Things to do in  Oslo

Oslo is known for its fjord setting and a waterfront lined with cultural attractions from the Munch Museum to the striking Oslo Opera House. The city’s maritime history encompasses Vikings and polar explorers, which you can learn about at the Viking Ship Museum and the Fram Museum.

Two or three days in Oslo should be enough time to see most of the city’s attractions, including the Oslo Opera House, National Museum, Royal Palace, and Fram Museum, and to get onto the fjord by boat. With more than three days, you can add on a day trip to Lillehammer.

Yes. Technically you can see the northern lights in Oslo, but it is unlikely. The city is too far south for reliable aurora-viewing and there is too much light pollution to see them when they do appear. Northern Norway, especially Tromsø, is a better place to see the northern lights.

Oslo and Bergen are wonderful cities. Both are filled with history and have thriving cultural scenes, and both have access to water. Bergen, which is surrounded by mountains, has the slight upper hand when it comes to nature. Oslo is a better bet if you want a cosmopolitan city feel.

Don’t miss visiting the Munch Museum and National Museum. Art lovers should also explore the sprawling sculpture parks at Vigeland and Ekeberg—the view from the latter is noteworthy. Get out onto the water, whether island-hopping by boat or jumping into the chilly fjord from one of its several floating saunas.

Yes. While Oslo is often overlooked in favor of Copenhagen and Stockholm, it is a gem of a city that is filled with culture, history, and stylish and creative people. One of its greatest assets is its ease of access to nature: a perfect complement to the modern cityscape.