Experience Norwegian nature with hiking, skiing, kayaking, and outdoor activities right from the capital!

Discover why Norwegians are famous outdoor enthusiasts with Oslo's incredible nature access right from the city! The Marka forest surrounds Oslo with 1,700 kilometers of hiking trails, pristine lakes for swimming, and winter skiing just 30 minutes from downtown. Experience the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv (outdoor life) through forest hikes reaching panoramic viewpoints like Vettakollen, island kayaking in the Oslo Fjord, cross-country skiing on illuminated trails, or cycling through Nordic landscapes. From summer midnight sun hikes to winter Northern Lights snowshoe treks, Oslo offers authentic Norwegian outdoor experiences without leaving the capital region. Expert guides share local knowledge about nature, teach outdoor skills, and show why Norwegians believe outdoor life is essential to wellbeing. Perfect for active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting genuine Norwegian outdoor experiences!
Discover our top picks for outdoor adventure tours in Oslo

Start your day with a memorable adventure as you embark on a leisurely cruise along the stunning Oslo Fjord. This scenic tour not only offers breathtaking views but also an audio guide that will provide you with valuable insights into the fjord's history and the surrounding areas. Join us for a journey filled with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and the option to explore fascinating museums. Historical landmarks seen during the cruise: • Akershus Fortress • Opera House • Munch Museum Snacks and hot/cold beverages available onboard. Explore Bygdøy, disembark after 1:45 hours and visit: • Fram Museum • Norwegian Maritime Museum • Kon-Tiki Museum Return Details: Return to the city center with the electrical boat at 12:45h and 15:15h (seasonal). Please confirm with the crew in advance. Alternatively – use the hop on hop bus, or regular buses at own cost back to city center. Don't miss this opportunity to explore Oslo's wonders – book your cruise now!

Come and join us on a snowshoe adventure in Oslomarka! Explore the stunning winter landscapes of Oslomarka with snowshoes on your feet. This tour takes about 3.5 hours including public transportation. We will provide snowshoes and poles for each guest, our guide will give instructions on how to use them.

Experience the perfect blend of iconic sights and hidden gems on our fun and effortless e-bike tour. Designed for anyone with basic biking skills, it’s the ultimate way to cover more ground, learn from a local guide, and see the true heart of the city—all while enjoying a relaxed and safe ride. The Classic Grand Tour (April - October) During the warmer months, join us for the full 2.5 to 3-hour exploration. We’ll cruise at a comfortable pace past Oslo's most famous landmarks and through charming neighborhoods you might otherwise miss. It’s the complete Oslo experience, made easy and enjoyable. The Cozy Winter Adventure (November - March) When snow falls, Oslo becomes a magical winter wonderland. Our adapted winter tour is a shorter, snuggier 2-hour journey. Specially equipped with studded winter tires for safety on snow and ice, our e-bikes let you experience the city's serene beauty and iconic sights in a uniquely Nordic way.

Note! On our tours, guests' safety always comes first. On this tour we move through the forest with live fire. If the guide assesses the situation or the weather in such a way that it challenges the guests' safety, we will not use torches. We still wander through the forest, and end up lighting a campfire. Hop on the metro and travel through quaint neighborhoods to Frognerseteren Station, which sits at about 500m above the fjord. After a few moments to soak in the views it's time to start our adventure! We will take a short walk over to the frozen Øvresetertjern Lake, where you will enjoy a cozy campfire, Norwegian style. We will have "hygge" - hot drinks, good conversation, roast marshmallows. Here, each guest will be given a flame torch. After a safety briefing, we’ll set off into the winter wilderness. The walk will last about 45 min and will end by the metro which takes us back to civilization.

For experienced riders: We provide the spiked tires, you bring the excitement. This unique bike journey (01 Nov - 29 Feb) combines Oslo's must see stops, a cozy coffee/snack break and an unforgettable winter experience, all within a 3-hour tour. Sites visited can change based on weather as well as seasonal activities such as Christmas markets, but are always chosen based on being safely accessible during winter conditions. There is plenty of time for stops and pictures. The guides will not only reveal the history behind the monuments and buildings, but cover topics relating to Norwegian culture and politics as well as modern life in Oslo. A guided Oslo Winter Highlights tour is the perfect way to discover Oslo safely and securely on a bike specifically equipped for winter cycling.

