Oslo, Norway – Nordic Cool Meets Natural Beauty
Oslo, the capital of Norway, is where sleek Scandinavian design, deep Viking roots, and stunning fjord views come together. Surrounded by forests and water, Oslo is one of Europe’s greenest and most livable cities, with a creative, outdoorsy spirit and world-class museums.
🏙️ Top Things to Do in Oslo
🎨 Vigeland Sculpture Park (Frogner Park)
- A surreal, open-air park filled with over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland
- It’s free and open year-round—great for a stroll or picnic
🛶 Oslofjord and Island Hopping
- Take a ferry or kayak around the Oslofjord
- Visit Hovedøya, Gressholmen, or Lindøya for swimming, hiking, and picnicking
🖼️ The National Museum & MUNCH
- The National Museum holds iconic works, including Munch’s The Scream
- Visit the new MUNCH Museum on the waterfront for a deeper dive into the artist’s life
⛵ Aker Brygge & Tjuvholmen
- Trendy harborside neighborhoods full of restaurants, bars, and galleries
- Great for a waterside meal or people-watching
🏰 Akershus Fortress
- A medieval castle with epic views over the Oslofjord
- Walk along the fortress walls and explore Oslo’s early history
🏛️ The Viking Ship Museum (Reopening in 2026)
- Currently under renovation, but a must-visit when it reopens—actual Viking ships and artifacts!
🌲 Nature Close to the City
🌳 Nordmarka Forest
- Miles of trails for hiking, biking, skiing, or lake swimming just 20 minutes from the center
- Hop on the metro to Frognerseteren for panoramic views and waffles at a mountain hut
🏞️ Ekebergparken
- Sculpture park on a hill with views over Oslo
- Mix of art, forest trails, and history
🍽️ What to Eat & Drink
- Salmon, reindeer, and meatballs (kjøttkaker)
- Try a pølse (Norwegian hot dog) with crispbread
- Don’t miss kanelsnurrer (cinnamon buns) or brown cheese (brunost)
- Local craft beer or a glass of Akevitt, Norway’s signature spirit
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June–Aug): Long days, festivals, island hopping, and café life
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Great for skiing, winter lights, and cozy vibes
- Shoulder seasons: Fewer crowds, moody beauty, and great museum access
🧭 Travel Tips
- Oslo is compact—walk or use public transport (Oslo Pass is a great deal!)
- Tap water is pristine, and locals are super friendly
- Many attractions are closed on Mondays—plan ahead
- Bring layers—weather can shift fast!
