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The best things to do in Oslo include visiting the Fram Museum, a haven for polar expedition enthusiasts, the historic Akershus Fortress, and the iconic Oslo Opera House. As the capital of Norway, Oslo welcomes over 5 million visitors each year.
Highlights include the Viking Ship Museum, where you can see well-preserved ships from over 1,000 years ago, and the Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to over 200 expressive sculptures by Gustav Vigeland.
You can also stroll along the revitalized Aker Brygge waterfront or hike up to Holmenkollen Ski Jump for panoramic views over the city and the fjord.
To create this list, we combined traveler feedback from sites like Google and TripAdvisor with local insights. Our goal was to include various activities that combine Oslo’s highlights and hidden gems.
Enjoy this article in podcast form—perfect for staying informed or listening on the go.
Highlights at a Glance
Luxury: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo is a 37-story hotel in the city center with modern rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a gym.
Mid-range: Comfort Hotel Børsparken is a centrally located hotel in Oslo with modern rooms and a CrossFit gym.
Budget: Citybox Oslo is a centrally located hotel with self-service check-in and Scandinavian-designed rooms. It is just 250 meters from Oslo Central Station and steps from Karl Johans Gate Shopping Street.
Visit the Fram Museum – This museum tells the story of Norway’s polar exploration.
Enjoy the views from Oslo Opera House – The rooftop observation platform offers sensational city views.
Explore the Oslo Fjord – The Oslo Fjord is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Visit the Fram Museum
Visiting the Fram Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Oslo. This fascinating museum is dedicated to the history of Norway’s polar exploration. It contains exhibitions of the world’s most famous voyages, the main highlight being the world’s strongest wooden ship, the Fram.
Launched in 1982, the Fram was used in Arctic and Antarctic expeditions by Norwegian explorers Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup, Oscar Wisting, and Roald Amundsen. At the museum, you can board the ship and explore its cabins, lounges, engine room, and cargo hold.
Another highlight is the Gjøa, which, between 1903 and 1906, was the first ship to sail through the entire Northwest Passage. It’s worth noting that entry to the Fram Museum is included in the Oslo City Pass.
Try the Polar Simulator—If You Dare: There’s a small room that mimics Arctic temperatures and wind conditions. I stepped inside for a few seconds and immediately questioned my life choices—but it’s a fun way to experience what the explorers endured.
Tickets and Hours: The Fram Museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (October–April) and 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (May–September). Tickets cost 180 NOK ($17.26) for adults. Entry is free with the Oslo Pass.
Exploring the Oslo Fjord is one of the most exciting experiences in Oslo. The perfect destination for outdoorsy travelers, the Oslo Fjord is a vast area of idyllic islands, scenic hiking trails, quaint villages, and picturesque swimming spots. You can even spot magnificent wildlife species like the white-tailed eagle.
There are two main ways to explore the Oslo Fjord: self-guided or on a tour. You can easily travel between the islands using Oslo’s ferry services, which leave Rådhusbrygge 1 (City Hall Pier 1) and Aker Brygge. Popular islands include Hovedøya, Gressholmen, and Lindøya.
If you’d prefer to visit the fjord on a tour, I recommend this Oslo Fjord tour. You’ll explore the fjord on a traditional sailing ship and benefit from audio commentary.
Pack a Swimsuit—Yes, Even If It’s Cold: Norwegians love a good fjord swim, and many islands have great (and free) swimming spots. I took a dip at Hovedøya in July—refreshing is an understatement, but totally worth it.
Take the Evening Ferry for a Budget Sunset Cruise: If you don’t want to splurge on a tour, just take the regular ferry in the evening. The golden-hour views over the fjord are incredible, and you’ll pay just the price of a public transport ticket.
One of Oslo’s most famous sights is the Akershus Fortress. Built in the 1300s, this medieval structure protected the city and housed the royal family. Its strategic location at the end of the headland helped it withstand several sieges throughout history.
