The Best Things to See & Do in Oslo Norway
Oslo is a vibrant city filled with so much to see and do! With so many historic landmarks, wonderful museums, cultural experiences and local-approved shops and restaurants, you’ll need some help narrowing down how to best spend your time in the Norwegian Capital. Here’s a list of what you shouldn’t miss during your next trip to Oslo, Norway!
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Welcome to Oslo, the historic capital of Norway. The city is a hidden gem, rich in culture and surrounded by nature. Thoughtfully consider what you would like to experience while you are here, what it will cost and how much time you think you’ll need to fit it all in. Take these essential steps to create memories that will last a lifetime.
There is something to be said about spontaneity while travelling, but there is nothing more satisfying than showing up prepared to a new destination. Preparation not only offers peace of mind, but you’ll have a better chance of snagging deals on flights, booking your preferred accommodation, reserving a table at an in-demand restaurant or getting limited-supply tickets to local attractions. Don’t miss your opportunity to see some of the most beautiful fjords in the world because you forgot to book a tour in advance.
Best Things to See & Do in Oslo
Use this guide to create a list of your top highlights for visiting Oslo. From there you can make a budget and itinerary, turning your dream vacation into a reality. Planning the trip is almost as exciting as the journey itself. All that will be left to do is pack your bags and decide where to go first!
1. Oslo Domkirke
Visit the Oslo Cathedral located in Stortovet Square, not far from Karl Johans Gate. This beautiful stone church was built in the 17th century. Today the Norwegian Royal Family and the Norwegian Government use the Cathedral for public events, weddings and funerals. The current King & Queen of Norway were married here in August 1968. The cathedral is open to the public for daily mass, concerts and guided tours.
Opening Hours: Saturday – Thursday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Friday 4:00 pm – 11:30 pm.
Cost: Free entry
2. Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is one of the country’s most important buildings. It functions as the primary residence for the current Norwegian Monarch, King Harold V & Queen Sonja. This magnificent mansion is located at the top of Karl Johans Gate, which is Oslo’s main throughfare. During the summer season, guided tours of the palace are offered. Visitors can also explore the surrounding parks and greenspace. The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 1:30pm.
Opening Hours: Guided Tours are available during the summer season. Daily at 12 noon, 2:00pm, 2:20pm & 4:00pm. Tours last approximately 1 hour.
Cost: Guided Tour – Adult 175 NOK
3. Parliament Buildings (Stortinget)
The Norwegian Parliament is a grand, historic government complex located in the heart of Oslo. The beautiful buildings, known locally as the Storting, can be found during a stroll along Karl Johans Gate. Admire the architectural elements from the outside. Virtual guided tours are available online.
4. Karl Johans Gate
Karl Johans Gate is the main boulevard in the city of Oslo. This pedestrian-only throughfare connects Oslo Central Station Square with the Royal Palace. Along this stretch, you will find some of the most popular tourist attractions, luxury retailers, bars and restaurants. Famous landmarks such as the Oslo Cathedral, Parliament Buildings and National Theatre are located here.
5. Vigeland Sculpture Park
Vigeland Sculpture Park is a unique open-air art exhibition located in Frogner Park. Here you will find over 200 sculptures that have all been created by Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland (1869-1943). Vigeland Sculpture Park has become one of Norway’s top tourist attractions with more than 1 million annual visitors. Board the tram or metro to reach Vigeland Park from central Oslo.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours year-round.
Cost: Free
6. Harbour Promenade
Oslo’s Harbour Promenade has been recently rejuvenated to include pedestrian walkways and bike paths that extend approximately 10km along the city’s scenic waterfront. There are several attractions along the route including the Opera House, Munch Museum, Aker Brygge Wharf, Oslo City Hall, National Museum and the Akershus Fortress & Castle. Look for the bright orange towers that mark the way so you won’t get lost.
7. Oslo Opera House
Oslo’s Opera House is an architectural masterpiece, home to the Norwegian Opera and Ballet. Its construction has been inspired by nature, resembling a glacier rising from the sea. Visitors are encouraged to walk on the roof of the building to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Oslofjord. Plan your trip to coincide with a performance or take a guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look.
Opening Hours: Grounds and rooftop are open 24/7. Guided tours offered daily Monday-Saturday 1:00 pm, Sunday 2:00 pm.
Cost: Guided Tours – 130 NOK
8. Akershus Fortress & Castle
Discover Oslo’s medieval history with a visit to the Akershus Fortress & Castle. Built in the 13th century, the complex has had numerous functions as a prison, royal residence and temporary office for the Prime Minister of Norway. Nowadays, the fortress operates as a military base. The castle and grounds are open to the public.
Opening Hours: Grounds open daily from 6:00am – 9:00pm. Castle opening hours vary depending on the season. Check the official website for details.
Cost: Free to walk around the grounds. 100 NOK for access to castle with audio tour.
9. Norwegian Armed Forces Museum
The Norwegian Armed Forces Museum contains exhibits and unique artifacts related to the country’s military history spanning from the Viking Age until the 21st century. The museum is located on the grounds of the Akershus Fortress.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00am – 4:00pm
Cost: Free
10. Oslo City Hall (Oslo Rådhus)
Oslo City Hall is red brick building situated in the city centre. The Nobel Peace Prize ceremony takes place here every year in December. Free guided tours are offered during the summer months. The Main Hall is worth exploring, as it is decorated with paintings depicting scenes of Oslo and Norway.
