Norway’s capital is spectacularly located at the inland tip of a fjord that extends to the North Sea. It’s one of the world’s largest capital cities by area, though most of it is forested land where moose are commonplace. Oslo is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes and situated on the Oslofjord, providing plenty of scenic waterfront areas and opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and swimming. This is an innovative city that seamlessly combines its natural beauty, rich history, and contemporary charm, making it a captivating destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether Oslo is a connecting point in your journey or your final destination, here are some ways to spend your time there that you won’t regret!
Top 5 Things To See in Oslo:
1. Visit the Fram Museum:
Visit the Fram Museum to see the graceful vessels that were built to explore polar ice, as the Norwegians were leaders in polar exploration. You’ll get a taste of those daring adventures and learn about the Polar Ship Fram and how it was used for research. Get the opportunity to board the boat to see how life was lived on the seas long ago.
(💡 Insider tip: We visit this famed cultural site on our Norway Cultural Walking Adventure)
2. Check out the Viking Ship Museum:
The Viking Ship Museum houses three remarkably well-preserved Viking ships, the Oseberg, Gokstad, and Tune, which were excavated from burial mounds in Norway. These ships date back to the 9th century and offer valuable insights into Viking seafaring and burial customs. Alongside the ships, the museum displays an array of artifacts, including sledges, tools, textiles, and household items.
3. Explore the Akershus Fortress:
Akershus Fortress is a historic medieval fortress that has stood for over 700 years. With its commanding position on a hill overlooking the Oslofjord, it has played a significant role in the defense and governance of the city throughout the centuries. Visitors can explore the fortress grounds, stroll along the ramparts, and enjoy panoramic views of Oslo and the fjord. Inside the complex, notable landmarks include Akershus Castle, the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum, and the Royal Mausoleum.
4. Stroll through Vigeland Sculpture Park:
Vigeland Sculpture Park is a captivating open-air sculpture museum located within Frogner Park in Oslo. It’s the largest sculpture park in the world created by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. The park features over 200 bronze and granite sculptures depicting the human form and exploring the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Visitors can stroll through the park’s pathways and enjoy this immersive artistic experience.
5. Catch a performance at the Oslo Opera House
The Oslo Opera House is a striking architectural landmark situated on the waterfront of Oslo. The building’s most distinctive feature is its sloping marble roof, which extends from the ground level to create a large plaza that is accessible to the public. Walk up the gently inclined roof, enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Oslofjord. The opera house is home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, offering a world-class venue for performances of opera, ballet, and other musical events.
Top 5 Things To Eat In Oslo:
1. Fårikål
Fårikål holds the distinction of being Norway’s national dish. This hearty and comforting meal consists of slow-cooked lamb and cabbage, flavored with black peppercorns. The lamb becomes tender and succulent while the cabbage absorbs the rich flavors of the meat.
2. Krumkake:
Krumkake is a delightful Norwegian dessert that resembles a delicate waffle cone. Made from a sweet, lightly spiced batter, krumkake is cooked on a special iron and rolled into a crisp cone shape. It is often filled with whipped cream or sweet preserves, making it a popular treat during holidays and celebrations.
3. Kjøttkaker:
You can’t have a discussion about traditional Norwegian food without mentioning meatballs. Kjøttkaker, however, are not to be mistaken for Swedish meatballs. Kjøttkaker are balls of minced beef, rolled with spices like nutmeg, pepper, and ginger. This gives them a spicy flavor and an aromatic quality. Norwegian meatballs can be served with a wide range of dishes, including potatoes and cabbage stew.
4. Gravlaks:
Gravlaks is another delectable salmon dish that originates from Norway. It consists of thinly sliced raw salmon that has been cured with a blend of salt, sugar, dill, and spices. The result is a tender and flavorful delicacy that is often served as an appetizer with a mustard-dill sauce and along with rye bread.
5. Reindeer Meat:
For a taste of the Arctic, try reindeer meat, a delicacy in Norway. Reindeer meat is lean, tender, and rich in flavor. It is typically served as a steak, often accompanied by lingonberry sauce and sides like mashed potatoes or root vegetables. Sampling reindeer meat provides a unique culinary experience in Oslo.
💡 (Insider tip: Thanks to the midnight sun, enjoy authentic Norwegian dinners in full daylight with us on our Norway walking tour)
Top 5 Things To Drink In Oslo:
1. Aquavit:
Aquavit is a traditional Scandinavian spirit that is widely enjoyed in Oslo. This flavored distilled liquor is typically made from potatoes or grain and infused with herbs and spices like caraway, dill, and citrus. It is often served in small glasses as an aperitif or digestif, and its distinct flavor profile makes it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
2. Craft Beer:
Oslo has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of unique and flavorful brews. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers, craft beer enthusiasts can explore a variety of options. Popular breweries in Oslo include Nøgne Ø, Amundsen Bryggeri, and Oslo Brewing Company.
💡 (Insider tip: Stroll with us on our Norway walking tour and get the opportunity to sip some local brews in the company of an expert guide)
3. Hot Chocolate:
During the chilly winter months, a comforting cup of hot chocolate is the perfect drink to warm up with in Oslo. Whether you’re exploring the Christmas markets or taking a leisurely stroll through the city, indulging in a rich and creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream is a delightful treat.
4. Cloudberry Liqueur:
Cloudberry liqueur is a unique and flavorful drink made from cloudberries, a golden-orange berry that grows in the Nordic regions. The liqueur has a sweet and tart taste, and it is often enjoyed as a dessert drink or used as an ingredient in cocktails. Trying cloudberry liqueur provides a taste of the Norwegian wilderness and its distinctive flavors.
5. Kvikk Lunsj and Solo:
Kvikk Lunsj is a popular Norwegian chocolate wafer bar that bears a resemblance to KitKat, and Solo is a citrus-flavored soda. This iconic snack combination of Kvikk Lunsj and Solo is often enjoyed during outdoor activities like hiking or skiing. It offers a quick and energizing break, with the chocolate wafer and refreshing soda providing a satisfying combination of flavors.
