From the natural beauty of Fjord to optical illusions at the Paradox Museum, exploring Oslo opens gates to a diverse range of experiences. This Norwegian city offers the perfect blend of cultural, historical, and scenic adventures that will make your trip a memorable one. Now, whether you are a first-time visitor or someone who has been here before, picking out the best activities and places to visit is always tricky. But we have got you sorted! Here are some of the expert-curated top things to do in Oslo that you cannot miss on your next trip. Read further to know more!
1. Gear up for a Fjord Cruise
One of the best ways to experience the scenic beauty of Oslo, taking up a Fjord Cruise is another one of the best things to do in this city. Enjoy a day of serene waterways of this Norwegian city and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambience and surrounding picturesque views. A perfect start to your trip, this cruise is ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing yet unique experience. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the city’s skyline and get a glimpse of the major attractions of Oslo from this cruise. These also come with the option of commentary onboard, giving you insights into Oslo’s unique history.
2. Stroll through the Vigeland Sculpture Park
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Spread across an area of 80 acres, Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo is one of its kind and a must-visit attraction in the city. The park features the work of the famous sculptor Gustav Vigeland, hence the name. It houses over 200 sculptures in bronze, granite, and cast iron. The highlight of this open-air museum is the Monolith, a 14-metre-high sculpture carved from a single granite block symbolizing the cycle of life. The park is open all year around and is free for the public. If you want to explore the art in a unique open setting, this is a must-visit place in Oslo for you.
3. Witness the extensive art collection at the Munch Museum
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Another one of the best things to do in Oslo is to visit the Munch Museum. Named after the famous artist Edvard Munch, this museum features iconic art pieces depicting human emotions of love, death and anxiety. A treat for all art lovers, the museum boasts a vast collection of art ranging from paintings, prints and sculptures. With over 28,000 art pieces the stars of this museum are the ‘Madonna’, ‘The Scream’ and the ‘Sick Child’, each depicting a unique expression. The Munch is a perfect getaway to learn more about the art scenes of Oslo and the history behind the artistic process.
4. Marvel at the Oslo Opera House
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A modern architectural marvel located at the waterfront in the capital city, the Oslo Opera House is an important landmark. Famous for its striking design, this building features a sloping marble roof that visitors can walk on to enjoy panoramic views of the fjord. It hosts a variety of performances including opera, ballet, concerts, and much more. Its innovative architecture depicts the perfect blend of art and design, attracting a lot of tourists all year round.
5. Take a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour
When in Oslo, you cannot end your trip without taking a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour. It allows you to explore places at your own pace and is ideal for anyone looking to visit maximum places in a limited time. With flexible stops and buses running at regular intervals, you can hop on and off as you like and continue your journey when you are ready. Travelling in these open-top double-decker buses also adds to your experience of visiting the city. The tours cover all the key attractions of the city like the Oslo City Hall, the Viking Ship Museum, the Royal Palace, and much more. Make sure to check the ticket options and routes before booking to get a clear idea of the places you will be visiting.
6. Learn about history at the Fram Museum
Located on the Bygdøy Peninsula, the Fram Museum in Oslo is dedicated to Polar exploration history. Polar ship Fram, the museum showcases the daring expeditions led by explorers like Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. Exploring this museum provides an educational experience for the visitors. The highlight of the museum is the Fram, a wooden ship used in Arctic and Antarctic expeditions.
7. Visit the Viking Ship Museum
An important landmark in Oslo, the Viking Ship Museum showcases Norway’s rich Viking heritage. The museum houses some of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world including the Oseberg, Gokstad, and Tune ships. Tourists here can get a glimpse into the nautical expertise and daily life of the Vikings. You can find intricately crafted ships, artefacts, and burial treasures that depict the rich craftsmanship and culture of this legendary area. Ideal for all the history buffs, this place is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about Norway’s maritime history.
8. Dive into Optical Illusions at the Paradox Museum
If you are looking for a fun and playful day out with your family or kids, you cannot miss visiting the Paradox Museum. Offering interactive experiences with a range of optical illusions and mind-bending exhibits, this museum is perfect to visit with kids. Located in the heart of the city, this museum provides a fun experience to explore the science behind the visual tricks. Ideal for people of all ages, this museum ensures to offer a unique experience to its visitors.
9. Enjoy a relaxing evening at Aker Brygge
After a tiring day full of activities and exploring places, enjoying a slow and relaxing evening at Aker Brygge is the best thing to do in Oslo. Aker Brygge is a lively waterfront area known for its vibrant atmosphere, restaurants, and shops. Offering a perfect blend of modern architecture, historic charm, and picturesque scenery, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll here. Dine at one of the restaurants enjoying the outdoor seating for scenic views or go on a shopping spree in the local market. This district is also known for its art galleries and museums.
Conclusion
Oslo is a haven for a diverse range of activities and things to do for tourists. From witnessing the picturesque Oslo fjord while dining outdoors to learning about history at the Fram Museum, there is a lot you can do here. Now that you know about all the top things to do here, consider exploring different tours of Oslo as well. And next time you plan a trip to this capital make sure not to miss out on any of these activities for a memorable experience.
