Best Things to Do in Oslo

Most visitors arriving in Oslo will fly into Oslo Airport, Gardermoen (OSL), around 50 km from the city center. From the airport, I definitely recommend taking the train. There's also a bus option, but it takes considerably longer.

There are two main train options: Flytoget and Vy. Flytoget is more expensive, but it runs more frequently and takes around 19 minutes to reach Oslo Central Station. Vy takes around 23 minutes, so the difference in travel time is minimal, but the tickets are considerably cheaper.

Pro tip: Unless you're in a hurry, I'd go with Vy. You'll get to the city almost as quickly for a much lower price. You can easily find and buy Vy tickets through the Ruter app — just enter "Oslo lufthavn" as your starting point when searching for your journey.

Oslo is a very walkable city, especially around the city center, and many of the main attractions are close enough to explore on foot. For places that are further away, you can easily use the metro, trams, buses, trains and ferries.

Pro tip: Download the Ruter app and use Google Maps during your trip. Ruter is great for checking public transport routes, departures and tickets, while Google Maps makes it easy to see exactly how to get somewhere, including which metro or bus stop to use.

The Oslo Opera House is one of the most iconic buildings in the city, and you don't need to attend a performance to enjoy it. Make sure to walk up the roof — it's free and offers beautiful views over the Oslofjord, the city and Akershus Fortress.

If you're interested in art, don't miss MUNCH, home to one of the world's largest collections of works by Edvard Munch. Of course, The Scream is the star of the show, but there's much more to see inside the museum.

Overlooking the Oslofjord, Akershus Fortress is one of the best places to combine a little history with beautiful views. You can walk around the fortress grounds for free and enjoy one of the best viewpoints over the harbor.

One of my favorite places in Oslo is Frogner Park, home to the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park. The park is filled with more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, making it one of those places that's worth visiting even if you're not particularly into art.

Right next to the Opera House, you'll find Deichman Bjørvika, Oslo's main public library. Even if you're not a big library person like I am, it's worth stepping inside to see the impressive modern architecture and head up to the top floor for beautiful views over the Oslofjord.

Take a walk along Karl Johans gate towards the Royal Palace, passing the National Theatre along the way. It's one of the easiest areas to explore on foot and gives you a feel for Oslo's historic city center.

If you want somewhere to walk, grab a coffee or sit down for a meal by the water, head to Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen. The waterfront is lined with restaurants, shops, galleries and modern architecture, making it one of my favorite areas to spend some time in Oslo.

Bygdøy is a beautiful peninsula just outside the city center, known for its museums, beaches and walking trails. You'll find several museums here, including the Fram Museum and the Kon-Tiki Museum, but you can also come simply to enjoy the nature, walk along the trails or spend some time by the water.

Here you'll find charming streets lined with beautifully preserved wooden houses dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Take a walk around the area if you want to step back in time and enjoy a lovely little escape from the modern side of Oslo.

Ekebergparken combines art, nature and beautiful views over Oslo, but in winter, the paths can become very icy and slippery, especially on the steeper sections. I'd honestly skip this one if you're not used to walking on ice and snow.

For a more local side of Oslo, head to Akerselva and Grünerløkka. You can walk along the river, discover small waterfalls and then continue into one of the city's liveliest neighborhoods for cafés, shops and restaurants.

• Citybox Oslo — A great option if you're looking for something modern and affordable in the heart of Oslo. It's only a five-minute walk from Oslo Central Station, with a very convenient location for exploring the city.
• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo — Stay here for a central location, beautiful city views and easy access to Oslo's main transport connections. The hotel also has a rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic views.
• Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo — A stylish option right in the city center, close to Karl Johans gate, restaurants and many of Oslo's main sights.
• Scandic Oslo City — A practical choice if you want to be right in the center. It's next to Oslo Central Station and close to Karl Johans gate, the Opera House, restaurants and shopping.
• Hotel Continental Oslo — If you're looking for something more upscale, this classic five-star hotel is right in the city center, close to the National Theatre, Royal Palace and Aker Brygge.

• Mamma Pizza — One of my favorite Italian restaurants in Oslo. Its central location makes it perfect for a lunch break after exploring the Opera House, Deichman and the surrounding area. The restaurant is known for its Italian-style pizza and pasta, and it's also a popular choice among visitors.
• Ostebutikken — A small and cozy French bistro in Grünerløkka, perfect if you're looking for something a little more intimate. It's especially known for its French-inspired food, cheese and cozy atmosphere.
• Crêperie de Mari — If you're in the mood for a crêpe, keep this little spot in Grünerløkka in mind. It's a great option for a casual lunch, sweet treat or a quick stop while exploring the neighborhood.
• Nedre Foss Gård — A lovely option in Grünerløkka, set in a historic farm building right by Akerselva. If you're already exploring the neighborhood, it's a nice place to stop for a meal or a drink.
• Village Tandoori — If you're craving Indian food, this is one to have on your list. It's known for its flavorful Indian dishes and has received plenty of positive reviews from both locals and visitors.

Tim Wendelboe — If you love coffee, don't miss Tim Wendelboe. Ranked #2 among the world's best coffee shops in 2026, this small specialty coffee spot in Grünerløkka is definitely worth adding to your Oslo itinerary.

Supreme Roastworks — Another great stop for specialty coffee, located in the heart of Grünerløkka. It's a relaxed spot where you can enjoy carefully roasted coffee while exploring the neighborhood.

About Contrasts — A stylish spot in central Oslo that works as a café and brunch place during the day and a cocktail bar in the evening. It's a good choice if you're looking for somewhere a little different, with great coffee, creative food and a beautiful atmosphere.

W.B. Samson — If there's one thing to try here, make it the kanelbolle. Their cinnamon buns were named Oslo's best by Aftenposten in both 2022 and 2023, so this is definitely one I'd add to your list.

Baker Hansen — Founded in 1861, Baker Hansen is Norway's oldest bakery still in continuous operation. And if you ask me, don't leave without trying their carrot cake, it's one of my favorite cakes.

Åpent Bakeri — Known for its bread and traditional baking, Åpent Bakeri is a great place to stop for both sweet and savory treats. My personal favorite is the Lille Tøyen location, which has a particularly cozy neighborhood feel. Everything I've tried there has been delicious, so honestly, this is one where I'd say: just pick whatever looks good.