Top Rated Attractions in Oslo

Nationaltheatret brings many a patrons and tourists to its door every year. Although the iconic building itself has a lot to offer, the pretty fountain that it overlooks, claims quite many fans for itself. Located on Johanne Dybwads Plass, the fountain, named 'Påfugl', which is Norwegian for 'peacock', finds its inspiration in the peacock who is displaying his full plumage. The gorgeous artwork was gifted to the state by businessman Christian Ringnes, of the Eiendomsspar fame, and installed in 1989.

One of the most important municipal buildings in the Norwegian capital, the Oslo Town Hall can be spotted standing next to the iconic Akershus Fortress on the famous Rådhusplassen that overlooks Oslo's picturesque harbor and waterfront. Its soaring twin towers, measuring 216 feet (66 meters) and 206 feet (63 meters), make it one of the more unique edifices in the city. Completed in 1950, the building was designed by the renowned Norwegian architects Magnus Poulsson and Arnstein Arneberg, and built primarily using red bricks that give it a distinctive hue. Some of the building's main attractions include Henrick Sorensen's wall decoration, the astronomical clock, and the north side entrance. The city hall has had the privilege of hosting the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize ceremony every year since 1990.

Slottsplassen or the Palace Square lies towards Frogner district in Central Oslo, surrounded by Palace Park (Slottsparken). The gorgeous Royal Palace overlooks the square which is symbolized by a splendid sculpture of Charles XIV John, the King of Sweden and Norway. The gorgeous statue, attributed to the works of the Norwegian sculptor, Brynjulf Bergslien, was installed in 1875. Slottsplassen often hosts many cultural programs such as puppet shows for the benefit of tourists visiting the palace.

Under the ownership of Norwegian state, Grotten is a titular residence dating back to the 19th Century. The building is situated on the Royal Palace's premises in the heart of Oslo city. It originally served as the residence of Henrik Wergeland, a celebrated Norwegian poet. Since 2011, Grotten has been occupied by Jon Fosse, a noted playwright and writer. Earlier occupants of Grotten include renowned composers Arne Nordheim and Christian Sinding.

A symbol of Norwegian opulence, the Slottet og Slottsparken or the Royal Palace and its imperial gardens have been the centerpiece of Oslo's sweeping cityscape since 1849. Constructed in the Neoclassical style, the lavishly-decorated palace has been the primary residence of Norwegian monarchs. Designed by celebrated Norwegian architect Hans Linstow, the palace features a grandiose facade with Corinthian columns. A magnificent statue of a horse-mounted King Charles III stands high on a pedestal on the square in front of the palace, completing the regal setting. The annual National Day parade in Oslo, that passes the Royal Palace on its way is one of the few times when the royal family makes a public appearance to greet the proud Norwegians on the happy occasion.

This striking waterside fortress was originally conceived as an opulent royal residence, but later fortified for military needs. The magnificent Akershus Fortress was originally built in the 1290s to guard Oslo's vulnerable eastern waterfront against invaders while accommodating the royal family of Norway. Over the years it has performed crucial roles like operating as the country's primary military base and seat of the government with distinction; however these days it is mainly used for hosting important official functions. Some of the fortress' most popular attractions include Akershus Castle church, the armory door and the royal mausoleum where King Haakon VII and Olav V were buried alongside Queen Maud and Märtha.