Top (Mostly) Free Things to Do in Oslo
- evyvaughan
- Apr 28, 2019
- 2 min read
We spent so much time in Oslo, I realized a full out blog recounting my exact adventures would be a 15-minute read. Ain't nobody got time for that. Instead, I thought I would write one of those articles that suggest what to do when you are visiting a city. Listed below are my Oslo must-dos that will fill your day with joy but won't give you overdraft fees!
1. The Oslo Opera House
This is a relatively new, extremely impressive structure with clean lines and a gorgeous interior. The best part: you can walk on the roof for free!
It meets at 10 am every morning at "The Tiger" statue in the main square. We didn’t end up partaking in this tour because it was raining, but I hear that it is worth it!
3. Walk around Akerselva River
I would highly recommend walking across the bridges and along the river located further north of central Oslo. There are also some lovely restaurants around here if you’d like to splurge a bit.
4. The Royal Palace
The king and Queen of Norway still live there, apparently! To the right is a small park with little art installations. I can also recommend continuing to walk up and into residential Oslo. Careful to not get lost, as there is not a ton of wifi to be found. You may or may not have to use your phone compass to navigate your way back to the harbor. Not speaking from experience or anything.
5. Street art!
You will find some cool pieces of art in Oslo. They are like little gems all over the place!
6. Sentrum
This is the downtown area of Oslo, right next to the main harbor. Here, you can view historic buildings, window shop to your heart's content (Be careful, Norwegian prices are steep!), and relax in the main plaza with tea and a pastry, if you so desire! Also noteworthy, the dichotomy of old, historical architecture and buildings with modern design especially come to light in this part of Oslo. The city has quite an eclectic mix of styles, which I think is awesome.
7. Harald’s Vaffel
This was the BEST midday pick-me-up. Ask for the traditional waffle with jam, cream, and brown cheese. You won’t be disappointed. The cheese is a Norwegian specialty!
This area is amazing! The museum is at the far end of the main harbor area, past a long line of outdoor restaurants topped with apartments of intriguing architectural design. At the very end, you will find the Museum of Modern Art and a gorgeous view of the water. This is a nice place to sit and think. Actually buying a ticket to see the art is optional, in my opinion. The buildings themselves are like a gallery!
9. Akershus Fortress
Located on the other side of the harbor is an opportunity to explore a Norwegian military castle, complete with cannons and guards. It was built in the 1290s! This activity doesn’t take that long and has some lovely views of the water.
10. SALT
This is a pop-up recreational area right on the water where you can “disfrutar.” There is a small bar/ restaurant, a sauna, food trucks, lots of outdoor seating, and architectural art. Perfect for the summer!
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