Make Scandinavia your first stop in Europe - 10 must do activities in Oslo, Norway
August 18 , 2009
The strengthening Australian dollar is now performing around 20 per cent better against the Scandinavian currencies than this time last year and with hot, business and economy class deals from Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), this is the ideal time to make Scandinavia the first stop on your European tour. Norway’s capital Oslo is the perfect Scandinavian destination for any visitor in the mood for some interesting city life.
This beautiful city occupies a large land area covered by forests, hills and lakes, and boasts plenty of activities for visitors in all ages. Read on to find out the 10 most popular ways to explore Oslo.
1. Frognerparken
Located in the heart of Oslo, Frognerparken is a perfect little green oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city. Join the locals for a stroll, have a picnic or barbeque or just play a game of football. Within the park you will also get the chance to see more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland (1869-1943). The park is open all year and often holds concerts in the Vigeland museum. The park is also a fantastic place to catch some improvised Norwegian performances.
2. Norway’s Opera House
Norway’s glass and marble Opera House will attract opera, culture and architecture enthusiasts alike. Sitting on the bank of the Bjørvika district, the site itself is worth a visit. Inside, marvel at Norway’s largest circular chandelier, boasting 5, 800 crystal glass elements, or even better, watch an opera or ballet. With one of the most technologically advanced auditoriums in the world, it is a must. And for an unbeatable view of the city, you can even stroll along the white sloping stone roof.
3. Hop-on, Hop-off tour in Oslo
Explore the capital of Norway with a two day ticket on an open-top double-decker bus. The bus passes all the main sights of Oslo and you can hop-on and hop-off as many times as you like.
The trip gives you great views from the top of the bus and the 12 stops are conveniently located around the city making this trip the best way to see the sights of Oslo.
4. Toboggan run at Korketrekkeren
If you are visiting Oslo during the winter, a toboggan run is a must for those who enjoy downhill sledding. The slide goes from Frognerseteren to Midtstuen station, a two kilometre journey which takes 8-10 minutes if your ride reaches full speed!
5. Norwegian Evening Cruise on the Fjord
This unique trip takes you on a three hour cruise through a maze of green islands dotted with summer cottages. Enjoy the view of Oslo’s fjords on the cruise while dining on a traditional Norwegian prawn buffet. The tour takes place on a traditional wooden sailing ship and is a great way of getting closer to the real Norway.
6. Draw some inspiration from the National gallery
The National Gallery or Nasjonalgalleriet, is home to Norway’s largest collection of Norwegian, Nordic and international art, ranging from the beginning of the 19th century to the present day. Here you will find many of Edvard Munch’s major works as well as extraordinary paintings and sculptures. There are often temporary exhibitions on display and various events to keep you entertained, so do check ahead of time to see what they have in store.
7. Aker Brygge
Aker Brygge is an area near the old port of Oslo where you can find a great variety of restaurants, shops, a cinema and much more. Not only is this part of the city a favourite spot for tourists but it is also very popular among the locals.
Enjoy the view over the harbour with its many boats and ships while you try some traditional Norwegian dishes in one of the restaurants. This place has a lively atmosphere all day that continues into the evening.
8. Museum Crawl at Bygdøy
Bygdøy is a peninsula of museums. Here you will find: the Viking Ship Museum, the Norwegian Maritime Museum, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, the Kon-Tiki Museum and the Polar Ship Fram, housing the strongest wooden ship ever built, which holds the record for sailing the farthest north and south.
As well as being a goldmine for museums, you can go cycling, take advantage of the beaches and even take a relaxing boat ride to this peninsula from the City Hall.
9. A Noble visit to the Nobel Peace Centre
The Nobel Peace Centre is sure to ignite some inspiration into any visitor. Learn about the Nobel Peace Prize, Peace Prize Laureates, their accomplishments and the incredible history of Alfred Nobel. Don’t miss the video installation called “The Triptych of Hope” and the photo exhibition on Arms Control by Amnesty International. The Centre offers a unique interactive learning experience and has received much attention for its state of the art technology.
10. Peruse The City Hall
History buffs and art enthusiasts should not miss Oslo’s City Hall. Aside from being the home of Oslo’s administrative body and seat of the City Council, the City Hall is adorned with motifs from Norwegian history, culture and working life by the foremost Norwegian artists from 1900-1950. Take a guided tour and learn about the history and importance of the building, however make sure to check ahead as the Hall is usually closed for special events.
Getting there
To help you get to Oslo, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is offering a ‘great bargain sale’ for business and economy fares to over 40 European cities. Offer ends 31 August 2009.
For more information visit http://www.flysas.com.au/ or call 1300 727 707. For information on Scandinavia go to http://www.visitscandinavia.com.au/
-ENDS-
The Scandinavian Tourist Board (STB) is a joint initiative of the national tourist boards of Denmark, Norway and Sweden. STB and Principal Partner, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), co-operate in Australia, to promote travel to Scandinavia. Carpe Diem PR & Events is the representative of STB in Australia.
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