Overnight flights to Oslo, Norway’s main international airport, are common, with many beginning their sightseeing right after arrival. Depending on the itinerary, some continue to Bergen or Tromsø via domestic flights. Norway offers plenty to see, but most visitors focus on key highlights across the country, not just Oslo, since it’s impossible to cover everything (NORWAY TRAVEL GUIDE).
Akershus Fortress
Akershus
Fortress is one of Oslo’s key historic landmarks. Built in the late 1200s as a
medieval castle to defend the city, it later served as a royal residence,
military stronghold, and prison. It even endured Nazi occupation during World
War II.
Today, it’s
open to the public and free to explore. Visitors can walk through old stone
buildings, climb towers, and enjoy scenic views of the Oslofjord. Inside are
two museums,
the
Norwegian Armed Forces Museum and the Norwegian Resistance Museum, which
highlights Norway’s WWII efforts. The natural surroundings and historical
atmosphere make Akershus Fortress a pleasant visit.
From the fortress, you can easily walk to other top Oslo attractions, such as the Royal Palace, National Theatre, Parliament (Stortinget), Karl Johans Gate, Oslo Cathedral, Oslo Central Station, the Bjørvika waterfront, and the iconic Oslo Opera House with its walkable marble roof (WHAT TO DO IN VENICE ITALY).
It all begins with a long, steady walk, not exactly for the faint of heart. Be prepared for the raw, bold sculptures of humans in various expressions. This is Vigeland Sculpture Park, one of Oslo’s most famous and unique attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The park features over 200 sculptures by Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland, all crafted from bronze, granite, and iron.
Along the way,
it’s hard not to pause for photos, or moments of
reflection,
near the sculptures that explore the human
experience: emotions, relationships, and the different stages of life. Located
within Frogner Park, the far end features the most iconic sculpture - the Monolit,
a towering column of 121 intertwined human figures,
symbolising life’s journey. Another favourite is the instantly recognisable
“Angry Boy” statue.
There’s also a spacious green area where you can rest and take in the surroundings. Open year-round and free to enter, the park is perfect for both quiet reflection and artistic inspiration (THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK).
The Fjord Cruise is one of the most iconic and globally recognised experiences in Norway. Ideally beginning in the morning, the cruise takes approximately half a day, including lunch at Flåm harbour, where the journey ends. Passengers usually arrive at the pier by 9:00 AM to board the ferry at Flåm, where the wide-open horizon unveils Norway’s natural wonders.
Once on board, the cruise offers breathtaking views of the Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nærøyfjord. The deep blue waters stretch calmly ahead. Towering cliffs rise on both sides, with snow-dusted peaks in the distance. Seabirds glide overhead, while waterfalls tumble down the rugged rock faces. Altogether, it captures the raw and stunning beauty of Norway’s landscape.
Across from the Flåm pier is the Flåm Train Station. But this isn’t just any train ride, it’s a historic journey often called one of the most beautiful in the world. The train begins slowly before gaining speed, zipping through tunnels and passing dramatic slopes. The 20-kilometer stretch from Flåm to Myrdal unfolds some of Norway’s most awe-inspiring scenery.
In and out of
dark tunnels, sunlight gradually pierces through until it reveals the raw
wilderness - wild forests, steep valleys, and towering waterfalls. There’s even a
short stop at a massive waterfall, where the mist may lightly splash on you,
depending on how close you stand to the fence. The water crashes down with
power, showcasing nature at its full force as it rushes down the mountainside.
Lonely Planet has dubbed it the “world’s most beautiful train journey,” while National Geographic Traveler included it among the top 10 train rides in Europe. With 20 tunnels, 18 of them hand-dug, and an elevation gain of 865 meters from sea level, the route is also one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world.
For those familiar with the Nobel Peace Center, it’s located in Oslo, right at City Hall Square. You’ll likely be drawn to it, whether intentionally or while exploring central Oslo. It’s an easy walk from landmarks like Aker Brygge and Nationaltheatret Station. Inside, you’ll find multimedia exhibitions about the Nobel Peace Prize, its laureates, and the legacy of Alfred Nobel. The museum attracts around 200,000 visitors annually.
Even if you don’t go inside, standing in front of the historic building and taking in the surroundings is something you shouldn’t miss while in Norway.
You might have seen the Kon-Tiki movie, which was even nominated for an Oscar. Yes, this is the very same Kon-Tiki, now a museum in Oslo. It tells the story of Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian explorer who sailed across the Pacific Ocean in 1947. He built a simple raft called Kon-Tiki using wood and rope, just like ancient people might have. His goal was to prove that early humans could have travelled long distances across the sea. The journey began in Peru and ended on a small island in Polynesia, taking 101 days.
At the museum, you’ll see the actual Kon-Tiki raft and many items used on the voyage. There are also displays from Heyerdahl’s other adventures, such as the Ra and Tigris boats. You can even watch parts of the Kon-Tiki film during your visit.
Walk along the Oslo waterfront, and you’ll spot the sign for the Norwegian Maritime Museum. This museum tells the story of Norway’s deep connection to the sea. It’s the place to learn about the country’s long history of fishing, shipbuilding, and sea travel. Norway’s identity has always been closely tied to the ocean, and this museum brings that to life with ship models, old tools, maps, and interactive exhibits.
Whether you're curious about ancient Viking boats or modern cargo ships, there’s something for everyone. You can also watch short films, including one with a bird’s-eye view of Norway’s stunning coastline. Outside, real boats and anchors are on display, and scenic views of the waterfront set the mood before you even step inside. It’s a natural follow-up after visiting the nearby Kon-Tiki and Fram Museums, completing a journey through Norway’s maritime heritage.
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