A place full of spark and magnificent architecture. Oslo makes you more enthusiastic and energetic with its phenomenal art. Every corner of Norway insists you take a look at its Norwegian and medieval cultures.

The fjord-cruise ride gives you the warm feeling of a waterfront view. Wildlife in Nordmarka Forest and hiking trails make you stay in a tent and enjoy the night beauty. Different places and tourist attractions make you want to visit Oslo.

Here, we make a list of the top 8 things that you must do in Oslo.

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Why Should You Visit Oslo, Norway

From the historical aspects to modernity, Oslo stands out as a perfect city in Norway. Additionally, the way this city remakes itself for visitors is incredible. Every sector of its sightseeing to food is top-notch. Now that we know that you're here to explore must-do things in Oslo, we won't keep you from it anymore.

Things to see and do in Oslo, Norway

Oslo is a vivid capital of Norway that serves its visitors an unforgettable journey. It offers you a cruise tour to see the historic places and scenic beauty of nature. Starting from the Medieval forts, Sculpture Park, famous beaches, island hopping, hiking on trails of Nordmarka and Oslomarka forest, and lots more are the main things to see in Oslo, Norway.

Besides all these, Oslo is a place for music lovers. The Opera House is a must-visit place for tourists. Also, you will find Michelin-star foods here, which gives you mouthful excitement. Together these give you enough options of things to see and do in Oslo.

 

Things to Do in Oslo, Norway: Complete List

 

1. Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo

Overview: The most popular tourist spot is Vigeland Sculpture Park, which is also prominent as the world's largest Frogner Park. Also, the park is designated by the well-known sculptor Gustav Vigeland. For lovers of art & architecture, visiting it falls under some of the must-do things in Oslo.

Location: Nobels Gate 32, Oslo 0268 Norway.
Highlights:

• Vigelands Fountain is the main attraction in this park.
• Beside the fountain, the Angry Boy, the Monolith and the Wheel of Life are also eye-catching sculptures.

Why Visit: Including the place is a must on your list because of its fascinating sculptures. Over 200 Bronze and iron sculptures are present here. All are made by Gustav Vigeland.

How to reach: To reach the sculpture park, Vigelandsparken and Volvet are the nearest bus stops ( 20, 25, 30 and 31 are bus lines). Borgen (subway lines are- 1, 2 and 4) and Vigelandsparken (light rail line 12) are the closest subway and light rail stations. L1 and L2 are train lines that you can find to get to the park.

Tips: Vigeland Park is free for visitors, and it is open all year long. Also, stop by the Vigeland Museum, which is also admirable near the park.

2. Take a Cruise on The Oslo Fjord

Overview: You can explore mesmerizing Norway with the Oslo Fjord cruise ride. It allows you to witness the beautiful wild nature, view of serene cluster islands, hills of Oslo and crystal clear water.

Location: Havne Lageret, Langkaia 1, Oslo 0150, Norway.

Highlights:

• The cruise sailed through the island mazes.
• The Opera House and Ballet House are tourist attractions in Bjørvika.
• Also, the moment of seeing the peninsula of Bygdøy is an extra addition.

Why Visit: Every ride on the fjord cruise is full of excitement and surprise at the same time. Also, you can enjoy the medieval ruins, museums and extraordinary scenic beauty of the Northern Sea.

How to Reach:

• The nearby bus stations from the harbour are Tjuvholmen, Vika Atrium and National Theatre ( bus lines are- 160, 31, 81 and VY1).
• Also, get 1, 3 and 5 subway lines. L1, L2, R14 and R21 are train lines available. Also, take light rail line 12 and B10 ferry.

Tips: Nutshell is the best fjord cruise in Oslo. Like most things to do in Oslo, Norway, you must be shortlisted, so check the weather forecast before taking the cruise ride. Also, you should put on waterproof jackets and warm clothes in summer because of the changeable weather.

3. Discover The Munch Museum

Overview: In Oslo, locals call the Munch Museum as Munchmuseet. As an art lover, you have a chance to explore a variety of art. Edvard Munch's beautiful paintings are exceptionally able to steal the hearts of visitors.

Location: Edvard Munchs Plass 1, 0194 Oslo, Norway.

Highlights:

• You can see The Scream, Madonna and Vampire, which are the must-watch paintings in the museum.
• Over 200 paintings by Edvard Munch are an exceptional attraction for tourists.
• This year, Sofi’s Room is an iconic exhibition for children in the Munch.

Why Visit: Munch Museum is a must-visit place in Oslo for its unique and iconic paintings, art and relics of Munch's life. In parallel, each floor of the museum offers different themes.

How to Reach:

• The nearest bus stop is Sørenga (300, 31, 380, 81 and 83 are bus lines).
• L1, L2 and R14 train lines can take you to the museum.
• Oslo S is the closest subway station ( 1 and 5 are subway lines).

Tips: If you have an Oslo Pass, then your entry will be free. Hence, this museum offers free entry for everyone every Wednesday. Also, beforehand booking will be convenient for visiting with Kids.

4. The Akershus Fortress

Overview: Akershus Fortress is one of the most famous historic places and deserves a prime spot among the things to see in Oslo, Norway. It's a symbol of protection in Old Oslo and has a strong stand in the Norwegian military base.

Location: 0150 Oslo, Norway.

Highlights:

• The main attraction is the fortress 17th-century prison named The Slavery.
• The Norwegian Armed Forces museum is one of the breathtaking places in the fortress.
• The Royal Mausoleum and the Church Castle are significant places of medieval royal history.

