Oslo off the beaten path

Our Local Expert Says:

A vigorous hike, beautiful views, nature and culture - all rolled into one.

Description:

Ekebergåsen (Ekeberg hills) is a residential area of Oslo, as well a large park and recreational area. Norway Cup, a large annual international football (soccer) championship for children, is held here every summer, bringing kids from all corners of the globe together to play. On top of the hill you're afforded fantastic views of Oslo and the fjord. Walk or bike up the hill and be sure to have a look at the Stone Age rock art along the way (sign-posted); people and animals are portrayed in these 5000-year-old carvings. If you don't feel like exercising just today, don't worry. From the city center, bus 34A or trams 18 or 19 will take you right up in minutes.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Museum of Natural History-complex is a fun and educational excursion for kids of all ages. An absolute must for dinosaur enthusiasts and anyone interested in evolution.

Description:

The University of Oslo's Natural history museums comprise the Geological museum and the Zoological museum. The museums are housed in early 19th century Art Nouveau buildings, surrounded by the Botanical Gardens. Since May 2009, the most famous exhibit is our 47-million-year-old relative Ida, the oldest primate ever found. More detailed information is given at the entries for the separate museums/gardens. Open Tuesday - Sunday 1100 - 1600. Admission is NOK 50 for adults and 25 for children/student/pensioners; free for children under 4. Admission covers both museums. Free admission to the Botanical gardens.

Our Local Expert Says:

Excellent excursion for history buffs, swimmers and sunbathers alike

Description:

This small island is a magnet for sunbathers and swimmers on hot summer days. Hovedøya can be seen from the harbour and is easily reached by ferry number 94 from Vippetangen quay. Expect queues for the boat on the hottest days. The island also contains the ruins of a twelfth-century Cistercian monastery. The monks lived on the island until 1532 when the monastery was burnt down by religious enemies during the Reformation. In the summer, medieval concerts take place next to the ruins. Puppet shows are put on for children. There is a conservation area, which contains rare species of plants and flowers.

Our Local Expert Says:

Oslo's Botanical Gardens offers pleasant, fragrant strolls after visiting the natural history museums.

Description:

The Botanical Gardens opened in 1814 and have attracted locals since. The University of Oslo's natural history museums are located within the grounds. The Botanical Gardens comprise the Systematic garden, Rock garden, Aromatic garden, Alpine garden, Herb garden and Great-granny's garden, as well as green houses for tropical plants. The Botanical Gardens are open every day from 0700 - 1700 on weekdays and 1000 - 1700 weekends/public holidays. Opening hours are longer during summer. Admission is free.

Description:

In the heart of Old Town, and dating back one thousand years, these ruins were Oslo's first settlement. It is now a popular park during the summer months, and the Oya Festival is staged here every August. The park contains the remnants of one of the best preserved ancient sites in Oslo, St. Olav's Monastery, and St. Hallvard's Cathedral, dating to 1070 AD.

Our Local Expert Says:

Joining up as a sailor on Christian Radich is a challenge you won't regret accepting.

Description:

Go sailing with Christian Radich, originally a school ship. It can be hired for a 5-hour fjord cruise or you can join a 3-5 day sailing excursion. You could even sign up for a sailing to foreign shores or join in the Tall Ships Race. Anyone above the age of 15 (12 when parents or guardians come along) can enroll as a sailor, no previous knowledge is required.

Our Local Expert Says:

Interesting architecture, centuries of urban history and the river - a great combination.

Description:

Akerselva miljøpark (Akerselva Environmental Park) comprises walking paths along Oslo's river, Akerselva. Begin the walk at Vaterland Park, near Radisson Plaza Hotel and Oslo s, the main railway station. Along the paths, you'll see traces of Oslo's industrial part: old factories and mills. Further up, artisans' workshops are open to the public. The walk ends 8 kilometers upstream at Maridalsvannet, Oslo's main drinking water source. In Akerselva, you can swim, fish or paddle a canoe (for rent). Dock at the jazz cafe Blå by the riverside for some great music and food. The Museum of Science and Technology is also very close to the paths. Contact one of the tourist information centers for more info and suggested walking routes.

Description:

Located not far from the Munch Museum and the Botanical Gardens, the area of Kampen is full of idyllic, old wooden houses on narrow streets. Being there feels like walking in a children's book. In this area, you should see the church, walk around in the area in general, and maybe end up at the local cafe, Kafe Kampen. Oslo's water reservoir used to be where Kampen Park is now located, a great place for children to play in freely with sculptures and fountains, and a beautiful view of Oslo. Bus 60 will take you there from the centre.

Our Local Expert Says:

Bølgen & Moi Bar and Brasserie inside the art center has an excellent Sunday brunch.

Description:

This art center was established when famous Norwegian figure-skating star Sonja Henie and her husband Niels Onstad donated their private art collection to it. Located in impressive surroundings only 30 minutes from Oslo, with a sculpture park and its own little beach, the museum invites you to view temporary exhibitions of modern art, partly based on its own collections. The museum shop has a great selection of objects.

Our Local Expert Says:

Among the highset ranking historic sights in Norway

Description:

Magnificently situated by lake Bogstad, on the outskirts of Oslo, this manor house is in nearly the same condition as when it was built at the end of the 18th Century. The manor has been the home of several wealthy Norwegians, amongst them the former Prime Minister and industrialist Peder Anker. Outdoors, you can take a walk in the romantic, landscaped gardens.