How to Make the Most of Your 24 Hours in Oslo, Norway
Oslo, Norway’s capital city and its biggest tourist attraction, has much to offer to visitors in just one day, let alone 24 hours. While 24 hours might not be enough time to visit all of Oslo’s attractions or catch every show at the National Theater, it’s more than enough to pack in some of the best experiences the city has to offer. Here’s how you can make the most of your 24 hours in Oslo, Norway.
Day 1 – Arrive at Vigeland Park
Explore Vigeland Park, which is full of more than 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. It will take you a few hours to walk through the park and see all there is to see. You’ll want to allow plenty of time for this part because there are a lot of cool sculptures and it’s worth taking your time. My favorite ones were The Fearless and The Angry.
Day 1 – Stroll Through Vaterlandsparken
Start your day off right with a stroll through Vaterlandsparken. This park is full of history, and has many statues honoring Norwegian artists such as Henrik Ibsen and Peter Christen Asbjørnsen. You’ll also find plenty of grassy areas for running or playing sports. Or simply relax under a tree on one of the many benches throughout the park.
Day 1 – Eat Fish N Chips on Aker Brygge
Start your day with a long walk along Aker Brygge, one of Oslo’s most popular tourist attractions. The waterside promenade is lined with outdoor cafés and features plenty of opportunities for people watching. Grab some fish and chips (Norwegian style) at any one of the variety of restaurants that line this stretch if you’re feeling peckish. If not, then try out Akershus fortress – one of Oslo’s most iconic buildings – before making your way over to Vigeland Park. It’s not just a park; it’s an art gallery too! Explore the sculptures and read up on the history by checking out the information boards dotted around.
Day 2 – Visit The Viking Ship Museum
The Viking Ship Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in Nordic history. Located close to the harbor, it’s easy enough to find and offers an incredible opportunity to see and learn about some of the region’s most iconic vessels. You can even climb aboard one of them! As well as viewing the ships themselves, there are also some really interesting exhibits on board that will keep you entertained for hours. Be sure not to miss this stop if you’re visiting Oslo.
Day 3 – Tour Holmenkollen Ski Jump
If you’ve been enjoying some of the other things on this list during your visit to Oslo, then you should definitely head up to Holmenkollen Ski Jump. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Norway and offers a great opportunity for breathtaking views. And even if you can’t see the ski jump from where you are (it may be covered in snow), it’s worth visiting just for the view. And even if it isn’t snowing, it’s worth visiting just for the view. You can either take the bus from downtown or take an Uber from wherever you are staying and just look out the window while en route—you won’t regret it!
Day 4 – Walk the City Streets and See Edvard Munch Artifacts
Start your morning at The Munch Museum. The museum is a three-story building that houses over 200 paintings and sculptures by the artist. Once you’ve finished at the museum, head out into central Oslo and walk around. If you have time before lunch (and some energy after walking) take a ferry from Aker Brygge to Bygdøy as it will offer views of both Oslofjorden and Oslo’s fjord with its scenic islands.
Day 5 – Go On a Harbor Cruise
On your way back to your hotel, stop by the pier just outside Grønland metro and grab tickets for a harbor cruise. These cruises leave every hour on the hour and will take you up close with some of Oslo’s most scenic views. You’ll be able to spot the Opera House, Akershus Fortress, City Hall Square and much more from the water. You’ll want to wear something waterproof!
Day 6 – Explore Frogner Park and Its Sculptures by Gustav Vigeland
Frogner Park is one of the city’s most popular attractions for tourists and locals alike. The park contains a wide variety of sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, including The Angry Boy and The Monolith. There are also many different species of trees in the area, making it an ideal location for picnics on sunny days. However, this does mean that during winter months you may find snow covers much of the ground so be sure to dress accordingly. If you’re up for a more active day, take advantage of the large open fields or jog alongside some horses!