The 17 Best Family Things to Do in Oslo

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Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a beautiful city with a rich history and an abundance of cultural offerings. Known for its stunning natural surroundings and innovative architecture, Oslo is a city that has a lot to offer for all types of travelers. Whether you enjoy the outdoors or prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best attractions and things to do in Oslo, so that you can make the most of your visit to this vibrant Scandinavian city.

The 17 Best Family Things to Do in Oslo

  1. Oslo Easy Walk
  2. Oslo Grand Tour on E Scooters
  3. Small Group Oslo Bike Tour City Highlights
  4. Oslo City Highlights Guided Tour by E Scooter
  5. Art and Museum Tour
  6. Oslo 2 Self Guided City Walking Sightseeing Tours
  7. Oslo City Walks Historic River Walk
  8. 7 Hours Private Limousine Tour Combined Oslo and Tyrifjord Including the Twist
  9. Oslo 2 Walking Tours Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour
  10. Oslo Panoramic Tour
  11. City Excursion Museums Free
  12. Panoramic Oslo City Sightseeing Tour
  13. Oslo City and Vigeland Park Private Walking Tour
  14. Oslo Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise With Audio Guide
  15. Oslo 2 Hour Fjord Sightseeing Tour
  16. The Essential Oslo Walking Tour
  17. City Sightseeing Oslo Hop on Hop Off Tour

The 17 Best Family Things to Do in Oslo

1. Oslo Easy Walk

Discover the rich history and creative contemporary culture of Oslo with this walking tour. Explore the city’s top attractions on foot at a leisurely pace, from the sleek Oslo Opera House on the fjord to the red brick City Hall. Your certified life guide will bring the history of the Norwegian capital to life through stories of the events and characters that have shaped it. This tour includes the opportunity to walk on the roof of Oslo Opera House and enjoy some snacks along the way.

The meeting point is in front of the equestrian statue of King Karl Johan in front of the Palace. The walking tour will end at Kirsten Flagstads Plass, where you can continue to explore the city on your own. The tour duration is approximately 45 minutes and is suitable for all ages. Join us and experience Oslo’s top attractions like never before.

2. Oslo Grand Tour on E Scooters

Explore the highlights of Oslo in a speedy and personalized way on this private e-scooter tour. Your tour begins in central Oslo where you’ll meet your guide and get familiar with your e-scooter. Once you’re ready, you’ll set off to see the best sights of Oslo, including the Oslo Opera House, Oslofjord Promenade, the Royal Palace, the Norwegian Parliament, and more. This tour is perfect for those who want to see as much as possible in a short amount of time and get a unique perspective on the city’s top landmarks. Your tour includes electronic scooter rental, safety equipment rental, and snacks. The meeting point is located at DFDS Oslo, next to the DFDS ferry from Oslo to Copenhagen, along the building towards t. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

3. Small Group Oslo Bike Tour City Highlights

Immerse yourself in the cultural and architectural majesty of Oslo with a 3-hour bike tour of the Norwegian capital. With the help of a knowledgeable guide, cruise through the charming city streets visiting must-see attractions like Aker Brygge shipyard, Akerhus Castle, and the Royal Palace. Get an insightful introduction to the city’s rich history while enjoying the intimate atmosphere of a small-group tour, with a maximum of only 15 people. This 3-hour afternoon bike tour takes you through Oslo’s fjord-side cycle paths, passing top attractions like Karl Johan’s gate, Oslo City Hall, and the famous Vigeland sculptures in Frognerparken. Take a break at Akerhus Castle to admire its fascinating architecture before continuing the tour. The tour includes the services of a professional guide, along with the use of a bike and helmet. Food and drinks are not included, but entrance fees are covered. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see the highlights of Oslo up close by bike!

