A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Located in the southern part of Norway, Oslo serves as a captivating capital city deserving of a weekend getaway. Having visited several times, we have found it to be ideal for short escapes, owing to the plethora of remarkable attractions that the city offers.
The Norwegian capital is a thriving center of activity and, akin to many contemporary metropolitan regions, offers attractions to suit various preferences.
On the northern shore of the Oslofjord, Norway’s capital and the third-largest city in Scandinavia is a contemporary and sophisticated metropolis enriched by shipping and oil industries.
With origins tracing back to the Viking era nearly a millennium ago, Oslo was initially founded as a modest coastal fishing and trading settlement.
Surrounded by pristine nature and bustling with award-winning cultural attractions, Oslo is perfect for a varied city break all year round.
Never been to Oslo before? Now is the perfect time. Norway’s premier city has always showcased grand architecture and a vibrant artistic scene, combined with unfettered access to pristine nature. A remarkable transformation over the past two decades has established Oslo as a certified cultural capital, attracting visitors from around the globe.
It has been quite some time since our last visit to Oslo! This duration prompted me to ponder whether the city had transformed much since our previous trip (I am certainly aware of the changes in London during that interval) and if I would be able to navigate my way around the city as confidently as before.
Oslo’s new Munchmuseet is finally open. Since October 22, guests have been able to viewThe Screamand 40,000 works associated with world-renowned Norwegian painter Edvard Munch in a spectacular waterfront location.
We’re somewhere on the Hardangervidda plateau, one of the world’s highest railway stretches, and it appears we have stopped. I say this with some uncertainty, as we find ourselves in the midst of a white-out.
Where to stay, eat, and what to do in Oslo.
1. Explore the enchanting city of Oslo, Norway, discovering its cultural richness, culinary excellence, and historical significance.
One of Oslo’s most beautiful public parks,Vigeland Parkcontains the life’s work of Gustav Vigeland, a famous Norwegian sculptor. More than 200 Vigeland masterpieces are on display, including the bronze “Sinnataggen” (Angry Boy) and “Monolitten,” a 17-meter spire flanked by 121 commanding figures, all composed of a single piece of white granite. This remarkable park also features a visitor center, souvenir shop, and a cafe. To reach the park, use T-BANE: Majorstuen; TRAM: 12 to Vigelandsparken.
In Oslo, shops typically operate from 10 am to 5 pm, with Saturday hours extending from 9 am to 2 pm. Shopping centers may have longer hours, usually open from 10 am to 8 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 6 pm on Saturdays.
There are several excellent ideas for day trips from Oslo, accommodating every traveler’s preference across all seasons. Some focus on sightseeing while others emphasize city destinations or tranquil landscapes surrounding Oslo.
Explore the top guided tours available in Oslo, from scenic boat trips to comprehensive city sightseeing adventures. Let’s take a closer look at each option:
1. Best Vantage Points for Fireworks Celebration
Traveling from Oslo to Trondheim in Norway covers a distance of approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles). Fortunately, there are several transportation options to consider, including air travel, train, car, bus, and even a scenic ship journey. Each mode of transport offers its own set of benefits and drawbacks, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your travel needs.
The changing of the guard in Oslo at the Royal Palace, the residence of the King of Norway, is a must-see event for visitors to Norway. This daily event, led by King Harald V and Queen Sonja, attracts both tourists and locals eager to witness this military tradition.