A City with a Viking-Like Character

Oslo is a fast-growing capital and one of the world's greenest cities. It lies between the Oslofjord and hundreds of square kilometres of wooded hills. Oslo's green orientation is reflected in several ways, i.e. it boasts one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world, a commitment to sustainable food production and many green and water areas. The compact city centre is easy to explore on foot or by bike, and the excellent public transportation system makes the whole city accessible even without a car.

Oslo is a great destination if you want to combine cultural activities with sports, shopping or cuisine. Norway's major cultural institutions, including the Norwegian Opera and Ballet, the National Theatre and the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, stage top art exhibitions as well as opera, ballet and theatre performances. If you are an art lover, head to the Ibsen Museum to learn about the life of the playwright Henrik Ibsen and see the works of art by the painter Edvard Munch at the Munch Museum, and thus get to know the city's two most famous sons. The Norwegian capital is a royal city, so one of the most popular attractions is the royal palace.

Oslo boasts one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world, a commitment to sustainable food production and many green and water areas.

Those who enjoy outdoor activities can relax on the ski slopes at Holmenkollen or cycle through the woods. If you'd like to spend a relaxing afternoon by the sea, visit the Aker Brygge district, known for its many outdoor restaurants along the promenade. Treat yourself to some sophisticated Nordic dishes or a quick snack, and then do some shopping in the nearby streets. Oslo's culinary scene has seen something of a renaissance lately, so it's definitely worth exploring – from Michelin-starred restaurants to a wide variety of world cuisines and traditional Nordic dishes. Round off the day by going to a bar or a club to find out why Oslo is said to be a city that knows how to have fun.