4. Oslo City Highlights Guided Tour by E Scooter

Come across Oslo’s most iconic landmarks in a short time by riding a convenient e-scooter. Join your guide on an insightful tour and learn about local history as you gaze at a variety of buildings, statues, parks, and monuments. This Oslo City Highlights Guided Tour by E Scooter is a perfect way to explore the city’s must-see attractions in a fun and unique way. You’ll also have the chance to discover hidden gems with your local tour guide, and enjoy the ride along the Oslofjord and the city’s green locations. The tour includes e-scooter rental, helmets, guided tour, and gratuities. Please note that it’s not suitable for children under 13 years old, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, people with heart problems, and people over 264 lbs (120 kg).

5. Art and Museum Tour

Explore Oslo’s rich art history on this walking tour of museums and historic attractions. Accompanied by a knowledgeable art historian guide, gain insight into Norwegian art as you visit museums of your choice and top attractions including Aker Brygge. This tour is flexible and can be tailored to your interests. The tour includes a Blue Badge guide, professional guide, and professional art historian guide. Meeting points are available and pickup from your central Oslo hotel or cruise ship can be arranged. Join us on this adventure to discover the best art and museums in Oslo. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

6. Oslo 2 Self Guided City Walking Sightseeing Tours

Discover the highlights of Norway’s capital city with a self-guided walking tour of Oslo. Admire the stunning architecture of the city, including the Nobel Peace Center, the only one located outside of Sweden. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Christiania, the original city center of Oslo, and explore the vibrant Aker Brygge, Oslo’s alternative quarter. With access to an app featuring three audio-guided walking routes, you can continue your exploration of the city at your own pace. The tour includes a tour guide, public transportation tickets, entry to attractions, and food and drinks. With this tour, you can experience the best of Oslo on your terms.

7. Oslo City Walks Historic River Walk

Enjoy a guided walk along the revitalized Akerselva River, famously known as Oslo’s ‘Green Lung.’ On this tour, you’ll learn about the city’s industrialization history and see how this central hub has been transformed into a popular outdoor space lined with cafes and art galleries. As you stroll along the river, your guide will provide insight into the development of this beautiful landscape, and you’ll stop at Mathallen, a gourmet food court, for a bite to eat. With seafood, hams and cheeses, Asian street food, and many more international offerings, there’s sure to be something to please all taste buds. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and you’ll start and end your journey at the Oslo Visitor Center.

8. 7 Hours Private Limousine Tour Combined Oslo and Tyrifjord Including the Twist

See the best sights of Oslo and beyond on this full-day private limousine tour. Your guide will take care of all the planning and transportation, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. Start your day at 9:00 AM with pickup from your hotel, then head out to explore Oslo’s top attractions like the Kistefos Museum, Vigeland Park, the Nobel Peace Center, and the Royal Palace. You’ll also venture beyond the city limits to see the stunning Tyrifjorden lake and Jevnaker region.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see all the highlights of Oslo without worrying about logistics. You’ll ride in a luxurious limousine and enjoy bottled water throughout the day. Your guide will provide insightful commentary on the history and culture of each destination you visit. Plus, lunch is included so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to eat.

Entrance fees to all listed attractions, including The Twist Gallery, are included in the tour price. And since this is a private tour, you can customize the itinerary to suit your interests. Simply agree on the pickup time with your guide after booking. Don’t miss the chance to explore Oslo in style on this unforgettable private limousine tour.

9. Oslo 2 Walking Tours Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour

This tour offers an opportunity to explore Oslo with a ‘Best of Oslo’ walking tour and a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket. With the bus tour ticket, you will have access to attractions and public transportation throughout the day. You will also receive a FREE Vox City sightseeing mobile app to guide you through your journey.

The tour will start at the selected meeting point and end back at the meeting point. During the walking tour, you will pass by a number of attractions such as National Theatre and Munchmuseet, while the hop-on hop-off bus tour will take you to 22 more stops.

Please note that confirmation of the booking will be received via email, and the voucher for the bus will also be sent before the travel date. The walking tours start at 10:00 AM and the bus tours can be accessed for 24 hours from first use.

