Oslo attractions

The Ibsen Museum showcases the life and works of Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. He’s considered one of the fathers of modern theater and is among the most influential European playwrights of the 19th century. The museum is in the playwright's final home and features biographical exhibits and restored living quarters with personal belongings and artworks.

Home to Norway’s largest collection of art, architecture, and design, the National Museum (Nasjonalmuseet) is a must-see if you’re an art lover in Oslo. The 6,500-strong collection features world-famous artworks and cutting-edge contemporary art; it also boasts an enviable location on Oslo’s waterfront.

Housed in a suitably futuristic complex designed by Renzo Piano, the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art (Astrup Fearnley Museet) is a privately owned gallery devoted to modern and contemporary art. Its sizable collection dates from the 1960s and features both international and Norwegian artists.

Surrounding the Royal Palace, and encompassing 53 acres (22 hectares) of grassy areas and winding paths through thousands of planted trees, Slottsparken is a protected Norwegian cultural landmark and wonderful space to enjoy nature within the city. This romantic attraction features pristine ponds, long-lived majestic trees planted in the 19th century, and elegant statues of Norwegian royals.

Housed in a splendid (and rare for Oslo) neoclassical building, the Vigeland Museum houses the works of Gustav Vigeland, the influential Norwegian sculptor also known as the designer of the Nobel Peace Prize medal. Along with his sculptures, on display are his photographs, sketches, woodcuts, and writings, the museum also documents Vigeland's artistic process.

Frogner Park (Frognerparken) is to Oslo what Central Park is to New York. A gathering place for locals and visitors alike, the city’s largest park features the popular Vigeland Sculpture Park and Frogner Manor House, part of the Museum of Oslo. Beyond these main attractions, you’ll find a sprawling rose garden, meandering trails, a café and restaurant, and Oslo’s largest playground.

Norway’s second-busiest port, after Bergen, the Port of Oslo (Oslo Havn) is a popular destination on Scandinavian cruises, welcoming over a hundred annual cruise calls. Located at the head of the Oslo Fjord, cruise passengers at the Port of Oslo benefit from easy access to the Norwegian capital, with its many lakes, parks, and museums.