The fortress’s impressive architecture, rich history, and scenic location make it a popular place to photograph. In my opinion, one of the best places to photograph the fortress is from the water. If you visit the Oslo Fjord, you’ll pass the medieval structure on your way out of the harbor.
You’ll struggle to find a better view of the fortress anywhere else in the city. Alternatively, you can stand on the other side of the waterfront.
Rent a Kayak for a Closer Look: Paddling through the fjord is an amazing way to see hidden coves and wildlife up close. I rented a kayak from Mad Goats near the Opera House—super easy and a fun workout!
Check the Ferry Timetable—Not All Routes Run Late: I almost got stranded on Gressholmen because I didn’t check the return schedule. Some ferries stop running early, especially in the off-season, so plan ahead.
Walking around Frognerparken, the largest park in central Oslo, is one of the most relaxing things to do in Oslo. It covers an area of 111 acres (45 hectares) and is home to charming walking paths and several unique attractions. One of the main draws to the park is the Vigeland Sculpture Park.
This one-of-a-kind attraction comprises over 200 bronze, granite, and wrought iron sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. Highlights include Vigeland’s Fountain, the Monolith, and Sinnataggen (Angry Boy). Other sights to look for in the park include Frogner Manor, Oslo City Museum, and the Gustav Vigeland Statue.
We recommend spending two or three hours in the park, which has so much to see. Luckily, the park is open 24/7 and free to enter.
Pack a Picnic—Benches Fill Up Fast: On sunny days, locals love to picnic here, and seating can be scarce. I grabbed some fresh bread and cheese from a nearby bakery and found a quiet spot on the grass.
Look for Hidden Details in the Sculptures: The statues aren’t just random—they tell a story about life and human emotions. I spent extra time at the Monolith, spotting new details I hadn’t noticed at first glance.
Eat Until Your Heart’s Content at Oslo Street Food
Food enthusiasts must visit Oslo Street Food during their Oslo city break. Tucked away in central Oslo, this bustling food hall serves up a wide range of delicious food and drink from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Norwegian cuisine, Indian delights, or yummy Greek gyros, there’s something for everyone.
The street food market has 16 food stalls, two bars, and a complimentary water station. My favorites were the Mexican tacos, Thai noodles, and Norwegian bread bowls. I highly recommend the Norwegian bread bowls.
For those who don’t know, bread bowls are hollowed-out loaves or rolls of bread filled with soups, stews, and other dishes.
Mix and Match for the Best Experience: The portions are generous, so I shared different dishes with friends. We got Thai noodles, tacos, and a bread bowl—best decision ever.
Bring a Card—It’s Cashless: Every stall only takes card payments, so don’t expect to pay with cash. I almost forgot and had to scramble for my card at checkout.
The Oslo Opera House is one of the most beautiful buildings in Norway’s capital city. It opened in 2008 and is renowned for its unique, iceberg-like design, dazzling marble and white granite exterior, and sloping roof. The Opera House is home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet.
However, we recommend visiting the building for the views it offers from its roof. Brilliantly, the Opera House was designed to allow visitors to walk on its roof. There, you’ll find an observation platform that offers outstanding city views.
You can see most of the city, the Oslo waterfront, and even part of the Oslofjord. The views at sunrise and sunset are particularly impressive.
Wear Shoes with Grip—The Roof Can Be Slippery: The marble surface looks stunning, but if it’s rainy or icy (which happens a lot in Oslo), it can get slick. I saw more than one person take an unexpected slide.
Bring Snacks and Stay for Sunset: There’s no café up top, but the rooftop is a perfect spot for a break. I brought coffee and pastries from a nearby bakery, found a spot on the sloped roof, and watched the sky change colors over the fjord.
Visiting the Oslo Reptile Park is one of the best things to do in Oslo with children. As its name would suggest, the park primarily specializes in reptiles. However, there are other animals and mammals to see.
