7 Sensational Free Things to Do in Oslo Norway
Oslo Norway is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Dining out is really expensive—$25 burgers are the norm. The quantity and quality of free things to do in Oslo Norway however impressed me. We visited Oslo for a few days after our Viking cruise Into the Midnight Sun.
Put on your walking shoes and explore this great European city. Spend a couple of days enjoying these free things to do in Oslo. Use the money you save to buy a burger.
1. Oslo Opera House
Climb up to the roof of the Oslo Opera House for remarkable views and fun people watching. Visit inside the Oslo Opera House to view the amazing interior design, watch a quick movie, and use the free restrooms. Visit Norway even says please walk on the roof.
2. Vigeland Sculpture Garden at Frogner Park
Vigeland Sculpture Garden is the world’s largest sculpture garden containing works from only one artist. Gustav Vigeland created all of the over 200 sculptures in the park and he also designed and outlined the park.
3. University of Oslo – Munch Restoration
Edvard Munch, most known mostly for his painting The Scream, provided 11 paintings to the new University of Oslo Assembly Hall (Aula) in 1916. The Aula is the only place to view Munch works in their original context. The paintings are currently being refurbished but it is a magnificent venue. And free.
4. Harbour Promenade Walk
The Oslo Harbour Promenade is a 9 kilometer waterside trail which meanders past the Nobel Peace Center, the harbour, by the fort, the Barcode district, and the Oslo Opera House.
5. Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress is a popular place to walk around during lunches. Portions of the fort extend back to the 13th century. Visit the Visitor Centre for great exhibits about prisoner history and clean restrooms (no charge!).
6. Oslo Street Art
Have you figured out yet that Oslo loves art? In addition to the formal art at University of Oslo and Frogner Park, find creative and lively street art all over the city.
7. Oslo Public Art
Walk around Oslo and see hundreds of public art statues. One nickname for Oslo is “Tiger City” which certainly explains the famous tiger statue in the square outside the train station. Rub the nose, ears, and teeth for good luck.
Along Karl Johans Gate, looking at University of Oslo, is a statue of Gunnar Sønsteby (a Norwegian war hero) standing with his bicycle.
Hope you enjoyed our look at some of the fantastic free things to do in Oslo Norway.
Are the kayak rentals free also? How do I find out about the details?
One article I read suggested renting from DNT Oslo. Try them!
What an interesting assortment of free things to do in Oslo. I think i’d enjoy every single experience you’ve highlighted.
I am so glad. Thank you for the note, Alison!
Thanks for these great ideas. Norway is on my list of places to go. I will use your advice. Your pictures are great. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Carol. Travel Happy!
Thx for introducing us to the art and sculptures of Oslo, Charles. I’ve not yet had a desire to visit Norway. But I can see that changing …
Oslo is a very fun city in the summer. Cannot vouch for the other seasons!
Nice to have some options that are free! It’s been a long long time since I was there – looks like it is time to return!
So many people said Oslo is expensive (and it is) but there are also many free things.
I love those rooftop views! Our daughter thoroughly enjoyed her winter visit to Oslo – but summer is certainly more appealing!
The summer weather for my visit was ideal. Winter would certainly be different and more challenging to find free activities.
Tips for economizing in Norway, always a great idea!
Thank you, Anita. Hope some Oslo and Norway visitors find it useful.
Oslo is so vibrant. I love all the artwork and that stunning architecture – old and new. One day…
Hope so. Very vibrant culture, people, and city.
That Oslo Opera House looks pretty interesting, and I really like the street art. Some of the best things in life are free.
Nice mantra.. Indeed, some of the best things in life are free.
You definitely hit some great spots. I also suggest the Munch Museum.
Thank you, Michele. Is the Munch Museum free? A brand new Munch Museum is being built, scheduled to open in 2020.