Visit Oslo

The Hill of Gods

Tour
7,6 km
3h
22 audios

22 places of interest to discover while visiting Oslo in one day

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Norway is known for its wide-open spaces and untamed nature, and nowhere brings all of this together quite like Oslo. Nestled between fjords and forests, the Norwegian capital offers breathtaking landscapes, surprising discoveries, and a deep dive into ancient and modern culture. Here, protected natural areas rub shoulders with historic buildings, cutting-edge architecture and vibrant street art. Let’s set off to uncover Oslo’s best-kept secrets. From its origins as a Viking city, its name once meaning “field of the gods” , to the eco-friendly and innovative capital it is today, Oslo has been shaped by every twist of history. Fortress, outpost, royal seat… each era has left its mark on what is now proudly called the Tiger City.

Emilie

Published on 21/07/2025

1. She Lies

You're now walking along the Langkaia promenade, and you're probably wondering about that striking glass sculpture floating offshore. This is a permanent installation called She Lies, created by Italian Read more
2. Engebret Café

The charming, traditional house on the corner is the famous Engebret Café, the oldest in the city! In operation since 1857, it still bears the name of its founder. When Engebret Christoffersen decided to Read more
3. Akershus Fortress

Welcome to Akershus Fortress, one of the most important landmarks in Oslo. Entry is free, and you’re welcome to wander through the citadel’s grounds while enjoying sweeping views over the fjord and the Read more

4. Kvadraturen district

The hand pointing towards the centre of the fountain means that you’re standing at the spot where everything started. Or rather, where everything restarted. Right here, Danish King Christian IV decided to Read more

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5. Franklin Roosevelt statue

Take a moment to admire the Franklin Roosevelt statue before you, and soak in the view of Oslo’s harbour and fjord. If you’re wondering why there’s a statue of the American president here, it was unveiled Read more

6. Oslo Harbour

Opposite the City Hall lies Oslo’s harbour, the departure point for ferries and countless boat excursions. Take a look at those elegant three-masted sailing ships and that statue of a diver, ready to leap Read more

7. Aker brygge neighbourhood

You’re now strolling along the waterfront promenade in the Aker Brygge district. The area’s named after the old Aker shipyards and mechanical workshops that once stood here for more than a century! At its Read more

8. Astrup Fearnley Museum

The beautiful building in front of you, with a glass roof shaped like a sail, is Oslo’s contemporary art museum, the Astrup Fearnley Museum. This private art gallery was created in 1993 by two foundations Read more

9. Norwegian cuisine

You’ve probably passed by so many restaurants in the Aker Brygge district by now that it’s time for a little food talk! Salmon is definitely Norway’s star ingredient. The country is a paradise for seafood Read more

10. Oslo’s City Hall

You’re now standing in front of the Oslo City Hall, one of the most iconic landmarks in the capital! It’s the administrative and political heart of the city. Despite its austere appearance, the Oslo City Read more

11. Nobel Peace Center

You’re now standing in front of the Nobel Peace Center, a museum part of the global network of Nobel institutions managed by the Swedish foundation. Housed in Oslo’s former train station, it’s been Read more

12. Oslo National Theatre

You’re now standing in front of the beautiful neoclassical facade of the Oslo National Theatre. Built at the end of the 19th century by architect Henrik Bull, this theatre was the largest stage in the Read more

13. The Royal Palace

Welcome to the beautiful Royal Palace of Oslo, the official residence of the Norwegian royal family and one of the capital’s key landmarks. Of course, it makes sense for a constitutional monarchy to have a Read more

14. French toilets

You’ve probably noticed that this park’s public toilets form the French flag. They’re also named after the French Republic’s motto: « Liberty, Equality, Fraternity ». France actually gifted these to Oslo in Read more

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15. The University of Oslo

The building complex on your left is the University of Oslo, the oldest and largest institution of higher education in Norway. It was founded in 1811 back when Norway was under Danish control. It was called Read more

16. Oslo Cathedral

Here’s the famous Domkirke, which is also known as Oslo Cathedral or the Church of Our Savior. It may not be the most jaw-dropping cathedral you’ve ever seen, but it has a few standout features that make it Read more

17. The Parliament

This imposing yellow-brick building is the Stortinget, Oslo’s Parliament. It was built in 1866 after the creation of the Storting, the supreme legislature established in 1814 by Norway’s Constitution. This Read more

