Exploration by Sea

Norway has a long history of exploration by sea.  In Bygdoy, a short bus ride outside of Oslo, you can visit three museums dedicated to seafaring Norwegians.

Viking Ship Museum

With free wifi, you can wander around and listen to the online audio tour to learn more about the Viking ships displayed. Ornately carved and well preserved, these ships are amazing.

Fram Museum

Climb through the Polar Ship Fram and learn about the Arctic expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Otto Sverdrup, and the Antartic expedition of Roald Amundsen.  You can also view the Gjoa, the first ship to sail the entire Northwest Passage.

Kon-Tiki Museum

The Kon-Tiki museum is dedicated to Thor Heyerdal's Pacific ocean voyage on the balsawood raft, the Kon-Tiki.  Commentary from crew members provide insight into the expedition and the antics that occurred on the voyage.  If one crazy expedition wasn't enough, the Ra is also on display which Heyerdal floated across the Atlantic.

Other Attractions

Oslo feels like a smaller, more walkable version of Stockholm with attractions scattered further outside the core downtown area.

Within the core you can:

• Walk on the roof of the Norwegian National Ballet and Opera building.  
• Visit the fortifications of Akershus Fortress (beautifully lit up at night).
• Shop or grab a bit to eat in Aker Brygge.
• See The Scream in the National Gallery.

Further afield you can visit the Holmenkollen Ski jump, and participate in seasonal activities in the snow or on the water.  With attractions spread outside the city, the Oslo Pass is a good investment for the public transport benefit.   You also receive a discount at some restaurants so be sure to check before you dine.