There is a reason why Scandinavia has some of the most popular countries for tourists in Europe. From sweeping scenery to a laid-back way of life, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and the like are often associated with happiness and perfection. Norway, in particular, captures the attention with its beautiful mountainous countryside and bustling cities. Its capital, Oslo, receives millions of visitors each year. And in this guide, we look at where to visit in Oslo during your ferry trip. So read on and discover everything there is to see and do in Norway’s capital from the moment you hop off the ferry.
How to get to Oslo?
Plane
Oslo is an easily-accessible city, thanks to the many transport routes available. Direct flights operate from the United States and many European destinations, with Oslo Airport acting as Norway’s primary flight hub. It’s also just a 20-minute drive from the city center.
Rail
An extensive rail network runs throughout Scandinavia and other parts of Europe, too. Indeed, it’s common for many residents of Scandinavia to jump on a train and travel from one country to another due to the relatively small size of this region of Europe.
Car
Driving into Oslo is also convenient, whether from other parts of Norway or different countries. Or, if you fancy getting the bus, services run from Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, giving people a good selection of ways to get to Oslo via road travel.
Ferry
Many, however, choose to arrive by ferry. You can book tickets to Oslo and other exciting destinations using Ferryscanner. Regular ferry routes operate between Denmark, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands, making Oslo an easily accessible location by ship.
The best neighborhoods in Oslo
While Oslo isn’t the largest capital city in the world (or even Europe), it does have its fair share of neighborhoods to visit. From stylish locations to quirky areas, there’s an eclectic mix of places catering to all needs. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to visit during your Oslo holiday.
Majorstuen
Located on the northern side of Vigeland Park, Majorstuen is a popular West Side district named after an 18th-century pub. It’s one of the most-visited neighborhoods in Oslo and has the country’s most expensive housing. You’ll find your fair share of hotels here, as well as restaurants and bars. It’s particularly close to the city center, with a major stop on the metro line. Majorstuen is also where you will find Bogstadveien, one of the most popular shopping streets in Norway.
Aker Brygge
Once an old, run-down dockyard, Aker Brygge has been transformed into one of the most lively areas in Oslo. The architecture has mostly been retained, with converted warehouses and canals sitting nicely alongside modern new flats and grand passageways that create a vibrant atmosphere. Explore restaurants, shops, and art galleries while wandering around Aker Brygge.
Frogner
You’ll find the neighborhood of Frogner just to the north and west of Aker Brygge. It’s one of the oldest areas of Oslo and is known for being an upmarket place, a reputation that dates back to the 19th century. Known as a large and peaceful area, Frogner is home to Vigeland Park, the most popular green space in the city. The neighborhood also has some of the best cafes in Oslo and is known for its pretty streets.
Sentrum
Sitting along the main Fjord, Sentrum is a waterfront section in Downtown Oslo. There’s impressive architecture here, such as Operahuset Opera House, a cross between an old steamship and the tip of an iceberg. Sentrum is also where you’ll find various ferry terminals, along with the historic Stortinget – Norway’s parliament.
Gamle
Over on the east side of Oslo is where you will find Gamle, a spot with botanical gardens, a medieval park, and the Intercultural Museum. This neighborhood is primarily medieval and known for lower prices than other parts of the city. Many festivals and cultural activities take place here during the summer.
Must-visit attractions in Oslo
Oslo’s status as a capital city means there are plenty of tourist attractions to visit, from famous parks to cultural institutions and snap-worthy architecture. Here are some of the highlights waiting to be discovered in Oslo.
Akershus Fortress
Discover Oslo’s history at Akershus Fortress. The medieval castle was completed in the 1300s and enjoyed a strategic location at the end of the headland, meaning it could withhold sieges throughout the ages. During the summer, members of the public can enjoy guided tours of the fortress. It’s also a popular location for events, ceremonies, and public holiday celebrations.
Natural History Museum
Oslo’s Natural History Museum explores the diversity of nature and features exhibitions on zoology, geology, and climate change. The museum is home to Norway’s most extensive collection of objects, many of which are accessible for the public to view during their visit. Then there’s the botanical garden with 5,000 plant species used for teaching, dissemination, and research.
Norsk Folkemuseum
Another museum, Norsk Folkemuseum is Norway’s museum of cultural history and details how people have lived in the country since the 16th century. It’s an open-air venue with 160 historic buildings located in scenic surroundings. You can view different parts of Norway, from bustling cities to the beautiful countryside.
TusenFryd Amusement Park
Anyone after some thrills and spills should check out TusenFryd Amusement Park. It’s the largest amusement park in Norway, with more than 30 attractions, games, shops, and eateries, including Speedmonster, Norway’s fastest rollercoaster. During the summer, BadeFryd opens up to visitors and features a waterpark ideal for the warmer weather, thanks to its swimming pool, swimming river, and large water slide.
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Vigeland Park is the most-visited green space in Oslo and is home to Sculpture Park. Here you will find more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite, and cast iron by Gustav Vigeland. Highlights include The Angry Boy, The Monolith, and The Wheel of Life. The park receives more than one million annual visitors and is a must for art lovers.
Which Oslo restaurants should I visit?
Along with great attractions, Oslo has its fair share of restaurants for all occasions. Whether you’re after a spot of fine dining or are looking for a casual place to eat, one of these spots will do the trick.
Olivia
Location: Stranden 3, 0250 Oslo, Norway
Located in the popular Aker Brygge neighborhood, Olivia serves authentic Italian food right in the heart of the city center. Choose from a range of pizza and pasta dishes before washing them down with a glass of Chianti or Barolo.
Mathallen
Vulkan 5, 0178 Oslo, Norway
Mathallen sits inside a converted industrial hall and dishes up delicacies from all over the world. A central seating area allows guests to sit together, even if they’ve chosen cuisine from different outlets. Mathallen is the place to visit if you’re after a selection of meats, fish, and vegetarian dishes from just about everywhere in the world.
Hos Thea
Location: Gabels gate 11, 0272 Oslo, Norway
First opened in 1987, Hos Thea has become one of the most popular joints to grab a bite in Oslo. It’s the place to go if you’re after an intimate fine dining experience in the city with dishes like Swedish fallow deer tenderloin and vichyssoise featuring truffle and lobster.
Does Oslo have any beaches?
Being a port city means there’s plenty of water, but what about beaches? Most people associate Oslo with the winter, but it really comes alive during the summer and has a few fantastic beaches to choose from.
Sørenga Sjøbad
Go for a dip in the heart of the city when you visit Sørenga Sjøbad. Located just a few minutes from the Opera House, this spot is ideal if you want to cool off in the water and make a splash. A jetty surrounds the pool area, and there’s a small sandy beach perfect for all ages.
Huk
Visit Huk and enjoy a large outdoor area in Bygdøy with sandy beaches and green surroundings. It’s arguably Oslo’s most famous beach area, thanks to incredible views of the Fjord and fantastic swimming conditions. Huk is less than half-and-hour by public transport, and there’s even a large car park should you decide to rent a car and explore the city’s outskirts.
Paradisbukta
If you’re looking for a casual bathing spot, head to Paradisbukta. It’s more remote than Huk and is accessible on foot or by bike. There’s fine sand at this beach, as well as good swimming conditions. It’s the ideal spot to escape the city’s hustle for an hour or so.
Where to visit in Oslo
Oslo is brimming with attractions and fantastic neighborhoods where you can soak up local life. If you’re looking for where to visit in Oslo, this guide features the best of the city. Make memories wandering Vigeland Park, stop at Aker Brygge and spend the day soaking up the sun at Huk.