If you’re planning a trip to Oslo, congratulations—you’re about to experience one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in Scandinavia! Oslo is a perfect blend of urban sophistication and stunning nature, where you can hop from world-class museums to breathtaking fjords in a single afternoon. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Oslo has something special for you.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Oslo, along with a few must-have apps to make your trip even smoother. Let’s get started!
1. Explore the Iconic Vigeland Park
You can’t visit Oslo without checking out Vigeland Park—one of the most unique sculpture parks in the world. Designed by Gustav Vigeland, this open-air museum features over 200 sculptures depicting human emotions, relationships, and life stages. The Monolith and Angry Boy are must-sees!
Pro tip: The park is free to enter, and it’s beautiful in every season, whether covered in snow or basking in the summer sun.
2. Visit the Viking Ship Museum (Temporarily Closed)
If you’re fascinated by Viking history, the Viking Ship Museum is an absolute must. This museum houses well-preserved Viking ships that date back to the 9th century. Even though the museum is currently closed for renovations until 2026, you can still check out Viking artifacts at the Historical Museum nearby.
Pro tip: If you’re eager for more Viking history, take a trip to the Norwegian Maritime Museum or the Fram Museum for insights into polar exploration.
3. Stroll Along Karl Johans Gate
Oslo’s main street, Karl Johans Gate, is a lively hub packed with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. This is where you’ll find the stunning Royal Palace, the National Theatre, and the majestic Parliament Building. It’s the perfect place to soak up Oslo’s vibrant atmosphere.
Pro tip: Grab a coffee at Fuglen, a cozy café known for its top-notch brews and retro Scandinavian decor.
4. Experience the Opera House’s Stunning Architecture
Oslo’s Opera House isn’t just a venue for world-class performances—it’s also an architectural masterpiece. The building’s design allows you to walk up its sloping roof, offering panoramic views of the Oslofjord. Whether you’re there for a show or just to admire the scenery, it’s a must-visit.
Pro tip: Try to visit during sunset for an unforgettable view over the fjord.
5. Take a Ferry to the Bygdøy Peninsula
For a mini escape from the city, hop on a short ferry ride to Bygdøy, a scenic peninsula home to several of Oslo’s top museums. Here, you can visit:
- The Fram Museum (polar expeditions)
- The Kon-Tiki Museum (Thor Heyerdahl’s legendary voyages)
- The Norwegian Folk Museum (open-air cultural history)
Pro tip: The ferry departs from Aker Brygge, one of Oslo’s best spots for waterfront dining.
6. Discover Akershus Fortress
History buffs will love exploring Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle with stunning views over the city and fjord. Built in the late 13th century, it has witnessed countless battles and intrigues over the centuries.
Pro tip: Take the guided tour to hear fascinating (and sometimes eerie) stories about the fortress’s past.
7. Check Out the Munch Museum
If you’ve ever seen the famous painting The Scream, you know Edvard Munch. The Munch Museum is dedicated to this legendary Norwegian artist, showcasing his masterpieces and personal effects.
Pro tip: The museum has a fantastic café with a great view—perfect for a coffee break after soaking in all that art.
8. Take a Day Trip to Holmenkollen
For breathtaking views and a taste of Norway’s ski culture, head to Holmenkollen Ski Jump. This historic ski jump offers a panoramic observation deck at the top, plus the Ski Museum, where you can learn about Norway’s rich skiing heritage.
Pro tip: Even if you’re not a ski fan, visiting Holmenkollen in winter is magical, with its snow-covered trees and cozy mountain vibes.
9. Go Island Hopping in the Oslofjord
Did you know Oslo has beautiful islands just a ferry ride away? Hovedøya, Gressholmen, and Lindøya are perfect for a peaceful day of hiking, swimming, or picnicking by the sea.
Pro tip: In summer, bring a swimsuit—many locals dive straight into the fjord for a refreshing dip!
10. Experience Oslo’s Nightlife in Grünerløkka
If you love vibrant nightlife, craft beers, and indie boutiques, Grünerløkka is the place to be. This trendy neighborhood is packed with cool bars, street art, and some of the city’s best food spots.
Pro tip: Try Mathallen, a food hall where you can sample a variety of Norwegian and international dishes.
10 Must-Have Apps for Traveling in Oslo
Before you go, make sure to download these essential apps to make your trip even better:
- Ruter – For public transportation (buses, trams, ferries, metro)
- Oslo Pass – Gives you free entry to museums and public transport access
- Google Maps – Helps navigate Oslo’s streets with ease
- Vipps – Norway’s most popular mobile payment app (useful for restaurants and shops)
- Too Good To Go – Save money by getting discounted leftover food from cafes/restaurants
- Yr – Norway’s best weather app (trust me, you’ll need it!)
- Norwegian Translator – Helps with basic Norwegian phrases
- Entur – Another handy app for planning public transport routes
- Foodora – The best food delivery app if you want to enjoy a meal in your hotel
- Tibber – If you’re renting a car, this app helps you find charging stations for electric vehicles
Best time to visit Oslo
The weather in OsIo from May to August is ideal for sightseeing as it’s the warmest period throughout the year. These are peak travel months and visitors can expect nearly 24 hours of daylight come June and July. Winter sports enthusiasts should plan their visit between September and April when skiing conditions north of OsIo are optimal.
Oslo is an incredible city that blends modernity, history, and nature in a way few places can. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Happy travels!