Oslo

Akershus Fortress

Explore the majestic Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle built by King Haakon IV in the 14th century. Admire the stunning architecture and learn about its rich history as a royal residence, military fortress, and prison.

Hall of Kings

Walk through the grand Hall of Kings, adorned with portraits of Norway's monarchs from the 14th to 19th centuries. Discover the stories behind each ruler and their contributions to Norwegian history.

Prison Tower

Step inside the Prison Tower, once used to imprison prominent prisoners, including political dissidents and criminals. Learn about the harsh conditions and hear tales of escape attempts.

Great Hall

Marvel at the grandeur of the Great Hall, once a banqueting hall for royal feasts and ceremonies. Admire the intricate carvings on the walls and imagine the lively gatherings that took place here.

Chapel

Visit the small but beautiful chapel within the fortress walls, built in the 14th century. Admire the stained glass windows and learn about the religious significance of this space.

Battery Tower

Explore the Battery Tower, a fortified artillery platform overlooking the Oslofjord. Imagine the battles fought from this very spot and learn about the strategic importance of the fortress.

Ramparts Walk

Walk along the ramparts, the fortified walls that surround the fortress. Take in the stunning views of Oslo and the fjord below, and imagine life as a soldier guarding this fortress.

Armory

Step into the Armory, once used to store weapons and armor. See the impressive collection of medieval weaponry and learn about their use in battles throughout Norwegian history.

The Main Building

This grand wooden building is the heart of the museum, showcasing a range of traditional Norwegian architecture and craftsmanship. Admire the intricate carvings and colorful painted ceilings that adorn the interior.

The Farmhouse

Explore a reconstructed 19th-century farmhouse, complete with period furnishings and traditional cooking utensils. Learn about the daily lives of rural Norwegians and how they managed to thrive in this challenging climate.

The Fishing Village

Step back in time to a bustling fishing village, complete with authentic boats, nets, and fishing gear. Discover the importance of fishing in Norwegian culture and how it shaped the country's history.

The Iron Age Exhibit

Uncover the mysteries of Norway's Iron Age past at this fascinating exhibit, featuring artifacts and recreations of ancient Viking settlements. Learn about the advanced metalworking techniques used by these skilled craftsmen.

The Sami Exhibit

Discover the unique culture and traditions of Norway's indigenous Sami people, showcased through colorful textiles, jewelry, and ceremonial objects. Learn about their ancient beliefs and practices that continue to thrive today.

The Rural Life Exhibit

Step into a recreated rural landscape, complete with crofts, barns, and farm animals. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of traditional Norwegian farming life and learn about the challenges faced by these hardworking communities.

The Urban Life Exhibit

Explore a recreation of Oslo's bustling city center in the late 19th century, complete with shops, cafes, and street performers. Learn about the growth and development of Norway's capital city and how it became a thriving hub of culture and commerce.

The Folk Art Collection

Admire a stunning collection of traditional Norwegian folk art, featuring intricate woodcarvings, colorful textiles, and exquisite silver jewelry. Discover the stories behind each piece and how they reflect the country's rich cultural heritage.

The Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Our first stop is the iconic Holmenkollen Ski Jump, one of the most famous ski jumps in the world. This impressive structure has hosted numerous international ski competitions and offers breathtaking views of the Oslofjord.

The Ski Museum

Just next to the ski jump, we have the Ski Museum, where you can learn about the history and evolution of skiing. Discover the early beginnings of skiing in Norway, and see some of the oldest skis ever made.

The Jump Tower

Let's head up to the top of the jump tower for a panoramic view of Oslo. You can see the entire city from here, and on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Oslofjord.

The Inrun

Next, we'll explore the inrun, where skiers reach speeds of up to 60 km/h before takeoff. You can feel the rush of adrenaline just by standing here!

The Takeoff Ramp

Let's move on to the takeoff ramp, where skiers launch themselves into the air. Imagine the thrill of soaring through the air at such high speeds – it's an experience like no other!

The Landing Hill

After taking in the stunning views from the top, we'll head down to the landing hill, where skiers come back down to earth. This is where the magic happens – watch out for any stray snowflakes!

The FIS Slope

As we make our way around the ski jump, keep an eye out for the FIS slope, used for official competitions. You can imagine the roar of the crowd as skiers soar through the air – it's truly electrifying!

The Training Hill

Finally, let's head over to the training hill, where aspiring skiers come to practice their craft. You can feel the energy and excitement of up-and-coming talent as they hone their skills.

The Iconic Façade

The Oslo Opera House's striking façade is made of white marble and features a series of interlocking 'petals' that resemble a glacier. These petals create a unique curvature that gives the building its distinctive shape.

The Sloping Roof

The Opera House's roof slopes gently downwards, providing a unique walking path for visitors to explore. The slope also serves as an amphitheater for outdoor performances during the summer months.

The Foyer

Upon entering the building, you'll find yourself in a stunning foyer with a 30-meter high ceiling. The walls are adorned with Norwegian marble and the floor is made of polished dark wood, creating an elegant and sophisticated space.

