Norway is a bucket list destination for many people worldwide. However, you may be wondering if Oslo is worth visiting and adding as a stop on your Norwegian itinerary. This post will answer that question as well as give you what you need to know when visiting Oslo.
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Where is Oslo?
Oslo is located in the southern eastern portion of Norway and along the Oslo Fjord. For many, this is a gateway city for their trip to Norway and it can be a day trip if you’re staying in nearby Sweden. It is also a popular stop for Northern European cruises coming to the country.
How to Get to Oslo
As mentioned above, you could cruise to Oslo. Alternatively, you could fly into Oslo using the Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL). Trains and ferries are also available if you are traveling from nearby countries such as Sweden or Denmark or other areas of Norway.
Is Oslo Worth Visiting in 2024? 8 Reasons You Should Visit Oslo
Oslo is definitely worth visiting! It is a beautiful city that is easy to get around and explore. Oslo also has much to offer its visitors. Keep reading for 8 reasons you should visit Oslo in 2024!
1. Oslo is Worth Visiting for the Food
One of the best ways to experience a country is through its food. During your trip to Oslo, make sure to try some of the local delicacies such as pickled herring. Also known for its cafe scene, you can start the day by grabbing a warm beverage and delicious pastry.
2. Oslo is Worth Visiting for Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle and fortress that was built in the late 13th century. It has served as a royal residence, a military stronghold, and a prison throughout its history.
The fortress has undergone many changes and expansions over the centuries, and today it is a popular tourist attraction with a museum, a royal mausoleum, and a chapel. Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about its history, which is closely intertwined with the history of Norway itself.
Akershus Fortress has been the site of coronations, royal weddings, and other important events throughout the country’s history. Today, the fortress is also used for state events and ceremonies, including the annual Norwegian Constitution Day celebration.
Wheelchair Access at Akershus Fortress
While some areas of the fortress are accessible to visitors with disabilities, not all areas are wheelchair accessible. The main entrance to the fortress is accessible to visitors with mobility impairments, and there are several accessible restrooms available on site. However, due to the age and layout of the fortress, some areas may not be accessible to visitors using wheelchairs or with limited mobility.
The castle’s interior is not fully accessible with some areas having narrow doorways and steep staircases. However, there are guided tours available that provide access to some of the castle’s interior spaces, and the exterior areas of the fortress, including the castle courtyard, are accessible. However, expect there to be inclines which can at times be steep and uneven surfaces.
Visitors with disabilities are recommended to contact the fortress in advance to discuss their specific needs and to arrange any necessary accommodations.
3. Oslo is Worth Visiting for the Museums
There are a variety of incredible museums you can visit while you’re in Oslo. I’m mentioning the most popular museums below to give you a taste of what you can experience.
Viking Ship Museum
One of the most popular museums in Oslo, the Viking Ship Museum will allow you to explore ancient artifacts from the time of the Vikings. The highlight of your visit will be seeing the recovered Viking Ship which is the centerpiece to the exhibit. This museum is fully wheelchair accessible.
Please note that the Viking Ship Museum is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to be closed until 2026. When it reopens, it will have the new name of The Museum of the Viking Age.
The Historical Musuem
Until the new Museum of the Viking Age opens, you can get your Viking fix at the Historical Museum. Here, you will see two of the best-preserved Viking helmets along with other Viking artifacts. The museum also features historical exhibits from the Stone Age to the Viking Age as well as the Middle Ages.
Wheelchair Accessibility at The Historical Museum
The museum is mostly accessible for wheelchair users, with the accessible entrance at the back of the building. The 3rd floor in the southern wing is not accessible. Some of the doors are also not standard width and may have high thresholds. Accessible bathrooms are available.
Kon-Tiki Museum
The Kon-Tiki Museum is dedicated to the life and adventures of Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian explorer, adventurer, and scientist who is known for his incredible expeditions and research.
