Architecture and nature merge at the Oslo Opera House, where you can take a stroll on the roof and instantly forget that you are in a major city. You may be surprised at how many people take advantage of the free admission to enjoy the view. The coffee shop in particular garners rave reviews for its hot chocolate, and the sense of walking around inside an iceberg is interesting. If you have time, take the tour (offered in both English and Norwegian). But do not stop there, because the performances—given by the Norwegian National Opera, Norwegian National Ballet and the Norwegian National Opera Chorus and Orchestra—are truly spectacular. Eschew culture in favor of nature and head out to Nordmarka (“north forest”) for a day in the great outdoors. The Nordmarka extends far inland, but about 30 kilometers of it is inside Oslo city limits, and there is easy access to it either via road or T-bane lines. Come out and enjoy hiking, fishing, cycling and swimming during the summer months, and cross-country skiing and ice skating during the colder months.
For an outdoor experience of a different kind, visit Vigeland Park, named for the sculptor whose stone and bronze work adorns the site. Gustav Vigeland was a prolific sculptor, known especially for designing the Nobel Prize medal. He explored life, death and relationships in his work. You will see all three themes in the sculpture park that Vigeland himself created, which include a bridge, a monolith and a fountain. Oslo residents spend a lot of time in this park, walking, picnicking and enjoying the rose garden and the art. This is where you will find Norway’s largest playground, sure to delight your children. The park also is a gardener’s paradise with 14,000 rose plants of 150 different species.
The Viking Ship Museum sits on the Bygdøy Peninsula—accessible either via bus or boat. The museum features three Viking funeral ships that were found in the late 19th century. You’ll love exploring all the intricacies of Viking craftsmanship. But the peninsula’s attractions don’t stop there: locals flock here for Huk and Paradisbukta beaches, forest trails and the opportunity to see the mansions lived in by Oslo’s rich families of the past.
If you would like to get out of town in the most scenic way possible, consider taking a side trip on the Bergen Railway and see Norway’s villages, countryside, fjords, valleys and mountains from the comfort of the train. The trip from Oslo to Bergen is seven hours long and you will not be bored for a single minute of that time. There is a special playroom available for your children should the scenery fail to enthrall them. Norway has been named one of the most beautiful countries on earth and that beauty surrounds its capital city.
Stay with Choice Hotels in Oslo, Norway, to explore the spectacular beauty of this area, take in a museum, go hiking and hang out at the opera and more. It will be one of the most unforgettable vacations you will ever experience.