Oslo, the capital of Norway, is located on the southern coast at the head of Oslofjord. It’s famous for its parks and museums, many of which are on the Bygdøy Peninsula. These include the Norwegian Maritime Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, which displays Viking ships from the 9th century. The Holmenkollbakken ski-jumping hill offers stunning views of the fjord and has a ski museum. Oslo also features museums like those showcasing the polar exploration ship Fram and Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon-Tiki raft. The Norsk Folkemuseum offers outdoor exhibits on life and architecture from the 16th century. The Aker Brygge district has restaurants, shops, and galleries, and the Oslo Opera House, designed like an iceberg, hosts national opera and ballet. Vigelandsparken is a sculpture park with works by Gustav Vigeland, and the Munch Museum displays famous paintings like The Scream.
places to visit in Oslo
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Vigeland Sculpture Park is the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist. It features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, created between 1924 and 1943. The park includes various sculptures, bridges, and fountains. Some of the most famous sculptures are The Angry Boy, The Monolith, and The Wheel of Life.
Viking Ship Museum
Located on the Bygdøy Peninsula in Oslo, the Viking Ship Museum displays three Viking burial ships found in archaeological sites. The most famous ship is the Oseberg ship, which was excavated from the largest known ship burial in the world.
Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle in Oslo built to protect the city. Over time, it has also been a military base and prison. Today, it serves as the office of the Norwegian Prime Minister and houses the Royal Mausoleum, where several Norwegian royals are buried.
Frogner Park
Frogner Park, located in Oslo’s Frogner district, is a public park once part of Frogner Manor. The Oslo Museum is housed in the former manor house, and the park is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Oslofjord
Oslofjord is a large inlet in southeastern Norway stretching from Oslo to Langesund. The fjord features several islands, each with its own unique history and character, including Hovedøya, Lindøya, and Langøyen.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Oslo was built in the early 19th century and serves as the residence of the Norwegian monarch. It is where the King and Queen live, and it also functions as the official workplace of the monarchy.
Fram Museum
Located on the Bygdøy Peninsula, the Fram Museum celebrates Norway’s polar exploration history. It features the ship Fram, which was used by explorers like Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup, and Roald Amundsen. The museum also showcases the wildlife of polar regions.
Nobel Peace Center
The Nobel Peace Center in Oslo highlights the Nobel Peace Prize and its ideals. It provides exhibitions about the laureates, Alfred Nobel, and other Nobel prizes through multimedia displays, debates, and educational programs.
Holmenkollbakken
Holmenkollbakken is a famous ski-jumping hill in Oslo. Part of the Holmenkollen National Arena, it hosts ski jumping and Nordic skiing events and is one of Norway’s top tourist attractions.
Oslo Cathedral
Oslo Cathedral is the main church for the Diocese of Oslo. It is used for public events by the Norwegian Royal Family and government. The cathedral features beautiful original murals, carvings, and stained glass windows, including works by Emanuel Vigeland.
Best time to visit Oslo
The best time to visit Oslo is between May and August. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant. It’s perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. You can enjoy long daylight hours, with extended evenings. This period also offers various festivals and cultural events.
