Aker Brygge & Tjuvholmen

Aker Brygge is a lively and very popular area situated right by the fjord. It has witnessed enormous development since the days when it used to be a shipyard up until the 80s. Now, visitors and locals come here for shopping, al fresco dining at one of the countless restaurants and bistros, or just to take a stroll along the waterfront. Tjuvholmen is an area located on a peninsula adjacent to Aker Brygge, between Pipervika and Filipstad. It has also undergone remarkable transformations throughout its history. Once a bustling dock, shipyard, and warehouse district, Tjuvholmen has evolved into a modern hub characterised by innovative architecture and bustling with stylish apartments and trendy restaurants. Tjuvholme also hosts many art galleries, a sculpture park, and a city beach. Here you'll also find the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, housed in a spectacular wooden building designed by Renzo Piano.

Akershus Fortress

Originally constructed as a medieval fortress in 1299 by King Håkon V, it was later transformed into a Renaissance castle and royal residence under the reign of King Christian IV. Throughout the centuries, this historic landmark has stood witness to pivotal events that have shaped the country's history. Guided tours are available daily.

• Web:

  kultur.forsvaret.no/forsvarets-festninger/akershus-festning

• Address:

  Grev Wedels Plass 5, Oslo

• Phone:

  + 47 23 09 39 17

Botanical Garden

Escape the bustling energy of Oslo at the Botanical Garden, where you'll find a serene oasis of expansive greenery. Established in 1814, it holds the distinction of being Norway's oldest garden. It features an Arboretum showcasing approximately 1,800 plant varieties, including an array of exotic species, plus a scent garden and wooden sculptures by British artist Tom Hare.

• Web:

  www.nhm.uio.no/english/index.html

• Address:

  Sars Gate 1, Oslo

• Phone:

  +47 22 85 16 30

• Opening hours:

  Sat–Thu 7am–9pm, Fri 7am–5pm

Bygdøy

Bygdøy is a beautiful peninsula not far from district Frogner. There are many popular museums here, but the peninsula is also a well-appreciated recreational area during the summer months, with beaches, hiking trails, and cycling paths.

• Address:

  Bygdøy, Oslo

Center for Studies of the Holocaust & Religious Minorities

The Centre for Studies of Holocaust and Religious Minorities showcases a modern exhibition that sheds light on the Holocaust. Through a combination of powerful imagery, immersive sounds, films, artefacts, and informative textual documents, the exhibition chronicles the tragic genocide of European Jews. It also highlights the Nazi State's systematic mass murder and persecution of other targeted groups and minorities.

• Web:

  www.hlsenteret.no/english

• E-mail:

  post@hlsenteret.no

• Address:

  Villa Grande, Huk Aveny 56, Oslo

• Phone:

  +47 22 84 21 00

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–6pm

Damstredet & Telthusbakken

Damstredet & Telthusbakken is a picturesque area in central Oslo with characteristic wooden houses from the 19th century. These two narrow and winding streets, lined with colourful houses are the perfect way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and experience some authentic old-Norway atmosphere. Surrounding this idyllic setting, you'll find the peaceful Egebergløkka, an area boasting allotment gardens, as well as the medieval Gamle Aker Kirke (Old Aker Church), adding to the historical charm of the surroundings.