This legendary tour takes you through Norway’s most breathtaking UNESCO-protected fjord and mountain scenery, including Europe’s top scenic rail journeys. You will also enjoy a fjord cruise on the magnificent Aurlandsfjord and on the narrow Nærøyfjord. This is a one-way self-guided tour, from Oslo, to Myrdal to Flåm to Gudvangen to Voss then to Bergen.

See Oslo from a unique perspective, while kayaking down the beautiful Akerselva River. You might also find a new side to yourself – your wild side! So join us & embrace your inner “Goat” while kayaking through central Oslo, & out onto the wonderful Oslo Fjord. *If your child is under 10 years then we recommend you book our “Akerselva Packraft Tour” which they can join. Our kayak tour starts in central Oslo at the Nedre Foss Gård Park, which is located beside the famous Mathallen (Food hall). From here we paddle through Grunerløkka, where you will experience an incredible blend of nature and city life - something Oslo is famous for! Continuing our urban kayak adventure we arrive in Grønland - Oslo’s cultural heart! From here we paddle out onto the Oslo Fjord – but first through a 500m long tunnel thats flows underneath the heart of Oslo city! To end the trip we will paddle out into Oslofjord, past the new Munch Museum & finish beside the Oslo Opera House – an iconic Oslo landmark!

Discover the best of Oslo’s nature, culture, and food on this 3.5-hour guided forest hike just minutes from the city center. Meet your local guide at Frognerseteren Metro Station (arrive 10–15 minutes early) and wander peaceful woodland trails while hearing stories about Norwegian history, culture, and everyday life. Small groups (max 8) make the experience personal and cozy. At the top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Oslo and the Oslofjord while sipping a warm coffee and indulging in a sweet treat. Then gather around a campfire to make traditional Norwegian rømme waffles with classic toppings: jam, sour cream, and brunost. This immersive tour blends nature, culture, and culinary delights. Your guide escorts you back to the metro afterward. All food follows Norwegian health regulations; open fires follow local rules. Note: the the tour has a moderate hiking difficulty

Have you ever dreamed of walking through a winter wonderland? Do you want to experience the most beautiful view of Norway's capital city? Join us for a winter hike through the snowy forest high above the fjord - with spikes!

Discover Oslo at your own rhythm with our self-guided audio tour—no rushing, no waiting for others. Uncover hidden stories and historical secrets that even locals don't know, narrated by expert historians who reveal Oslo's authentic character beyond the tourist façade. Choose your own adventure by selecting only the attractions that interest you, creating a personalized journey impossible with traditional tours. While group tours offer surface-level information, our immersive experience delves deeper with rich historical context and captivating stories. Our professional narration is complemented by ambient soundscapes that transport you through time, bringing Oslo's history to life in your ears. Experience the perfect blend of freedom and insight—explore at your pace while gaining deeper understanding than any guidebook could provide.

Embark on a quest where you will explore Oslo’s Vigeland Park. Solve challenges and unlock stories on your phone, as you discover The Children’s Circle, The Lone Girl statue, and lesser-known places. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location. Ready for an adventure? Highlights include: • Walk in Vigeland Park and visit the Vigeland Fountain, the Monolith, and lesser-known places. • Enjoy a uniquely crafted story brought to you by our talented writers. • Solve clues to find local stories and hidden gems as you explore. • Discover a unique bronze sundial. • Try a new type of experience, the perfect mix between a tour, outdoor escape game, and treasure hunt. After your booking you will receive an email with instructions on how to download and play the game on your phone. We recommend that each user purchases a ticket for an optimal experience, although several people can share a phone.

Oslo in a Flash? Cruise It on an E-Bike! ⚡* Short on time but want to see all of Oslo? Our e-bikes are your secret weapon! *Why Rent With Us?* ✅ *Cover more ground* – Zip from the Opera House to Vigeland Park without breaking a sweat ✅ *Total freedom* – No tour schedules, no waiting – just pure Oslo exploration ✅ *Super simple* Book online → Grab your bike → Explore → Return (easy peasy!) *Perfect for:* - Cruise ship visitors with just hours to spare - Travelers who want to DIY their Oslo adventure - Anyone who prefers breezy rides over sore feet *The best part?* You'll see twice as much as walkers in half the time. Oslo awaits – will you pedal or power through it? (Need helmets/locks? We've got you covered – just ask!) *How it works:* 1. Book online (takes 2 mins) 2. Pick up near Central Station 3. Ride, explore, repeat! 4. Return when done

This experience stands apart from typical city food tours by taking guests into the Norwegian forest for a true outdoor food adventure. Guided by a local host and former professional chef, dishes are prepared over fire using traditional methods. The combination of locally inspired food, nature, and storytelling creates an authentic and memorable way to experience Norwegian culture.

