10 most popular Oslo attractions

10 most popular Oslo attractions. Whether you're here for a weekend or just a day, Norway's capital offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning natural scenery. From iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and Vigeland Sculpture Park to modern marvels like the Oslo Opera House, this guide highlights the 10 most popular attractions you won't want to miss. Discover the best of Oslo—step by step.

1. Vigeland Sculpture Park (Vigelandsparken)

Located in Frogner Park, this is one of Oslo's most iconic sights. Featuring over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, the park explores the human experience—life, love, and death—through striking bronze and granite statues. It's open year-round and free to enter, making it a favorite among both tourists and locals.

📍 Frogner | Free Entry 

2. The Royal Palace (Det Kongelige Slott)

At the top of Karl Johans gate stands the stately Royal Palace, the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. Visitors can explore the surrounding Palace Park, or take a guided tour inside during the summer months to see lavish rooms and royal history in action.

📍 Central Oslo | Seasonal guided tours available

3. Oslo Opera House (Operahuset)

This architectural masterpiece in the Bjørvika district allows visitors to walk on the roof for panoramic views of the Oslofjord. Home to the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet, it's equally popular for its modern design as it is for its world-class performances.

📍 Bjørvika | Free roof access

4. Akershus Fortress (Akershus Festning)

Overlooking the harbor, this medieval castle has stood guard since the late 1200s. Visitors can explore the grounds, castle halls, and Norwegian Resistance Museum while enjoying some of the best waterfront views in the city.

📍 Aker Brygge/Vippetangen | Entry to fortress is free, museums ticketed

5. The Munch Museum (MUNCH)

Opened in 2021 in its new waterfront location, MUNCH houses more than 28,000 works by Edvard Munch, including several versions of The Scream. Its striking architecture and rotating exhibitions make it a cultural centerpiece of Oslo.

📍 Bjørvika | Entrance fee applies

6. The Viking Ship Museum (Temporarily Closed)

While currently undergoing a major renovation (reopening as the Museum of the Viking Age in 2026), this museum on Bygdøy Peninsula is famous for its incredibly preserved Viking ships and artifacts. It's a must-see when it reopens.

📍 Bygdøy | Temporarily closed for renovation

7. Fram Museum

Located on the Bygdøy Peninsula, the Fram Museum houses the Fram, the strongest wooden ship ever built and used for Arctic and Antarctic expeditions. Step aboard and explore the vessel that carried famous explorers like Roald Amundsen.

📍 Bygdøy | Family-friendly and interactive exhibits

8. Karl Johans gate

Oslo's main pedestrian street stretches from the Royal Palace to Oslo Central Station and is lined with shops, cafés, historic buildings, and major institutions like the National Theatre and Parliament. It's perfect for a casual stroll or a dose of urban energy.

📍 City Center | Open all day, free to walk

9. Holmenkollen Ski Jump & Ski Museum

One of the world's oldest ski jumps and a symbol of Norwegian winter sports, Holmenkollen offers incredible panoramic views over the city and fjord. The adjacent museum showcases over 4,000 years of skiing history and polar expeditions.

📍 30 min from city center by metro | Admission fee required

10. Oslo City Hall (Rådhuset)

Known for hosting the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, the City Hall is free to visit and contains striking murals and art that tell the story of Norway's culture, politics, and social history. Guided tours are also available in summer.

📍 Aker Brygge | Free entry