Oslo, the capital and largest city of Norway, is situated at the northern end of the Oslo Fjord in the country’s southeastern region. The city beautifully combines breathtaking natural scenery with a modern urban lifestyle, offering a unique mix of stunning landscapes and lively city culture.
Geographically, Oslo is positioned to the west and east of the Aker River. You can explore it on Google Maps. Founded in 1048, the city covers an area of 480 km² and has a population of approximately 709,037. Its postal codes range from 0001 to 1299. The time zone observed is UTC+1 (CET), with daylight savings in the summer adjusting it to UTC+2 (CEST).
Historically, Oslo was established by King Harald Hardraade around 1050, and by 1300, King Haakon V constructed the Akershus Fortress. In the 19th century, Christiania (as Oslo was then called) grew significantly due to the absorption of nearby municipalities, eventually surpassing Bergen, its rival port city on the west coast. Oslo was officially renamed in 1925. World War II left a profound impact on the city, but after the war, industrialization, foreign investment, and effective urban planning spurred rapid growth, making Oslo one of Europe’s key cities.
When it comes to historical and cultural attractions, Akershus Fortress stands as a symbol of Oslo’s rich past. Built-in the late 13th century, it overlooks the Oslofjord and houses the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum and the Resistance Museum, which showcase Norway’s military history.
The Royal Palace, at the end of Karl Johans Gate, serves as the residence of the Norwegian monarch. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard and explore the palace gardens. In the summer, guided tours offer a view of the royal interiors.
A must-see is the Viking Ship Museum, home to remarkably well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts that date back over a thousand years. Close by, the Fram Museum and Kon-Tiki Museum celebrate Norway’s maritime history, showcasing the Fram, a polar exploration ship, and Thor Heyerdahl’s iconic balsa wood raft, Kon-Tiki.
Oslo’s National Gallery boasts Norway’s largest public art collection, including Edvard Munch’s famous painting, “The Scream.” The Munch Museum further explores the life and work of the renowned expressionist artist. Vigeland Park, an open-air sculpture park, features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, set within one of Oslo’s most picturesque green spaces.
Oslo’s natural surroundings greatly contribute to its appeal. The Oslofjord is a popular spot for activities like boating, swimming, and island hopping. Bygdøy Peninsula, reachable by ferry, features several museums and scenic beaches, making it ideal for a day trip. For outdoor lovers, Nordmarka forest, just north of the city, boasts numerous trails perfect for hiking, cycling, and skiing in the winter. The Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Ski Museum showcases Norway’s skiing heritage and offers breathtaking views from the top.