The Auditorium

The auditorium itself is a work of art, featuring intricate design details such as carved wooden panels and gleaming white walls. The acoustics are world-class, making it an ideal venue for operas, ballets, and orchestral performances.

The Restaurant

Located on the top floor, the Opera House's restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Oslofjord. The menu features locally-sourced ingredients and creative dishes that showcase Norway's culinary delights.

The Outdoor Terrace

During the summer months, visitors can enjoy the outdoor terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city and the fjord. It's the perfect spot for a pre-performance drink or a post-show picnic.

The Sculpture Garden

The Opera House's sculpture garden features works by some of Norway's most renowned artists, including a stunning steel and wood sculpture that hangs suspended in mid-air.

The Underground Tunnels

Beneath the Opera House lies a network of underground tunnels that house the building's technical systems. These tunnels can be explored on a guided tour, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the building's engineering and design.

The Monolith

The Monolith is one of the park's most iconic sculptures, featuring a series of interconnected human figures carved from granite. This masterpiece by Gustav Vigeland symbolizes the cycle of life and death.

The Fountain

This stunning fountain is surrounded by over 100 sculptures depicting various human emotions. Watch as water flows through the intricate carvings, creating a soothing and mesmerizing effect.

The Wheel of Life

This powerful sculpture represents the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Observe how the figures are interconnected, emphasizing the idea that every stage of life is connected to the next.

The Lovers

One of Vigeland's most famous sculptures features two embracing lovers nestled among the trees. The intricate details and emotions conveyed through their facial expressions and body language are not to be missed.

The Musicians

This charming ensemble of musicians adds a touch of whimsy to the park. The sculptures feature individuals playing various instruments, creating an enchanting atmosphere that delights visitors of all ages.

The Parents

This poignant sculpture depicts parents and their children in various stages of life, highlighting the beauty and challenges of parenthood. Observe how the figures are intertwined, emphasizing the importance of family bonds.

The Children's Playground

This imaginative play area features several whimsical sculptures designed to inspire creativity and joy in children. It's a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy some quality time together.

The Main Gate

As you enter the park, take note of the stunning main gate sculpture, adorned with intricate carvings and symbolizing the entrance into a world of art and beauty.

The National Gallery's Permanent Collection

The National Gallery's permanent collection is a must-see, featuring an impressive array of Norwegian and international art from the 19th century to the present day. Highlights include works by Edvard Munch, including his iconic 'The Scream', as well as pieces by other notable artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Picasso.

Special Exhibitions

In addition to its permanent collection, the National Gallery hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase works by both established and emerging artists, and often focus on specific themes or periods in art history.

The Garden Café

After exploring the gallery's impressive collection, take a break at the Garden Café, located on the ground floor. This cozy café serves a variety of delicious treats and drinks, including sandwiches, salads, cakes, and coffee.

The Gallery Shop

The Gallery Shop is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. The shop features a wide range of items, including art books, postcards, jewelry, and locally-made crafts.

The Edvard Munch Room

This intimate room is dedicated to the life and work of Norway's most famous artist, Edvard Munch. Here, you can see a selection of Munch's most notable works, including his iconic 'The Scream' paintings.

The Impressionist Room

This room features an impressive collection of Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Degas. The room is designed to replicate the atmosphere of a Parisian salon from the late 19th century.

The Modern Art Room

This room showcases a selection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Koons. The room is designed to provide a thought-provoking and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

The Children's Workshop

The Children's Workshop is a dedicated space for kids to learn about art and create their own masterpieces. The workshop offers a variety of activities and workshops, including painting, drawing, and sculpture.

The Scream

One of Munch's most famous works, this iconic painting is a must-see for any art lover. Learn about the history and symbolism behind this masterpiece.

Vampire

This hauntingly beautiful painting is one of Munch's most enigmatic works. Discover the mysterious story behind this piece.

The Melancholy

Experience the emotional depth of Munch's work in this powerful painting, which showcases his unique perspective on human suffering.

Madonna

Admire the delicate beauty of Munch's wife, Sofie, in this stunning portrait. Learn about the artist's personal life and inspiration.

Anxiety

This intense and emotional painting is a testament to Munch's struggles with anxiety and depression. Understand the artist's inner turmoil through this powerful work.

Puberty

Experience the fragile beauty of adolescence in this poignant painting, which captures the uncertainty and vulnerability of youth.

The Dance of Life

This joyful painting celebrates the cycle of life and death, showcasing Munch's belief in the interconnectedness of all things.

Self-Portrait with Cigarette

Get a glimpse into Munch's own reflection in this introspective self-portrait, which showcases his unique perspective on the human experience.

The Fram Museum in Oslo: A Treasure Trove of Maritime History

As we step into the Fram Museum in Oslo, we embark on an exciting journey through the history of polar exploration. This museum is dedicated to the legendary ship Fram, which was used by famous explorers such as Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen for their groundbreaking expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctica. Here are the top 8 places we'll visit on our tour of the Fram Museum.