Service animals are allowed, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. You can cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

10. Oslo Panoramic Tour

Explore the highlights of Oslo on a 3-hour panoramic sightseeing tour with a certified Oslo guide. Admire the most important landmarks in Oslo’s city center from the comfort of a modern coach and learn about the city’s history and culture along the way. The tour takes you to the breathtaking Holmenkollen Ski Jump where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city and the Oslo fjord. You’ll then continue your tour by comfortable sightseeing bus to the unique Vigeland Sculpture Park where you can discover the life of Norwegian sculpture Gustav Vigeland and explore his famous works. The Vigeland Sculpture Park is the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. So if you’re short on time but still want to see the best of Oslo, the Oslo Panoramic Tour is the perfect choice for you.

11. City Excursion Museums Free

Get a comprehensive overview of Oslo’s main attractions and some of its best-kept secrets with the City Excursion Museums Free tour. In just half a day, visit top attractions such as the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet, Akershus Fortress, and Vigeland Sculpture Park. With a personal Blue Badge guide, you’ll get insider suggestions and information at each location while enjoying the personalized experience of a private tour. This tour also takes you to points of interest that most tourists miss, making it the perfect orientation to the city. Enjoy private transportation, gratuities, food and drinks, and the flexibility to choose between meeting directly at the meeting point or requesting pickup. The tour ends back at the meeting point at Rådhuset. Take in the best of Oslo with the City Excursion Museums Free tour.

12. Panoramic Oslo City Sightseeing Tour

Enhance your Oslo experience with a comprehensive 3-hour sightseeing tour of the city’s top attractions. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, visit significant landmarks like Vigeland Park and the Holmenkollen Ski Jump. Gain fascinating insights into Oslo’s rich historical heritage while admiring the incredible bronze and granite sculptures of Gustav Vigeland. Take in panoramic views of the city from the vertiginous vantage point of the iconic ski jump. Continue your exploration of the city center by coach, cruising past notable monuments like Oslo Cathedral and Akershus Castle while listening to interesting commentary. Transport by coach is included in this tour.

13. Oslo City and Vigeland Park Private Walking Tour

Take a private walking tour to discover the wonders of Oslo City and Vigeland Park. With the help of an experienced guide, explore the most important landmarks such as the Akershus Castle, Rådhuset (City Hall), and the Aker Brygge district. You will also have the chance to visit the Nobel Peace Center, and the Royal Palace.
The tour continues with a visit to the Vigeland Park, where more than 200 sculptures are waiting to be discovered. Your guide will provide insightful commentary about the history and culture of the city throughout the tour.
You will be provided with a public transport ticket to Vigeland Park and get the chance to set your own pace during this private walking tour.
The meeting point for the tour is the famous Nobel Peace Center located in the City Centre. After the tour, you have the opportunity to return to the center or end at your preferred location. Gratuities are included in the tour cost but optional.

14. Oslo Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise With Audio Guide

Set off on a scenic Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise to admire the stunning waterside landmarks of Oslo from the comfort of a zero-emission electric boat with a modern climate system. Cruise past the iconic Akershus Fortress, check out the natural beauty of Hoveøya Island, and take in the stunning shoreline views of the Munch Museum, Opera House and Oslo City Hall. With an informative audio guide, learn about Oslo’s history and geography while taking in panoramic views of the fjord. You have the option to disembark at Bygdøy Peninsula or take a round-trip back to the pier. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard. Return transportation to Oslo is provided if you choose to disembark at Bygdøy.

15. Oslo 2 Hour Fjord Sightseeing Tour

This 2-hour Fjord sightseeing tour is the perfect way to discover the stunning beauty of Oslo’s Fjord while sailing on an authentic ship. Traverse through narrow sounds, scenic bays and a labyrinth of islands, and capture the capital from different angles. Get amazing photo opportunities of quaint islands, picturesque summer homes, and towering mountains, appreciating the landscapes of The Oslofjord. Sail past numerous islands including Hovedøya, and the Dyna Lighthouse, and admire the unique views of The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet ensemble located in The Oslo Opera House, which has won numerous awards. A visit to the new Munch Museum is also included in the tour. With a drink in hand, you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Oslo’s Fjord, and explore Oslo from the sea just as the Vikings did.

