Oslo Travel Itinerary

Oslo was the first city I visited in Norway, and to be honest, I didn’t expect to fall for it as hard as I did. I thought it would be a quick stop on my way to the fjords or the Arctic Circle. But the more time I spent wandering through its parks, soaking up the local art scene, and chatting with people in cozy cafés, the more I realized this city has a rhythm that pulls you in. If you're here looking for a travel guide to Oslo or trying to build your perfect travel itinerary, I can promise you this city is worth slowing down for.

Oslo is modern, clean, and full of green spaces, but it also has an edge. There’s a creative energy that you start to notice as you explore different neighborhoods. One minute you’re walking through a royal palace park, and the next you’re in a street full of murals, vintage shops, and buzzing bars. A good travel guide will tell you about the big attractions, but what makes this city special is how those places fit in so naturally with everyday life here. It feels like everything has its place and purpose, yet nothing is too polished.

I’ve put together a few versions of a travel itinerary for Oslo over the years, and each time I return, I end up tweaking it. That’s because there are always new things to do in Oslo, new spots popping up, and new corners to explore. Whether you’re into architecture, food, hiking, or just wandering aimlessly with a camera, this city has something for you. And the best part is that it doesn’t take much effort to find it. Oslo is easy to navigate, and its best experiences are often just a short walk or tram ride apart.

When people ask me what things to do in Oslo they absolutely shouldn’t miss, I try not to overwhelm them. Of course, you’ve got the MUNCH Museum, the Opera House, and Vigeland Park. But honestly, one of my favorite memories is just grabbing a coffee and sitting by the waterfront, watching the city move at its own pace. If you’re building a travel itinerary and feeling like you need to pack it full, I’d suggest giving yourself time to just be here without a plan. That’s when Oslo really starts to feel personal.

In writing this travel guide, I wanted to make sure you had more than just a checklist. Oslo is not a city you rush through. It’s one you live in for a bit, even if just for a couple of days. Let yourself get lost in Grünerløkka, take your time walking along the harbor, and if you're here in winter, embrace the cold with a hot drink and a view of snow-covered rooftops. You’ll find that some of the most memorable things to do in Oslo aren’t in guidebooks. They’re the moments that just happen when you’re open to them.

So whether you’re spending a full week here or just passing through on a longer Norway trip, let this travel guide be a starting point. Think of it as the foundation of your travel itinerary, not the final version. There are plenty of things to do in Oslo, but the best ones are often the ones that find you. Give yourself space to experience them. You might just be surprised by how much this city stays with you. I know it did for me.

4 Day Oslo Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Oslo

Afternoon

• Arrive in Oslo – Depending on your arrival time, grab a quick bite at the airport or head straight into the city.

• MUNCH Museum – Explore Norway’s iconic artist, Edvard Munch. Don’t miss The Scream!
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• Oslo Opera House – Walk on the sloped marble roof for panoramic views of the Oslofjord.
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Evening

• Dinner at Vaaghals – Upscale Nordic cuisine with seasonal ingredients.
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• Stroll along the harbor – Especially lovely at sunset.

• (December): Enjoy the cozy Christmas Market at Spikersuppa or Youngstorget with gløgg and traditional crafts.

Day 2: History & Waterfronts

Morning

• Fram Museum – Step aboard the world’s strongest polar ship.
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• Viking Ship Museum – See real Viking ships and artifacts. Temporarily closed for renovation until 2026, but check status.
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Afternoon

• Akershus Fortress – Explore this medieval castle and its scenic ramparts.
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• Aker Brygge – Modern waterfront with shops, cafes, and art installations. Ideal spot to relax and people-watch.

Evening

• Grünerløkka – Trendy area with street art, boutiques, and buzzing bars. Great for nightlife!
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Day 3: Arts & Local Flavors

Morning

• Vigeland Sculpture Park – Over 200 unique sculptures by Gustav Vigeland in Frogner Park.
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Afternoon

• Royal Palace & Slottsparken – Stroll the gardens and admire the official residence of Norway's monarch.

Evening

• Oslo Food Tour – Sample brunost (brown cheese), local seafood, and rømmegrøt on a guided walk.

Day 4: Winter Wonderland

Morning

• Korketrekkeren Toboggan Run – Oslo’s best sledding experience! Rent gear at Frognerseteren.
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Afternoon

• Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower – Panoramic views + Norway's skiing heritage.
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Evening

• Quiet waterfront walk under twinkling lights. Maybe stop for hot chocolate at Vingen Bar.