Discover this essential guide for exploring Oslo, Norway—where stunning views, rich Viking history, and cozy Scandinavian charm come together. From must-see attractions like the Opera House and Vigeland Park to hidden gems and practical travel tips, this guide has everything you need to plan the perfect trip.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a Scandinavian getaway, Oslo, Norway, should be high on your list.

This vibrant yet laid-back capital is the perfect mix of nature and city life, where you can explore Viking history, world-class museums, and scenic views—all in one day.

Picture strolling along the waterfront at Aker Brygge, taking in the striking architecture of the Oslo Opera House, and wandering through Vigeland Park, home to incredible sculptures.

My husband and I took a two week Scandinavian vacation in late August/early September 2019 right before dropping our last child off at college.

Long story short: I planned the trip assuming she would have already been dropped off at college and this would be our empty nester celebratory trip… and then she decided to go to University of Oregon who’s first day of school in 2019 was OCTOBER 1st!!!

Nonetheless, our one and a half days in Oslo on August 30th-September 1st are some of my favorites memories of the entire trip :).

This post will hopefully help you feel the same way about your own time in this fantastic corner of Norway.

In a rush?

The Little Details

Maps

HOW TO USE THIS MAP:

Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers of the map and names of places included. You can click the check marks to hide or show the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information from each point of interest.

If you click the little star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view the map on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the ‘menu’ button, go to ‘Saved’ on a computer and ‘You’ then ‘Saved’ on phone, click ‘Maps,’ and you will see this map on your list.

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How to Get to Oslo

Getting to Oslo, Norway, is easier than you might think!

Most travelers fly into Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), the main international airport a short 20 minute taxi ride to the city center, with direct flights from major U.S. and European cities.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Scandinavia, scenic train routes from Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Copenhagen offer a stress-free way to arrive.

As our own Scandinavian itinerary started in Copenhagen, we took a very comfortable and relaxing train ride to Oslo after a two night stay in Gothenburg :).

You can buy your train tickets direct on the Vy website here.

For a more adventurous (and longer) route, ferries connect Oslo with Denmark and Germany, giving you a stunning approach by sea. Learn more about this option here.

How to Get Around Oslo

While we did not use any other way to get around Oslo but our feet, the city does have an easy-to-navigate public transportation system that includes trams, buses, ferries, and the metro—all accessible with the Ruter app or an Oslo Pass for unlimited travel.

The Uber app is also readily available in the city of Oslo…

Best Time of Year to Visit Oslo

The best time to visit Oslo really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Summer (June to August) is hands down the most popular season, with long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and plenty of festivals and outdoor activities—perfect for strolling along the waterfront or enjoying outdoor dining.

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland, December to February brings snow-covered streets, cozy cafes, and easy access to skiing just outside the city. Plus, the Christmas markets in Oslo are pure magic!

Spring and fall are quieter but still beautiful—spring (April to May) is when the city wakes up with blooming flowers and fewer crowds, while autumn (September to October) wraps everything in golden hues and is ideal for museum-hopping and scenic walks before the chill of winter sets in.

Our visit to Oslo was for two nights at the very end of August 2019 when we experienced minimal crowds and perfect temperatures for walking around this Scandinavian capital city.

How Many Days You Need in Oslo

Spending 1 to 2 days in Oslo gives you just the right amount of time to explore its top sights without feeling rushed.

We spent two nights and one full day in the city and while we did feel we got a very quick glimpse of this destination (we saw everything on the list of things to see and do below), we already have plans to return when we visit the northern parts of the country (Trømso and Lofoten Islands) which we weren’t able to include in our 2019 two week itinerary ;0.

Money and Plug Details in Oslo

When traveling to Norway, you’ll use the currency of the Norwegian Krone (NOK).

Cash isn’t widely used, but having a little on hand for small purchases can be handy (the only place I suggest getting cash in a foreign country is from an official bank ATM to avoid unnecessary fees!).

Otherwise, credit cards are your best friend and widely accepted throughout the country – just be sure you have a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees because those sure do add up ;(.

Don’t forget to pack a Type C or F plug adapter (these are my favorites) for your electronics.

I won’t travel without this travel extension cord or this portable charger because nothing kills the travel vibe faster than a dead phone and no way to charge it!

Best Places to Stay in Oslo

Grand Hotel Oslo

Just steps from Karl Johans gate, the iconic Grand Hotel Oslo offers stylish rooms, a rooftop bar with stunning city views, and easy access to top attractions like the Royal Palace and the Oslo Opera House.

We stayed at this 5* property for two nights before continuing on to Flåm, Norway and loved the combination of historic elegance with modern comfort.

The Thief Hotel

For a stylish and luxurious 5* stay in Oslo, The Thief Hotel offers stunning waterfront views, sleek Scandinavian design, and a prime location in the trendy Tjuvholmen district, just steps from Aker Brygge.

Photos courtesy of The Thief Hotel Instagram

Sommerro Hotel

For a cozy 5* stay in Oslo, Sommerro Hotel blends Art Deco elegance with modern luxury, offering a central location, a rooftop pool, and easy access to the city’s best attractions.

Photos courtesy of Sommerro Hotel Instagram

Amerikalinjen Hotel

Originally the historic headquarters of Norwegian America Line, the 4* Amerikalinjen Hotel is located in a prime location near Oslo Central Station, making it easy to explore top attractions like the Opera House, Karl Johans Gate, and the trendy Barcode district.

Photos courtesy of Amerikalingen Instagram

Best Places to Eat in Oslo

In our two night stay in Oslo, we really only enjoyed our food at Mathallen Food Hall ;0.

However since that trip, I have started using TimeOut Magazine’s where to eat suggestions and they have never steered me wrong.

Thus, I have added those options for you below :).

Mathallen Oslo

Because I am likely the pickiest 55 year old you have ever met, I always seem to do best when I find a food hall to eat at so that my travel companions do not have to be limited to my rather boring pallet ;0.

Thus, when we accidentally stumbled upon Mathallen Oslo Food Hall – my husband was ecstatic.

Even if you don’t end up eating here (or just getting a beer/snack here) – it is worth a stop to see stalls of typical Norwegian delicacies…

Other Recommended Options

See best places to eat in Oslo section of map above for locations of these suggestions:

• Vippa Food Trucks (best known for street tacos)
• Lofoten Fiskerestaurant (popular seafood restaurant)
• Kafé Celsius (typical bar fare but known for their baked salmon)
• Mamma Pizza
• The Thief Hotel Rooftop Foodbar
• Nedre Foss (known for its fish dishes)

Top Things to Do in Oslo

Stroll Karl Johans Gate

When visiting Oslo, you can’t miss a stroll along Karl Johans Gate, the city’s bustling main street.

Packed with shops, cafes, and iconic landmarks, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the local vibe and do some people-watching.

Visit the Royal Palace and Gardens

Located at the end of Karl Johans Gate, the Royal Palace in Oslo is the official residence of Norway’s monarch, King Harald V, and his family.

It’s used for ceremonial events and public engagements, with beautiful gardens open to explore during the summer months.

There is a Changing of the Guard ceremony daily at 1:30 PM.

Wander Through Vigeland Sculpture Park

An easy two mile walk from the Royal Palace, will lead you through Oslo neighborhoods to the Vigeland Sculpture Park with over 200 sculptures to see.

Plan to spend at least one hour exploring this park, taking in the iconic Monolith, the Fountain, and the Avenue lined with unique (and some quite unusual ;0) sculptures.

Check Out the Munch Museum

The Munch Museum moved locations since our 2019 visit and opened at its now centrally located waterfront facility in 2021.

It is the home of Edvard Munch’s iconic “The Scream” masterpiece and worth taking an hour of your time (if you are not a huge art aficionado like us!) to see.

Enjoy the Views from the Opera House Roof

For one of the best panoramic views in Oslo, walk up the sloping, white marble roof of the Oslo Opera House, which rises at a gentle incline before leveling out at the top.

From the edge of the platform, you’ll get stunning waterfront views, with the city skyline on one side and the shimmering Oslofjord on the other.

Visit the Grünerløkka District and the Akerselva River

Grünerløkka is Oslo’s trendy, artsy neighborhood, perfect for strolling past colorful street art, vintage shops, and cozy cafés.

Walk along the Akerselva River to get there, enjoying waterfalls and historic industrial buildings before diving into the area’s vibrant food and shopping scene.

Take Photos on Damstredet Street

Damstredet Street is a tiny, picturesque cobblestone lane lined with colorful 18th- and 19th-century wooden houses, making it a popular Instagram photo stop ~ even if that means dodging a few influencers striking poses – we were lucky on our late August visit and had the whole area to ourselves :).

Its real charm lies in its history as a preserved slice of old Oslo, making it a must-see for those who love historic architecture and quaint city corners.

Learn At the Nobel Peace Centre

For just 170 NOK (about $16) in 2025, you can dive into inspiring exhibits at the Nobel Peace Centre showcasing the remarkable stories of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and their contributions to global peace.

Allow at least 1 hour to fully absorb the rich history and engaging displays.

This stop is truly an enlightening experience that leaves you reflecting on the power of peace and dialogue.

What to Wear in Norway

As you can clearly see by the majority of our photos from the trip, we had cloudy and often times rainy weather for most of our trip (and this was an end of August/first week of September time frame!).

So be sure to bring a good raincoat and walking/hiking shoes – and sweaters :).

I recently found this new crossbody sling purse that I now have in two colors for traveling because I love it that much!!

Our 16 Day Scandinavia Itinerary Day to Day Overview

DAY 1 | Fly San Diego to Copenhagen via London on British Airways

DAY 2 | Arrive in Copenhagen at 10pm | Stay 3 nights at Hotel D’Angleterre

DAY 3 | Copenhagen: Nyhavn, Little Mermaid statue, The Bridge Street Kitchen

DAY 4 | Copenhagen: Flytographer photo shoot, Freetown Christiania, Climb up Church of our Saviour stairs for view

DAY 5 | Train to Gothenburg, Sweden with lunch stop in Malmo (total train ride 3 hours) | Stay 2 nights at Elite Plaza Hotel

DAY 6 | Gothenburg, Sweden: Haga neighborhood, antique window shopping

DAY 7 | Train to Oslo, Norway (4 hours) | Stay 2 nights at Grand Hotel Oslo

DAY 8 | Oslo, Norway: Munch Museum, Grünerlokka, Opera House roof views, Vigeland Sculpture Park, Skillebekk neighborhood

DAY 9 | Train from Oslo to Myrdal (4.5 hours) then scenic train from Myrdal to Flåm (1 hour) | Stay 3 nights at Freitheim Hotel – read my Norway in a Nutshell on your own guide here.

DAY 10 | Flåm: Hike to waterfall

DAY 11 | Flåm: Private car to Stegastein viewpoint & Borgund Stave Church, Rented mini electric car to Aurland

DAY 12 | Flåm to Gudvangen boat (2 hours), bus from Gudvangen to Voss (1.25 hours), hike with a private tour guide in Voss area before taking train from Voss to Bergen (1.25 hours) | Stay 2 nights at Det Hanseatiske Hotel

DAY 13 | Bergen, Norway: Old Bergen Museum, Bryggen, explored Old Town

DAY 14 | Night flight from Bergen, Norway to Stockholm, Sweden (1.5 hours) | Stay 2 nights at Berns Hotel

DAY 15 | Stockholm, Sweden: Gamla Stan, Stodholm

DAY 16 | Fly Stockholm to San Diego via London on British Airways

I hope you found this essential guide for exploring Oslo Norway helpful in planning your own Scandinavian adventures :).

Oslo is a vibrant city that blends rich history, stunning fjord views, and a thriving food and culture scene, making it a must-visit destination in Norway.

Whether you’re exploring Viking history, admiring world-class art, or simply soaking in the Scandinavian energy, this city is sure to charm you whether you spend one day or four days here!

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Life is short, the world is wide.

I want to make some memories.

~Mamma Mia

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