18. The Tiger

You’re now standing in front of Oslo’s Central Station, right in the heart of the capital, facing one of its most photographed landmarks: the famous tiger. This 4.5-meter-long bronze statue was a gift to Read more

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19. Deichman bibliotek

You’re now standing in front of Oslo’s new public library, the Deichman bibliotek. It’s named after Carl Deichman, an 18th-century Norwegian businessman and philanthropist from Oslo, who donated more than Read more

20. Oslo Opera House

Rising from the water like an iceberg in the middle of a fjord, this is the iconic Oslo Opera House. The Opera invites you to walk up its slightly sloped white marble roof. Unlike most places where signs Read more

21. The Munch Museum

You’re now in front of the striking Munch Museum. When famous Norwegian painter Edvard Munch died in 1944, he left Oslo a remarkable gift: his entire art collection. In 1963, the first Munch Museum opened, Read more

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22. Viewpoint on the Opera’s rooftop

The Opera’s rooftop offers a stunning panorama that introduces you to the Norwegian capital. You’ve got everything here : the sparkling fjord, mountains in the distance, islands covered in colourful wooden Read more

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Recommended departure

No need to worry about where to begin! Our tours are designed as a loop, so you can jump in wherever you are. The navigation system and audioguide will automatically adjust to your location. However, if you happen to be nearby, we do have a preferred starting point: on the central station’s square, Oslo Sentrastasjon.

Recommended parking

ONEPARK Oslo S P-hus : Jernbanetorget 1

If you’re visiting by car, you’ll have to watch out when it comes to parking, because there’s the five-meter rule in Norway. Plus, fines are expensive, so beware! Prohibited parking means 5 meters in front and behind, as well as intersections and pedestrian crossings! You must always park at least 5 meters away from what could be considered a dangerous spot. Always park in the same direction you were going to, and do not stick out from the white lines. You’ve been warned!

Oslo is firmly set on becoming the world’s first zero-emission city by 2030, and as a result, parking spaces are becoming increasingly rare—and expensive—in one of the most costly cities on the planet. Here’s a tip: if your accommodation offers parking, definitely take advantage of this and leave your car there. Otherwise, consider parking in one of the free lots located outside the city and linked to public transport. A great example is the Sognsvann car park, conveniently located at the end of the metro line. Bonus tip? It’s right next to a lake!

Visitor info

As you probably know, Norway isn’t exactly cheap—and visiting Oslo means keeping a close eye on your budget. Thankfully, the city has come up with the Oslo Pass. This handy pass gives you free access to all public transport as well as all the museums in the city, plus discounts on many excursions. Expect to pay around €45 for 24 hours or €65 for 48 hours at the standard rate. You can book your pass online, while in-person purchases are only available if you qualify for a discounted rate (children, students, seniors).

Climate

Oslo is usually best explored in the summer. The ideal period runs from June to August, with average high temperatures around 22°C/72°F and sunny days—although rain is fairly frequent. Summer is perfect for a swim, with water temperatures hovering around 18°C/64°F. Winter, on the other hand, is freezing cold. Temperatures rarely rise above 0°C/32°F and the sun doesn’t show up much either. During the darkest months, it rises after 9 a.m. and sets around 3 p.m. That said, winter brings beautiful snowfall and a totally different kind of adventure! Just a heads-up: Northern Lights are very rare in Oslo. If you really want to see some, you’ll need to head past the 69th parallel north!

Currency

Norway uses the Norwegian krone, or NOK. To get an approximate value in pounds or US dollars, divide the amount by ten—that’ll give you a rough conversion. You can exchange money once you’re there without any issues or simply withdraw kroner from ATMs. Card payments are widely accepted, but make sure to check foreign transaction fees with your bank before you travel. Just a heads-up: the cost of living in Norway is around 40% higher than in the UK or the US, so don’t be too shocked at the prices and be sure to factor that into your holiday budget.

Got Some Extra Time?

The Akerselva River

Oslo is a capital that truly embraces nature. It’s like getting a whole taste of Norway right in the middle of the city. To fully enjoy this side of the country, follow the path that runs alongside the Akerselva River. Stretching for 8 kilometers, the trail will take you through forests and wild landscapes, with a chance to discover the river’s serene beauty and the waterfalls it creates.

