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Oslo, Norway

Destination Guide

Oslo

Norway

Best things to do in Oslo

38 curated attractions in Oslo, Norway. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

June - August

Average temp

6°C/43°F

Budget

Expensive

Safety

Generally safe

About Oslo

Oslo, Norway's capital, is shaped by its dramatic coastal landscape and rich cultural scene. The city is built around the Oslo Fjord, which offers both views and a variety of maritime activities. Its character is further defined by the green spaces and parks, like Vigeland Sculpture Park and Ekebergparken, where art and nature coexist rather harmoniously. This is a city where modern architecture meets historical landmarks, such as the National Gallery and Oslo Cathedral, giving it a unique blend of old and new. While its natural beauty attracts visitors, many come specifically for the art scene, including Edvard Munch's famous works on display at the National Museum. If you prefer the sounds of waves over traffic, this city has a lot to offer, if you can handle the prices.

Who it's for

Perfect for art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those who appreciate modern design. Visitors who dislike spending money should be warned, as Oslo is one of the more expensive capitals in Europe. If you're looking for a nightlife scene or a party atmosphere, you may be disappointed.

Getting around

Public transport: Very Good

  • The city center is compact enough to walk across in about 30 minutes
  • Public transport includes trams, buses, and metro lines that are frequent and reliable
  • The Oslo Fjord can be explored by ferry, which is a scenic alternative
  • The nearest airport is Gardermoen, a 20-minute express train ride from downtown
Munch Museum

Munch Museum

Art museums & galleries
The Norwegian Maritime Museum

The Norwegian Maritime Museum

History museums
Mathallen Oslo (Food Hall)

Mathallen Oslo (Food Hall)

Food markets & food halls
National Gallery

National Gallery

Art museums & galleries
Frogner Manor

Frogner Manor

Historic houses & mansions
Ekebergparken Sculpture Park

Ekebergparken Sculpture Park

City parks
The Viking Planet

The Viking Planet

Specialty & quirky museums
Oslo Cathedral

Oslo Cathedral

Churches & cathedrals
Edvard Munch's Grave

Edvard Munch's Grave

Cemeteries & tombs
Akershus Fortress

Akershus Fortress

Castles & palaces
Tøyen Park

Tøyen Park

City parks
Aker Brygge

Aker Brygge

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
St. Hanshaugen Park

St. Hanshaugen Park

City parks
The Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum

Science & natural history museums
Fram Museum

Fram Museum

History museums
Oslo Fjord

Oslo Fjord

Glaciers & fjords
Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art

Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art

Art museums & galleries
Oslo City Hall

Oslo City Hall

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
The Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden

Botanical gardens
The Oslo City Museum

The Oslo City Museum

History museums
Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

History museums
Tjuvholmen

Tjuvholmen

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Akerselva River

Akerselva River

Rivers, canyons & gorges
The Holocaust Center

The Holocaust Center

History museums
Telthusbakken

Telthusbakken

Urban Attractions
The Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

The Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology

Science & natural history museums
Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Stadiums & sports venues
Oslo Opera House

Oslo Opera House

Theatres & opera houses
Vigeland Sculpture Park

Vigeland Sculpture Park

Fountains, statues & public art
Bygdøy Peninsula

Bygdøy Peninsula

Islands
Karl Johans gate

Karl Johans gate

Streets & neighbourhoods
The National Museum

The National Museum

Art museums & galleries
Royal Palace

Royal Palace

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Damstredet

Damstredet

Urban Attractions
The University of Oslo

The University of Oslo

Historic libraries & universities
Nobel Peace Center

Nobel Peace Center

Specialty & quirky museums
Viking Ship Museum

Viking Ship Museum

History museums
The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum

History museums

Where to eat in Oslo

The places worth planning a meal around.

Tim Wendelboe

Tim Wendelboe

Specialty Coffee · $$

★ 4.7 · 2,670 reviews

Ekeberg Restaurant

Ekeberg Restaurant

Norwegian · $$$

★ 4.2 · 2,343 reviews

Fuglen

Fuglen

Nordic, Café · $$

★ 4.5 · 1,959 reviews

Barcode Street Food

Barcode Street Food

Gourmet Street Food · $$

★ 4.2 · 1,275 reviews

Syverkiosken

Syverkiosken

Norwegian · $$

★ 4.7 · 1,154 reviews

Kok Oslo

Kok Oslo

Scandinavian · $$$

★ 4.7 · 521 reviews

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