16. The Essential Oslo Walking Tour

See Oslo’s top sights and attractions on a fascinating walking tour. This guided tour starts from City Hall, home of the Nobel Peace Prize, and takes you on a journey through the city’s bustling capital. Discover local landmarks such as Parliament, the Royal Palace, and the University of Oslo. Marvel at Akershus Fortress and enjoy a walk through Aker Brugge – a revitalized waterfront area that’s now home to a bevy of stores, bars, and restaurants. You’ll also visit the Tjuvholmen District – a foodie haven that boasts numerous art galleries. Get insider tips on the best spots to drink, eat, and shop in the area. Join the “Essential Oslo” walking tour and explore the city’s primary sights and attractions while getting a lay of the local land. Receive a fascinating in-depth look at the top sights and enjoy expert tips on where to find the best fish soup or where to browse for souvenirs. Book now and discover the vibrant city of Oslo!

17. City Sightseeing Oslo Hop on Hop Off Tour

Explore Oslo on a city sightseeing hop-on hop-off tour and discover Norway’s capital at your own pace. With your voucher, you can enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off for 24 or 48 hours, and visit top attractions such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Akershus Castle and Fortress. On-board audio commentary is available in several languages, and free headphones are provided. Simply step onboard your city sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus at any of the stops in Oslo and relax as you travel around the city, listening to commentary about each sight. Food and drinks are not included, and optional gratuities may be given. Check the opening hours of the tour and select your preferred tour option to start your adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oslo

Oslo, Norway’s capital city, is a beautiful and exciting destination for tourists. With its unique blend of nature, culture, and modern architecture, Oslo offers visitors a wide array of experiences. However, as with any new place, tourists often have many questions about the city. In this blog post, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Oslo.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Oslo?

Oslo is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique experiences. Summer is perhaps the most popular time to visit Oslo since the days are long, and the weather is mild. It’s the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and exploring the city’s many parks. However, summer is also the busiest time of year, so visitors can expect larger crowds.Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Oslo, with the trees changing colors and cooler temperatures. Winters are cold, but the city is dotted with beautiful Christmas lights and offers a variety of winter sports like skiing, sledding, and ice-skating. Spring brings warmer weather and beautiful blooming flowers, making it a great time to explore the city’s gardens and parks.

2. Is Oslo an expensive city to visit?

Yes, Oslo is known for being an expensive city to visit. However, this shouldn’t deter you from traveling there. There are many ways to budget and save money during your trip. For example, consider purchasing an Oslo Pass, which gives you free entry to many of the city’s museums and access to public transportation. You can also save money by staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or by cooking your meals instead of eating out.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Oslo?

There are many popular attractions in Oslo that tourists should visit. Here are just a few:

a. The Vigeland Sculpture Park

The Vigeland Sculpture Park is the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. Visitors can explore over 200 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures that depict the human form in various poses and expressions.

b. The Oslo Opera House

The Oslo Opera House, designed by the Norwegian architecture firm Snøhetta, is an impressive example of modern architecture. Visitors can walk on the roof of the building and take in panoramic views of the city.

c. The Norwegian National Opera and Ballet

The Norwegian National Opera and Ballet is located inside the Oslo Opera House and hosts a wide variety of performances, including operas, ballets, and concerts.

d. The Munch Museum

The Munch Museum is dedicated to the works of the famous Norwegian artist, Edvard Munch. Visitors can see some of his most famous paintings, including “The Scream.”

4. Is it easy to get around Oslo?

Yes, Oslo has a great public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, subways, and ferries. Visitors can purchase an Oslo Pass, which gives them unlimited access to all forms of public transportation. The city is also very walkable, and many attractions are located within walking distance of each other.

