Encompassed by a fjord and kilometres of woodland, Norway’s capital is an easy-going city with an architectural mix of old and new, world-class museums, a lively nightlife and plenty of outdoor activities for the energetic.  The city was originally founded in 1049 by King Harald Hardråda and became capital of Norway around 1300, but lost its privileges during the Danish-Norwegian union from 1348 to 1814. 

Oslo slipped into obscurity and in 1624, it was devastated by fire.  The city was moved some kilometres west on a more easily defended site, and was resurrected by King Christian IV, who renamed the new site Christiana.  This name remained until the Danish-Norwegian union was dissolved and Norway became a separate kingdom, reverting back to its original name, Oslo, in 1925.

Today, the city is the perfect size for exploring by foot, and embodies the urban elegance of the late 19^th and early 20^th Centuries, with wide streets, stately parks and gardens, solid buildings and long, classical vistas combined to provide a content, modest air. 

Museums and Galleries

Oslo has a large and varied number of cultural attractions, which include many well-known museums and galleries.  The Munch Museum, which opened in 1963, is dedicated to the life and works of Norwegian artist, Edvard Munch.  Its collection consists of works and articles donated by the artist to the municipality of Oslo upon his death.  One of Munch’s most famous compositions is The Scream; created by both paintings and pastels, it depicts a figure contorting in agony against a tumultuous orange sky.  The Munch Museum homes one of the painted versions of the creation, as well as a pastel version from 1893.

The National Gallery houses Norway’s largest public collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures.  The museum’s exhibitions present older art – with principal emphasis on art from Norway – including works from the Romantic era and more modern works from 1800 to WWII.  There is also an impressive collection of European art with works by Gauguin, Picasso, El Greco and many of the impressionists; Renoir, Matisse, Cezanne and Monet.  The National Museums exhibition avenues are the National Gallery, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the National Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts and the National Museum of Architecture, with a new National Museum in Oslo expected to be built in the next 10 years. 

Norwegian’s take pride in their role as international peacemakers, which explains the central location of the Nobel Peace Centre.  Considered Oslo’s most technically advanced museum, it offers an array of digital displays that are intended to offer as much or as little information as the visitor desires.  The permanent installations tell the story of Alfred Nobel, the Peace Prize laureates and their engaged and ground-breaking work.  This independent organisation contains information of every winner in history, and expands every year when a new Nobel Prize winner is announced. 

Parks and Recreation

Frognerparken, the biggest and most reputed park in Norway, is a must-see in Oslo.  Also known as Vigelandsparken, the famous park is filled with 212 bronze and granite sculptures, all designed by Gustav Vigeland.  One of the most renowned sculptures is the Monolith; the column is over 14 metres tall and, carved in one single stone, consists of 121 human figures.   The Monolith is said to represent a number of interpretations, such as man’s resurrection; the struggle for existence, man’s yearning for spiritual spheres and the transcendence of everyday life.  Vigeland also designed the architectural setting and the layout of the grounds, with their far stretching lawns and long, straight avenues bordered with maple trees. 

Slottsparken surrounds the Royal Palace and Palace Square.  Visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard here, and when the King is in residence, the Royal Guard band accompanies the change with music.  The park consists of large lawns under tall trees, avenues and landscaped water surfaces, and an equestrian statue of King Karl Johan, who ruled Sweden and Norway during the first half of the 19^th Century.   

For beautiful views and vast areas of untouched nature, Nordmarka Forest is a source of recreation for many of Oslo’s visitors and inhabitants, both in summer and winter.  Hiking or cycling through the forested hills and lakes are popular activities throughout the summer months, whilst cross-country skiing is the main attraction in winter; there are over 450km of prepared, red-marked ski trails available.

For those interested in geology and nature, take a trip to Hovedøya, one of several small islands off the coast of Oslo.  Due to the geology and natural diversity, the island has been declared a natural preserve.  It is well known for its lush and green nature, with a wide variety of trees, bushes and flowers.  While no part of the island is off limits to the public, collecting rock samples and collecting plants is banned. 

Restaurants and Nightlife

Oslo is most certainly the cosmopolitan heart of Norway, with a rapidly growing café and bar culture, top-notch restaurants and entertainment options ranging from world-class opera and jazz, to indie rock.

Maaemo is the first ever restaurant in Scandinavia to receive two stars in the Michelin Guide on its first rating, only 14 months after opening.  The seasonal menu is based on organic and natural local ingredients, including rare Norwegian herbs and berries.  The restaurant has a Norwegian owner, Danish head-chef and Finnish sommelier, making it a truly Scandinavian collaboration.  Combined with an innovative kitchen and employees that are allowed to make their own mark on the food, drinks and experience, Maaemo is everything you’d expect of a restaurant at the top international level. 

Hos Thea is a modest restaurant that provides a gourmet experience exceeding all expectations.  Located in a charming residential area just a ten minute walk away from the city centre, Hos Thea provides intimate yet lively dining, with the restaurant recently celebrating more than 20 years in the business.  From the open kitchen, owner Sergio Barcilon and his team often serve the Mediterranean and Scandinavian dishes themselves.  Choose up to six courses in one sitting, allowing a broader exploration of the exciting menu. 

Oslo’s nightlife has something special for everyone, whether your preference is beers at the pub, listening to live music or clubbing into the early hours.  Champagneria is an upscale and chic bar that brings joy to its patrons and envy to its competitors.  Renowned for its excellent champagne, fine wines and tapas, Champagneria is slightly off the beaten track in Frognerveien, but definitely worth finding.  Covering two floors and a terrace area, Champagneria is a great venue with a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for an evening out with friends.

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