Oslo, Norway

Oslo is located on the Aker River at the head of the Oslo Fjord. Oslo is Norway’s capital city and leading seaport as well as the principal commercial, manufacturing and cultural center. Modern in design and architecture, it is famous for its many parks, public statues and museums. The variety in Oslo’s architectural cityscape provides for some striking, and often hauntingly beautiful sights. While most of the forests and lakes surrounding Oslo are in private hands, there is great public support for not developing those areas.

Parts of Oslo suffer from congestion, yet it is one of the few European capitals where people live with the wilderness literally in their backyard or with access to a suburban train line that allows the city’s many hikers and long-distance skiers to simply step off the train and start walking or skiing.

The city’s most prestigious architectural highlights include the 13th century Akershus Fortress, the Parliament Building, the Town Hall, the National Theater and Royal Residence. Visitors can also experience the history of the Viking people and their culture first-hand with a trip to the National Gallery, Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Holmenkollen ski jump.