10 Places To Visit Near Oslo For The Perfect Day Trip

Explore the best places to visit near Oslo for a memorable vacation full of excitement.

A vibrant city in Norway, Oslo is a perfect blend of nature and city life. You must explore the places to visit near Oslo to understand this stunning location surrounded by forest Hills. If you are a culture lover or an outdoor enthusiast, you must plan a trip to Oslo for a memorable experience. The city has a lot to offer, from its iconic museums to its opera houses. The network of public transport makes it extremely convenient and hassle-free to explore the city. It has attractive shopping and dining experiences, perfect for a family-friendly vacation with your loved ones.

Top 10 Places To Visit Near Oslo

If you’re looking for the best places to visit near Oslo for a memorable trip, check out the following destinations:

1. Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Visit Holmenkollen Ski Jump,one of the best places to visit near Oslo with your family.

Photo: Kvtvfinn / Wikimedia Commons

This is a popular landmark and is also one of the oldest ski jumps in the world. The ski jump Tower is situated at a height of 60 m. It is considered a part of the Holmenkollen Ski Arena. Tourists reach the top of the tower, where they can observe the stunning views of Oslo and the nearby forest. You can also visit the history museum to gather more information on the history of ski jumping in Norway. For a more interactive experience, you can take the ski simulator experience.

Distance From Oslo: 12 km
Best Time To Visit: June to September

2. Vigeland Sculpture Park

Visit Vigeland Sculpture Park, among the best places to visit near Oslo with family.

Photo: GuoJunjun / Wikimedia Commons

This sculpture park is one of the largest in the world. It was created by a single artist and is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and art connoisseurs. The Monolith is the central piece, standing at a height of 17 m. It has 121 human figures joined, depicting the condition of humans from birth to death. The fountain, designed by Gustav Vigeland, is an attraction. It is surrounded by 20 bronze sculptures, including a man, a child, and an elderly figure. The bridge and the 58 sculptures seem life-like and evoke powerful emotions, showcasing the complexity of human connections.

Distance From Oslo: Within Oslo
Best Time To Visit: May to September

3. Bygdøy Peninsula

Visit Bygdøy Peninsula, among the best places to visit near Oslo with your family and friends.

Photo: Bjoertvedt / Wikimedia Common

This is a historic area located in the west of Oslo, Norway. It is popular because of its stunning parks and scenic waterfront views. It has cultural landmarks, making it a popular place to visit among locals and tourists from all across the globe. The Viking Ship Museum is an attraction and has three well-preserved Viking ships from the ninth century. The Fram museum is dedicated to the Fram polar ship. The Kon-Tiki Museum is a great place to visit to understand Heyerdahl’s theories on the migration of ancient people.

Distance From Oslo: 7 km
Best Time To Visit: May to September

4. Oslofjord Islands (Hovedøya & Gressholmen)

Visit Oslofjord Islands, among best places to visit near Oslo with your family and friends.

Photo: Helge Høifødt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a fascinating getaway close to Oslo. It is perfect for a day trip and offers a great mix of history and iconic views. It is located away from the hustle and bustle of city life and can be reached by boat. There are historical ruins and green spaces where you can organise a picnic with your loved ones. There are opportunities for nature and walking trails, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities. It is also a paradise for bird watchers to observe seagulls and other sea birds. Gressholmen has a secluded vibe, with several historic military installations open for the public to explore.

Distance From Oslo: 5 km
Best Time To Visit: June to August

5. Kjeragbolten

Visit Kjeragbolten, one of the best places to visit near Oslo, with family and friends.

Photo: Oiiisann / Wikimedia Commons

The most famous attraction of Norway, this place features a massive rock stuck between two cliffs. The Kjeragbolten offers an ultimate challenge to the visitors where they can stand on the rock and enjoy 360-degree views of the fjord. It is an iconic place to visit for budding photographers to capture dramatic shots. The hike is interesting and challenging, with a round trip of about 10 to 12 km. There are scenic waterfalls and beautiful forests midway. The breathtaking views of the Lysefjord offer a unique perspective of Oslo.

Distance From Oslo: 300 km
Best Time To Visit: June to August

6. Fredrikstad

Visit Fredrikstadt in the southeastern part of Norway offers rich maritime heritage.

