Oslo is not only the capital of Norway: it’s its door. If you intend to visit Norway most probably you will land here, and this makes of Oslo a perfect destination on its own, but also a destination worth visiting as part of a bigger trip.

IS IT WORTH VISITING OSLO?

Oslo is the typical nordic capital, with a rough and cold beauty, but with an irresistible charme!

As most nordic capitals it’s relatively small and quiet. This makes of it the perfect destination for a weekend visit!

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN OSLO

The tiger of Oslo

Start your visit at the Central Station: here a curious native will welcome you: the tiger of Oslo, a bronze statue taller than you, loved by both tourists and locals!

Karl Johans Gate

From the Central Station take Karl Johans Gate, the pleasant promenade on which you can see and visit many interesting attractions, as the Domkirke -the Oslo Cathedral- the Parliament and many pretty buildings in nordic style. On the same street there are also many nice cafès where to sit and relax, especially during summer, when nordic pople like to sit outside and enjoy the sun and the fresh air.

Royal Palace

Karl Johans Gate will bring you just in front of the Oslo Royal Palace and its pretty park. A visit is adviced, although the ticket is quite pricey (80EUR).

Akergata

Walk by Victoria Terrasse to admire the beautiful Foreign Minister’s building before going back and take Akergata, another promenade where you can see and visit two of the most important and beautiful churches in town: Trefoldighetskirken and St. Olav Church.

Aker Brygge

Don’t snob a visit to the Harbor, with the modern and futuristic buildings of the Aker Brygge Neighborhood, full of nice bars and coffee houses, and vibrant with life, especially at night!

Vigeland park

On the second day you can spend the morning at the Frogner Park, the pretty city Park which hosts the infamous Vigeland Sculpture Park. The Vigeland Sculpture Park is a permanent exhibit of naked statues, which depicts the man’s journey from the cradle to the grave.

The Park is the most famous and visited attraction in whole Norway, and a visit is a total must, also because the entrance is free!

 
La National Gallery

Another spot in town which is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you are an art enthusiast, it’s the National Gallery, which hosts the famous painting The Scream. Together with Munch’s masterpiece you can also admire Cezanne and Monet. The ticket costs 100 Crowns (roughly 15 EUR), and here you can find some info like the opening times and days.

Sunset and view from Holmenkollen

To properly say goodbye to Norway’s capital I personally think there’s no better way than to get to the best panoramic spot in Oslo: Holmenkollen hill. You can easily get on top of the hill with the Subway to enjoy the sight (the first picture has been shot here).

And on Holmenkollen you can also find the Ski Museum!