How to Spend Two Days in Oslo Norway – Detailed Itinerary
Are you planning a trip to Norway and wondering how much time to spend in the capital city of Oslo?
What are the best things to see and do? How should you create your itinerary to make the most of your trip?
Be inspired by this guide as you plan your next adventure to Oslo, Norway!
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A trip to Norway wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the capital city of Oslo. Here you will find plenty of interesting sights and activities to enjoy. A nicely thought-out itinerary will ensure that you make the most of your time, have a realistic plan and stay within budget. You’ll also be able to book fjord cruise tickets and reserve accommodations in advance.
As tempting as it can be to have a jam-packed itinerary, it’s best to prioritize must-see destinations. Give yourself enough time to discover the highlights, but remember you won’t be able to see everything Oslo has to offer. Have some flexibility built in to your itinerary for unforeseen circumstances, such as inclement weather or transportation delays.
This guide is structured to provide an overview of the best activities, historical sites, museums as well as dining and shopping experiences that can be accomplished during a 2-day visit. Adjust accordingly to suit your own travel timeline, budget and personal preferences.
How Many Days to Spend in Oslo
Do you prefer to pack in as much as possible in a short period of time or travel at a more leisurely pace?
Are you visiting in the summer when there are plenty of daylight hours for exploring?
Are you travelling luxuriously or on a budget?
The main highlights of Oslo can be seen in two full days. This is the perfect amount of time for first-time visitors. Oslo is an essential stop if you are continuing on to see other parts of Norway on a longer trip around the country.
This guide assumes travellers have two full days available to explore. Take into consideration your arrival and departure time when creating your itinerary. Even if you only have a short period of time, visiting Oslo will certainly be worthwhile.
Oslo – Two Day Itinerary
Use the following two-day itinerary as an inspirational guide to plan your trip to Oslo. This itinerary has been created with the must-see highlights presented in a logical, geographical order. Follow this route to maximize your travel time and make the most of your budget.
↠ Stavanger, Norway – 3 Day Itinerary
↠ Bergen, Norway – 1 Day Itinerary
Norway is known for being an expensive country, so it’s best to have an idea of how much things cost before you arrive. Costs for airfare, accommodation, meals, attractions and transportation add up quickly if you are not prepared. Planning in advance is the best way to save money and to have an unforgettable experience. With so much to see in Oslo, let’s get started!
Day 1 – Historic Oslo & Sculpture Park
The majority of travellers arrive in Oslo either by air through Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) or train via Oslo Sentralstasjon (Central Station). From the airport, take the Express Train (Flytoget) to reach Oslo Central Station. This high-speed train journey connects travellers from the airport to the city centre in less than 20 minutes. Once you have arrived in Central Oslo, check into your accommodation.
If you have arrived prior to check-in, ask your hotel/hostel staff if there is a secure place to store your belongings. It’s time to start exploring the capital city!
Oslo is a very walkable city with the main tourist attractions located reasonably close to each other. One of the best ways to see the city is on foot, but there are bike rentals, taxis, buses and metro/tram options available as well.
If you purchase an Oslo Pass you will have access to unlimited travel on the city’s public transportation system (bus/metro/tram). Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tours also offer safe, affordable and convenient transportation around Oslo.
Today will be spent exploring the historic centre of Oslo, admiring the city’s most unique buildings and art installations. Start the adventure by making your way to Oslo Sentralstasjon.
1. 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.
Explore freely or 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.
2. Oslo Domkirke
Visit the Oslo Cathedral located in Stortovet Square. 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
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. Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is one of the Norway’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. During the summer season, guided tours of the palace are offered. Visitors can also explore the surrounding parks and greenspace. Try to time your visit to arrive for the Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes place daily at 1:30pm.
Opening Hours: Guided Tours are available during the summer season. Daily at 12noon, 2:00pm, 2:20pm & 4:00pm. Tours last approximately 1 hour.
Cost: Guided Tour – Adult 175 NOK
5. Lunch @ Oslo Street Food
Take a break for lunch at Oslo Steet Food. This is a large food court, with a variety of unique stalls, serving delicious meals from all around the world (Mexican, Japanese, Thai, Korean and more). Lots of indoor and outdoor seating is available. Interestingly, Oslo Street Food is transformed into a nightclub on Friday and Saturday nights!
Opening Hours: Monday – Wednesday 11:00am – 11:00pm; Thursday – Saturday 11:00am – 3:00am. Sunday – 12:00pm – 10:00pm.
After lunch, walk a short distance to reach the 22 July Centre. Take the opportunity to learn and reflect upon Norway’s most devastating terror attacks that took place here in 2011.
6. 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
7. Vigeland Sculpture Park
Board the tram in Central Oslo to reach 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.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours year-round.
Cost: Free
Oslo is a city with a vibrant nightlife. Choose to enjoy it tonight or go back to your accommodation to rest and prepare for another full day of exploring tomorrow.
Day 2 – Oslo Fjord & Harbour Promenade
Oslo is a city built upon the water and there is no better way to enjoy it than by taking a scenic cruise on the Oslo Fjord. Spend the afternoon walking or biking along the Harbour Promenade and visiting some of the city’s most popular museums.
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 Oslo Fjord. 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
4. 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 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Wednesday-Sunday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Cost: 160 NOK
5. 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.
6. 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
7. 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.
8. Shopping & Dining @ Aker Brygge
Aker Brygge is a major entertainment and shopping district along the harbourfront. This area of Oslo has been completely revitalized with trendy bars, restaurants and luxury shopping retailers. Enjoy a delicious meal and a night out with friends.
Depending on your schedule, you may have a final night at your accommodation before heading off to another part of the county or you may need to prepare for a flight home. Although it was a brief visit, you will leave Oslo with memories that last a lifetime!
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 GAdventures.
- 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!
