Spring in Norway 2023: Best places to visit

Oslo, unlike many other world capitals, has the advantage of being a fairly easy city to move around in. Everything is within walking distance so you can get to know the city by foot. Moreover, visiting other cities is easy, as there are several means of transport available to explore Norway.

For this reason, if you are planning to make a trip to Oslo and it's your first time in the city, or even Norway, you don't have to worry, finding your way around this Nordic capital is a simple process. All you need is an eagerness to learn about Norway's rich history and a good pair of walking shoes!

Have fun in SALT

Located in Langkaia, SALT is an artistic project which offers a cutting-edge space to enjoy great food, music, art and much more besides. It comprises several wooden buildings, with the largest outdoor terrace in Oslo and a spectacular view of the city's Opera House. This terrace is open all year round, with blazing bonfires during Norwary’s autumn and winter seasons to keep you warm.

When you arrive in SALT you will have plenty of options to choose from. First of all, you can visit Naustet, a café and bar in a style that manages to be both traditional and contemporary, where you can enjoy a bite to start your day. From there you can head to Langhuset House or Lillehjella, where you can find engrossing art exhibitions, films, dances and even concerts on occasion.

If you want to relax and revitalise some tired muscles, SALT has four saunas, with Árdna being the most prominent and indeed the largest. It can hold up to 80 people and has a temperature ranging from 60 to 80 °C, so treat yourself to a refreshing drink afterwards at the bar to cool down!

But, on the other hand, if you want to party, you can go to Bazaar, where you will have the opportunity to dance the night away. The atmosphere is warm and friendly and attracts an eclectic mix of people. If you are a tourist, SALT is also a good place to meet Norwegians and socialise in a welcoming environment.

TusenFryd, a fantastic amusement park

TusenFryd is the biggest and most popular amusement park in Norway and is located only 20 minutes from the centre of Oslo. TusenFryd opens at the end of April. It's possible to get there by car, train or bus, so you'll always have transport available.

When you arrive, it may be hard to know where to start, as there are more than 30 attractions suitable for a range of ages. You can go on the Ballongferden, for example, which is a family-friendly Ferris wheel. However, if you're someone who enjoys an extreme adrenaline rush, the SkyCoaster awaits you with a 33-metre freefall drop.

If you arrive on Halloween, you can enjoy many spooky rides, festive decorations and people in elaborate costumes to make the experience even more memorable.

Åretak, sail like a true Viking

Åretak is a rowing club and school located in Oslo. It is famous for teaching about the history of the Vikings, the iconic image of Nordic history. So, if you too would like to learn more about these fearsome warriors and accomplished mariners, and get a glimpse of what life was like 1000-plus years ago, you can head to Åretak to rent a traditional Viking færing (rowing) boat and row across the majestic Oslo Fjord.

The boats have space for 3 or 4 people, so you can have fun in a group or even on your own if you prefer. Lifeguards are included for your safety. This is a unique opportunity to get to know Oslo in a traditional Nordic way.

Explore the artistic side of Oslo

If you're looking for the artistic and creative, Oslo again punches well above its weight. First of all, the MUNCH museum is waiting for you to learn more about this unique Norwegian artist and his vivid, beautiful and often unsettling art.

Tjuvholhem, Ekebergparken and Vigeland are all parks that, in addition to winding paths in a stunning natural environment, have a variety of sculptures by different artists interspaced along the walk. This combination of a natural and man-made aesthetic is definitely a unique experience you won't want to miss.

There are also many other museums to visit during your stay in Oslo and, if you decide to purchase an Oslo Pass, almost all of them are completely free.

Walk through Oslo harbour

As mentioned earlier, Oslo is a compact but diverse city almost purposefully designed for exploring freely and enjoying its charms on foot. Oslo's harbour offers a 9-kilometre walk along the fjord, where you can get to know the most iconic buildings of the city and visit the Akershus Fortress, many different restaurants and even the distinctive Opera House. All the sights are clearly signposted so you won't miss them.

It's also possible to take the tour by bike, which is obviously faster and easier. This way you can explore the very heart of Norway at your own pace and in your own way without having to worry about sore feet and the need to rush anything. So visit Oslo, a small capital with a big heart!