Photo: Thomas M. Hansen / Wikimedia Commons

It is a lively town in the southeastern part of Norway. It is near the Swedish border and has a rich maritime heritage. It is a stunning old town with great views of the Glomma river. The old town, Gamlebyen, is fortified with wooden houses and cobbled streets. There are historical buildings that take you back in time. You can also explore the museums, cafes, and local boutiques. The river at the waterfront is equally exciting, with opportunities for river cruises. It is also the longest river in Norway, which adds a mysterious charm to this place.

Distance From Oslo: 95 km
Best Time To Visit: May to September

7. Lillehammer

An image of Lillehammer Church which is a parish church of the Church of Norway.

Photo: Christian David / Wikimedia Commons

Lillehammer is an exciting town to visit in Central Norway. This is also popular as the host city for the 1994 Winter Olympics. You can visit the largest open-air Museum in Norway, Maihaugen. The museum is popular for over 200 historic buildings including traditional houses, workshops and Farmsteads. The Stave church is a church representing the iconic heritage of Norway. The Olympic Park is where you can visit to experience winter sports. The Norsk Vegmuseum is popular as the museum is dedicated to the history of roads, bridges, and transportation in Norway.

Distance From Oslo: 180 km
Best Time To Visit: December to March

8. Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue)

Visit Trolltunga is located above the lake Ringedalsvatnet in the Hardangerfjord region.

Photo: TerjeN / Wikimedia Commons

This is a breathtaking natural landmark located above the lake Ringedalsvatnet in the Hardangerfjord region. It is a challenging hike of 10 to 12 hours, but is considered the most rewarding in the entire Norway. The stretch is about 28 km in total. Other than this, you can visit Ringedalsvatnet Lake and view its crystal blue waters. It is the best Photo spot due to its dramatic landscape. It is a great place to visit for adrenaline seekers. The hike is accessible only at certain times of the year.

Distance From Oslo: 350 km
Best Time To Visit: June to September

9. Drøbak

Visit Drøbak, a popular place with beautiful streets and a picture-perfect waterfront.

Photo: Frogn kommune / Wikimedia Commons

The charming coastal town just South of Oslo, is a popular place with beautiful streets and a picture-perfect waterfront. It’s a well-known day trip from Oslo. The Oscarsborg Fortress is where you can see exhibitions related to World War II. There are beautiful cafes where you can enjoy a meal or coffee. The ferry ride is an enjoyable experience for families. The Drøbak Old Town is popular for its harbour for enjoying the scenic views or pleasure yachts. Local shops are great to purchase handicrafts with souvenirs, and Norwegian goods.

Distance From Oslo: 40 km
Best Time To Visit: May to September

10. Rondane National Park

Explore the popular Rondane National Park, among the oldest national parks in Norway.

Photo: Jadize44 / Wikimedia Commons

This National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Norway. It is situated in the central region of the country. It was established in 1962 and has an area of about 963 square kilometres. It has 10 peaks, which are ideal for nature lovers to enjoy hiking. The Rondvassam Hut, which is located at the Rondvassdammen Lake, is an ideal place to rest. This is a 140 km long trail with deep valleys and high plateaus. You can observe the population of wild reindeer during your visit. Birds like golden eagles, rough-legged buzzards, and ptarmigan are common.

Distance From Oslo: 300 km
Best Time To Visit: June to September

Now that you have checked the best places to visit near Oslo, you are all set to explore the world-class museums, outdoor activities, and modern attractions. This destination must be on your list as it has a variety of shopping districts and local food experiences for visitors. This place is highly family-oriented, with iconic attractions for people of all ages. Plan a trip with TripXL and unlock moments of happiness!

Cover Photo: Colliekar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, places near Oslo are family-friendly, such as the Viking Ship Museum and Norwegian Folk Museum, where kids can learn about history through interactive exhibits. Nordmarka Forest and Bygdøy Peninsula also offer fun activities for all ages.
The Viking Ship Museum showcases well-preserved Viking ships and artefacts from the Viking Age, offering a deep dive into Norway’s seafaring history.
Drobak, located about 25 miles south of Oslo, is famous for its Christmas House, scenic fjord views, and the charming old town is perfect for a day trip.
Honefoss is known for its beautiful waterfalls, Ringerike Museum, and opportunities for hiking in nearby forests.
The Oslofjord Islands are easily accessible by ferry from Oslo’s city centre and have serene spots like Hovedoya and Gressholmen for swimming, hiking, and picnics.

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