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In fact, there are over 100 species to spot in the park. Some of the reptile park’s most exciting species include marmosets, boa constrictors, crocodiles, and piranhas. One of the cool things about Oslo Reptile Park is that visitors can get closer to the animals.
Visitors can sometimes hold various snake and spider species during keeper talks and shows. Oslo Reptile Park is open daily from 10:00 until 18:00. Tickets cost 230 NOK ($21.60) for adults and 200 NOK ($18.80) for children.
Tickets and Timing: Oslo Reptile Park is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tickets cost 230 NOK ($21.60) for adults and 200 NOK ($18.80) for children. Purchase your tickets online in advance during peak seasons to avoid crowds.
It’s Smaller Than You Think—Plan for an Hour: The park isn’t huge, so don’t expect to spend all day here. I saw everything in about an hour, which made it a great stop before lunch.
If you want to see how the other half lives, stop by the Royal Palace. Built in the 19th century, this imposing building is the official residence of the current Norwegian monarch. Unsurprisingly, it is one of Norway’s most iconic buildings.
You’ll find the palace on a rise, the Bellevue, at the end of Oslo’s main street, Karl Johans Gate. Reminiscent of Buckingham Palace in London, United Kingdom, the Royal Palace will blow you away with its beautiful Neoclassical architecture. Its vibrant yellow facade features grand columns, carvings, and arched entryways.
Meanwhile, lush gardens surround the palace. Inside, the palace oozes elegance and wealth, featuring dazzling chandeliers, grand halls, and luxurious reception rooms. Unfortunately, the palace’s interior is only open to visitors between June 21st and August 17th.
Stroll Through the Palace Park for Free: Even if the palace is closed, the surrounding park is open year-round. I loved relaxing by the ponds and statues—it’s a peaceful break from the city.
Book Your Tour Early in Summer: Inside tours sell out fast since they only run for a few weeks. I booked mine online in advance to make sure I got a spot!
Grünerløkka is one of Oslo’s most happening neighborhoods. This vibrant part of the city is well known for its lively atmosphere, street art, quaint boutiques, stylish bars, and cozy cafes.
One minute, you’ll enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee in a cafe. Next, you’ll hunt down bargains and souvenirs in the vintage shops and flea markets.
One of the main highlights is Birkelunden, a charming park that hosts an outdoor second-hand market every Sunday. Then, there’s Sofienberg Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities, picnics, and relaxation.
The park holds the Piknik i Parken (Picnic in the Park) music festival in June. In Grünerløkka, you can also enjoy a picturesque stroll along the Akerselva River and tuck into delicious cuisine at Mathallen Oslo.
Try Cinnamon Buns at Supreme Roastworks: This café is known for its top-notch coffee, but their fresh, gooey cinnamon buns were the real highlight for me. It’s a cozy spot to start the day.
Check Out the Street Art on Brenneriveien: This alley near Blå is covered in colorful murals and graffiti. I spent ages admiring the different styles, it’s like an open-air gallery.
The Historical Museum is among the best places to learn about Norway’s fascinating history. Opened in 1904, this museum houses Norway’s largest collection of objects from pre-historic times and the Middle Ages. Among the museum’s exciting collections are artifacts from Norway’s Viking Age.
You’ll thoroughly enjoy learning more about the Vikings through ancient artifacts like swords, golden jewelry, and tools. The museum’s most prized possession is the world’s best-preserved Viking Helmet, the Gjermundbu Helmet, which dates back to the 10th century.
The Historical Museum also has Norway’s largest coin collection and exhibits covering Norway’s medieval history. Better yet, you can also see treasures from ancient Egypt, including sarcophagi and sculptures. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 until 16:00.
Admission and Hours: The Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Tickets cost 160 NOK ($15.34) for adults and include free entry to the Viking Ship Museum if visited within 48 hours.
