15 Must-Do Activities in Oslo: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
# 15 Must-Do Things in Oslo: Ultimate Insider’s Guide 2025
Looking for the absolute must do in Oslo activities? You’ve landed in the right place! Oslo might not get as much attention as its Scandinavian siblings Stockholm and Copenhagen, but this Norwegian capital packs a serious punch with its perfect blend of urban sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Oslo has something special waiting for you. I’ve spent weeks exploring this incredible city, and I’m excited to share my curated list of the 15 absolute must do things in Oslo that will make your trip unforgettable.
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Art and Culture
Oslo’s art scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a deep dive into Norway’s creative soul. These must see Oslo attractions are perfect for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
1. Munch Museum
World-Class Art Iconic ‘The Scream’
No trip to Oslo would be complete without paying homage to Norway’s most celebrated artist at the Munch Museum. This stunning modern building houses the world’s largest collection of Edvard Munch’s works – yes, including the iconic The Scream!
🌟 My Experience: I spent nearly three hours wandering through the various galleries, completely mesmerized by Munch’s artistic journey and emotional depth. The museum does an excellent job of contextualizing his work and life through interactive displays and thoughtful curation.
Practical Information:
- Location: Munchmuseet, Stenersgate 3, 0194 Oslo
- Admission: NOK 120 for adults (approximately $11 USD); discounts for students and seniors
- Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM; Thursdays until 9:00 PM
- Time Needed: 2-3 hours for a thorough visit
💡 Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds, especially during summer. The Thursday evening extended hours offer a more peaceful experience with fewer tourists and beautiful lighting.
Best For: Art Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers
2. National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design
Norway’s Largest Museum Free Entry
The National Museum is a treasure trove of Norwegian and international art spanning from the 18th century to today. I was particularly impressed by their collection of Norwegian landscape paintings that perfectly capture the country’s majestic fjords and mountains.
The museum reopened in 2022 in a brand-new building, making it one of the largest art museums in the Nordic countries. With works by Munch, Picasso, and numerous local talents, along with design objects and architectural models, it offers a comprehensive look at Norway’s creative legacy.
Highlights:
- Extensive collection of Norwegian landscape paintings
- Design and decorative arts from throughout Nordic history
- Contemporary art exhibitions that rotate regularly
- Stunning rooftop terrace with panoramic city views
💡 Pro Tip: Take advantage of the guided tours (available in multiple languages) to get deeper insights into the collections. The English tours at 1pm are particularly informative and included with your entry.
Price Range: Free entry, though donations are encouraged
History and Heritage
Oslo’s rich history unfolds through its museums, castles, and cultural artifacts. These must visit in Oslo spots offer fascinating windows into Norway’s storied past.
3. Fram Museum
Interactive Polar Exploration
One of my absolute favorite museums in Oslo is the Fram Museum, dedicated to Norway’s polar exploration history. The star attraction is the actual Fram ship that carried explorers Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen on their groundbreaking Arctic and Antarctic expeditions.
🌟 My Experience: What makes this place special is how interactive it is – you can actually board the original ship and explore its cabins, imagining what life was like for these brave explorers in the frozen wilderness. I spent almost an hour just examining the living quarters and imagining how they survived the harsh polar conditions.
Museum Highlights:
- Board the actual Fram ship used in polar expeditions
- Interactive exhibits about survival in extreme conditions
- Educational displays about climate change and polar regions
- Authentic equipment and personal items from explorers
⚠️ Warning: The ship’s interior has narrow corridors and steep stairs, which might be challenging for visitors with mobility issues or claustrophobia. The museum does offer alternative viewing options.
Price Range: NOK 120 for adults (about $11 USD); family tickets available
4. Viking Ship Museum (Closed Until 2027)
Currently Closed Viking Heritage
⚠️ Important Note: The famous Viking Ship Museum is currently closed for a major rebuilding project and will reopen as the Museum of the Viking Age in 2027. This museum has historically been known for housing incredibly well-preserved Viking ships like the Oseberg and Gokstad vessels.
💡 Pro Tip: While it’s closed, you can still explore Viking artifacts at the Historical Museum in central Oslo. Many key items have been temporarily relocated there during the construction period.
Future Plans: Opening as Museum of the Viking Age in 2027
5. Akershus Castle and Fortress
Medieval Panoramic Views
Perched on a hill overlooking the Oslo Fjord, the medieval Akershus Castle and Fortress is one of the must see things in Oslo. I spent a fascinating morning wandering through this 700-year-old fortress, soaking in both the history and the panoramic views.
