Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems

Overview

Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a city of endless possibilities. Located between the water and evergreen forests, it takes a mere 30 minutes to travel from one end to the other by metro. It's a metropolis known for its rich history and museums, some of which celebrate the macabre works of the Norwegian expressionist painter Edvard Munch. Others recount fascinating maritime history in the form of stunning ships of the Viking Era, while still others celebrate music and even ski history. 

This tour allows visitors to discover the above-mentioned sites and the real Oslo in the most authentic manner possible: with the help of a local expert guide. They will tailor the experience to your preferences, or you can defer to their expertise as they lead you around the city on an impromptu adventure. This includes strolling the cobbled streets of Damstredet, in central Oslo, which is lined with well-preserved wooden houses dating back to the late 1700s/early 1800s. A walk along the Akerselva River should not be missed either, as it's an iconic landmark in the city. 

Then, should you choose, you can visit Grünerløkka, a bohemian enclave that abounds with street art, funky cafes (which offer some of the best coffee in the world), dance clubs, and independent fashion boutiques. This is also the location of the Mathallen Food Hall, where you can savor the flavors of Norway and abroad at its more than 30 eateries. Here you'll find everything from paella and Southeast Asian street food to Norwegian cheeses and cured meats.

Read more about unique activities in and around Oslo

Itineraries with Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems

Norway Slow Travel: Oslo, Aurland & Bergen - 7 Days

This relaxing weeklong journey starts in the capital city of Oslo before heading west via the steepest train in Norway (Flåm Railway). From here, embrace the slow-paced local culture of Aurland while staying two nights at a secluded and upscale lodge that serves organic cuisine. Take part in some light hiking and paddling and then cruise the Sognefjord by ferry, finishing the adventure in scenic Bergen—Norway's UNESCO-listed second largest city surrounded by seven mountains.

Norway Fjords Summer Tour - 14 Days

There are nearly 1,200 fjords along Norway's western coast and this trip covers the cream of the crop — Lysefjord, Sognefjord, and Geirangerfjord — using a mix of fun travel modes to amp up the adventure factor. These majestic gems provide the setting for activities like hiking, biking, and sea kayaking. You'll explore everything from tiny fjord-side villages to diverse cities like Oslo, Bergen, Ålesund, and Trondheim.

Norwegian Highlights: Oslo, Bergen & the Sognefjord - 8 Days

This active summer tour covers Norway's two biggest cities, as well as its longest and deepest fjord, using various means of transportation for a true Scandinavian adventure. After exploring Oslo, you'll take a train ride to Flåm — one of the most scenic in the world — followed by several ferries to fjord-side villages like Balestrand and Fjærland. There's also a guided kayaking trip and a longer ferry to Bergen, where you'll spend your last full day with a local who will show you the best of this charming city and its surrounding mountains.

Oslo, Bergen & Southern Norway - 10 Days

Welcome to the Scandinavian coast. This popular journey loops around Southern Norway, visiting key summertime attractions. For the ultimate mix of scenery, outdoor adventure, and history, you can't do much better than this relaxing 10-day itinerary.

Ultimate Winter Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 12 Days

This epic trip through Norway's wintry north includes a mix of travel modes and activities unique to the Arctic. Your adventure begins in the exciting capital of Oslo followed by the UNESCO-listed village of Røros where you'll dogsled in the mountains. From here, head to the historic city of Trondheim followed by a flight to Tromsø for an overnight in the wilderness. Cap it off with a coastal steamer ride to the Lofoten Islands to snorkel with whales and see the Northern Lights by horseback.