Opening Hours: Check the website for official hours.
Cost: Free guided tours.
11. Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise
Discover the beauty of the Oslo Fjord on a sightseeing cruise. Sail past unique islands dotted with colourful picturesque summer homes. Learn about the history of the fjord, including its Viking past. As you return to the city enjoy panoramic views of Oslo, the Opera House and the Akershus Fortress.
12. Botanical Gardens
Oslo’s Botanical Gardens are a calming space in the city, where visitors will find manicured gardens, beautiful sculptures and winding pathways. The Palm House & Victoria House include exotic plants from other parts of the world.
Opening Hours: Spring/Summer – Daily from 7:00am to 9:00pm. Fall/Winter – Daily from 7:00am to 5:00pm.
Cost: Free
13. Munch Museum
The Munch Museum is a newly constructed art gallery dedicated to the life and works of the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. The museum includes over 200 permanent pieces and is one of the world’s largest galleries devoted to an individual artist.
Opening Hours: Monday-Tuesday 10:00am-6:00pm. Wednesday-Sunday 10:00am-9:00pm.
Cost: 160 NOK
14. Viking Ship Museum
The Viking Ship Museum is currently closed for renovations, but is expected to re-open in 2026 under a new name, the Museum of the Viking Age. The museum houses three Viking-era burial ships (Oseberg, Gokstad & Tune) as well as Viking-era artifacts.
Opening Hours: Temporarily closed for renovations. Expected to re-open in 2026.
15. 22 July Centre (Terrorist Attack Memorial)
The permanent exhibition at the 22 July Centre documents the domestic terrorist attacks that occurred in Oslo and Utøya island on 22 July 2011. The events of the deadly attack are reconstructed through images, videos and physical objects. The memorial includes photographic evidence, surveillance camera footage and interviews with witnesses. There is a separate room commemorating the lives of the 77 victims.
Opening Hours: Thursday – Sunday from 11:00am – 4:00pm.
Cost: Free
16. Food & Walking Tours
The majority of Oslo’s major landmarks are concentrated only a few minutes walking distance from each other. Join a walking tour to learn more about the history of Oslo, see the highlights and connect with a local guide that can answer all of your questions. You will stop at several places you may not have discovered on your own.
How to Save Money in Oslo
Here are some of the best ways to save money in Oslo so that you can see and do as much as possible, within budget!
1. Purchase the Oslo Pass
The Oslo Pass is a sightseeing card for tourists offering discounted access to over 30 popular attractions, tours and museums in the city. It’s cheaper to buy an Oslo Pass than to pay for each attraction individually. Unlimited travel on the city’s public transportation system is also included. Although, note that this does not include transportation to the airport.
Choose between a one, two or three-day pass. Purchase the pass online and then redeem your card on arrival at the Oslo Visitor Centre, which can be found near the Central Station.
Attractions included with the Oslo Pass:
- Two Hour Walking Tour
- Ski Museum & Tower
- Munch Museum
- Fram Museum
- Akershus Castle
- Free Public Transportation
Purchase the Oslo Pass here.
2. Purchase Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Tickets
Take the stress out of finding your way around a new city by purchasing a one or two-day hop-on hop-off bus pass. This bus route has been created specifically for tourists stopping at all the major landmarks in Oslo while providing audio commentary. Buses depart every 30 minutes allowing visitors to explore each attraction at their own pace.
Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour tickets can be purchased here.
3. Stay in Hostels
If you are looking for budget-friendly accommodation, hostels are a great option. Typically, the more people sharing a dormitory the cheaper the cost. It’s also possible to select your room based on gender (male, female or mixed) if you have a preference.
If you are travelling as a couple or with a friend, many hostels also have private room options, which typically cost less than a standard hotel room. You may have to share a bathroom with other guests.
Hostels often include kitchens, where you have the option to cook your own meals to save money. Hostel staff regularly organize events, such as low-cost cooking classes or city tours, for their guests. Get free access to local advice and insider tips about things to see and places to visit that you may never have found on your own.
Many hostels are located in the city centre, within walking distance to main attractions. This may help to save money on transportation costs. Staff are typically onsite at all times for added security. Hostel accommodation typically includes lockers or a secured place to store valuables and belongings.
Hostel common areas are a great location to meet people from all over the world. Share travel stories and create new friendships. This will add value to your experience in a new city!
Book your accommodation in Oslo here.
4. Purchase Travel Insurance
As much as we don’t like to think about it, things can and do go wrong while travelling. Have some peace of mind knowing that you are covered by insurance if something unexpected happens, such an injury, illness or lost luggage.
SafetyWing is a global travel medical insurance company designed to meet the needs of travellers from all over the world. If you have already left home, it’s not too late to protect yourself. You can still purchase insurance while abroad.
Consider purchasing travel insurance from SafetyWing for your next trip. You can use the booking widget below to get a quote:
Start Booking Your Trip
Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Oslo, Norway!
- Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld.
- Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
- Book your flight with SkyScanner.
- Book tours with Get Your Guide.
- Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with G Adventures.
- Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.
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Have any questions about planning your trip to Oslo, Norway? Please share your questions or comments below!
