What to do in Oslo

Activities, attractions and tours

Oslo Opera House which includes modern architecture, a city and theatre scenes
Oslo Opera House which includes modern architecture, a city and theatre scenes
Oslo Opera House which includes theatre scenes, night scenes and modern architecture
Oslo City Hall which includes interior views, an administrative buidling and a square or plaza
Oslo featuring a city, boating and modern architecture

Oslo Attractions

One of Europe’s greenest capitals, Oslo is home to a wealth of architectural gems, a great variety of buzzing bars and restaurants and some of the best museums and galleries on the continent. As well as a dynamic city centre Oslo boasts easy access to Norway’s stunning countryside, making it easy to get out and explore lakes, forests and hills during your stay in the city. What’s more, on top of a beautiful setting and spectacular cityscape, Oslo is home to a mouth-watering cuisine, great shopping and a diverse population, ensuring there’s plenty to explore during your Norwegian adventure.

Areas & Neighbourhoods in Oslo

Sentrum – The centre of Oslo is home to the city’s tallest buildings, its train station and Oslo’s main harbour. Having undergone major redevelopment over the last few years, the area is a now a great destination for a waterside stroll, with a number of cultural institutions located in the district.

Bygdøy – Also known as ‘Museum Peninsula’, Bygdøy is home to five of the city’s best museums. The area boasts beautiful forests and parks as well as its very own beach. Enjoy a day of culture in Bygdøy or simply amble through the district’s beautiful homes and undulating landscape.

Majorstua – One of the more affluent parts of Oslo, Majorstua offers a vibrant downtown, fantastic shopping areas and beautiful period architecture. Head to this lively district for a day of retail therapy, a tasty meal or a memorable night out.

Grünerløkka – The trendiest part of Oslo, Grünerløkka is home to quirky boutiques, independent cafes and restaurants and lively bars. Visit the district’s weekly antiques market or enjoy an alternative night out in one of Grünerløkka’s eclectic watering holes.

Things to See in Oslo

Oslo’s impressive sights are spread across the city, though most are located within a short walk from the central district. One of the most famous landmarks in the city is the Royal Palace. The colossal early 19th century structure has 173 rooms and is open for tours throughout the summer months. Other prominent sights in Oslo include the medieval Akershus Fortress, the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design and Oslo Opera House which was awarded the title of Best Cultural Building at the World Architecture Festival in 2008.

Things to Do in Oslo

Thanks to the beautiful countryside that surrounds the city, and its wealth of museums, restaurants, bars, shops and historic sights, there’s more than enough in Oslo to keep you happy during your stay. Learn more about Norwegian culture and history in the museums in Bygdøy, explore the independent shops and bars of Grünerløkka or get out of the city to hike, bike or kayak in Oslo’s beautiful countryside. In the summer months, the lakes, islands and fjords that surround the city are perfect for wild swimming while the city’s bike hire scheme makes it easy to explore the sights and attractions of Oslo on two wheels.

You can also book top Oslo hotels and great Oslo holidays right here on Expedia.co.uk.


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What to do in Oslo


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Oslo

Oslo City Hall featuring a city, an administrative building and a bay or harbour

Oslo City Centre

4.5/5(394 area reviews)

Travellers choose Oslo City Centre for its fascinating museums. Hop aboard the metro at Christiania Torv Tram Station or Wessels Plass Light Rail Station and check out top sights like Norwegian Parliament.

Oslo City Centre
Palace Park showing a pond

Central Oslo

If you are attracted to sports, beautiful scenery and indoor and outdoor cultural experiences, Oslo will be the perfect destination for you!

Central Oslo
Oslo, Norway - Panoramic view of Oslo waterfront with Akershus Fortress, City Hall and Aker Brygge borough at Pipervika harbor

Sentrum

While you're in Sentrum, take in top sights like Oslo City Hall or National Theater, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Kontraskjaeret Tram Station or Christiania Torv Tram Station.

Sentrum
Kiddie building blocks for adults. Norway's national oil company headquarters

Fornebu

Whether you want to shop 'til you drop in the big shopping centre, relax on the beach or go to a concert at Telenor Arena, Fornebu is the perfect place for you.

Fornebu
An alley at the Promenaden Fashion District in Oslo, Norway, with an art installation called “HUG LIFE" which was about spreading joy, warmth, and acceptance. Through this art installation, the artists claimed they wanted to give the world and the citizens of Oslo a hug and a smile.

Kvadraturen

If you're spending time in Kvadraturen, check out sights like Karl Johan Gate or Cinemateket and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Dronningens Gate Tram Station or Wessels Plass Light Rail Station.

Kvadraturen
EyeEm Custom Shoots Q4 2018

Holmenkollen

With some of the best views in Oslo, outdoor adventures that most can only dream of and superb restaurants and accommodation, Holmenkollen is in a league of its own.

Holmenkollen

 

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Day trip destinations from Oslo

Frequently asked questions

Is Oslo worth visiting?
Offering a blend of walking trails and nature, there are plenty of things to do in Oslo. While you're here, head to Aker Brygge, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Oslo?
Kick your day off with a visit to Aker Brygge and Viking Ship Museum. Then, explore other parts of Oslo for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Oslo?
The top tourist attraction in Oslo is Aker Brygge, so make sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Oslo?
You can easily visit leading sights like Aker Brygge, MUNCH Museum and Viking Ship Museum with a three-day stay in Oslo. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a little longer and check out Ullensaker.
Is Oslo a walkable city?
That depends on what you plan to do and see in Oslo. Several top attractions, including Aker Brygge and MUNCH Museum, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Oslo's best neighbourhoods, Central Oslo is 0.64 kms (0.40 miles) away from downtown, while Oslo City Centre is 0.64 kms (0.40 miles) away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Oslo with kids?
What to do in Oslo for adults?
Karl Johan Gate and Oslo Spektrum are just two of the things to do in Oslo. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Oslo?
In Oslo, Aker Brygge is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Oslo.

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