Oslo’s compact size and diverse neighborhoods make it an ideal city for exploring on foot, by bus, or even by kayak. Whether you’re interested in uncovering its historic sites, sampling Norwegian cuisine, or experiencing local culture, Oslo offers a wide variety of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. We particularly love the Oslo Guided Walking Tour of Central Oslo for a quick and engaging overview, and the Jewish Heritage Tour for a deeply personal historical perspective. Each of these experiences provides a unique window into what makes Oslo special, making it easier for you to pick the right adventure for your trip.
Quick Overview
The list below highlights the 13 best tours in Oslo, ranging from free city walks and private tailor-made tours to full-day excursions and culinary explorations. If you’d like a guided taste of Oslo’s landmarks, check out the Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems City Walk. For a more personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local could be your perfect match. For those craving history and culture, the History and Secrets of Oslo Tour offers a comprehensive look at the city’s layered past. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated experiences.
1. Oslo: Guided Walking Tour of Central Oslo
At number 1, this 2-hour guided walking tour offers a fast-paced, engaging introduction to Oslo’s core. Led by a local Scandinavian guide since 2015, it covers the key sights like the Opera House, Christiania Torv, and Aker Brygge, while also sneaking in some lesser-known spots. The emphasis on storytelling helps bring the city’s history to life, making it easy to navigate your first few days in Oslo with confidence. The tour finishes at the Norwegian Parliament, giving you a chance to explore further on your own.
Guests praise the guide’s ability to keep everyone entertained and informed, with reviews calling the guide “engaging,” “funny,” and “full of fun facts.” The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time or as a first step to orient yourself. The price is affordable, and the reviews highlight how this walk is a “great start” for understanding Oslo’s layout and culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a lively, rundown of Oslo’s most famous sights in just two hours.
2. Oslo: Oslo Discovery Tour with 2 Museums Included
Number 2 on our list hits the sweet spot for those who want a mix of sightseeing and culture in a single day. This 5.5-hour guided bus tour takes you around Oslo’s top landmarks, including the iconic Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Vigeland Sculpture Park, and the Fram Museum. The tour’s real highlight is the panoramic view from Holmenkollen Hill, where you can get a sweeping look at the city and surrounding fjords.
Depending on the season, you’ll visit the Norwegian Folk Museum or the Kon-Tiki Museum, both offering fascinating insights into Norwegian explorers and cultural history. The reviews emphasize the guide’s knowledge and the helpfulness of the driver, making for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to pack multiple highlights into one day, especially those keen on seeing Norway’s exploration history and outdoor art.
3. Oslo: Norwegian Food Tour & Hidden Gems City Walk
Number 3 is a 3-hour culinary walk that reveals Oslo’s authentic flavors and lesser-known neighborhoods. Led by a local guide, you’ll taste a variety of Norwegian dishes—vegetarian options included—and explore some of the city’s hidden culinary spots. The tour emphasizes local favorites over tourist traps, giving you an insider’s perspective on Norway’s food culture.
Highlights include sampling reindeer, venison, and traditional Norwegian waffles, as well as discovering the stories behind the food and architecture in the city. Reviewers note the guide’s friendliness and the rich taste experience, describing it as “informative” and “delicious.” The small group size ensures a personal touch in this flavorful journey.
Bottom Line: A great choice for food lovers wanting an authentic taste and a local’s insight into Oslo’s culinary scene.
4. Oslo: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Number 4 offers a private, personalized walking experience with a passionate local guide. Flexible and tailored to your interests, this tour can last from 2 to 6 hours, making it perfect for those wanting a custom exploration. The guide helps you discover hidden spots, share insider tips, and tell stories that bring Oslo’s streets alive.
Guests rave about the personal connection, with reviews highlighting the guide’s friendliness and knowledge. No fixed route means the tour can focus on your specific preferences, whether it’s history, food, or secret corners of the city. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to make their own itinerary and enjoy a relaxed, private experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want full control of their tour and a friendly local to guide the way.
5. Oslo: Grünerløkka Food & Culture Walking Tour
Number 5 dives into Oslo’s vibrant Grünerløkka neighborhood, known for its indie vibe and eclectic food scene. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll sample local specialties like reindeer, explore riverside paths, and hear stories about how the area’s working-class roots shaped its current creative scene. The guide takes you through Vulkan and other hotspots, with stops for food tasting and scenic walks.
Guests enjoy the mix of food, street art, and local history, describing the tour as “informative and informal.” The walk is a fantastic way to see a different side of Oslo, away from the tourist crowds, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed wandering.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in food, local culture, and vibrant urban environments.
6. History and Secrets of Oslo Tour
Number 6 is a 3-4 hour walking tour that reveals Oslo’s most iconic landmarks alongside hidden stories and secrets. Starting either at Slottsparken or the Royal Palace, the tour covers places like Akershus Fortress, Oslo City Hall, and the Opera House, with photo stops and scenic viewpoints along the way.
The guide shares fascinating anecdotes, helping you appreciate the city’s layered past from medieval roots to modern Oslo. Reviewers appreciate the in-depth storytelling and the variety of viewpoints. It’s particularly good for travelers who want both sights and stories, with a flexible itinerary that adapts to your interests.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for history buffs and curious travelers wanting a broad picture of Oslo’s evolution.