The museum features stunning exhibits that showcase Heyerdahl’s adventures and research, including original footage and photographs from his expeditions. Visitors can also see the actual vessels used in these voyages, as well as other artifacts and exhibits. It is an excellent destination for anyone interested in adventure, exploration, history, and culture.
Wheelchair Access at the Kon Tiki Museum
The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair users. The main entrance to the museum has a ramp and there are elevators available to access the different levels of the museum. The museum’s exhibits are arranged in a way that allows for easy navigation and movement for visitors with mobility impairments. Additionally, the museum provides accessible restrooms on site.
Get Your Entrance Tickets in Advance
Fram Museum
The Fram Museum offers a fascinating look at the history and science of polar exploration, as well as the challenges faced by explorers who traveled to the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Visitors will enjoy seeing the ship Fram, which was used in several expeditions (including Roald Amundsen’s journey to the South Pole) as well as several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the history and science of polar exploration. These exhibits are both educational and entertaining, making the museum a great destination for families with children.
Wheelchair Accessibility at the Fram Museum
The museum itself is accessible with an elevator to reach various floors. However, there is very limited accessibility to the ships on display (you won’t be able to go below deck). Accessible bathrooms are available onsite.
Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, also known as Norsk Folkemuseum, and is an open-air museum. It is dedicated to the preservation of Norwegian cultural history and heritage and features over 150 traditional Norwegian buildings that have been relocated to the museum’s grounds. These buildings include farmhouses, barns, and stave churches that were found in Norway during the 1700’s up to modern times.
Additionally, there are exhibits that focus on traditional Norwegian arts and crafts, including textile work, woodworking, and metalworking. As you walk the grounds and take everything in, the hope is that you will have a better understanding of what life was once like in Norway.
Wheelchair Accessibility at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
Entrance to the museum is flat but requires navigation over uneven cobblestones which can be tricky. Additionally, there is a slope to reach the outdoor portion of the museum where the old buildings are.
Once there, compacted dirt and gravel pathways take visitors to the various buildings. There is a steep slope required to reach the Stave Church that is not recommended for wheelchair users.
Many of the museum’s historic buildings have been modified to allow for wheelchair access to the ground floor. However, some of the buildings may have narrow doorways, uneven surfaces, or steep staircases that make them inaccessible to visitors with limited mobility.
Munch Museum
Edvard Munch is an important figure in Norwegian culture, and the Munch Museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about his life and the impact of his work on Norwegian society. The museum features a collection of over 28,000 works including some of his most famous paintings such as “The Scream” and “Madonna”. Overall, it is an excellent destination for anyone interested in art, history, and culture.
Wheelchair Accessibility at the Munch Museum
There is a step free entrance and wheelchairs available to rent upon arrival. Elevators allow visitors to access all floors of the museum and there is seating throughout for people with limited mobility. Lifts are large enough to accommodate power wheelchairs. Handicap restrooms are also onsite.
Norwegian Resistance Museum
The museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about the history of Norway during World War II, including the occupation of Norway by Nazi Germany and the resistance movement that formed in response. It features a collection of artifacts related to this movement, including weapons, equipment, and personal belongings of resistance fighters.
It also offers several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the history of the resistance movement in new and innovative ways. During your visit, you will hear stories of individual resistance fighters and their experiences during the war so you can understand history from a more personal perspective.
If you love learning about history, politics, and the human experience during times of conflict, then this is a must-see museum. It is also wheelchair accessible.
4. Oslo is Worth Visiting for the History
If you are a history lover, Oslo is a wonderful place to visit. As mentioned above, the many museums will delight anyone passionate about history. You can also wander around the city to admire old buildings and fun architecture. Supplement your many museum visits with a walking tour of the city to get the most out of your visit.
During your tour, you may notice brass covered cobblestones. These are in remembrance of the Jews who died during the Holocaust.
5. Oslo is Worth Visiting for the Royal Palace
Oslo is home to the royal palace and the King still resides there. Visitors can watch the daily changing of the guard as they admire the palace’s neoclassical design. Afterwards, make sure to take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding park which contains beautiful gardens and sculptures.
