Top 10 Things To Do In The Dazzling City Of Oslo, Norway

14.09.2023 - 11:49 / forbes.com / Pablo Picasso / Edvard Munch / Vincent Van-Gogh / Henri Matisse

Long overshadowed by Nordic cities like Copenhagen and Reykjavik, Norway’s unassuming capital is emerging as a must-see metropolis packed with cultural sites, incredible culinary adventures and enchanting attractions. Here’s some of the 10 best things to do in captivating Oslo.

See and Do

Oslo's Opera House

Oslo's Opera House is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece, designed like a gleaming iceberg emerging from the Oslofjord. Its cleverly-designed sloping roof invites visitors to ascend and take in panoramic views of the city and fjord. Beyond its stunning appearance, the Opera House is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting opera, ballet, and other performances that showcase Oslo's artistic spirit.

Adjacent to the burgeoning cultural district of Bjørvika, the Opera House is a must-visit destination that blends contemporary design, artistic flare and an overarching sense of wonder. Even if you’re an opera newbie, try to take in a performance. Underscoring the Norwegian disdain for elitism, each seat is fitted with an instant translator so people of all languages and backgrounds can enjoy the show. Even if you can’t see a performance, treat yourself to a behind-the-scenes tour, where you’ll learn about staging, costumes and a more in-depth understanding of the building's architectural features.

Viking Bike Tour

In a city that prioritizes eco-friendliness and a car-free lifestyle, there’s truly no better way to explore Oslo than by bike. The Viking Oslo Highlights bike tour (which comes complete with horned bike helmets for those who want to channel their inner Viking) offers an engaging perspective on Norway's capital, taking you through the city’s cultural, political and historic high points. Stops include iconic landmarks, such as the City Hall, Frogner neighbourhood, and a visit to the renowned Vigeland Sculpture Park.

National Museum

The largest museum in the Nordics, the National Museum brilliantly showcases Norway's rich cultural heritage, housing the nation's largest collections of art, architecture, and design in a new facility just opened in 2022. The sweeping collection is possibly most famous for Edvard Munch’s The Scream, but it’s got plenty more to offer. Some of the standouts includePile o’Sápmi, an incredibletapestry of 400 reindeer skulls by Maret Anne Sara , the royal costume collection, the bewitching Fairy Tale Room, and the almost one-thousand-year-old Baldishol carpet. You can also explore a fascinating collection of Norwegian artists like Hans Gude and Christian Krogh, as well as works by other luminaries like Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Henri Matisse, to name just a few

Botanical Garden

After you’ve toured the National Museum, be sure to check out Oslo’s