Norway’s capital city offers no shortage of museums, natural beauty and bustling entertainment centers, but it can be difficult to decide how to dig into all Oslo has to offer. Whether you’re short on time or just want to make sure you hit all of the city’s highlights, don’t miss these 10 things to do in Oslo.
Every year, the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo. Not only does the Nobel Peace Center chronicle award winners and the prize’s history, but it also showcases exhibits on conflicts, their costs and their resolutions.
At the end of Karl Johans gate, the most popular pedestrian street in the city, you’ll find the home of the Norweigan king and queen: The Royal Palace. During the summer, visitors can take a guided tour of areas like the Council Chamber and the Great Hall, some of the palace’s most notable rooms.
The relatively new Oslo Opera House offers more than ballet and opera performances; the glass-heavy walls and angled architecture offers panoramic views of the city.
Hop on a boat, take in the fresh breeze and enjoy a cruise around the city on the Oslo Fjord. You’ll be treated to all the natural beauty Oslo has to offer, including bays, forests and mountains.
More than 200 quirky sculptures explore the human condition in all its naked glory at Vigeland Sculpture Park in Frogner Park. Popular sculptures include “Angry Boy,” “The Monolith” and “The Fountain.”
Aker Brygge
The waterfront Aker Brygge is one of Oslo’s most popular upscale dining and shopping areas. Or, you can avoid a high-priced dinner and walk along the wharf and grabbing snacks from the various food stands. You’ll also find bars and beers are plentiful in the evenings, if you’re after a drink.
Kon-Tiki Museum
Norwegian Thor Heyerdahl set sail on his primitive Kon-Tiki raft in 1947 to prove that ancient cultures could sail, and today you can see the Kon-Tiki and the later-used Ra at Oslo’s Kon-Tiki Museum.
The country’s viking heritage is encapsulated at the Viking Ship Museum, where visitors can explore five original Viking ships. In the summer, guests can even take a ride on a viking ship through Roskilde Fjord.
Holmenkollen
This natural escape from the city is home to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, a modern, steel jump nearly 200 feet tall. At the top of the tower, you’ll find panoramic views of the city. In warmer months, Holmenkollen offers outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing and cycling.
Grünerløkka
As the hip, Bohemian center of Oslo, Grünerløkka is filled with cafes, independent shops and parks that stimulate the city’s creative minds. Cocktail bars and international restaurants round out the autonomous offerings of Grünerløkka.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Oslo?
(Main image: Cebete)