The palace is wheelchair accessible with a ramp at the main entrance which leads to an elevator that can take visitors to the different floors of the palace. Additionally, there are accessible restrooms on the ground floor of the palace. Tours are also wheelchair accessible.
6. Oslo is Worth Visiting for the Views
While the views may not be quite as dramatic as other Norwegian towns and fjords, Oslo still has plenty of beautiful scenery to admire. One of the most popular places to view the fjord is by climbing to the top of the opera house (which is also wheelchair accessible by paved ramps). There are other parks and viewing areas that offer views of the fjord as well.
However, the best way to experience Oslo Fjord is by taking a boat tour. Sail through Oslo fjord on a wheelchair accessible sightseeing cruise. Pass by Akershus Fortress and other picturesque sites as an onboard narrator explains the significance and history of the area. Afterward, choose to get off where you started or by the museum area of Oslo for further exploring.
Check Oslo fjord Scenic Cruise Pricing and Availability
7. Oslo is Worth Visiting for the Culture
If you’d like an introduction to Norwegian culture, Oslo offers you the chance to learn more about this aspect. Many of the museums mentioned previously will help educate you on the Vikings, as well as other significant influences that help to make Norway the country that it is today.
Learn About the Sami People
The Sami are a native Norwegian tribe of people. At one time, their culture was almost completely wiped out as they were forced to assimilate into the rest of the country.
Luckily, that did not happen. Visitors can see traditional Sami clothing and begin to learn about their way of life at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History.
If you want to get a more firsthand experience and learn more about the Sami People, head to Tromso Norway where they will welcome you and share their culture.
Find Out Why Trolls are a Part of Norwegian Culture
You’ve probably seen pictures of trolls throughout Norway. They are part of the mythology of the country and are beloved by visitors who often take their pictures.
While they may seem lovable, they are historically known as mean little creatures that bite. When trolls venture out into the sunlight, they are turned to stone, and it is said that that is why Norway is so rocky.
8. Oslo is Worth Visiting for the Art
One of the iconic places to visit in Oslo is the Vigeland Sculpture Park. This free attraction offers guests the opportunity to wander through a beautiful park with various sculptures which are said to depict life. Locals and visitors alike enjoy all that this park has to offer.
All the sculptures within the park were made from the casts of Gustav Vigeland (you can see a statue of him near the entrance to the park). While this popular park is beloved now, when it was initially created it was quite scandalous as the statues are all nude.
Accessibility at Vigeland Sculpture Park
Pathways throughout the park are paved and mostly flat. There are ramps available to the right of the steps so that visitors can reach the multi-tiered platforms near the obelisk.
Is Oslo Worth Visiting for Wheelchair Users and People with Mobility Problems?
Oslo is definitely worth visiting even if you are a wheelchair user or someone with mobility problems. There are accessible tours available, or you have the option to explore on your own (which is easy to do). There are also hotels with accessible rooms available (I’ll discuss this more later on in the where to stay section).
As a wheelchair user myself, I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Oslo. During my time in Oslo, I chose to take an accessible tour due to my limited amount of time in the city. I saw many of the highlights and had minimal challenges.
Possible Challenges to Accessibility
Most of the city center is fairly flat which will make for an easier time getting around. Cobblestones will likely be the biggest challenge. They can be small, square in shape and have uneven top surfaces. However, these cobblestones are not throughout the city.
You will also find larger and smoother stone areas that are more like pavement. Sidewalks can be either flat and smooth or in some places, have cobblestones.
Getting Around Oslo with Mobility Problems
Buses are wheelchair accessible with a manual ramp at the middle door, a button to signal the driver to extend the ramp, and a dedicated spot onboard for wheelchairs.
If you don’t want to worry about bus routes and are interested in a more tour like experience, you can also choose to take the Hop On Hop Off bus to the most popular attractions.
Popular Sites and Attractions
In the previous section, I mentioned accessibility at many of the iconic attractions throughout the city. Most of the popular things to do in Oslo have some level of accessibility allowing you to see the best of what the city has to offer.
