Oslo's
best asset is its setting. Facing a fjord and surrounded
on three sides by forest, it's a fine example of Nordic
scenery. But as far as cities go, Oslo seems less like a
national capital and more like a big village. Densely wooded
hills disguise the fact that it's home to around half a
million people.
Although the city has palaces, churches and museums, Oslo's
highlights are definitely outdoors. In summer, you can hike
in the forest or take a ferry ride across the fjord. In
winter, you can cross-country ski or watch ski jumping.
And no matter what time of the year you visit, you're bound
to enjoy the simple pleasure of strolling the city streets.
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Frognerparken
Within Frognerparken is Vigeland Park, Norway's most popular
tourist attraction famous for 200 sculptures by Norwegian
sculptor, Gustav Vigeland. During the summer, the park's
outdoor cafes and restaurants are always packed. Other areas
are full of joggers, skaters and walkers. There is a playground
and children are allowed to climb on the sculptures. Frognerbadet
outdoor pool is located next to the park. The park is open
around the clock all year round.
Akershus Slott
This former royal residence is located in the heart of Akershus
fortress. Visitors wander the old halls and feel the passing
of the centuries. The castle has been restored and is nowadays
used for official functions. Visit the royal mausoleum where
King Haakon VII and Olav V are buried together with Queen
Maud and Märtha. Those wishing to finish off their
excursion in a similarly historic setting can dine at Gamle
Raadhus Restaurant, Engebret Cafe or the cosy Celsius.
Aker Brygge
The old workshops belonging to Akers Mekaniske Verksted
on the seafront beneath the town hall have been converted
into what is, especially in the summer, one of Oslo's most
popular shopping and nightlife areas. There are places to
eat and shop, art galleries, theatres, an IMAX and a regular
cinema. A walk along the waterfront is a great way to spend
a fine summer afternoon. Take trams 10 or 15 or walk from
Akershus fortress past a children's play area and numerous
ice-cream stalls.
Astrup Fearnley Museet for Moderne Kunst
Opened in 1993, this modern museum features a series of
temporary and permanent exhibitions by Norwegian and international
artists from the post-war era. The permanent collection
includes Anselm Kieferen's sculpture "The High Priestess/Zweistromland,"
a monumental bookshelf with 126 books made of lead and one
of Damien Hirst's best-known pieces, "Mother and Child
Divided." Guided tours take place every weekend at
1pm. There is a small museum shop by the entrance.
Munch-museet
Edvard Munch's works were donated to the city of Oslo after
his death in 1944 and the museum was purpose-built in 1963.
The collection contains half of Munch's paintings as well
as several graphics, all his surviving etchings and a few
biographical items. In the basement, an exhibition of letters,
photographs and other mementoes gives fascinating insight
into the painter's life. Guided tours are given every Sunday
at 1pm.
Oslo Spektrum
Norway's largest indoor concert hall can seat an audience
of up to 10,000 people. Ever since it was built in 1990,
Oslo Spektrum has been used for rock and pop concerts such
as Bruce Springsteen, Elton John and Sting; big-time shows
like Disney on Ice; political rallies; trade fairs and sports
competitions. All the facilities are state of the art, as
is the architecture of the building designed by Guttorm
Guttormsgaard. The Champ Sports Bar is located in the main
building. |
