What to see in Oslo? After Lofoten, we headed to the Norwegian capital for a day of city exploring – the harbour, the opera, an incredible park, and the Royal Palace.
Landing in Oslo, we made straight for the heart of the city. The streets of the historic centre are calm, colourful buildings reflected in café windows, and soon you forget that just a few days ago you were battling mountain trails and the Northern Lights. A stroll through Oslo’s evening streets feels like a gentle cooldown after an adrenaline rush – and there’s always room for a coffee or a sweet treat to recharge. So, what to see in Oslo?
Vigeland Park – Sculptures and Stories of Human Emotion
Vigeland Park was our first stop. Here, art meets everyday life. Gustav Vigeland’s sculptures capture the full spectrum of human emotion – from joy and laughter to melancholy and contemplation. Remarkably, there are over 200 bronze and stone sculptures, each with its own story.
Dominating the park is the 17-metre-tall “Monolith,” carved from a single stone, representing humanity’s yearning for life and community. Notice the “Boy Fighting” sculpture – the tension in the muscles and expressions makes it almost unnervingly lifelike. But the piece that draws most attention is the cheeky little boy with his… mischievous stream.
The Royal Palace and Oslo Opera – History Meets Modern Nordic Architecture
The Royal Palace impresses with its grandeur, yet exudes a calm that spreads across its gardens. Walking around, you can feel how Oslo balances historic majesty with a welcoming, open city atmosphere.
The Oslo Opera House, with its slanted roof, has become a city icon. Locals often run or stroll along the roof, taking in views of the fjord and ever-changing light. With luck, you might catch the sunset reflecting off the harbour waters – a perfect photo moment.
Oslo Harbour – Where Old Meets New
The Oslofjord feels like a living theatre. Ships, ferries, fishing boats, and modern apartment blocks mingle in a scene that can feel almost poetic. We wandered along the waterfront, breathed in the sea air, and watched modern architecture harmonise with the scenic Nordic nature.
The day in Oslo was the ideal finale to our expedition – after Lofoten’s rugged landscapes, we enjoyed calm, architecture, and city life. From the north, we brought memories full of adrenaline and Northern Lights; from Oslo, tranquil moments that linger in the mind. The city reveals countless faces – from raw northern character to elegant streets with a modern touch and historic soul.
Little-Known Facts About Oslo
Vigeland Park is the largest sculpture park in the world created by a single artist. The Monolith, carved from one piece of stone, symbolises humanity’s desire for society.
The Opera House allows a walk on its roof with panoramic views of Oslo and the fjords.
From the harbour, you can watch ferries heading into the fjords and often spot seals or ducks.
The Royal Palace stands in the city centre; its gardens are perfect for relaxation or a picnic.
The Kon-Tiki Museum tells the story of Thor Heyerdahl, who proved that you can cross the Pacific Ocean on a straw raft. And the Fram? And the Framm ship? You can step aboard the ship that traveled far beyond the Arctic Circle.
Lofoten Expedition
All trips can be found in the illustrated map and complete itinerary of our 👉 Lofoten Expedition.
We will gradually climb the mountains Reinebringen, Offersøykammen, Ryten, and the mystical peak of Kleppstadheia shrouded in fog, pass through Djevelporten – the Devil’s Gate of Lofoten, and briefly visit Oslo.