Where to Stay in Oslo
Clarion Hotel the Hub
Centrally located for easy exploring of the city, this hotel is clean and has helpful staff. There is also a delicious breakfast available onsite. Wheelchair-accessible rooms are also available, however, you will need to bring your own shower seat.
Check Pricing and Availability
Karl Johan Hotel
Located near the Royal Palace, this beautiful building is close to transportation and offers bright and clean rooms. Free Wi-Fi and breakfast are available. They offer both traditional rooms and accessible rooms for guests with disabilities (you will need to bring your own shower chair).
Is Oslo Worth Visiting: FAQ’s
I’ve already mentioned 8 reasons why you should visit Oslo in 2024. So, in this section, I wanted to answer some other commonly asked questions for people planning to go to Oslo.
When is Oslo Worth Visiting?
Oslo is a great destination to visit year-round. However, the best time to visit Oslo depends on your personal preferences and interests.
Summer (June to August) is the high season for tourism in Oslo, with long days and pleasant weather, making it a popular time to visit. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during this time, such as visiting the city’s parks and gardens, taking a cruise on the Oslo Fjord, or hiking in the nearby forests.
Autumn (September to November) is also a beautiful time to visit Oslo, as the city is surrounded by forests that turn vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red. Additionally, during this time, the city hosts several cultural events and festivals, such as the Oslo Kulturnatt (Culture Night) and the Oslo World Music Festival.
Winter (December to February) can also be a magical time to visit Oslo. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland and visitors can enjoy ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding in the nearby hills. The city’s Christmas markets are also a must-visit during this time.
Spring (March to May) is a quieter time to visit Oslo, with mild weather and fewer crowds. This is a great time to visit the city’s museums and galleries, and to explore the city’s architecture and design scene.
Can I See the Northern Lights in Oslo?
It is possible to see the northern lights from Oslo, but it is not a common occurrence. Oslo is located quite far south compared to the northern lights’ typical viewing locations, and the lights are generally only visible on nights with clear skies and high auroral activity.
To increase your chances of seeing the northern lights, it is recommended to travel to areas further north in Norway, such as Tromsø, Alta, or the Lofoten Islands. These locations are known for their optimal viewing conditions, and many tour operators offer guided tours to increase your chances of seeing the aurora.
However, if you are in Oslo and want to try your luck at seeing the northern lights, it is recommended to go outside of the city, away from light pollution. Some good locations include the nearby forests or lakes, or even taking a short drive to more remote areas. Keep in mind that auroral activity can be unpredictable, so it is important to check the aurora forecast and weather conditions before heading out.
How Long Should I Spend in Oslo?
If you are already in the area, Oslo would make a fantastic weekend trip. You could also add a couple of nights as part of a larger Norwegian itinerary. Having 2-3 days to visit the city will allow you to explore what it has to offer and visit several of the wonderful museums.
Can You See Oslo in One Day?
If you only have a day in Oslo, you can experience some of the highlights, but you will in no way get to see everything. Spending one day in Oslo is better than not coming to the city at all, just prioritize what you want to see and do. It will also be a great excuse to come back!
Is Oslo Fjord Worth Visiting?
If you’ve visited some of the other fjords in Norway, then Oslo Fjord may not seem as impressive. However, it still offers lovely views and is a great introduction into some of the scenery in Norway if this is where you start your trip.
You can easily see Oslo Fjord if you are visiting Oslo by cruise ship as you will go through it to reach the city. Alternatively, if you’re not arriving by ship, you could book a tour of the fjord which departs from the city.
➡️ This tour is an excellent choice and wheelchair accessible.
Is Oslo Worth Visiting on a Cruise?
At the beginning of this post, I mentioned that you could visit Oslo on a cruise. This can be a popular way of visiting not only Oslo but some of the other Norwegian fjords and towns as well. While your time in the city will be limited and based on the ship’s schedule, it’s still a worthwhile stop.
