Mr NordicThe Oslo area offers excellent travel options for those who want to travel a little further. Many of the best are easily accessible by public transport, such as the beautiful Bygdoy Peninsula with its beautiful museums and beautiful architecture. Other easily accessible areas include Ekeberg, known for beautiful public parks and open spaces, and Holmenkollen with its spectacular ski jumps.
Table of Contents
- The Bygdoy Peninsula
- The Norwegian Folk Museum in Bygdoy
- View the Oslofjord from Vestfold
- Drøbak, the village of Santa Claus
As is typical for Norway, there is no visibility anywhere, and those who want to spend a little energy on walking and hiking will be rewarded with some of the very best views of Oslo and the Oslofjord. That is certainly the case from Grefsenkollen and Tryvannstårn, two of the highest and most popular areas on the outskirts of the city.
“Embark on a journey beyond Oslo to discover the enchanting whispers of nature, the warm embrace of culture, and the inspiring tales of history.”
The city of Oslo is beautiful, but Norway has so much more to offer. In this article you will find four tips for trips that you can easily do within a day. This way you make the best use of your time in Norway and you get a good impression of the beautiful nature and culture that the country has to offer.
The Bygdoy Peninsula
Located on a peninsula just four miles west of Oslo, Bygdøy – easily accessible by public transport or car – is home to many of the city’s best tourist attractions, including the Holocaust Research Center and religious minorities in Norway located in Villa Grande, and the Royal Manor, a fully operational 200-acre organic farm.
“Adventure awaits just beyond the city lights; Oslo’s daytrips offer an invitation to wander, explore, and fall in love with Norway.”
Bygdoy is also one of the most popular destinations in the area, rich in cultural attractions such as beautiful parks, forests and beaches. Largely protected from future development, numerous quiet trails make the peninsula easy to explore, both on foot and by bike.
In front of the Radhuset you will find several jetties from where the ferries leave for the islands. The ferry, or rather a small boat, to Bygdoy departs from pier 3. Look for the sign B9, which is where the boat departs. Tickets, one way or return, can be bought at the adjacent office, where they also offer day trips. Since Bygdoy is a peninsula, you can also travel here by bus.
The Norwegian Folk Museum in Bygdoy
The Norwegian Folk Museum consists of a variety of antiques collections, including silverware, carpets and furniture, and an exhibition about the lives of the Laps (costumes and tents, as well as reindeer, hunting and fishing equipment). The museum also includes the office and various artifacts related to famous playwright Henrik Ibsen. Afterwards, the Old Town of Bygdoy with its medieval houses and Pharmacy Museum are an easy walk.
“Forge memories amidst breathtaking landscapes and tales of yore, all just a daytrip away from the spirited city of Oslo.”
There are daily exhibitions in the exhibition hall or in the open-air museum. For example, did you know that the Folk Museum is the world’s oldest open-air museum? The open-air museum has pieces from different regions and eras in history. It consists of more than 150 houses; most of which are open to the public. The Folk Museum is easily accessible from the city center by bus to Bygdøy.
View the Oslofjord from Vestfold
Discover the landscape of smooth, rolling rocks, different places to fish and the view of the fjord in Verdens ende, Norwegian for “The end of the world”. Here you can walk, swim and enjoy lunch along the coastal path in restaurants that serve local seasonal produce. Now that your body has enjoyed the fresh air, you may also want to put your mind to work. Then you can go to the seaside cottage in Åsgårdstrand where the world-famous painter Edvard Munch spent his summers.
“Embrace the vibrant serenity of Oslofjord, where sun-kissed beaches meet crystal waters, and adventure dances with nature’s harmony.”
The Oslofjord is one of the most popular recreational areas around Oslo, especially in summer. There are beautiful beaches and you can enjoy swimming or water sports. Very popular beaches are Huk and Paradisbukta. Many boats also sail on the fjord: canoes, kayaks and sailing boats. Fishermen cannot have fun on it either. There are a lot of islands in the Oslofjord, many of which are definitely worth a visit because of the beautiful nature.
Drøbak, the village of Santa Claus
About an hour’s drive from Oslo is the charming town of Drøbak, located on the narrowest point of the Oslo fjord. It is a well-known fact in Norway that Santa Claus (or Julenissen) was born close to the town of Drøbak, a few hundred years ago. And he still lives here. In the town there is a Christmas house where Santa Claus, elves and trolls almost come to life. Upon entering you immediately feel the fairytale atmosphere that prevails. In addition, there is plenty to do and see in the village itself, a walk along the coast with a view of the fjords is a must.
Last Updated on May 11, 2023
