The capital of Norway
One thousand years old at the new millennium:
Oslo is the capital of Norway and is the natural hub of Norway's national and international travel. The city is beautifully situated at the head of Oslo Fjord surrounded by forested ridges, and this very location gives Oslo unexpected qualities for a national capital.
First-time visitors to Oslo are surprised by the wide range of restaurants and entertainment the capital has to offer.
Oslo is full of interesting sights, with many museums, parks and urban districts with listed buildings and a well-developed array of shops. Oslo is a concentrated city and most of the sights are within walking distance of each other or only a short journey on public transport.
Places to visit
The world famous Holmenkollen ski jump and the Winter Olympics in 1952 have led many to proclaim Oslo the capital of all winter capitals. However, Oslo is just as much a summer city with all the features that we associate with the joys of summer.
Norwegian Museum of Cultural History - In this, one of Europe's largest open air museums, you find a variety of traditional houses from all over Norway. During the summer season lots of activities take place such as folk dancing, arts and crafts, baking, domestic animals, shows etc. Several indoor exhibits with traditional handicraft items, folk costumes, furniture and church interiors. Recommended activities for children, horse and carriage ride, visit the animals or an old fashioned candy store.
The Polar Ship Fram - The entire original Arctic exploration ship Fram, built 1892, is exhibited with its original interior and inventory. The ship was used for three expeditions by Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup and Roald Amundsen. A comprehensive history of arctic exploration is presented around the ship. All texts and information translated into 8 languages.
Natural History Museums and Botanical Garden - The Botanical Garden is an ideal place to relax from the stress of city life, and to enjoy the botanical variety and diversity to be found here. Most of the area is designed as an Arboretum. Here you also find the Botanical Museum, Tøyen Manor, the Zoological Museum, the Paleontological Museum and the Mineralogical-Geological Museum.