Oslo is one of the weirdest Nordic cities that I visited. It is dull compared to Copenhagen or even Stockholm . The Baumol effect of the oil-funded economy makes it a really expensive place to visit as well. Infact, it is one of the few cities which feel more expensive than San Francisco.

To get from the airport to Oslo city, just take a 124NOK train ride. There is a faster 240NOK train ride as well which isn’t worth it.

Day 1

I started the day with a walking tour . The city is dull but the guide tries to make it interesting by showing the best places.

A large, modern opera house with a sloping roof and expansive glass windows is located near a body of water.
A cityscape featuring the Oslo Opera House with its distinct angular architecture, positioned alongside a waterfront. The opera house contrasts against the city skyline under a clear sky, inviting visitors.

Afterward, do visit the Oslo Opera House and the Oslo Library, both are gorgeous.

Vigeland Park features an open 24-hour schedule and is free to visit. It showcases numerous sculptures, offering an experience that highlights artistic creativity and cultural engagement.

The Vigeland Park is open 24 hours and is free of cost to visit. It contains tons of structures designed by Gustav Vigeland. Like the rest of Oslo, this place is gloomy as well.

A towering stone monolith in Vigeland Park, Oslo, designed by Gustav Vigeland, amidst a gloomy backdrop.

Day 2

Early in the day, I decided to do the hike to Maridalsvannet . It is a nice hike loop that shows the beauty of hikes around Norway. Nothing outstanding though.

A lush green hiking trail surrounded by dense woodland, highlighting the natural beauty of Norway's landscapes.
A scenic hiking trail in Mariadalen, Oslo, featuring a lush green landscape with dense trees

Later in the day, I did a 460 NOK (~USD 43) two-hour cruise around the Norwegian Fjord. The cruise was OK. However, like everything else in Oslo, it felt overpriced.

A scenic view of the Norwegian Fjord with a boat cruising through calm waters, surrounded by lush mountains under a clear sky.

I considered going to the Lofoten Islands but decided against it as they mostly felt overhyped to me compared to the awesome islands of the Caribbean or Hawaii .

Note:

  1. Credit cards are widely accepted, no need to carry Norwegian Krone as cash.
  2. Public transport is expensive. A single train ride costs 42 NOK (~USD 4). A 24-hour pass is 130 NOK.
  3. Public bathrooms are not free in Oslo.
  4. Lidl is the best store to buy groceries.