🌟 My Experience: The guided tour provided fascinating insights into royal life and military strategies of centuries past. I was particularly moved by the resistance museum inside, which tells the powerful story of Norway during WWII occupation.
What You’ll See:
- Medieval castle with royal living quarters
- Norwegian Resistance Museum (WWII history)
- Armed Forces Museum
- Stunning views of Oslo Fjord
💡 Pro Tip: Try to catch the noon guard-changing ceremony for an extra touch of tradition. The fortress walls offer some of the best panoramic views of the city and fjord – ideal for a sunset picnic!
Price Range: Free entry to the grounds; guided castle tours NOK 100
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6. Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
Open-Air Museum Living History
Step back in time at this fascinating open-air museum featuring over 150 historic buildings relocated from across Norway. From rural farms to urban townhouses, these structures showcase Norwegian architecture and living conditions from the 16th century to modern times.
🌟 My Experience: I was particularly charmed by the staff dressed in period costumes demonstrating traditional crafts and cooking techniques. During my summer visit, I caught a folk dancing performance that brought the past vividly to life with authentic music and costumes.
Highlights:
- Stave Church from the 13th century
- Traditional craft demonstrations (seasonal)
- Historic apartment building showing urban life throughout decades
- Rural farm compounds with livestock (summer season)
How to Save Money:
- Combined tickets with other Bygdøy museums offer significant savings
- Oslo Pass includes free entry and transportation to the museum
- Visit on the first Saturday of the month for reduced admission
Price Range: NOK 120 for adults (about $11 USD); family tickets available
7. Kon-Tiki Museum
Adventure Exploration
For adventure lovers, the Kon-Tiki Museum is among the top must do things in Oslo Norway. This museum celebrates Thor Heyerdahl’s legendary expeditions, including his famous 1947 journey across the Pacific on the Kon-Tiki raft.
🌟 My Experience: Seeing the original vessels up close – including the Kon-Tiki raft and the Ra II papyrus boat – gave me a whole new appreciation for these daring voyages. The museum does an excellent job of explaining Heyerdahl’s theories about prehistoric human migration patterns.
Museum Features:
- Original Kon-Tiki balsa wood raft
- Ra II papyrus boat
- Oscar-winning documentary screening
- Personal artifacts from Thor Heyerdahl
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t miss the included documentary film that provides deeper context to Heyerdahl’s adventures. It’s shown hourly in a comfortable theater space and really enhances your understanding of these remarkable journeys.
Price Range: NOK 120 for adults; combined tickets with Fram Museum available
8. Nobel Peace Center
Interactive Inspiring
The Nobel Peace Center offers a thought-provoking look at the Nobel Peace Prize, its laureates, and global peace efforts. Interactive exhibitions explore themes like human rights, conflict resolution, and peace movements.
🌟 My Experience: I found the “Nobel Field” installation particularly moving – an illuminated garden with screens showcasing every Peace Prize laureate since 1901. The temporary exhibitions are always timely and relevant to current global issues, making each visit unique.
Center Highlights:
- Nobel Field digital installation featuring all laureates
- Temporary exhibitions on current peace and conflict issues
- Interactive learning stations for visitors of all ages
- Documentary films and multimedia presentations
💡 Pro Tip: Visit in December for special exhibits tied to that year’s Nobel ceremony. The center often hosts lectures and events featuring peace activists and laureates – check their calendar before your visit.
Price Range: NOK 120 for adults; free for kids under 16
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Nature and Parks
Oslo’s green spaces provide a tranquil escape from city life. These must visit in Oslo parks are ideal for nature lovers, families, or anyone seeking relaxation amidst beautiful scenery.
9. Vigeland Park
Free Entry Sculpture Paradise
Vigeland Park (located within the larger Frogner Park) is one of the most unique sculpture parks I’ve ever visited. It showcases over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland in bronze, granite, and cast iron, all celebrating the human form in various stages of life.
🌟 My Experience: The centerpiece is the impressive Monolith – a 46-foot column carved from a single piece of granite featuring 121 intertwined human figures. I visited at sunrise to capture the sculptures in perfect golden light with almost no other visitors around.
Park Highlights:
- The Monolith (46-foot sculpture column)
- The Wheel of Life sculpture
- The Bridge with human statues
- Beautiful fountains and landscaped gardens
💡 Pro Tip: Spring or summer visits showcase the park’s beautiful blooming gardens – perfect for picnics! Early morning visits (before 9 AM) offer the best photography opportunities with fewer crowds and gorgeous lighting.
