A spring walk around Oslo

Monday, 19 May 2025

When you only have a day in Oslo...

Following on from a fantastic FAM trip to Norway and Sweden with Visit Värmland and Visit Greater Oslo, I found myself with less than a day to explore Oslo. A brief window to soak in the soul of Norway's capital before heading off on my next leg. Challenge accepted! I opted for a self-guided walking tour combined with public transport to stay in control of the clock. The long hours of daylight in Spring were a definite advantage.

There are many ways and routes to take around the city, this was mine - speed-touring Oslo's essentials!

Oslo Central Station (left) and Oslo Opera House (right)

Central Station and waterfront

Whether you're arriving in Norway's vibrant capital for a city break or as part of a wider tour and gateway to the fjords, you will perhaps arrive into the modern and efficient Central Station (on time!). Within a few steps from the station, I was surrounded by modern architecture, history and nature: the Munch Museum, the Oslo Opera House, Deichman Library and Oslofjord. I didn't have to go far to immerse myself in Oslo's culture. One of the first things that struck me about Oslo is the light— it's softer here, especially in spring when the low-angle sun stretches across the city and fjord.

Oslo Munch Museum

Munch Museum

This striking 13 story waterfront museum is one of the first images to meet you in Oslo. This modernist building showcases the world's largest collection of one of Norway's most celebrated artist - Edvard Munch. Along with his works you will find paintings, drawings, prints, letters and photographs for a profound insight into his life and works. The top-floor terrace bar was busy with visitors admiring the the views in the sunshine.

Bygdøy Museum Peninsular

During the summer season, the ferry takes you from the city centre across the fjord to Bygdøy peninsular in 15-20 minutes. You can also take bus number 30 all year round. The bus stops at all of the museums, and it takes 20 minutes from the city centre - I took the bus. Unfortunately I didn't have time to go inside the museums but I can't wait to return as my colleagues regularly tell me they are gems of Norwegian culture and history:

• The Kon-Tiki Museum - Experience the original balsawood raft that Thor Heyerdahl crossed the pacific ocean on and see up-to-date exhibits of his expeditions.
• Norwegian Maritime Museum - Presenting Norwegian maritime history, shipbuilding and underwater technology.
• Norwegian Museum of Cultural History - Also known as the Folk Museum, it is an outdoor museum full of heritage and tradition.
• Fram Museum - The Polar Exploration Museum, learn more about the polar expeditions and see the original ship.

The iconic Fram, Maritime and Kon-Tiki Museums

From Bygdøy I jumped on the number 30 bus which stops regularly outside the museums and headed back towards the city centre. I had a plane to catch later but I still wanted to see more of Oslo's city life and culture before heading back to Gardermoen airport. I decided to get off the bus and explore on foot in the warm sunshine and to grab some lunch along the way back to the station. I disembarked outside the National Library, in the quieter western part of the city centre. This area has a mix of grand old buildings and embassies with green areas and planted flowers woven into every street and corner.

Royal Palace and National Theatre

Heading east on Henrik Ibsen's Gate, I followed a wide boulevard with trams, shops and cafes, passing the National Theatre, a Baroque-style building and cornerstone of Norway's performing arts scene since 1899, adorned with statues of renowned playwrights. A short detour took me through the Royal Palace Park to enjoy green space and a great view of Karl Johan's gate. The surrounding park was filled with people of all ages, enjoying the fresh air and celebrating the nations heritage.

As I walked around the fountains outside the National Theatre and Studentler Park, I discovered the bronze statue of the highly revered Norwegian actress - Wenche Foss. Somebody had cheekily placed a Norwegian flag in her hand so I stopped to take a picture. The lady next to me smiled and said "She's getting ready for May 17" A reference to Constitution Day, a public holiday celebrating the Norwegian Constitution in 1814. This is a huge celebration including parades and the wearing of national costumes, flags waving, music and patriotic festivities. If only I could stay a few more days.

Stortorget Square

Heading back into the centre I walked through Stortorget Square, overlooked by Oslo's impressive cathedral. There were people everywhere, enjoying the warm spring sunshine, exploring the flower, fruit and vegetable markets and soaking up the Oslo atmosphere and sun.

Oslo Cathedral

A must-visit landmark, this Baroque-style cathedral has been the site of royal weddings, state ceremonies and daily worship for over 3 centuries. From here I wandered around the many boutique style shops and enticing eateries before arriving back at the waterfront.

Sunset over the Oslofjord

In the evening, Oslo's waterfront bars are a perfect mix of laid-back and stylish, with a front-row seat to the fjord. You've got places like Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen, where bars line the boardwalk, packed with people sipping wine, craft beers, or fancy cocktails as the sun sets over the water. Or you can walk up the sloped, marble roof of the Opera House to experience panoramic views of the city skyline and enjoy the contrast between old and new architecture and natural beauty. I decided to pull up a chair and rest my weary legs with a cold drink as the sun set on a perfect, long spring day in Oslo.

by Sarah

How to visit Oslo

Being in Oslo for only one beautifully sunny spring day is no hardship, but we would not recommend our guests to attempt Oslo in one day! There is much to see and do; the museum peninsular warranting at least one day of exploring. And of course, if you take a private guided walking tour of Oslo with our local guide, the secrets and stories of the city will be unlocked for you. We tailor tours to Oslo, Norway and throughout the Nordic countries - contact us to discuss your travel plans...