7. Central Oslo Guided Walking Tour
Number 7 is a 2-hour walking tour that brings you face-to-face with Oslo’s main attractions like the Tiger Sculpture, Akershus Castle, and the Opera House. This affordable ($4.64) tour is perfect for travelers on a budget or those wanting to get an initial feel for the city’s layout and highlights.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour also passes Rådhusgata and Oslo’s historic streets, providing context and stories behind each site. The reviews highlight the guide’s ability to keep everyone engaged and the valuable historical insights.
Bottom Line: An excellent, budget-friendly way to see Oslo’s key sites and get oriented quickly.
8. Oslo Like a Local: Customized Private Tour
Number 8 offers a fully customized private tour guided by a local who tailors the experience to your interests. Whether you want to explore hidden corners, favorite cafés, or lesser-known sights, this flexible experience adapts to your preferences. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personal, in-depth day.
Guests describe their guides as knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience feel authentic and relaxed. The flexibility makes it suitable for all ages and interests, with the guide providing tips for your remaining stay in Oslo.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a bespoke day with a local expert, blending culture, food, and offbeat sights.
9. 8 Hours Full-Day Exclusive Oslo Tailormade Guided Limo Tour
Number 9 is a luxury, fully private tour using a chauffeured vehicle, lasting around 8 hours. You design your day with the help of a guide, choosing from major museums, scenic parks, or specific attractions like the Vigeland Sculpture Park or the Fram Museum. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus bottled water, making it a hassle-free luxury experience.
Guests appreciate the customization and the comfort of traveling in style. Reviewers note the guide’s professionalism and the ability to see what truly interests you at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, flexible, and luxurious day tailored to their interests.
10. Oslo Tour with a Michelin-Starred Chef & Lunch/Dinner
Number 10 combines culture and cuisine in a 3-hour experience guided by a Michelin-starred chef. Explore Oslo’s key sights like the Royal Palace and the National Theater, with the chef sharing insights about Norwegian ingredients and culinary traditions. The small group setting adds a high-end touch, perfect for food lovers wanting an authentic culinary journey.
While the itinerary is focused on sights, the real highlight is the chance to learn about Norwegian gastronomy from a top culinary professional. It’s a memorable way to combine sightseeing with tasting.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who value fine dining and want to connect with Norway’s food scene personally.
11. Oslo: Food Tasting and Walking Tour with a Local
Number 11 is a 3.5-hour guided walk that covers Oslo’s food markets, the riverside, and hip neighborhoods. You’ll sample local dishes and drinks, including a delicious waffle, and learn about the city’s culinary evolution. The guide’s friendliness and local knowledge make this a relaxed, engaging experience.
Guests note the high-quality food samples and the lively neighborhood atmosphere. It’s an excellent way to see a different side of Oslo and pick up some local tips.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want to combine food, culture, and a leisurely stroll through Oslo’s trendy areas.
12. Jewish Heritage Tour in Oslo
Number 12 is a 2-hour private tour that explores the history of Jews in Oslo and Norway. Led by a passionate guide, it visits key sites like the Oslo Synagogue, the Royal Palace, and the Norwegian Parliament, with stories about Jewish life through the decades. The tour offers a rare, personal perspective on a smaller but meaningful community.
Reviewers describe the guide as “knowledgeable,” “personal,” and “thorough,” emphasizing the emotional impact of the visit to the synagogue. It’s an enriching experience for anyone interested in social history or looking for a meaningful cultural excursion.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in minority stories within Oslo.
13. Oslo Sea Kayak Tour “Fjord City”
Number 13 takes you onto the water for a 2-hour kayak trip starting at Tjuvholmen. Paddle past landmarks like the Oslo Opera House and Akershus Fortress, experiencing the city from a unique perspective. Suitable for families, beginners, and anyone wanting a bit of exercise mixed with sightseeing.
Guests describe guides as “helpful and friendly,” and the experience as “fun and relaxing.” The tour offers a refreshing break from walking, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy Oslo’s fjord scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers eager for an outdoor adventure in the heart of Oslo.
How to Choose the Best Tour for Your Trip
Choosing among these options depends on your interests and schedule. For a quick overview of Oslo’s main sights, the Guided City Walk offers a great introduction. If you’re passionate about food and local culture, the Norwegian Food Tour or Food Tasting & Walking Tour might be best. For a personalized touch, the Private Tour with a Local or the Customized Private Tour give you flexibility and insider access.
Luxury travelers or those with limited time might prefer the Full-Day Limo Tour, while history buffs will appreciate the History and Secrets Tour. For active explorers, the Sea Kayak Tour offers a scenic adventure on the fjord.
Consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season in summer, when these tours fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Oslo offers a wide variety of tours that cater to different tastes—from quick city walks to in-depth cultural journeys, from gourmet food tastings to scenic outdoor adventures. For travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction, the Oslo: Guided Walking Tour of Central Oslo makes an excellent start. For those who want a fully tailored experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local provides a highly personal touch.
No matter what your interests, booking your preferred tour in advance guarantees a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Oslo’s diversity ensures that your exploration can be as active, cultural, or relaxing as you wish, making this Scandinavian capital a truly rewarding destination to discover.