Check Out the Café for Traditional Norwegian Treats: After exploring, I grabbed a bite at the museum café. They serve fresh waffles with brown cheese, one of Norway’s must-try snacks!
Relaxing in a sauna is one of the best experiences in Oslo if you want to unwind. Saunas are incredibly popular with locals and travelers in Oslo, especially since floating saunas emerged in the fjord and on the waterfront. Aside from being an excellent way to relax, it is a great way to enjoy the culture.
Many saunas are located in Oslo, but arguably, the best are the ones on the waterfront across from the Opera House.
Operated by KOK, these floating saunas offer a wonderfully relaxing experience overlooking the Opera House, Munch, and the She Lies sculpture. KOK also has a sauna in the heart of Aker Brygge, with exceptional views of Akershus Fortress.
If you’re feeling luxurious, you could explore the Oslo Fjord in style on the company’s sauna boats.
Bring Flip-Flops and a Water Bottle: The wooden docks can get super cold in winter, and staying hydrated is key to enjoying the heat. I was glad I had both!
Try the Cold Plunge for the Full Experience: It might sound crazy, but jumping into the fjord between sauna sessions is incredibly refreshing. Locals swear by it, and after trying it myself, I totally get why!
Admire the Vessels and Maps in the Kon-Tiki Museum
The Kon-Tiki Museum is one of the most exciting museums in Oslo. Located on the Bygdøy peninsula, this unique museum houses vessels and maps from the Kon-Tiki expedition. For those who don’t know, the Kon-Tiki expedition was a 1947 voyage led by Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl.
The expedition saw the explorer travel across the Pacific Ocean from South America to the Polynesian islands by wooden raft. Heyerdahl made the journey in a wooden raft to prove that ancient people could have traveled from South America to Polynesia on a balsa raft. The Kon-Tiki Museum is still home to Heyerdahl’s original raft.
Other exciting exhibits at the museum include a 98-foot (30-meter) long replica of a cave from Easter Island, Heyerdahl’s personal library, and models of marine life.
Tickets and Hours: The Kon-Tiki Museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (October–April) and 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (May–September). Tickets cost 180 NOK ($16.80) for adults.
Must-See Highlights: Don’t miss the original Kon-Tiki raft, which Thor Heyerdahl used during his 1947 expedition. Make time for the Easter Island cave replica and Heyerdahl’s personal library, both of which offer deeper insights into his studies and adventures.
Step Into the Viking World at the Viking Ship Museum
One of Oslo’s top attractions is the Viking Ship Museum, a must-visit for anyone curious about Scandinavia’s past. Although currently closed for renovation, the museum is being transformed into the Museum of the Viking Age and is set to reopen in 2027. When it does, it will house one of the most comprehensive Viking collections in the world.
The museum’s star attractions are its three remarkably preserved Viking ships: the Oseberg, Gokstad, and Tune ships. Each is over 1,000 years old. These vessels were once buried as part of elaborate funerary rituals for prominent Vikings. Alongside the ships, the museum has everyday Viking artifacts like tools, weapons, textiles, and even intricately carved sleds.
Please note that the Viking Ship Museum is currently closed for renovation – it will reopen in 2027 as the new Museum of the Viking Age. The newly expanded museum promises cutting-edge exhibitions, immersive storytelling, and interactive displays.
Plan for 2027: The Viking Ship Museum is closed until its grand reopening as the Museum of the Viking Age. Keep an eye on official updates if you’re planning a future trip to Oslo.
Pair It With the Historical Museum: Many Viking treasures are temporarily on display at the Historical Museum. It’s a great way to get a sneak peek into the era while the new museum is under construction.
Watch “Vikings” Before You Go: A little pop culture never hurts! Watching the hit TV series can make the real-life artifacts even more thrilling when you see them up close.
Jack is a freelance content writer from the U.K. He writes about travel, health & lifestyle, and food amongst other things. As a passionate traveler, he’s always in search of his next big adventure, and ways to save his readers money on their next trip.
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