Norway's spectacular countryside gets all the tourist attention, but Oslo deserves some hype too. The capital invigorates thanks to an enviable combination of urban sleekness and natural charm, with forests, islands and lakes at its doorstep.
Oslo overflows with world-class museums covering wide-ranging subjects - meet Munch and his infamous Scream, Vikings and their impressive longboats, Nobel Peace Prize history, and pioneering polar explorers, plus loads more. Time travel the waterfront to journey from the medieval Akershus fortress and castle to the 21st-century Opera House, designed to resemble a floating iceberg. It's a great public space - be sure to walk on the roof!
Exercise your camera at many more places around the city. Holmenkollen is a ski-jump hilltop above the town, a high-altitude landmark with spectacular views. Vigeland Park is packed with clever, whimsical sculptures that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Thanks to Norway's long and magnificent coastline, you're promised fresh-off-the-boat seafood. The vibrant waterfront Aker Brygge district is the perfect venue for alfresco fun on long summer nights - it's a former shipyard given a new lease on life, and a prime destination for eating, drinking and shopping.
Oslo's coolest neighborhood is Grünerløkka - a magnet for the city's hipsters and creative types, and home to the city's most interesting food, coffee, cocktails, boutiques and design. It's perfect for exploration. For something a bit more down-to-earth, tap into the food from Oslo's growing ethnic communities (Indian, Eastern European and African) - the Grønland area is the perfect place to start.
You can get a fabulous taste of the Norwegian outdoors without leaving Oslo, but for bigger adventures the city is a gateway to spectacular landscapes in Norway's prized countryside. The train journey from Oslo to Bergen is considered one of the most spectacular in the world, and from Bergen the west coast's breathtaking fjords beckon.
The scenery is inspiring, whether it's viewed from the deck of a boat or through the window of a car or train. Explore one deep-blue, seemingly endless fjord after another. Navigate wooded mountain slopes and pass beside gushing rivers. Stop for unmatched hiking opportunities, to kayak or go boating in pristine waters, or to enjoy brilliant ski facilities from around December to April. Everything comes with a scenic backdrop.
Due to its position, Oslo has a continental climate meaning cold winters (think -13 degrees Fahrenheit) and warm summers. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go so that you pack the right clothes.
Norway’s currency is the Norwegian Kroner. Make sure you change your dollars before you go or at a cash exchange on arrival. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards as a method of payment, just be sure to check the exchange rates and are aware of any bank fees before you travel.
Although the official language spoken in Oslo is Norwegian, most people understand English well.
2-3 days should be enough for you to enjoy the sights, learn the history, and get a good feel for the city.
The best way to get around Oslo is to use the public trams or buses, as they're widely available and will keep you well-connected throughout the city.