5. What should I eat while in Oslo?

Oslo has a variety of delicious traditional Norwegian foods to try. Some must-try dishes include:

a. Fårikål

Fårikål is a traditional Norwegian stew made with lamb, cabbage, and carrots. It’s typically eaten during the fall months and is a warm and hearty dish.

b. Smoked Salmon

Norway is known for its high-quality salmon, and smoked salmon is a popular dish in Oslo. Visitors can try it at many restaurants or the local fish market.

c. Krumkake

Krumkake is a traditional Norwegian cookie made with sugar, flour, and cream. It’s often enjoyed during the holiday season.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Oslo

Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a vibrant city with lots of things to see and do. From the stunning fjords and nature to the rich culture and history, you won’t run out of places to explore. This guide will help you plan your visit to Oslo and make the most of your time here.

1. Visit the Famous Attractions

Oslo has many famous attractions that you simply cannot miss. These include:

a. The Viking Ship Museum

The Viking Ship Museum houses three well-preserved Viking ships that date back to the 9th century. You can explore the museum and learn about the Viking age and their seafaring skills.

b. The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace in Oslo is the residence of the Norwegian King and Queen. You can take a guided tour of the palace and explore the beautiful architecture and interior decoration.

c. The Akershus Fortress

The Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle situated in the heart of Oslo. You can explore the fortress, learn about its history and enjoy the stunning views from its walls.

2. Walk Around Aker Brygge

Aker Brygge is a popular waterfront district in Oslo that boasts many cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops. You can stroll along the promenade, enjoy the views of the harbor, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

3. Explore the Outdoors

Oslo is home to many beautiful outdoor spaces that you can explore, including parks, forests, and lakes. Some of the most popular ones are:

a. Vigeland Sculpture Park

The Vigeland Sculpture Park is a unique outdoor museum that showcases the works of the Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. You can stroll along the park and admire the sculptures, fountains, and bridges.

b. Holmenkollen Ski Jump

The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is a historic landmark in Oslo that offers panoramic views of the city. During the winter season, you can witness the ski jumping competitions, while in the summer, you can visit the Ski Museum or hike in the surrounding forests.

c. The Oslo Fjords

The Oslo Fjords are a must-see attraction in Oslo. You can take a boat tour and explore the stunning landscapes, islands, and villages nearby.

4. Visit The Museums

Oslo is home to many museums that cover different aspects of Norwegian culture, history, and art. Some of the most popular ones are:

a. The Munch Museum

The Munch Museum houses the largest collection of artworks by the famous Norwegian painter Edvard Munch. You can explore his famous painting “The Scream” and many other masterpieces.

b. The National Gallery

The National Gallery is another famous museum in Oslo that showcases the works of many famous Norwegian artists, including Edvard Munch and Theodor Kittelsen.

c. The Kon-Tiki Museum

The Kon-Tiki Museum is a unique museum that tells the adventurous story of the Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl and his famous expeditions across the Pacific Ocean.

5. Experience the Local Cuisine

Norwegian cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, berries, and dairy products. In Oslo, you can try many traditional dishes that will delight your taste buds. Some popular ones are:

a. Gravlaks

Gravlaks is a traditional Norwegian dish that consists of salmon marinated in sugar, salt, and dill. You can find it in many seafood restaurants in Oslo.

b. Fårikål

Fårikål is a hearty traditional Norwegian stew made of lamb, cabbage, and pepper. You can find it in many local restaurants during the fall season.

c. Krumkake

Krumkake is a popular Norwegian dessert that consists of a thin waffle cookie filled with whipped cream. You can find it in many bakeries and cafes in Oslo.

Book Your Tour Now

Oslo is a city full of surprises, and you can never get bored here. Whether you are interested in history, art, nature, or cuisine, Oslo has something to offer. Follow this guide, and you will have a memorable time in this beautiful city.

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The 17 Best Family Things to Do in Oslo

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