Vigeland Sculpture Park

Just a little outside the city center—about a 2-kilometer walk from the Royal Palace—you’ll find one of Norway’s most visited attractions: Vigeland Park, the world’s largest sculpture park made by only one artist,

Gustav Vigeland, Norway’s most famous sculptor. The park spans over 30 hectares and features statues exploring human nature—life, death, love, and relationships. A must-see in Oslo! If you want to learn more about the artist, you can also visit his museum located right at the edge of the park, inside his former home and studio.

Vår Frelsers gravlund Cemetery

Translated as the Cemetery of the Savior, this place is much like Paris’s Père Lachaise. It’s where you can pay tribute to some of Norway’s greatest historical figures, including painter Edvard Munch, the man behind the iconic painting The Scream. A quiet and green retreat.

Ekeberg Park

Overlooking Oslo and its fjord, the beautiful Ekebergparken features around 40 sculptures—lively, surprising, and playful. A walk through this park is full of unexpected moments and artistic wonder.

Oslo’s Botanical Gardens

Oslo’s botanical gardens are made up of six different themed sections. Don’t miss the Viking Garden, where you can explore the Viking way of life through the plants and animals of their era.

Cruising the Fjord

Let’s face it, when you’re in Norway, the fjords are calling! And what better way to get up close than by heading out on the water? Oslo offers all sorts of boat cruises—from classic sightseeing tours to kayak and paddleboard adventures. If you’ve picked up the Oslo Pass, the ferries hopping between the city’s islands are free! So go ahead and explore them—each one is unique and perfect for swimming in summer, scenic walks in winter, and beautiful views all year round.

Museums of the Bygdøy Peninsula

Norway is a seafaring nation, and its rugged coastline shaped its people. To understand the Viking roots and Norway’s deep connection to fishing, visit the Norwegian Maritime Museum. Right next to it, you’ll also find the Norwegian Folk Museum, with outdoor exhibits showcasing traditional homes from across the country—including a stunning wooden stave church. The Viking Ship Museum holds the world’s best-preserved longship and the largest Viking burial ship, along with other priceless finds. And for the adventurers among you, don’t miss the Fram Museum, telling the thrilling story of Norway’s polar expeditions.

Lille Herbern

Not far from the museum area lies the tiny island of Lille Herbern. A peaceful spot that most visitors overlook—ideal for a quiet beach break or lunch at the island’s cozy restaurant.

Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Jump Tower

Winter sports are practically a national treasure in Norway! If you love skiing, make sure to check out the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and jump tower, just 20 minutes northwest of Oslo. The museum covers 400 years of ski history, and you can climb to the viewing deck atop the ski jump for a breathtaking view over the Oslo region.

SALT

If you want to dive into Norwegian culture and experience the joys of sauna life, check out SALT. This artistic and cultural hub is located in Langkaia, right across from the Oslo Opera House. It blends art, music, food, architecture, and wellness—offering Oslo’s largest outdoor café, concerts, exhibitions, debates, and a giant sauna that fits 200 people! Cold water baths, a private terrace with fire pits, and even the chance to see a play while sitting in your swimsuit in a 50°C amphitheater—it’s unlike anything else. Guaranteed to shake up your senses!

Grefsenkollen

Located just 30 minutes outside of Oslo, Grefsenkollen is a dream destination for hikers. And once you reach the top, from the Grefsenkollen restaurant, you’ll be treated to one of the most stunning views over Oslo, the fjord, and the surrounding mountains. Try to go at sunset—perfect for fresh air and unforgettable photos!

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Discover Oslo from every angle: dive into Viking history, embark on a snowy nighttime forest adventure, and explore the mind-bending Paradox Museum

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Top 6 things to do in Oslo

Marie

Published on 07/02/2025

Travelling to Oslo is like taking a plane ticket to a whole new world. Find out what you can do here... Read more

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Did you know? The Norwegian Sea borders the Arctic Ocean. As a result, fishing and boat trips are deeply rooted in local life. So why not leave dry land behind, feel the wind in your hair, and set off to explore the Oslo coastline by boat? This cruise offers a completely new perspective of the city — a sweeping view from the water.

You’ll likely make a short stop to explore the…

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