Why Visit: The medieval fortress is the best place for a walk or picnic and see the paranormal walls full of lush grass. Akershus Fortress is also a military area in Norway.

How to Reach:

• Kvadraturen is the nearest bus stop (160, 300, 31, 37 and 81 are bus lines), only a 5-minute walk away from Akershus fortress.
• You will get subway lines (1 and 5) from Kontrasjæret subway station. L1, L2 and R14 train lines are available, and the B10 ferry will take you to the fortress.

Tips: As a tourist of the Akershus Fortress, you have to select your shoes wisely for a long walk. Also needed before booking to visit the fortress castle.

5. Experience The Opera House

Overview: Artists from all over the world come to the Oslo Opera House for performances. Because this Norwegian cultural centre is iconic for operas and other dance performances.

Location: Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo, Norway.

Highlights:

• Take a walk on the roof of the Opera House and get to see the overview of Oslo.
• Also, it's noticeable that the signatures of legendary artists are present on the surface of the roof walls. Kristian Blystad and Kalle Grude are among them.

Why Visit:

• The Norwegian Opera House is a centre of cultural hub in Oslo.
• Watching over 600 ballet dancers and opera professionals shows.
• Additionally, world-class performances of jazz, operas and concerts of chamber and baroque are a treat to watch.

How to Reach:

• You can get light rail line 12 from the nearest Dronningens Gate and Bjørvika light rail stations.
• Jernbanetorget is the nearby bus stop (300, 380, 505 and 81 are bus lines) of the Opera House.
• L1, L2 and R14 are train lines that you get from Oslo S and Oslo Tollbugata stations. Also, 1 and 5 are subway lines to reach the place.

Tips: Oslo Opera House is only partially free for the visitors. You need to book a guided tour to visit the full Opera House.

6. Shop at Karl Johans Gate

Overview: The main Karl Johans Gate begins from Oslo Central Station and goes up to the royal castle. This place is full of shops, restaurants, malls, and hotels with the presence of historic buildings.

Location: Karl Johans Gate, 0154 Oslo, Norway.

Highlights: 

• You can find the most captivating boulevard in Karl Johans Gate.
• Also, find a fine selection of shoes near the Grensen area.
• Buy souvenirs from the streets of City Hall.

Why Visit: Karl Johans Gate is a paradise of shopping. The parliament is in the street from the National Theatre to the Grand Hotel. Also, it's a stage for street artists and performers.

How to Reach:

• Subway lines 1, 2 and 5 are available to reach near the Karl Johans Gate from Stortinget station.
• Also, L1, L2, R14, and R21 train lines are available.
• Stortorvet is the closest bus stop (160, 31 and 81 are bus lines), and Tinghuset is the nearest light rail station (light rail line 19) there for service.

Tips: This place is not only for shopping enthusiasts but also for historical and architectural lovers.

7. Explore The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History 

Overview: Norway's largest cultural museum is Norsk Folkemuseum or Norwegian Museum. From folk arts to folk costumes, Sami cultures are exhibited here. This cultural museum is iconic for its inheritance of different periods, regions and social classes in Norway.

Location: Museumsveien 10, Bygdøy 0287, Oslo Norway.

Highlights: 

• You can see the Stave Church from the 20th century.
• An open-air museum is full of 160 historic buildings that represent Norwegian culture, life and time.

Why Visit: The Norwegian Museum is one of the iconic museums (among popular Oslo tourist attractions), showcasing the Norway region and its different cultures. Also, the largest open-air museum is the most popular attraction of all. Kids will have much fun seeing the farm animals and cart rides.

How to Reach:

• Hjortnes, Frongner Kirke and Solli are the nearest bus stations (bus lines are 160, 20, 21, 30, 31 and 81) to reach the museum.
• From Skillebekk light rail station (line 13), you can get to the place.
• Also, L1 and L2 train lines and ferry no-9 from Rådhusbrygge 3 are available for tourists.

Tips: Adults get a discount on tickets. The best day to visit here is Sunday.

8. Hike in Nordmarka Forest

Overview: Nordmarka Forest is a promised land for nature lovers. Sørkedalen trails are the most famous hiking place in Nordmarka Forest.

Location: Jernbanetorget 1, Oslo 0154, Norway. In addition, the front gate is outside of the Oslo Visitor Centre, next to the tiger statue.

Highlights: 

• In winter, you can ski in the Nordmarka red-marked trail, and in summer, hiking and biking in the blue-marked trails are a must.
• You can get an English-guided tour hike in the north forest of Oslo.

Why Visit: Nordmarka Forest is famous for its hiking trails. It's full of wildlife animals such as beaver, fox, eagle, deer and many other harmless creatures. Also, you will have an outstanding experience of hiking in the forest.

How to Reach: To reach the Nordmarka Forest, you can take 42 and 45 bus lines. Also, subway line 1 is available for your reach.

Tips: Before going to hike, you must take maps, a compass and other necessary things. Check the weather forecast and turn back if any problems occur during the hiking.

Final Thoughts 

Watching different Norwegian cultures and regions in an open-air museum in Norsk Folkemuseum will stay forever in your heart during the Oslo tour. Shopping on Karl Johans Street and seeing the beauty of the boulevard remain classic Oslo tourist attractions throughout your entire journey. During the period of your tour, you will need a comfortable staycation to relax and rejuvenate yourself. So, you can book your stay through the Oslo serviced apartment at TheSqua.re ready as we aim to provide you with a considerable range of comfortable accommodations so that your trip will be full of amazing memories.