It’s true that the most common association with Norway is the countryside, the fjords, the scenic mountainesque views, the charming colorful Norwegian towns…..not necessarily the artsy, cultural-rich capital of Oslo. So yes, it would be wrong to visit Norway and miss the fjords but I say equally as wrong to visit the Nordic country and not see Oslo!

Here’s 10 things not to miss in Oslo:

Cruise Oslofjorden with a 3 hour tour! (Can you read that without singing it to the Gilligan’s theme song?!) OR try a hop-on hop-off tour from the water. The view of the Opera House from the water is unparalleled. Also, you’ll get to see some adorable lake houses (maybe they say fjord houses?) lining the little islands of the Oslofjord.

Speaking of the Opera House, definitely check it out. Claimed as one of the most architecturally significant Opera Houses in the world, behind Sydney of course, it is a powerful piece of construction. Stroll around the outside but don’t forget to walk the sloped side wall to the top of the building for a pretty view from above. The inside is also designed with a very sleek, modern appearance so definitely peek in.

Aker Brugge. It’s a newly renovated waterfront area full of restaurants, bars and shopping. The coast is lined with fancy boats and outdoor seating to soak in the amazing views. Al fresco dining at it’s best– which maybe doesn’t sound appealing in chilly Norwegian weather but there are loads of heaters and cozy little blankets lining most seats.

Frogmen Park, or the Vigeland Sculpture Park, is a beautiful green space decorated with 212 statues and claims the title of Norway’s top tourist attraction. But truthfully, Oslo is ornamented with statues throughout and every corner you turn around you’ll spot some kind of unique piece of art.

Bygdøy, known as the museum island, is a peninsula off Oslo home to six of the city’s museums. The Viking Ship Museum, the FRAM, the Kon-Tiki, the Holocaust Museum, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, and the Norwegian Maritime Museum.

Akershus Fortress, dates back to 1299, is a beautiful place to soak up Oslo’s history. If the weather is nice, it is a perfect spot to spend an afternoon outdoors.

National Gallery Oslo. Established in 1837, it is the largest collection of paintings, scuptures and drawings in Norway including the infamous Edvard Munch’s Scream and several Cézannes and Manets.

Grünerløkka, a hip Oslo borough on the east side of the river, is a great spot for cafes, restaurants and nightlife.

Mathallen. A warehouse type assortment of unique and delicious food stalls. Read more here.

Hike to Sognsvann Lake. A little north of the city is a gorgeous lake with a beautiful little walk around. The park is easily accessible by the metro to the Frognerseteren station.

Want to stay in a cozy, boutique hotel? Read more here.

And be sure to stop here for something delicious to eat! 

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