Oslo
There’s plenty packed into Norway’s compact capital
Oslo is famous for its fjordfront setting and bold modernist architecture | Sandra Sev Jarocka / Shutterstock
Oslo may look like just another European capital at first glance, but a deeper scratch beneath the surface reveals an edgier Scandinavian city that hides somewhat behind unassuming fjordfront buildings and forest trails in the suburbs.
You’ll get a flavour the the city’s creative side by starting at the Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to over 200 bronze and granite figures that look incredible regardless of the weather or season. The leafy trails of Frognerparken are also a great option if you want to grab coffee and stroll.
The journey into edgy art and culture continues down the rabbit hole at MUNCH Museum, home of course to works by tortured genius Edvard Munch. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, then you’ll probably recognise his most famous work, The Scream. The museum hosts at least one of the three versions of the work that reside in Norway, with displays rotating.
You can even find ultra-creative stays in Oslo, with The Thief gaining international recognition. This boutique lifestyle hotel (as it likes to call itself) sits in the art-crammed Tjuvholmen district, so you can be right on the doorstep for a day of gallery-hopping.
While you’re in culture mode, Oslo’s National Museum is also packed with medieval tapestries, treasures and priceless art from both Norway and the rest of the world. You can’t miss the Viking Ship Museum either, home to multiple exhibitions showcasing preserved ships and exploring the world of Scandinavia’s vikings.
Get a glimpse into multicultural Oslo with lunch at Vippa, a harbourside foodcourt packed with independent outlets. Think streetfood, falafel, Norwegian fish soup and organic beer, all with great fjord views. While you’re there, take an Oslo rite of passage with a stroll along Oslo Opera House’s marble roof, also offering superb views of the waterfront.
Although central Oslo has plenty to see, the real rewards come when you hop on a ferry to any of the car-free islands in the Oslofjord. Hovedøya and Gressholmen are highlights, especially in summer when you simply hop in the fjord to cool off or enjoy a picnic under the pine trees. If you venture a little further on the T-Bane for about 20 minutes, you’ll be right in the Nordmarka Forest, with endless trails to explore.
At night, Oslo can be plenty of fun, with thriving nightlife and restaurant culture. Maaemo, the global epicenter of New Nordic cuisine, has just the three Michelin stars, so book as far in advance as you can.
No trip to Oslo would be complete without time in the sauna. Check out KOK Oslo, a floating sauna right on the fjord with extensive steam facilities and a year-round ice plunge.
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