Oslo and the fjords
Going to see the Norwegian fjords? Here is why you should stop by Oslo on your way there.
Compared to what you might have seen of Norway in travel stories on TV, in travel magazines, or on social media, Oslo might seem quite... flat. Which is not true, as anyone with a non-electric bicycle in Oslo will attest to!
Hike up to one of Oslo's high points, and you will discover a spectacular view of Norway's largest city, and of the Oslo Fjord and its islands.
Did you know?
The Oslo Fjord is not a true fjord.
Well then, what is a fjord? In the geological sense, a fjord was created by an iceberg, and has a characteristic U-shape with steep hills on either side.
In the more general sense, however, the word fjord is used to describe any long inlet in Norway, which is why the Oslo Fjord carries that name.
Oslo – Before your fjord trip
Stopping by Oslo before travelling to Norway's spectacular fjords? Welcome to Norway! Let Oslo ease you into the particularities of Norwegian culture.
Get your sea legs
... or fjord legs, if you will.
Oslo has many options for boat sightseeing on the fjord, from old-fashioned sailing ships to electric boats gliding silently atop the water.
If you would like to come even closer to the water, try kayaking, SUPing or efoil.
The most recent addition to the list of fjord activities, of course, is a visit to a fjordside sauna.
Enjoy the view
Oslo is a fairly hilly city, with the Oslo Fjord as a natural place to direct your gaze after reaching one of the capital's many high points. Why not check out one of Oslo's most popular viewpoints, and get to know the fjord and its islands from above? See if you can identify Nesodden, Hovedøya or Bygdøy from your vantage point!
There's a viewpoint for all kinds of hill climbers in Oslo. City dwellers will appreciate the highest point of St. Hanshaugen park, with its relatively short walk up and its vicinity to several popular restaurants and bars.
Hikers and nature lovers, check out Vettakollen or Grefsenkollen. Ski enthusiasts will love seeing the city from the same angle as their ski jumping heroes at Holmenkollen.
If you like to pair your scenic views with some art, you might be interested to know that The Ekeberg Sculpture Park is where you can see the city and the fjord from the same place as Edvard Munch himself did when he was inspired (or horrified?) to paint The Scream!
After your fjord cruise
Welcome back to the city! We're sure you've had an amazing experience, full of breathtaking scenery and jaw-dropping encounters with Norway's steep hills and deep valleys.
There is no shame in admitting that city life has its perks, though! Enjoy everything Oslo has to offer the weary traveller.
Reconnect with the pulse of city life
Although the fjord landscapes of western and northern Norway are undeniably beautiful and spectacular, these parts of the country are — let's face it — not particularly known for their wealth of restaurant options and cultural highlights. Now that you're in the capital, have a look at our event calendar and our restaurant guide to get to know the urban side of Norwegian culture.
Indulge, have a spa-day
Have you been taking in the sights from the deck of a ship or from a mountainous high point you've had to walk for hours to reach? No matter how you've been exploring the Norwegian fjords, you're due for some well-deserved pampering.
Learn more about Norway
After your travels through different parts of the country, you might feel curious about some of the things, people, or customs you might have encountered. Learn more about Norwegian culture and history at one of our many museums, from adventurous explorers to daily life through the ages.
Feel like a local
In Oslo, it is easy to blend in with the locals and get to know Norwegian people and culture in a seamless way. Feel like one of the locals after your trip to those charming, but quite small fjord villages where you might have felt like one of many, very noticeable visitors.