The Original Fram Ship

Our first stop is the original Fram ship, which is proudly displayed in the museum's central hall. This iconic vessel was built in 1892 and has been fully restored to its former glory. Take a closer look at the ship's design and craftsmanship, and imagine the bravery and determination of the explorers who set sail on this very ship.

The Nansen Room

Next, we'll enter the Nansen Room, which is dedicated to the life and achievements of Fridtjof Nansen, one of Norway's most celebrated explorers. Learn about his groundbreaking research on ocean currents, his successful expedition to the North Pole, and his humanitarian work for refugees.

The Amundsen Room

Just across the hall is the Amundsen Room, which showcases the achievements of Roald Amundsen, who was the first person to reach the South Pole. Discover the innovative techniques and technologies he used during his expedition, and learn about his remarkable journey through the harsh Antarctic landscape.

The Arctic Expedition Gallery

In this gallery, we'll explore the history of Arctic exploration, from the earliest expeditions to the present day. See artifacts and photographs from famous expeditions, such as Nansen's Fram expedition and Amundsen's South Pole journey.

The Antarctic Expedition Gallery

Next, we'll delve into the history of Antarctic exploration in this gallery. Learn about the challenges faced by early explorers, such as Amundsen and Scott, and see artifacts from their expeditions, including sledges, clothing, and other equipment.

The Polar Regions Gallery

In this gallery, we'll take a closer look at the geography, wildlife, and cultures of the polar regions. See maps, photographs, and artifacts that showcase the unique landscapes and ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctica.

The Fram Museum Collection

Finally, we'll explore the Fram Museum's extensive collection of polar-related artifacts, including navigational instruments, clothing, and other items that provide a glimpse into the lives of early explorers. Be sure to take a closer look at the intricate details and craftsmanship of each item.

The Kon-Tiki Museum's Collections

The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 1,000 objects from the Pacific Islands, including sculptures, textiles, and tools. One of the highlights is the collection of Easter Island artifacts, which offers a glimpse into the mysterious culture of this remote island.

The Kon-Tiki Museum's Permanent Exhibition

In addition to the main exhibition, the museum has a permanent exhibition that showcases the history of exploration and discovery in the Pacific. You'll learn about the early European explorers, such as James Cook, and how they impacted the cultures and societies of the Pacific Islands.

The Kon-Tiki Museum's Temporary Exhibition

Currently on display is a special exhibition featuring artifacts from the Fatu Hiva expedition, which explored the Marquesas Islands in the Pacific. This unique exhibit offers a rare glimpse into the cultures and traditions of this remote island chain.

The Kon-Tiki Museum's Garden

Take a break from the exhibits and explore the beautiful garden of the Kon-Tiki Museum. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers that are native to the Pacific Islands, as well as several sculptures and art installations that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

The Kon-Tiki Museum's Café

After a morning of exploring the exhibits, stop by the museum's café for a delicious meal or snack. The café offers a variety of Pacific Island-inspired dishes and drinks, such as poke bowls and coconut water.

The Kon-Tiki Museum's Gift Shop

Finish your visit to the Kon-Tiki Museum by browsing the gift shop, which offers a wide selection of Pacific Island-themed souvenirs and gifts. From traditional wood carvings to colorful textiles, you're sure to find something to remember your trip by.

The Kon-Tiki Museum's Special Events

The museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as lectures, workshops, and cultural performances. Check the museum's website or ask one of our friendly staff members for more information.

The Royal Palace of Oslo

This stunning palace was built in the 19th century and serves as the official residence of Norway's royal family. The palace features an impressive facade, grand halls, and opulent decorations that reflect the country's rich history and culture.

The Throne Room

Step into the lavish Throne Room, adorned with gold leaf and intricate wood carvings. This is where the royal family receives official visitors and hosts state events.

The Banquet Hall

The Banquet Hall is a grand space that can accommodate up to 120 guests for formal dinners and receptions. The hall features intricate chandeliers, mirrored walls, and beautifully crafted silverware.

The Royal Gardens

Take a stroll through the beautiful Royal Gardens, featuring manicured lawns, flower beds, and sculptures by renowned artists. The gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Palace Museum

Explore the history of the Norwegian monarchy at the Palace Museum, located within the palace grounds. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and documents that tell the story of Norway's royal heritage.

The Royal Chapel

Step into the charming Royal Chapel, a beautifully preserved 19th-century church where members of the royal family often worship. The chapel features stunning stained glass windows and intricate wood carvings.

The Changing of the Guard

Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place every day at 1:30 PM. The guards are dressed in traditional uniforms and perform a precise routine that is both entertaining and educational.

The Palace Kitchen

Get a glimpse into the palace's culinary history at the Palace Kitchen, where you can learn about traditional Norwegian cuisine and sample some of the palace's famous dishes.