One of Norway’s 19 counties, Oslo County surrounds the lively Norwegian capital at the head of the Oslofjord. It’s home to progressive cultural establishments and some of Norway’s best restaurants, all just a stone’s throw from lake-dotted forests, idyllic islands and family-friendly ski slopes.
Things to do in Oslo
Outstanding museums, gourmet restaurants and architectural wonders - Oslo County is considered the beating heart of Norway.
Visit the world’s largest sculpture park. Dedicated to the works of Gustav Vigeland, Vigeland Park features more than 200 pieces by the Norwegian sculptor. After marvelling at his Realist-style human figures and the grandiose central fountain, you can get a dose of history at the adjacent Oslo City Museum.
Museum hop along the Bygdøy Peninsula. Admire the 9th-century wooden ships and burial goods on display at the Viking Ship Museum and see the world’s first ice breaker at the Fram Museum. The Bygdøy Peninsula is also home to the Kon-Tiki Museum where Thor Heyerdahl's balsa raft is on show and the Norwegian Folk Museum featuring several historic buildings relocated from across the country.
Get active at the Oslo Winter Park. Boasting 18 slopes and 11 lifts, Oslo Winter Park is the largest ski resort in the county. You can take advantage of the terrain park in the Hyttli area and ride the challenging slopes of Wyller or head to the dedicated beginner’s area in Tommkleiva.
Go backstage at the Oslo Opera House. Inspired by an iceberg, the Oslo Opera House boasts a spectacular setting overlooking Oslo’s harbour. Clad in white granite and Italian Carrara marble, it features a lobby panel designed by Olafur Eliasson and a contemporary sculpture by Monica Bonvicini. It also boasts a gourmet restaurant serving Norwegian-inspired cuisine.
Getting around Oslo
Oslo Airport is the main gateway to the county and is around 40 minutes’ drive from the Norwegian capital. Trains connect from the Oslo railway station to destinations across Norway while buses, trams and subways travel throughout the city. Having your own vehicle is the best way of exploring the surrounding county.