See the very best of Norway during this full-day roundtrip tour from Olso. Travel along UNESCO-protected fjords and take a scenic train ride through some of the most gorgeous landscapes in Europe. Visit charming local villages along the way and capture amazing photos of the unforgettable scenery. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see Norway in a nutshell. Important information: • Your tickets, tour itinerary and clear instructions will be issued and sent via VIATOR email, please don't forget to check it • This is a self-guided tour • This tour requires the overnight train, duration of tour is around 24 hours. Please choose between the tour options with or without a sleeping compartment.

Step into the world of Sherlock Holmes and solve a mysterious case during the Sherlock Holmes City Game – a self-guided adventure full of puzzles, plot twists, and hidden clues. This City Game is all about story-driven gameplay and immersive mystery solving, it pulls you into a captivating story that you solve together, making it a unique way to connect, play, and create memories with your group. Perfect for friends, families, colleagues or solo players who enjoy a challenge and love detective games. Whether you play solo or in teams, it’s a flexible and fun experience that turns the city into your crime-solving playground. After booking, check your email for clear instructions, download the Loquiz app, and dive straight into your detective mission.
Access pristine Norwegian nature just 30 minutes from Oslo center - remarkably convenient!
Experience the Norwegian outdoor life philosophy with locals who live it daily.
From forest hiking to fjord kayaking to winter skiing - adventures year-round!
Norwegian outdoor experts share nature knowledge, safety skills, and hidden spots.
Hike through the Nordmarka forest to viewpoints, lakes, and authentic Norwegian nature.
Paddle through Oslo Fjord and islands experiencing Norway's maritime nature.
Cross-country ski on illuminated trails through snowy forests near Oslo.
Combine hiking, kayaking, and Norwegian outdoor experiences in full-day tours.
Tours range from 3-hour hiking trips to 8-hour multi-activity adventures.
Nature areas reached quickly from Oslo by public transport or tour vehicles.
Experience forests, lakes, and islands with minimal human impact - pure Norwegian nature.
Activities adapted for beginners to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
All necessary gear included - kayaks, skis, poles, safety equipment, etc.
Understand friluftsliv philosophy and why outdoor life is central to Norwegian identity.
Norwegians have "allemannsretten" (right to roam) - you can hike almost anywhere responsibly!
The Holmenkollen ski jump area offers excellent hiking and views year-round, plus ski museum.
Bring layers - Norwegian weather changes quickly even in summer.
Insect repellent useful for forest hikes in summer - mosquitoes can be present.
Many lakes in Nordmarka are swimmable in summer - bring swimwear for refreshing dips!
Cross-country skiing is quintessentially Norwegian - try it even if you're not a skier!
Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in forests.
Respect nature - follow "leave no trace" principles Norwegians take seriously.
A: Friluftsliv (pronounced "free-loofts-liv") means "outdoor life" - the Norwegian philosophy that spending time in nature is essential for wellbeing and quality of life! It's not about extreme sports or conquering nature, but rather simple, mindful connection with natural environments - hiking, skiing, camping, or just being outdoors. This concept is deeply embedded in Norwegian culture and identity. Children learn outdoor skills from young age. Most Norwegians own cabins and spend weekends in nature. It's why Norway has extensive trail networks, right-to-roam laws, and outdoor infrastructure. Experiencing friluftsliv with Norwegian guides provides cultural insight beyond just activities - it's understanding what makes Norwegians Norwegian!
A: Nordmarka is the massive forested area north of Oslo - about 430 square kilometers of protected wilderness! It's part of the Oslomarka (Oslo's surrounding forests) and features endless hiking trails, pristine lakes, traditional cabins, and authentic Norwegian nature. Amazingly, it's accessible within 30-40 minutes from Oslo center by metro (take line to Sognsvann or Frognerseteren)! The area offers year-round activities - summer hiking and swimming, winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Hundreds of kilometers of marked trails suit all abilities. It's where Oslo residents practice friluftsliv! Having such extensive wilderness accessible by public transport from a capital city is uniquely Norwegian and remarkable.
