Top 20 Must-See Attractions in Oslo

The Oslo Opera House is an architectural masterpiece that resembles an iceberg rising from the fjord. Visitors can walk on its sloping marble roof for spectacular 360-degree views of Oslo and the Oslofjord. Home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, the building's interior features warm oak walls and a striking wave-wall auditorium. The plaza around the opera house is perfect for strolling, and the building is particularly beautiful at sunset when it glows against the water.

The National Museum is the largest art museum in the Nordic region, housing Norway's most extensive collection of art, architecture, and design. Opened in 2022, this magnificent building showcases Edvard Munch's 'The Scream' and other masterpieces. The collection spans from antiquity to contemporary art, including Norwegian romanticist landscapes, modernist works, and applied arts. Special exhibitions feature international artists alongside Norwegian masters. The museum offers stunning fjord views and excellent dining options.

The Viking Ship Museum houses the world's best-preserved Viking ships, including the magnificent Oseberg ship from 834 AD. These vessels were excavated from burial mounds and provide extraordinary insight into Viking craftsmanship and burial customs. The museum displays artifacts buried with the ships, including sleds, carts, textiles, and everyday items. Note that the museum is currently closed for renovation with plans to reopen in a new building; check official website for updates on temporary exhibitions.

The Munch Museum contains the world's largest collection of works by Norway's most famous artist, Edvard Munch. Opened in its new waterfront location in 2021, this 13-story building displays paintings, prints, drawings, and personal effects spanning Munch's entire career. Beyond 'The Scream,' visitors discover lesser-known masterpieces and gain insight into the artist's creative process. The museum offers panoramic views from its top floors, a sculpture park, and rotating contemporary exhibitions that dialogue with Munch's legacy.

Vigeland Sculpture Park is the world's largest sculpture park created by a single artist, featuring over 200 bronze, granite, and wrought iron sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. The park's centerpiece is the 14-meter tall Monolith, carved from a single granite block depicting 121 human figures. The iconic 'Angry Boy' statue and the fountain complex are also must-sees. Set within Frogner Park, it's free to visit year-round. The sculptures explore human emotions and life cycles, creating a profound artistic experience in beautiful park surroundings.

Fjord cruises offer the best way to appreciate Oslo's stunning waterfront location. Tours typically pass islands, beaches, and historic sites while providing commentary on Oslo's history and development. Various options include short 1-2 hour sightseeing cruises, lunch and dinner cruises, and full-day excursions to southern fjord destinations. Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather, though winter cruises provide unique perspectives. Boats depart from City Hall Pier. This activity is perfect for all ages and provides excellent photo opportunities of Oslo's skyline.

Holmenkollen is one of the world's most famous ski jumping hills, hosting World Cup events and the 1952 Winter Olympics. The ski museum is the oldest of its kind globally, tracing 4,000 years of skiing history. Visitors can take the elevator to the top of the jump for breathtaking views of Oslo and the fjord, standing where Olympic athletes launch themselves into the air. The simulator offers the experience of a ski jump. Accessible by metro, Holmenkollen combines sports history, stunning views, and Norwegian skiing culture in one iconic location.

Hos Thea is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.8★ from 545 reviews. Located at Gabels gate 11, 0272 Oslo, Norway.

Statholdergaarden is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.8★ from 564 reviews. Located at Rådhusgata 11, 0151 Oslo, Norway.

LuLu is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.8★ from 445 reviews. Located at Youngs gate 7, 0181 Oslo, Norway.

Maaemo is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.7★ from 878 reviews. Located at Dronning Eufemias gate 23, 0194 Oslo, Norway.

The Salmon is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.7★ from 3472 reviews. Located at Strandpromenaden 11, 0252 Oslo, Norway.

Savage is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.7★ from 126 reviews. Located at Nedre Slottsgate 2, 0153 Oslo, Norway.

Restaurant Kontrast is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.7★ from 472 reviews. Located at Maridalsveien 15a, 0175 Oslo, Norway.

Varemottaket is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.7★ from 65 reviews. Located at Dronning Eufemias gate 37, Inngang Wismargata, 0194 Oslo, Norway.

Den Glade Gris is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.6★ from 5319 reviews. Located at St. Olavs Gate 33, 0166 Oslo, Norway.

Seaport Restaurant is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.6★ from 4240 reviews. Located at Sørengkaia 101, 0194 Oslo, Norway.

Helt Vilt is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.6★ from 603 reviews. Located at Mathallen Oslo, Vulkan 5, 0178 Oslo, Norway.

Vaaghals is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.6★ from 1566 reviews. Located at Dronning Eufemias gate 8, 0191 Oslo, Norway.

Code Restaurant Oslo is a highly-rated restaurant in Oslo, rated 4.6★ from 370 reviews. Located at Dronning Eufemias gate 18, 0191 Oslo, Norway.