Oslo: Hovedøya and Nakholmen Island Hopping Tour

Exploring Oslo’s stunning coastline has never been easier—or more eco-friendly—thanks to the Hovedøya and Nakholmen Island Hopping Tour. This four-hour adventure takes you smoothly from the city center onto pristine islands, combining history, scenic beauty, and Norwegian cabin charm. While it’s a relatively short trip, the quality of the experience makes it feel like a full day of discovery.

What we love most? The knowledgeable guides bring the islands’ stories to life, the electric ferries offer a quiet, eco-conscious ride, and the chance to see both historic ruins and cozy coastal cottages makes this trip genuinely special. That said, keep in mind that weather can influence the experience, especially if you’re hoping to swim or do a lot of walking.

This tour suits travelers who crave authentic, scenic moments with a touch of history—ideal for those who want a relaxed yet insightful taste of Oslo’s outdoor side. Whether you’re short on time or simply want an easy, beautiful day out, this trip offers excellent value and memorable views.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly travel on fully electric ferries offers a quiet, pollution-free ride.
• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with insightful stories and tips.
• Historic sites like the medieval monastery ruins on Hovedøya provide a glimpse into Norway’s past.
• Scenic walks and optional swims add a relaxed, personal touch.
• Charming coastal cottages on Nakholmen show a different, quieter side of island life.
• Flexible scheduling and inclusive transport make it easy to join and enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Oslo Island-Hopping Experience

For travelers visiting Oslo, this tour presents a perfect way to combine city life with the natural beauty and history of the fjord. The entire trip is designed to maximize what’s unique about the area—without feeling rushed or overly commercialized. From the moment you meet your guide outside Backstube Opera, you’re set for a well-organized, engaging adventure.

Starting Point and Transportation

The meeting spot is conveniently located just outside the Backstube Opera, close to Oslo Central Station. This makes it easy to find, especially if you arrive by train or public transport. The tour kicks off with a short tram ride—called a “trikk” locally—that whisks you from the city center to Aker Brygge in about 10 minutes. Aker Brygge is a lively waterfront district packed with restaurants, shops, and impressive views of the Oslofjord, making it an appealing starting point.

The use of electric trams and ferries underscores the tour’s commitment to sustainable travel, a detail likely appreciated by environmentally conscious travelers. The electric ferries are quiet and emit no pollution, offering a peaceful and eco-friendly ride across the water. Plus, the ferries are included in the ticket price, simplifying logistics and making this an excellent value.

The Cruise to Hovedøya

Within about 10 minutes on the ferry, you arrive at Hovedøya, an island blending history and nature. Here, your guide will lead you on a guided tour of the medieval monastery ruins—once part of a Cistercian order—where you can imagine monks going about their daily routines centuries ago. The ruins are atmospheric, with crumbling stone walls set against lush greenery, perfect for those who enjoy history with a scenic backdrop.

We loved the way guides such as Ellen or Lars shared their passion and knowledge, offering fascinating tidbits that brought the ruins to life. According to reviews, “the guides also gave us tips for our stay,” indicating their helpful, friendly approach. The guided walk lasts about an hour, during which you can also explore scenic forest trails or relax on a tranquil beach—perfect for a quick swim if you remembered your swimsuit.

Scenic Walks and Possible Swims

Hovedøya’s trails offer picturesque views, shaded walks, and a chance to stretch your legs after the ferry ride. The optional swim is a great way to cool off; just remember to bring your swimsuit and towel. The calm waters and quiet beaches are ideal for a peaceful dip—something many reviewers, like Sandra, appreciated, mentioning “super nice guides” and lovely group experiences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Nakholmen

After about 25 minutes on the ferry, you land on Nakholmen, a smaller island renowned for its colorful, traditional coastal cottages. This is where you see authentic Norwegian island life—a favorite among locals who retreat here on weekends. The charm lies in the cozy cabins, often painted in cheerful colors, that line the shores, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

Your guide will give you a brief guided tour of Nakholmen, highlighting the island’s history as a fishing and cabin community. You’ll then have time to explore independently—strolling along the quaint streets, snapping photos of the cottages, or simply soaking up the relaxed atmosphere. Many visitors mentioned how “picturesque” and “authentic” Nakholmen feels—offering a genuine taste of local life.

Return Journey and Final Fjord Views

After soaking in Nakholmen’s charm, you’ll hop back on the ferry for a roughly 20-minute cruise back towards Aker Brygge. This ride offers one last opportunity to marvel at the fjord’s scenic beauty, with its shimmering waters and distant islands. Many reviews emphasize the stunning views; one reviewer noted, “The ferry ride itself is a highlight, providing peaceful vistas of the fjord and islands.”

Once back at Aker Brygge, you’ll hop on the tram for a brief ride to Jernbanetorget, concluding your four-hour adventure. The seamless transportation and included tickets make this tour straightforward and stress-free.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, especially when considering the value for money. For what is essentially a half-day trip, you’re getting guided insights, scenic ferry rides, and visits to two beautifully contrasting islands—one steeped in history, the other a peaceful coastal retreat. The inclusion of public transportation and entry to the islands makes it an affordable and convenient way to experience some of Oslo’s best outdoor sights.

The tour’s popularity is clear from the 4.8 rating based on 10 reviews, with many praising the guides’ knowledge and the scenic views. For example, Sandra, who enjoyed the group experience and helpful tips from her guide, highlighted how the guides enhanced the visit. This suggests that the tour isn’t just about scenery but also about learning and connecting with local culture.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and relaxed exploration. It’s especially suited for those who want a sustainable, intimate experience away from large crowds. If you’re into scenic walks, historic ruins, or tranquil island cottages, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Practical Considerations

• Weather dependency: The experience can be affected by weather, especially if you plan to swim or walk extensively.
• Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
• Swimmers should bring a swimsuit if they want to take advantage of the beaches on Hovedøya.
• The tour is in English, making it accessible for most international visitors.
• The duration (4 hours) makes it suitable for a half-day outing—no long commitments required.

The Sum Up

The Oslo Hovedøya and Nakholmen Island Hopping Tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and informative escape from city life. By combining eco-conscious transportation, engaging guides, and the chance to explore both historic ruins and idyllic cottages, it delivers great value for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Norway’s coastal charm.

It’s especially well-suited to those who appreciate storytelling, natural beauty, and cultural authenticity—all within a short, easy-to-manage excursion. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful day out, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

If you’re after a memorable, well-organized way to see Oslo’s islands with minimal fuss, this tour gets your seal of approval. Just remember to bring your camera, your swimsuit, and a curious mind ready for stories from the past and views of the present.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, from the meet-up outside Backstube Opera to returning to the starting point.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a guided tour, tickets for the tram and ferry, and entry to both Hovedøya and Nakholmen islands.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is optional. Just bring your swimsuit and towel if you wish to take a dip at Hovedøya’s beaches.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specify age restrictions, the moderate walking and scenic nature make it generally suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with walking and boat rides.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and dress according to the weather. Layers are advisable, especially if the weather is changeable.

Are the ferries and trams eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The ferries are fully electric, emphasizing sustainability and quiet rides, aligning with eco-conscious travelers’ values.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is subject to weather conditions and may be adjusted accordingly. It’s wise to check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes or cancellations.

In essence, this tour offers a delightful slice of Oslo’s natural and historic charm, all wrapped in a sustainable, guided package. Perfect for a half-day escape that leaves you with lasting memories and stunning photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: