10 Best Things To Do in Oslo
Oslo is one of those cities that’s truly hit or miss. Some people are fond of it’s unvarnished personality, where as others find Norway’s capital to be lackluster, boring, and sterile in polarizing city. And I have to be honesty, I’m on in the second came – as Oslo isn’t my favorite European City (and I’ve been to the majority of Western Europe’s capitals, so I have a good comparison framework to not say this empty offhandedly.
While the actual country of Norway is stunning, I found the city to be just like most European cities – but it was a little rough around the edges. Public transportation is excellent, and things are indeed expensive – but Oslo’s most charming places were no doubt anything on the water.
It’s true that Oslo is nothing like other cities in Norway – as places like Bergen, Trondheim, and Tromsø offer far more charm and raw, jaw dropping beauty. However, I still think that Oslo is worth visiting.
View of architecture in Oslo; December 2022
Is Oslo Worth Visiting?
Yes, you should plan a trip to Oslo – as it offers a wide variety of acitivities that can keep you entertained for a weekend or several days – with amazing nearby nature, incredible national museums, and funky cafés to explore. In a nutshell, a sporty person, introverted art lover, and bookworm could all go to Oslo and leave satisfied with something up their alley to do.
Honestly, the prettier parts of Norway are undoubtedly outside of Oslo – with the city being more as a service-stop before venturing to other places in the country further up north such as Lofoten.
However, I do think Oslo is worth visiting at least once – as it’s one of the more grungier European cities, making it more unique than its more stereotypical counterparts like Paris, London, or Barcelona.
I felt similar to Oslo as I did about Lisbon – I wouldn’t need to go back, but it does have its moments.
⭐🇳🇴 Are These Oslo Attractions Worth Visiting? 🇳🇴⭐
| Attraction | Time Needed | Worth It? |
|---|---|---|
| 🏛️ Oslo Opera House | 1 hour | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely. Try to catch a ballet or opera performance if you can, or simply walk to the top of the roof for some of the best views over Oslo. |
| 🌊 Aker Brygge | 2 hours | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ One of my favorite places in Oslo. The waterfront promenade is beautiful, with views of Akershus Fortress in the distance, and it's especially magical during winter when all the lights are up. |
| ☕ Grünerløkka | Half day | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ A highlight of Oslo you shouldn't miss. It's the best place to experience the city's less-polished, artsy personality, with independent cafés, boutiques, and street art. |
| 👑 Royal Palace | 45 minutes | ⭐⭐⭐ Worth stopping by for a photo, especially if you're visiting during winter when it's covered in snow, but I wouldn't make it the top priority of your itinerary. |
| 🏔️ Grefsenkollen | Half day | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If the weather cooperates, you absolutely have to go. The panoramic views over Oslo are incredible and it's easily one of the city's most underrated attractions. |
What Are the Best Things to Do in Oslo?
Some of the best things to do in Oslo include exploring the youthful Grünerløkka, taking a short but rewarding hike up to Grefsenkollen, and watching a ballet performance at the Oslo Opera House.
Truthfully, you shouldn’t be wondering what to do in Oslo – you should be wondering how you’ll see all of Oslo’s attractions while in the city!
View of forests in distance on streets of Oslo, Norway; December 2022
🇳🇴🗓️ The Perfect 3-Day Oslo Itinerary 🏔️⛵
View of Oslo from Opera House; December 2022
Is Oslo Safe For Solo Female Travelers?
I read a lot of stuff online about Oslo being unsafe, but if you’re a solo female traveler used to venturing around other European cities – you’ll be just fine. The same basic rules such as common sense and avoiding pickpockets apply in Oslo as they do elsewhere.
What is Oslo Known For?
Oslo, which is Norway’s biggest city with its metro area being home to over 1.2 million people, is home to some of the best museums in Europe. That, in addition to its unique mix of modern architecture with grungier vibes make it a city with a wide variety of things to offer – from amazing food spots, nearby hikes, and cultural moments such as ballet at the Oslo Opera.
Need some help planning your trip to Norway? Here’s my tried-and-true list of what I think you should do if you go to Oslo.
10 Best Things to Do in Oslo
Soak in the charming Atmosphere at Aker Brygge
💰 Price: € (Free to explore; you'll only pay for shopping, food, or drinks.)
🚋 Nearest Tram: Aker Brygge (Line 12)
✨ Best For: Travelers who love waterfront seating, cozy cafés, lit-up shopping villages, and a relaxing evening stroll along the Oslofjord.
Although this may be more of a hidden gem in Oslo, this was hands down the cutest part of the city I came across – and the number one thing I recommend you see while in Oslo.
Flooded with chairs for enjoying the scenery by the water, shopping, and outdoor restaurants – I could see the Aker Brygge area being packed in the summertime. If you’re a sucker for charm and waterfront eating, this is a place in Oslo you don’t want to miss.
Walking Aker Brygge in Oslo; December 2022
Is Aker Brygge Worth Visiting?
Yes, you should absolutely visit Aker Brygge while in Oslo!
Once a busy shipyard, Aker Brygge was developed between 1986 and 1998 to become the vibrant waterfront we know today . Personally, I think it’s one of Oslo’s best attractions – as it’s a lively place to shop, dine, and enjoy views over the Oslofjord.
Be sure to walk along the promenade, as it’s a lovely stroll for both first time visitors to Oslo and long time residents. Like I said, this was truly my favorite place I went to while in Oslo – and I would absolutely visit it again.
Aker Brygge in Oslo; December 2022
2. Explore Akershus Fortress
💰 Price: € (Free to walk around the fortress grounds; some museums or guided tours may cost extra.)
🚇 Nearest Metro: Nationaltheatret or Stortinget
✨ Best For: Travelers who love historic fortresses, scenic harbor views, peaceful walks, and free things to do in Oslo.
While walking around Aker Brygge, you’re bound to come across some magical moments peeking through – such as this shot that was like Prague 2.0, for me.
Personally, I think Akershus Fortress is more rewarding from a distance – but you can walk up to it directly if you’d like. which is much more worth than walking up to it directly.
Gorgeous shot on Aker Brygge waterfront in Oslo, Norway; December 2022
The construction for this castle in Oslo, better known as Akershus Fortress, started back in 1299 under King Haakon V to defend Oslo from invasion. Over the centuries, it slowly evolved from being a medieval castle into a royal residence, military fortress.
Today, it’s one of Norway's most important historic landmarks – and honestly, one of the prettiest, too!
3. Walk to the Top of the opera house
💰 Price: € (Free to walk on the roof and explore the exterior; performances inside require a ticket.)
🚉 Nearest Train/Metro: Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) — about a 5-minute walk
✨ Best For: Travelers looking for incredible Oslofjord views, modern architecture, and one of the city's best free attractions for photography and sunset.
The Oslo Opera House is extremely popular, and for good reason – even if it isn’t as infamous as the one in Sydney (I have to say – no Opera House can top that one).
When it opened back in 2008 and designed by by the architectural firm Snøhetta, Oslo Opera House quickly became one of Norway's most iconic modern landmarks – as it’s plastered in nearly every magnet and postcard on any souvenir shop across the city of Oslo.
What I didn’t realize is that this isn’t only a popular landmark in Oslo – but that you can walk up the top for a nice view of the city.
Opera House in Oslo, Norway; December 2022
Can I Walk Up to the Top of the Oslo Opera House?
Yes, you can walk up to the top of the Oslo Opera House free of charge for beautiful views of the city. The smooth white marble and nifty geometric angles aren’t for looks, but a chance to see Oslo’s personality front-and-center.
However, just bear in mind that if you come to Oslo in the winter like I did – be sure to bring the right shoes! It is very wet, snowy, and slippery – and you will end up with soaking wet socks in a very frigid Scandinavian city.
4. Seek Out cozy cafes In Oslo
💰 Price: €€
📍 Location: City center (I especially recommend Nordvegan, located near Nationaltheatret Station.)
✨ Best For: Cozy cafés, slow mornings, catching up with friends over coffee, getting some work done, or simply taking a break from sightseeing while enjoying Oslo's relaxed café culture.
Living in Paris, it’s hard for me to think of any cafés being better anywhere else.
However, I will say – Oslo does have some cozy-worthy spots, which are especially nice after wandering the slushy city streets.
Vegan Nord decorated for Christmas; December 2022
Some of my favorite cafés I visited while in Oslo include:
☕🧁 Best Cafés & Cozy Places in Oslo 🕯️🍰
🌱 Nordvegan
Amazing vegan comfort food at fair prices, with delicious dishes like lasagna, burgers, and New York-style cheesecake. It's easily one of the coziest places to grab lunch in Oslo.
🧀 Mathallen Oslo
Perfect for sampling local produce and browsing Oslo's famous food hall. There are plenty of cute places to sit, especially during the holidays when the atmosphere is extra cozy.
☕ Tim Wendelboe
Oslo's most famous coffee shop and a local favorite for expertly brewed espresso and specialty coffee. If you're serious about coffee, this is a must-visit.
🤎 Supreme Roastworks
Another local favorite serving some of the best espresso in Oslo. The minimalist interior and relaxed atmosphere make it a wonderful place to slow down for a coffee break.
Is it Hard to Be Vegan in Oslo?
No, it wasn’t that difficult to be vegan in Oslo – especially with trendy areas like Grünerløkka offer a plethora of plant-based options.
Winter markets during Christmas time in Oslo; December 2022
This brings me right to my next point…
5. Grünerløkka
💰 Price: €–€€
🚋 Nearest Tram: Olaf Ryes plass or Birkelunden
✨ Best For: Café hopping, boutique shopping, colorful street photography, and experiencing Oslo's artsy, creative side.
All of the other advice you’ve read on the internet is true – Grünerløkka is the perfect hipster place lined up with lots of nifty vegan spots and cute cafés.
Olaf Ryes in Grünerløkka in Oslo, Norway; December 2022
Is Grünerløkka in Oslo Worth Visiting?
Yes, Grünerløkka is totally worth visiting – as it’s free-spirited and funky cafés offer a more unique side of Oslo beyond the typical hikes, modern architecture, and museums people might expect. Lined with endless independent boutiques, cafés, street art, and drenched in a rebellious but approachable creative atmosphere – you won’t want to skip out on Grünerløkka.
Once Oslo's working-class industrial district, Grünerløkka grew rapidly during the late 19th century alongside factories lining the Akerselva River. The fun shops and restaraunts we see there today were once warehouses and workshops, which are now part of one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Oslo.
After my failed attempt to go up Grefsenkollen earlier that morning, Grünerløkka wasn’t a bad spot to relax at after a chilly and stressful morning trying to sight-see in Oslo!
View from Cultivate Food in Grünerløkka; December 2022
☕🎨 Best Things to Do in Grünerløkka 🛍️🌿
☕ Café Hopping
Grünerløkka is Oslo's coffee capital. Hop between cozy cafés like Tim Wendelboe and Supreme Roastworks, then settle in with a coffee while watching the neighborhood come to life.
📸 Colorful Streets
Wander around photographing cute colorful houses, murals, historic buildings, riverside paths, and charming corners. Grünerløkka is easily one of Oslo's most photogenic neighborhoods.
🛍️ Local Shopping
Spend an afternoon browsing independent boutiques, vintage stores, local designers, bookstores, and artisan shops beyond the typical tourist stores.
6. Grefsenkollen
💰 Price: € (Free viewpoint; you'll only pay for transportation or food at the café.)
🚋 How to Get There: Tram 13 to Grefsen, then Bus 56 to Grefsenkollen.
✨ Best For: Incredible panoramic views over Oslo, peaceful hikes, sunset photography, and escaping the city without traveling far.
If you’re looking for an incredible view of the city don’t mind a small day trip outside of Oslo – look no further than taking a short ride to Grefsenkollen.
View while approaching Grefsenkollen in Oslo, Norway; December 2022
Is It Worth Going to Grefsenkollen?
Yes, it’s worth going to Grefsenkollen – but only if it’s a clear day. This is because going in the winter can prove challenging as Oslo is subject to fog and literal slippery slopes – which can make it hard to get all the way up to Grefsenkollen.
I quickly realized in the thick of December that I wasn’t going to see a thing if I made it all the way up to the top, and eventually turned around and made my way back to the city center.
7. The Royal Palace
💰 Price: € (Free to visit the palace grounds; guided palace tours are available during the summer for an additional fee.)
🚇 Nearest Metro: Nationaltheatret Station
✨ Best For: Beautiful gardens, classic architecture, changing-of-the-guard ceremonies, and winter photos when the palace is covered in snow.
Finished back in 1849 with its intention to serve as a house of residence for King Charles III John, the Royal Palace has served as the official home of Norway's monarch ever since. Visitors can stroll through the surrounding Palace Park year-round or tour parts of the palace during the summer.
Reminiscent of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, this is something worth walking by – especially during Christmas where the winter market is below the hill.
Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway; December 2022
8. Oslofjord Cruise
💰 Price: €€–€€€ (Expect around €25–50 depending on the cruise length.)
🚢 Departure: Aker Brygge / Rådhusbrygge Harbor
✨ Best For: Seeing Oslo from the water, relaxing after a day of sightseeing, photographing the Oslo Opera House and waterfront skyline, and escaping the busy city center.
If you only have time for one activity on your trip to Oslo, and you’re primarly interested in seeing the more raw, forest driven beauty you’ve heard through the grapevine – you might want to consider a Oslofjord cruise.
You can see islands as close as 10 minutes away by ferry from Oslo’s city center like Hovedøya.
Here’s a recap of some other islands you could visit from Oslo:
🏝️⛴️ Best Oslofjord Islands to Visit 🏖️☀️
🌲 Nakkholmen
One of the quietest islands in the Oslofjord, Nakkholmen is perfect for relaxing walks, swimming, charming summer cottages, and escaping the city without going far.
🏡 Lindøya
Famous for its colorful waterfront cabins, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic walking trails, Lindøya is one of the prettiest islands to visit on a sunny day in Oslo.
🏖️ Langøyene
Best known for its beaches and large grassy picnic areas, Langøyene is the ideal island for swimming, sunbathing, barbecues, and spending an entire summer afternoon outdoors.
⛵ Bleikøya
Bleikøya offers beautiful shoreline walks, calm swimming spots, and a quieter local feel than some of Oslo's more popular islands, making it perfect for a peaceful escape.
Typical European-ctiy-like street in Oslo, Norway; December 2022
9. Munch Museum
💰 Price: €€ (Around €18–20 for adults.)
🚇 Nearest Metro: Bjørvika / Oslo S (about a 10-minute walk)
✨ Best For: Art lovers, rainy days, seeing Edvard Munch's famous works including The Scream, and enjoying panoramic views from the museum's upper floors.
Not only is this museum in Oslo alongside a beautiful waterfront location, but it’s a great way to honor one of Norway’s most famous artist’s – Edvard Munch.
As someone who lives in Paris, this museum is exceptionally interesting me – as Edvard Munch spent 3 years being inspired by the city.
Check out the prices for tickets to the Munch Museum below:
🎨💳 MUNCH Museum Ticket Prices (2026) 🖼️🇳🇴
🎟️ Buy tickets on the official MUNCH Museum website
| Ticket Type | Price (NOK) | Approx. USD | Approx. EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 👨 Adult (10:00–18:00) | 280 NOK | ~$27 | ~€24 |
| 🌙 Adult Evening (18:00–21:00) | 200 NOK | ~$19 | ~€17 |
| 🎓 Under 25 | 100 NOK | ~$10 | ~€9 |
| 👧 Children (0–17) | Free | — | — |
| 🎫 Members + Guest | Free | — | — |
| ♿ Companion | Free | — | — |
10. Oslo Cathedral
💰 Price: € (Free admission)
🚇 Nearest Metro: Stortinget or Oslo Central Station (Oslo S)
✨ Best For: Admiring beautiful architecture, taking a peaceful break from sightseeing, and visiting one of Oslo's most important historic landmarks in the heart of the city.
This is a bit more of a casual one, but I really think it’s a great place to get a feel for Oslo – as the Oslo cathedral is smack in the city center. This is where I got my first taste of Norway’s capital city and it’s unique personality.
View of Oslo Cathedral; December 2022
🇳🇴🏔️ Oslo Travel FAQs 🏔️🇳🇴
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Last updated: June 29, 2026