Price Range: Free entry
10. Botanical Garden
Urban Oasis Free Entry
The Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring diverse plant collections from alpine to tropical species. Walking through the various themed gardens and greenhouses, I felt miles away from the urban environment.
🌟 My Experience: The gardens are particularly beautiful in late spring when the rhododendrons and roses are in bloom. I spent a lovely afternoon exploring the scent garden, designed to stimulate your sense of smell with aromatic herbs and flowers.
Garden Features:
- Extensive rose garden (peak bloom June-July)
- Tropical greenhouse with exotic plants
- Rock garden with alpine species
- Scent garden with aromatic herbs and flowers
💡 Pro Tip: Pair with a visit to the Natural History Museum located within the garden for a nature-filled day. The café in the Palm House offers excellent organic refreshments and a perfect rest spot after wandering the grounds.
Price Range: Free entry; donations appreciated
11. Palace Park
Royal Gardens Central Location
The Palace Park surrounds the Royal Palace and offers a serene retreat with fountains, statues, and beautifully manicured gardens. I spent a delightful afternoon here people-watching and enjoying the palace views.
🌟 My Experience: The park features several notable sculptures, including the equestrian statue of King Karl Johan. In summer, the colorful flower beds and shaded paths provided a welcome escape from the city hustle, and I even caught an impromptu outdoor concert one evening.
Park Features:
- Changing of the Guard ceremony (daily at 1:30 PM)
- Historic monuments and sculptures
- Seasonal flower displays
- Central location near shopping areas
💡 Pro Tip: The best photo spot for the palace is from the main avenue (Karl Johans gate). Summer evenings sometimes feature outdoor concerts – check local listings for events during your visit.
Price Range: Free entry
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Landmarks
Oslo’s landmarks blend history, governance, and architectural beauty. These must see Oslo attractions offer insights into Norway’s royal and political heritage.
12. Royal Palace
Royal Residence Summer Tours
The Royal Palace, home to the Norwegian royal family, is an impressive 19th-century neoclassical building situated at the end of Karl Johans gate. During summer, parts of the palace open for guided tours, offering a glimpse into royal life and Norwegian history.
🌟 My Experience: I was particularly impressed by the ornate state rooms, the throne room, and the palace’s extensive art collection. The changing of the guard ceremony outside is a popular attraction even if you don’t go inside – I timed my visit to catch this tradition.
Palace Highlights:
- Ornate state rooms and banquet halls
- Royal Chapel
- Changing of the Guard ceremony (daily at 1:30 PM)
- Expansive palace gardens
⚠️ Warning: Palace interior tours are only available during summer months (late June to mid-August). Book your tickets well in advance as they often sell out weeks ahead, especially in peak tourist season.
Price Range: NOK 100 for guided tours; free garden access
13. Parliament Building
Democracy Free Tours
The Stortinget (Parliament Building) offers fascinating insights into Norwegian democracy through guided tours of the debating chamber and committee rooms. The neo-Romanesque building itself is architecturally significant, with its distinctive semi-circular main chamber.
🌟 My Experience: During my visit, I was lucky enough to observe a live parliamentary debate from the public gallery – a chance to see Norwegian democracy in action! The guides were exceptionally knowledgeable about both the political system and the building’s architecture.
Tour Highlights:
- Main parliamentary chamber
- Historical rooms and exhibits
- Opportunity to observe debates (when in session)
- Insight into Norwegian political system
💡 Pro Tip: Check the parliament’s website to see if you can observe a debate from the public gallery. After your visit, take a stroll down Karl Johans gate to see many of Oslo’s other attractions, as they’re all connected by this main avenue.
Price Range: Free guided tours; reservations recommended
Activities
For adventure lovers or those seeking scenic relaxation, these must do in Oslo activities round out your Oslo experience with thrills and beauty.
14. Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum
Panoramic Views Winter Sports
Even if you’re not a skiing enthusiast, the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum is absolutely worth a visit. This iconic landmark offers both a fascinating museum tracing 4,000 years of skiing history and breathtaking panoramic views of Oslo from the jump tower.
🌟 My Experience: I took the elevator to the observation deck at the top and was rewarded with spectacular views extending all the way to the fjord. The ski simulator gives you a taste of what it’s like to make the heart-stopping jump yourself – without the danger!
Attraction Features:
- Observation deck with 360° panoramic views
- Ski Museum with 4,000 years of skiing history
- Ski jump simulator experience
- Access to the top of the actual ski jump
⚠️ Warning: The observation platform is outdoors and can be quite windy and chilly, even in summer. Bring an extra layer even on warm days, and know that visibility may be reduced on cloudy or foggy days.