A: No! Most tours welcome complete beginners with no outdoor experience. Hiking tours choose appropriate difficulty levels and guides match pace to group abilities. Kayaking in Oslo Fjord's calm waters is beginner-friendly with full instruction. Cross-country skiing lessons teach complete novices - it's easier than downhill skiing! Equipment and instruction are always included. Norwegian guides are experienced with beginners and prioritize safety. That said, basic fitness helps for longer hikes (3-4 hours walking). Always inform guides of fitness levels and concerns. Tours exist for all abilities from gentle nature walks to challenging mountain hikes. Everyone can experience Norwegian outdoor life!
A: Layer with moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece), and waterproof outer shell. Norwegians follow "no cotton" rule - cotton gets wet and stays wet! Wool or synthetic fabrics dry quickly. Bring warm hat and gloves even in summer (Norwegian weather changes!). Waterproof hiking boots for forest hikes, comfortable shoes for easy walks. Rain gear essential year-round - rain can happen anytime. Summer: long pants (tick protection), sun hat. Winter: serious warm layers, wool socks, insulated jacket. Tour operators often provide specific packing lists. Basically: be prepared for cold and wet even if forecast looks nice!
A: You can absolutely hike independently! Norway's trail systems are excellently marked with color-coded trails. The Nordmarka is safe, well-mapped, and accessible via public transport (metro to Sognsvann or Frognerseteren). Download offline maps or use physical trail maps. However, guided tours add value through: navigation assurance, cultural context about friluftsliv, nature identification, hidden spots, safety support, and social aspects. First-time visitors benefit from guides. Experienced hikers can go solo easily. Tours provide guaranteed experiences and weather backup plans. Both approaches work! Many visitors do one guided tour to learn, then explore independently later.
A: Yes! The Oslomarka forests host moose (elk), red deer, roe deer, foxes, hares, red squirrels, and numerous bird species including woodpeckers, owls, and grouse. Moose are most impressive - seeing one is special! They're typically shy and most active dawn/dusk. Smaller mammals like squirrels are commonly seen. Birdlife is diverse. The forests also have lakes with fish, frogs, and aquatic birds. No dangerous animals - bears and wolves don't inhabit Oslo region. Guides know where wildlife sightings are more likely. Bring binoculars for birdwatching! The nature feels wild despite proximity to capital city - testament to Norwegian conservation values.
A: Absolutely! Oslo offers world-class cross-country skiing right from the city! The Nordmarka has 2,600 kilometers of groomed ski trails - more than any city worldwide! Many trails are illuminated for evening skiing. Take metro to Frognerseteren or Sognsvann and ski immediately. Ski season runs December-March typically. Equipment rental available at multiple locations (NOK 200-300/day). Cross-country skiing is THE Norwegian winter activity - locals ski after work! For downhill skiing, Oslo Winter Park (30 minutes away) and several other resorts are close by. The 1952 Winter Olympics were held in Oslo - skiing heritage runs deep! Tours teach technique and show best trails.
Famous Viking Ship Museum and Norse heritage
Beautiful Oslo Fjord and natural scenery
World-class museums and cultural institutions
Excellent Norwegian cuisine and culture
Easy access to outdoor adventures and nature
Perfect blend of history and modern Nordic life
Oslo enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Summers are mild (60-75°F/16-24°C), winters are cold (20-35°F/-6-2°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.
May to September offer the best weather with mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
June to August brings peak tourist season with mild weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
October to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and shorter days.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Taste modern Nordic cuisine, traditional Norwegian dishes, and explore Oslo's vibrant food scene!
Explore the legendary polar ship Fram and discover Norwegian polar exploration heritage!
Explore Oslo's medieval origins, royal palace, and 1,000 years of Norwegian capital history!
Cruise through stunning Norwegian fjords, island archipelago, and pristine Nordic waters!
Explore authentic 9th-century Viking ships and discover Norse seafaring heritage at the world's best Viking museum!
Excellent public transportation with metro, trams, and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the compact city center, and ferries provide access to the fjord.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
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