Oslo in Photos: Travel Guide for Photo Spots
Oslo is one of those cities where nature, history, and modern design all meet within walking distance. These are the spots I found over 4 days of exploring Oslo. Some were well-known landmarks, others just quiet corners I wandered into while exploring the city on foot. I didn’t set out to make a photo guide, but as I looked back through my shots, I realised how much Oslo had to offer visually — and how each location told a little piece of the city’s story.
So, here’s my take on Oslo through the lens. A mix of architectural gems, waterfront views and historic places.
Akershus Fortress
Right in the heart of the city but somehow still peaceful, Akershus Fortress is where Oslo's medieval roots are most visible. It’s perched above the harbour with winding cobbled paths, thick stone walls, arched gates, and views that stretch across the Oslofjord. You can walk freely around the grounds, and it's especially quiet in the early morning or late afternoon.
Tip: Probably a great place for sunset as it has amazing views of the city, and also it is on a hill, bear that in mind if you need to carry your suitcase or a heavy backpack.
Oslo Opera House
The Oslo Opera House is one of the city’s most iconic modern landmarks, and the best part? You can walk on it. The sloping white marble roof rises right out of the harbour, and it gives you panoramic views over the water and skyline.
Tip: Climb to the top of the building for amazing views over the city or go across the water for the perfect photo.
Oslo Royal Palace
Tucked at the end of Oslo’s main boulevard, Karl Johans gate, the Royal Palace is grand without being over-the-top. It’s a great place for a walk even at night.
It’s worth swinging by for the Changing of the Guard — a short but formal ceremony that adds a touch of old-school tradition to the city. You’ll spot the guards in uniform, marching in front of the palace with perfect precision.
Tip: The guard change happens daily around 1:30 PM, and it’s easy to catch if you’re nearby.
Tip: For night photos, head up just after sunset, during the blue hour, for me this was the best time to photograph as the blue of the sky contrast with the yellow lights pretty well.
Stortingsparken
This area feels like Oslo in miniature — green, elegant, and full of character. Stortingsparken is the park that sits between the Parliament building and the Grand Hotel. Locals relax here, street musicians play nearby, this square is one of the most popular places in Oslo.
If you in Oslo, you will definitely wander around here at different times of the day.
Tip: The top of some buildings get “kissed” by the golden light just before sunset.
Oslo City Hall (Rådhuset)
From the outside, Oslo City Hall is all sharp lines and red brick — kind of brutalist, kind of beautiful. But step inside, and it completely flips the script. The grand hall is covered in massive murals, polished marble, and tall windows that flood the space with light. It’s one of those buildings that surprises you the second you walk through the doors.
It’s also where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded every year, which adds a little extra weight to the place.
Tip: The building is free to enter, and I do recommend walking around inside and it’s an incredible building.
Oslo Fjord Boat Trip
One of the best ways to see Oslo is from the water. The boat tours give you a totally different perspective of the city and the sorroundings.
There’s no single landmark here — Just some photos of the views you get from a boat trip.
Tip: I recommend this boat trip.
Tip: Bring a zoom lens, at least 70-200 or equivalent as it would be better for some close-up details.
Norsk Folkemuseum
This was one of the most unexpected highlights of my trip — the Norsk Folkemuseum is an open-air museum where you can literally walk through Norwegian history. There are over 150 historic buildings here, from old timber farmhouses to reconstructed townhomes and folk shops.
Get your tickets from here.
Tip: When i visit some of the shops inside (like the image below of the lady making bread) only took cash or their own voucher.
And if you’re wondering where to grab a bite between photo stops, I highly recommend checking out Vippa — a waterfront food hall filled with global street food vendors. It’s relaxed, full of locals, and if the sun is out a great place with amazing views of the harbour area.
If you enjoyed the photos from Oslo, I have a print shop here with some of my best photos available for purchase.
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