fjord, embracing the invigorating Scandinavian tradition of alternating hot and cold. Popular among locals and tourists alike, the floating saunas in Oslo are a must-try for those looking for an experience!

Cost: From $195 for a 1.5-hour session for groups of up to 10 people
Book Here: Private Floating Sauna Experience

12. Mathallen Oslo: A Culinary Haven

Mathallen Oslo Food Court

Mathallen Oslo is a vibrant food court and culinary hub located in the trendy Vulkan neighborhood. Featuring a diverse array of food stalls and eateries, it offers a fun mix of local Norwegian produce and international cuisine. From gourmet delicacies to street food favorites, Mathallen is a paradise for food enthusiasts looking to explore a variety of flavors under one roof.

Cost: Free entry, food cost varies

13. Oslo’s Royal Palace and the Palace Park: A Peaceful Retreat

Oslo Royal Palace

Located at the end of Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s Royal Palace serves as the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. Built in the 19th century, this neoclassical structure stands as a symbol of Norway’s royal heritage and elegance. Visitors can explore the lavishly decorated state rooms during the summer guided tours, from late June to mid-August, gaining insights into the royal family’s life and the palace’s historical significance. Surrounding the palace is the tranquil Palace Park, an oasis in the heart of the city. Spanning over 54 acres, the park features beautifully manicured gardens, serene ponds, and statues, offering a perfect retreat.

Cost (Guided Tours): Adults NOK 175, Senior/Student NOK 145, Children 3+ NOK 125, Children Under 3 Free
Cost (Palace Park): Free

14. Oslo Nature Walks: Discover the Fjords

Hovedøya Island, one of the island stops on the tour

Experience the natural beauty of Oslo with the “Oslo Nature Walks: Island Hopping” excursion. This guided tour takes you on a journey through the stunning Oslo Fjord, exploring some of its most picturesque islands. Enjoy scenic walks along coastal trails, discover hidden beaches, and learn about the region’s rich history and diverse wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this island-hopping tour offers a refreshing escape into the tranquil landscapes surrounding Norway’s capital. Discover Oslo’s natural gems and enjoy a unique outdoor adventure.

Cost: $50 Per Person
Book Here: Oslo Nature Walks: Island Hopping

15. Viking Ship Museum: A Glimpse into Norway’s Past

Nyhavn 

On the Bygdøy peninsula, your first stop should be the Viking Ship Museum. This museum houses some of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world, dating back to the 9th century. The Oseberg, Gokstad, Borre, and Tune ships and numerous artifacts provide a fascinating insight into the Viking age. The craftsmanship is truly incredible. To date, this is one of my favorite museums.

The museum is currently under renovation, with plans to reopen in 2027.

Cost: N/A
Free with the Oslo Pass following reopening

Map of Stops

I highly recommend purchasing a Oslo Pass, which gives free admission to 30 museums and sights in Oslo, along with unlimited public transport.