As previously talked about earlier, one day will not be enough time to see everything in the city, but you can experience some of the highlights.
Is the Oslo Pass Worth it?
The Oslo Pass is a city card that offers free admission to many museums and attractions, as well as free public transportation in Oslo. The pass also offers discounts on various tours, activities, and restaurants. The value of the Oslo Pass depends on how many attractions you plan to visit during your stay in Oslo and how often you plan to use public transportation.
If you plan to visit several museums and attractions in Oslo and use public transportation frequently, then the Oslo Pass can be a good value. The pass can also save you time and hassle, as you won’t need to purchase individual tickets for each attraction or worry about carrying cash for public transportation.
However, if you plan to visit only a few attractions and do not plan to use public transportation much, then the Oslo Pass may not be worth it. It’s important to calculate the costs of individual tickets versus the cost of the pass to determine if it will be a good value for your trip.
Is Oslo Worth Visiting if You’re Traveling on a Budget?
Norway can be expensive! Visiting Oslo is no different, so you may be wondering if you should travel to Oslo when you’re on a budget. It is possible to save some money during your trip by using public transportation, avoiding alcohol (it’s priced significantly higher here), and using the Oslo Pass.
Another way you could visit Norway on a budget is to consider taking a cruise whose itinerary is predominantly based in Norway. Since cruise fares include your room, meals and transportation, it can be a more economical way to visit Oslo as well as the country.
As an added bonus, cruises often sail through the fjords so it’s like getting a free tour of these dramatic coastlines.
For more information on saving money on a cruise, check out this post. If you’re not sure that cruising is right for you, I also have a post that can help you decide whether to give it a try.
Looking for other holiday destinations for people with limited mobility traveling on a budget? Click the link to check out other ideas.
Do They Speak English in Oslo?
English is widely spoken throughout Oslo so there are no worries if you don’t speak Norwegian. Oslo is a fantastic city to visit if you want to experience Europe but don’t speak any languages other than English. Additionally, the people are very friendly, so Oslo is a great city for your first international trip.
Would I Go Back to Oslo?
Absolutely! I visited Oslo on a cruise, so I only had a brief time in the city. In addition, the day of my visit was the start of Parliament, so the King came out and half the city was shut down as a result. I would love to return to see the parts of Oslo that I missed, including the Viking Ship Museum.
What to Pack for Visiting Oslo
- Layers
Oslo has a relatively mild climate, but temperatures can vary depending on the season. During the summer months (June to August), the weather is generally warm, and light clothing is appropriate. However, it’s always a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.In the winter months (December to February), temperatures can be quite cold, so warm layers, including a heavy coat, gloves, hat, and scarf, are essential.
- Comfortable shoes
Oslo is a walkable city, and you’ll likely spend a lot of time exploring on foot. Bring comfortable, sturdy shoes that are appropriate for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. - Travel adapter
Norway uses a two-pronged European-style plug, so be sure to bring a travel adapter if you plan to charge your electronic devices. - Waterproof gear
Oslo is known for its rainy weather, so it’s a good idea to pack waterproof gear, such as a raincoat or umbrella. - Swimsuit
If you plan to visit Oslo during the summer months, consider packing a swimsuit, as there are several lakes and beaches within the city limits that are popular for swimming. - Camera
Oslo is a beautiful city, and you’ll want to capture all the sights and experiences on camera. Bring a camera or smartphone with a good camera to take photos and document your trip.It’s also a fantastic accessible city to take pictures in if you are interested in photography for disabled individuals.
- Cash and credit cards
While credit cards are widely accepted in Oslo, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.
Is Oslo Worth Visiting in 2024: Conclusions
Oslo is worth visiting in 2024 because of the variety of activities it has to offer as well as being a beautiful city. It can be easily visited as a weekend getaway, the start of a larger Norwegian trip or on a cruise. Guests will love the combination of scenery, history, culture and food that Oslo has to offer. So, what are you waiting for, start planning your trip!
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