ABOUT OSLO
Discover Oslo’s Beauty and Culture
Get ready to experience Oslo, the vibrant capital of Norway!
Oslo, the capital and largest city of Norway, perfectly combines modern architecture, rich history and breathtaking natural surroundings.
Top sights include the Royal Palace, Akershus Fortress, Vigeland Sculpture Park, and the stunning Oslo Opera House by the water. You can walk along the harbor, visit fascinating museums like the MUNCH Museum or the Viking Ship Museum, or relax at a cozy café with a view of the fjord.
Oslo’s architecture reflects its evolution—from historical wooden houses to cutting-edge contemporary design in areas like Bjørvika and Aker Brygge. The city also embraces sustainability, proudly holding the title of European Green Capital in 2019.
With its compact size, Oslo invites you to explore on foot or by bike, discovering a perfect balance of culture, nature and innovation at every turn.
Come and experience why Oslo is known as the city where the fjord meets the forest — a place of beauty, inspiration and endless discoveries.
Find out more on Oslo’s official tourist information website.
Oslo's Main Attractions
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Located in the heart of the beautiful Frogner Park, Vigeland Sculpture Park is one of Oslo’s most fascinating and unique attractions. This open-air gallery showcases more than 200 impressive sculptures created by the famous Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland, all made from bronze, granite, and cast iron. Each statue tells a story about human life — from childhood and love to aging and the circle of life itself. As you walk along the park’s peaceful, tree-lined paths, surrounded by open green spaces and carefully designed gardens, you can truly feel the harmony between art and nature. The park is open all year round and completely free to visit, making it a perfect place for a relaxing stroll, quiet reflection, or simply enjoying the creative spirit that fills this remarkable space.
Akershus Fortress
Standing proudly by the waterfront near Oslo’s harbor, Akershus Fortress is one of the city’s most important historical landmarks. This impressive castle was built in the late 13th century to protect Oslo from attacks and has watched over the city for more than 700 years. Throughout its long history, the fortress has served many purposes — it has been a royal residence, a military stronghold, and even a prison. Today, visitors can wander through its old stone walls, towers, and peaceful courtyards while enjoying fantastic views of the Oslo Fjord. The site carries a special atmosphere where history seems to come alive, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in castles, architecture, or Norway’s past.
Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower
Towering high above Oslo’s skyline, Holmenkollen is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and a true symbol of Norway’s love for winter sports. Here you’ll find the world-renowned ski jump and the Norwegian Ski Museum, which together offer a fascinating mix of sport, culture, and breathtaking views. The museum takes visitors on a journey through thousands of years of skiing history — from ancient wooden skis to modern Olympic achievements. If you climb to the top of the ski jump tower, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Oslo, the fjord, and the surrounding forests. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable experience, Holmenkollen perfectly captures the adventurous spirit and natural beauty that define Norway.
Language
Norwegian is the main language spoken in Oslo, while Sami is also an official language of Norway, though not commonly used in the city.
Most people speak excellent English, and many also understand Swedish, Danish, and other European languages.
Time Zone
Oslo operates on Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is GMT+2 in June.
Mealtimes in Oslo are similar to those in other European cities. Lunch is usually enjoyed between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM, while dinner is typically served from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Many restaurants, especially in the city center, stay open later on weekends.
Weather
Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Oslo’s climate is milder than its northern location suggests. June brings the start of summer, with average temperatures between 13°C and 22°C.
Locals head to the Oslo Fjord, parks, and outdoor cafés to soak up the sunshine and make the most of the season.
Currency
Norway’s official currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK), which is divided into 100 øre (cents).
You’ll find coins of 1, 5, 10, and 20 kroner, and banknotes of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 kroner.
Check currency rates here
Credit Card
Major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in Oslo and are often more convenient than cash.
ATMs are less common on the streets but can be found in banks, convenience stores, at the airport, in shopping centers, and major train stations (look for signs marked ‘MINIBANK’ ).
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Oslo. In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is customary if a service charge isn’t included in the bill.
Tips can be left in cash or added when paying by card.
Banks
Most banks in Oslo require appointments, with few offering walk-in service.
Those that do are typically open on weekdays from 9:00 AM to around 3:30 PM, with some staying open until 5:00 PM on Thursdays. Banks are generally closed on weekends.
Electricity
The electrical voltage in Oslo is 220 V AC at 50 Hz. The city uses continental-style two-pin plugs, so travelers with different plug types will need an adapter.
Power converters are available at some hotels, and adapters can be purchased at Oslo Airport or in most electronics stores throughout the city.