Oslo

Norway

Safety rating
9.4/10
Best time to visit
June to August for outdoor life, fjord kayaking, and the evening light. February to March for skiing at Holmenkollen and cross-country trails from Frognerseteren. December for cosy Christmas atmosphere.
Population
0.7M

Overview

Oslo is a compact, forward-thinking Scandinavian capital squeezed between the Oslofjord and forested hills. The city that invented the concept of 'bærekraft' (sustainability) has transformed its waterfront with the radical Oslo Opera House, Renzo Piano's Astrup Fearnley Museum, and the new Munch Museum. Nature is minutes from the centre — hiking trails and ski slopes begin at the last metro stop.

Top attractions

Oslo Opera House, Viking Ship Museum, Vigeland Sculpture Park, Munch Museum, Akershus Fortress, Aker Brygge, Holmenkollen Ski Museum, Frogner Park, Bygdøy peninsula museums

Getting around

T-bane (metro), trams, and buses are efficient. The Ruter 90-day card is best for extended stays. The Oslofjord can be crossed by ferry. City bikes (Bysykkel) work from April to November.

Airports near Oslo

Oslo essentials