7 Things to Do in Norway’s Oslo Region

Getting to Norway is easy thanks to nonstop flights from 15 U.S. cities on Norwegian Air. It only takes 7 hours from the East Coast to reach the capital of Oslo, the gateway to the rest of Norway, which is full of rich culture and provides close proximity to a myriad of outdoor activities.

Here are some examples of the many things to do in the Oslo Region after landing.

First, Buy an Oslo Pass

Sightseeing in Oslo becomes much easier with the Oslo Pass in-hand. It provides free admission to more than 30 museums and attractions in addition to free travel on all public transport, free walking tours, free admission to outdoor swimming pools, other discounted sightseeing and much more.

Experience Small-Town Olympic Glory

Lillehammer, the site of the 1994 Winter Olympics, remains a go-to spot for outdoor enthusiasts as many of the Olympic arenas are still in use (like the Olympic bobsled track). In winter, downhill and cross country skiing are must-dos while hiking, cycling and horseback riding are fun activities in other seasons. Plan to stay the night because you could sleep at an authentic farm dating back to the Middle Ages while dining on fresh, organic food, or sleep in a snow hotel. And, there are plenty of other things to do in Lillehammer.

Learn Viking History

Oslo is a city claimed to be founded by Vikings and is home to many remnants of the Viking Age (800 – 1050AD). The world’s best preserved Viking ship is at Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum. And, family-friendly Kaupang Viking Town gives all-ages a chance to see what it was like to live as a Viking including a replica of a Viking house, an opportunity to try Kaupang soup, games to play, archery to try and an opportunity to learn about the types of archeological excavations that have taken place here. Midgard Historical Centre near the Borre mounds, is also a Viking burial ground dating back to 600 – 900 AD that is fun to visit.

Take the Kids Climbing

Did you know that the Oslo Region is home to a number of climbing parks? Kids and adults can tackle high ropes courses, obstacle courses, bouldering, wall climbing and much more in between treetops and at indoor spaces.

Go Island Hopping and to the Beach

In summer, it’s possible to enjoy the 60km of shoreline, a mix of smooth rock and sandy beach, along the Oslofjord. Swimming in the fjord is a favorite past time. And, ferries run between the fjord’s lush green islands for day trips, picnics and a change of scenery from city life.

Adventure on the Water

October and November are prime months for lobster fishing season on the Oslofjord under bright sunny skies and amid wildlife such as seals and eagles. Alternatively, a myriad of canoe and kayak options exist throughout the country such as at the Halden Canal in Haldenvassdraget near the Swedish border. It’s a very old channel in Norway where nature is virtually untouched and guests may also boat, camp, and even spa here.

Tour by Bike or Vintage Plane

How cool is it that you can take a guided bike tour through Oslo from forests to fjords while viewing moose, lakes, wild berries and more scenic sights along the way? Visit between April and November for a tour with Viking Biking. For touring on a whim, take one of Oslo’s city bikes that can be found at over 100 stations around town for a spin.

Built in 1942, the DC 3 Dakota, flies up to 19 guests 1000 meters in the air for scenic summer views of Norway. You can even visit one of the world’s oldest airports, Kjeller Airport, where the world’s biggest airshow also happens annually.

Eat and Drink

Foodies will appreciate that Norway’s cuisine consists of fresh ingredients grown along gorgeous coastline and fish from its cold, clean water. Quite a few foodie souvenirs can be brought home including smoked salmon, seaweed salt, brown cheese, and delicious flatbreads. You can find such goodness at places like the Mathallen Food Hall in Oslo.

Into spirits? It’s also possible to take a guided tour of the production facilities, distillery museum and the barrel room at Atlungstad Brenneri, one of the only remaining historical distilleries in Norway.

Check out Norwegian Air’s deals on flight to Oslo. One-way flights start at $160.

Have you been to the Oslo Region?

*This post is written in partnership with Visit Norway.