Oslo Cruise Port Guide

On a cruise to Norway, you’ll discover why Oslo is known for its world-class museums, historic buildings, and international cuisine scene. Combine its fascinating cultural attractions with gorgeous green parks and lovely water views from the city’s neighborhoods, and you’ll understand why Oslo is such a coveted destination for travelers and locals alike.

Explore the city’s trendy neighborhoods and soak in its captivating art scene during your Oslo cruise. Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Oslo Royal Palace to the tune of a live band. See the city’s oldest building and visit the imposing City Hall. Stop for a cup of coffee in a cozy cafe and sample typical Norweigan food while you’re here.

Cruises to Oslo, Norway

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Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises to Oslo

Vigeland Park

Vigeland Park feels like a park and art museum rolled into one thanks to the art sculptures scattered throughout the park. Gustav Vigeland, the artist behind the sculptures, is known for his eccentric creations. Vigeland Park is the largest single-artist sculpture park in the world.

Akershus Fortress

Akershus Fortress is the oldest standing building in Oslo thanks to the fact that it survived the devastating 1624 fire that rampaged through Oslo. Explore this historic piece of the city that dates back to the 1300s.

Bygdøy Peninsula

Discover even more art and history in the Bygdøy Peninsula, the neighborhood where most of Oslo’s museums are located. If you’re there in the summer, visit Bygdøy’s recreational area, which has a picturesque sandy beach overlooking the water.

Oslo City Hall

If you’re interested in learning more about Oslo’s government, a tour of Oslo City Hall is a great way to do so. Oslo City Hall is also where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded each year.

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Top Things to Do in Oslo

Watch the Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard happens each afternoon at the Oslo Royal Palace. The ceremony starts at 1:30pm and lasts about 40 minutes as one shift ends for the guards and another begins. In the summer months, this display is even accompanied by music from a live band. 

Viking Ship Museum

At the Viking Ship Museum, you can see actual ships from the Viking era unearthed during an archaeological dig. The three ships on display in the museum are Viking burial ships. Admire the curled ends, hollowed middles, and intricate design details. The museum also houses other  Viking artifacts.

Munch Museum

Even if you don’t know the name Edvard Munch, you likely know his most famous work of art: The Scream. Learn more about the life and work of this famous artist with a visit to the Munch Museum during your Oslo cruise port of call. However, to actually see the original painting of the Scream, you’ll need to go to the National Museum in Oslo.

National Museum

In addition to The Scream painting, you’ll find a vast array of artwork ranging from sculptures to paintings to many other works of visual art at the National Museum. It’s a must-visit for art lovers on a cruise to Oslo.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Oslo Cruise Port

If you’re looking for traditional Norwegian fare, order local seafood like salmon and halibut or spekemat, a plate of cured sausages and other meats. To sample a variety of cuisines, head to Mathallen, an indoor food market where you’ll find cafes, eateries, charcuteries, and vendor stalls selling local produce, baked goods, and culinary tools. For a unique dining experience, visit Salt, a one-of-a-kind nomadic art project that houses an eatery and bar in an intricately designed wooden establishment overlooking the opera house. Taste the award-winning espresso drinks at Tim Wendelboe and experience the lively bar scene in the Youngstorget area near the city center. Oslo is also home to craft breweries, such as the centrally located RØØR and Oslo Microbrewery.

Culture & History of Oslo Cruise Port

Present-day Oslo was founded in 1024 by King Harald Hardråde, who is considered to be one of the last real Vikings to rule the area. King Hardråde ruled Norway until 1066 when he was killed in the Battle of Stamford in an effort to claim Northern England. After his death, his son became the King of Norway. Norway became part of Denmark and then part of Sweden until claiming independence in 1905. Much of Oslo’s culture is influenced by the romantic nationalist movement that occurred in the 14th century. Unity is a strong value in Norway and in Oslo, which is expressed in its festivals and art. In addition to the arts, the city has a thriving economy, mostly thanks to the oil and gas industries.

Oslo Port Facilities & Location

Oslo has two different cruise terminals, with a pier located on either side of Akershus Fortress. Both cruise terminals are conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Oslo. Each terminal offers food and drinks, souvenir shops, and a tourist information booth.

Transportation in Oslo

Oslo has a clean and efficient rapid transit system, referred to as the Oslo Metro or the Oslo T-bane. Buses are another option for getting around the city. Beyond public transportation, there are taxi ranks around the city, including one by the Oslo cruise terminal. Taxis in Oslo are known for being expensive, but do typically accept credit cards. To get to Bygdøy Peninsula, there is a ferry available from the city center, which takes about 10 minutes.

Shopping Near the Oslo Cruise Port

To experience Norway’s version of a high-end department store on your cruise to Oslo, head to GlasMagasinet. This luxurious department store has everything from clothing to home goods and cosmetics. For more fashion shopping, head to the shops located off of the main pedestrian street of Karl Johans gate, where you’ll find stores like H&M and United Colors of Benetton, with Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Hermes located off of its cross streets. 

To experience Norway’s version of a high-end department store on your cruise to Oslo, head to GlasMagasinet. This luxurious department store has everything from clothing to home goods and cosmetics. For more fashion shopping, head to the shops located off of the main pedestrian street of Karl Johans gate, where you’ll find stores like H&M and United Colors of Benetton, with Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Hermes located off of its cross streets. 

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The currency used in Oslo is the Norwegian krone, which you can get from one of the many ATMs around the city or from a currency exchange office. Most places of business accept credit cards. Tipping is less than what you might be used to back home, with 10% being the standard for good service in restaurants and bars. For taxis, it’s common to round up to the nearest krone.

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