With its cultural attractions, cafés and nightlife Oslo has the atmosphere and energy of a large metropolis, while at the same time having a closeness to nature that gives the city a fresh and relaxed charm. The Norwegian capital is a compact city at the northern end of a fjord, backed by untouched forests with numerous lakes and hiking trails.
Oslo is perhaps one of the most expensive cities in the world, but do not let that put you off from visiting. The city offers possibly the best quality of life in Europe, if not the world, and one of the best urban environments you’ll ever find.
From the raids of the Vikings in Northern Europe to the legendary expeditions of Roald Amundsen and Thor Heyerdahl, Scandinavian adventurers have contributed to the rich maritime history of Oslo. Immerse yourself in the city’s maritime heritage with a visit to BygdøyOpens in a new window, the nearby peninsula that many of the city’s top museums call home.
Travel thousand years back in time and visit 9th Century ships in the Viking Ship Museum. Go to Frammuseet and step on the deck of the ship that took Amundsen to the South Pole. And make sure to visit the Kon-Tiki Museum, other example of the adventurous spirit of Norway here you will find the homemade vessel that Thor Heyerdahl and five companions used to sail thousands of kilometres across the Pacific Ocean.
The inhabitants, surrounded by such lush greenery and beautiful fjords, love the outdoors, but the city also has a well deserved reputation as a centre of culture. Every year there are thousands of performances, exhibitions and events in the city’s many clubs, concert halls and museums. Enjoy an opera or ballet performance at the Operahuset and see works by leading Norwegian artists in the City Hall of Oslo and the Oslo Domkirke.
Most attractions can be found in the centre of Oslo, where you can get around easily on. Rather use public transportation? Then consider buying an Oslo Pass. This allows you unlimited travel by tram, bus, subway, train and ferry, and you can also visit many museums for free. It also gets you discounts at some restaurants and entertainment venues.
