Stroll around Oslo you’ll enjoy a unique amalgamation of old and new architecture, art, style, and culture. The capital city of Norway was founded in 1040, so you can imagine the history just bursting at the seams. From the banks of the Nordic port city you can see the stunning Oslo Fjord, with amazing outdoor adventures lie just beyond the city limits. A city that was once rife with Vikings is now home to young families, bankers, artists, and crafty, hip chefs bringing their own flavors to traditional Nordic cuisine. Whether you’re spending a week there or just passing through, we’ve put together all the best spots to hit for a perfect day in Oslo.
Stroll Oslo’s most fashionable street
Not only will you find charming façades aplenty along Bogstadveien, you’ll also find anything your heart desires for purchase. The chic street is a haven for fashionistas and the long stretch has plenty of cafés and bakeries to pop into if you need to refuel.
Get up close + personal at the royal palace
In the center of Palace Park, the Royal Palace isn’t nearly as barricaded off as you might expect. While a huge wrought iron gate separates the royals from the rest of us at Buckingham Palace, in Oslo you can just about walk right up to the majestic building! Of course, it’s still heavily guarded, but there’s something romantic and old time-y about being able to walk right up to the palace.
To this day, the palace remains home to the current Norwegian monarch, and many foreign dignitaries are often seeing coming and going. If you time it right, you may see guests arriving to a meeting or party and witness the guards welcoming the visitors with an impressive formation and trumpet salut.
STRIKE A POSE WITH THE STATUES
Walking around Oslo, one of the first things you’ll notice is the incredible array of statues and sculptures sprinkled throughout the city. At every turn, you’ll find a new piece of art or likeness to a historical figure. “Sitting Girl with Headphones” by Marit Krogh is one of our favorite, located in Bankplassen Square.
Lunch at Sentralen
The airy, industrial space is a welcomed change from the historic façades surrounding in the area near the city center. Exposed bricks and beams set the scene for the equally exciting meal to come at Sentralen. One look at the menu and you’ll know you must start with the organic bread and butter from Røros. Never have we seen such bright, natural yellow butter or tasted such a rich, creamy flavor. The smoked beetroot with tarragon, egg yolk, and horseradish is almost too pretty to eat, and the beef tail and noodle soup warms the soul with its dark, flavorful broth. The hearty lunch will leave you satisfied so you can continue exploring the city.
Explore the Aker Brygge
Located right on the water in the heart of Oslo, Aker Brygge is a famous contemporary pier area that’s one of the hottest gathering spots for both locals and tourists alike. Here, you’ll find dozens of boutiques, big box retailers, cafés, restaurants, and bars – all buzzing with activity any time of year. Boats are docked in the marina nearby, and from there, you can board tour operator ferries to see the Oslo Fjord. For a little culture, you can visit the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art or the Nobel Peace Center, each on either end of the Aker Brygge pier.
Visit the Viking Ship Museum
Who doesn’t want to see how the Vikings built their famous ships?! Norway has been famous for its ship building for centuries, and the Viking Ship Museum features archaeological pieces, historical artifacts, and Viking tombs.
And there you have a perfect day in Oslo – enjoy!
MORE PHOTOS FROM AROUND OSLO