Price Range: NOK 150 for museum and jump access; family tickets available
15. Fjord Cruise
Scenic Relaxing
A fjord cruise is the perfect way to appreciate Oslo’s stunning natural setting. These boat tours take you through the Oslo Fjord, past islands, coastal villas, and forested shores with informative commentary along the way.
🌟 My Experience: I chose a two-hour cruise that included a traditional Norwegian shrimp lunch, and it was the perfect mix of relaxation, scenery, and local flavor. Seeing Oslo’s skyline from the water offers a completely different perspective on the city that you can’t get any other way.
Cruise Options:
- Standard 2-hour sightseeing cruise
- Dinner or lunch cruises with traditional Norwegian food
- Hop-on-hop-off boat services to museum peninsula
- Sunset fjord cruises (summer only)
How to Save Money:
- Book online in advance for early bird discounts
- Oslo Pass includes discounts on many cruise operators
- Weekday departures are often cheaper than weekend trips
Price Range: NOK 200-300 per person; higher for cruises with meals
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Summary of Must-Do Activities in Oslo
| Category | Activity | Key Highlight | Admission Cost (Adult) | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art and Culture | Munch Museum | “The Scream” and Munch’s works | NOK 120 | Weekdays, off-peak |
| Art and Culture | National Museum | Norwegian and global art | Free | Year-round, guided tours |
| History and Heritage | Fram Museum | Polar exploration history | NOK 120 | Summer, special events |
| History and Heritage | Viking Ship Museum | Closed until 2027, Viking artifacts | N/A | Plan for 2027 |
| History and Heritage | Akershus Castle | Medieval fortress, fjord views | Free (grounds) | Summer, guard ceremony |
| History and Heritage | Norwegian Museum of Cultural History | Open-air museum, historic buildings | NOK 120 | Summer, live demos |
| History and Heritage | Kon-Tiki Museum | Thor Heyerdahl’s expeditions | NOK 120 | Year-round, documentaries |
| History and Heritage | Nobel Peace Center | Nobel Prize history, peace exhibits | NOK 120 | December, special events |
| Nature and Parks | Vigeland Park | Gustav Vigeland’s sculptures | Free | Spring/summer, picnics |
| Nature and Parks | Botanical Garden | Diverse plants, greenhouses | Free | Summer, flower blooms |
| Nature and Parks | Palace Park | Royal gardens, fountains | Free | Summer, concerts |
| Landmarks | Royal Palace | Norwegian royal residence | NOK 100 (tours) | May-September, tours |
| Landmarks | Parliament Building | Norwegian democracy, guided tours | Free (tours) | Weekdays, early morning |
| Activities | Holmenkollen Ski Jump | Ski jump views, museum | NOK 150 | Summer, festival in March |
| Activities | Fjord Cruise | Scenic fjord tour, commentary | NOK 200-300 | Clear weather, peak season |
Final Thoughts
Ready to Experience Oslo’s Magic?
Oslo is a city that perfectly balances urban sophistication with natural beauty, history with modern innovation, and traditional culture with contemporary art. Don’t miss the chance to explore this captivating Nordic capital!
Whether you’re admiring Munch’s masterpieces, exploring a medieval fortress, wandering through sculpture-filled parks, or cruising the majestic fjord, Oslo rewards visitors with unforgettable experiences at every turn.
What I love most about Oslo is how manageable it feels – you can pack many of these attractions into even a short visit, though I’d recommend at least 3-4 days to fully appreciate the city without rushing. The efficient public transportation system makes getting around a breeze, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
💡 Pro Tip: Consider purchasing the Oslo Pass for free entry to many museums and unlimited public transport. For a 3-day visit, it usually pays for itself if you visit 4-5 attractions and use public transportation regularly. I saved over NOK 500 ($45 USD) during my visit!
For accommodation, I recommend staying central in the area around Karl Johans gate or the harbor area for easy access to most attractions. Check out these Oslo city center hotels for options to suit every budget.
Have you visited Oslo? Which of these must see things in Oslo was your favorite? Or are you planning a trip and have questions about these attractions? Let me know in the comments below – I’d love to hear about your Oslo adventures!
Gear Recommendation: Norway’s weather can be unpredictable! I never travel without my lightweight waterproof jacket from Columbia. It packs tiny but has saved me from sudden downpours numerous times!
Ready to plan your Oslo adventure? Book your flights now!
