The compact city of Oslo is best explored through several excellent guided options. My favorite way to see the city is the Private City Center Highlights Walking Tour – it’s intimate and gets you up close to the historic core. The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus provides a good overview, especially for first-timers, while the E-Scooter tour adds a fun, modern twist to sightseeing. For adventurous travelers, the Oslo Kayak Tour offers a unique perspective from the water. These well-organized tours help you make the most of Norway’s vibrant capital. Let’s look at the top tour choices in detail.
Key Points
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E-Scooter Oslo City Tour offers a 2-hour personalized experience with knowledgeable guides, safety equipment, and snacks at a 5.0 rating and 98% recommendation rate.
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Private City Center Highlights Tour provides a 3-hour immersive exploration of Oslo’s culture and history with an expert English-speaking guide and wheelchair accessibility.
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Oslo Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers a 24-hour pass to access 17 stops, including major attractions like the Viking Ship Museum and Vigeland Sculpture Park.
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Oslo Kayak Tour “Fjord City” provides a 2-hour paddling experience for moderate fitness levels, led by knowledgeable local guides and priced from $89.99.
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Oslo Grand City Tour and Fjord Cruise is a comprehensive 7.5-hour tour that includes visits to Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Vigeland Sculpture Park, and Fram Museum.
E-Scooter Oslo City Tour
Offering a unique and exhilarating way to discover Oslo’s highlights, the E-Scooter Oslo City Tour provides participants with electric scooters to explore the city’s iconic landmarks.
With a 5.0 rating based on 83 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour earns a Badge of Excellence. Lasting approximately 2 hours, the tour covers major attractions like the Oslo Opera House, Oslofjord promenade, and Akershus Fortress.
Personalized attention is ensured, with a maximum of 15 travelers and knowledgeable private guides sharing historical stories. Included in the tour are the scooter, safety equipment, and snacks.
While tipping is appreciated, it’s not mandatory. Participants must be at least 13 years old and able to ride a scooter safely.
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Oslo: Private City Center Highlights Guided Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in the heart of Oslo, the Private City Center Highlights Guided Walking Tour offers an engaging 3-hour exploration of the Norwegian capital’s essential sights.
Priced at $268.90 for up to 15 participants, the private tour provides a personalized experience with an expert English-speaking guide. Guests can expect to see iconic landmarks like the Oslo City Hall, Royal Palace, and Akershus Fortress, as well as the lively Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen districts.
With free cancellation, flexible booking, and wheelchair accessibility, this tour is an ideal way to discover Oslo’s highlights. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable, communicative, and friendly guides who bring the city to life.
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Oslo Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The Oslo Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour provides visitors with a convenient way to explore the Norwegian capital’s key attractions at their own pace.
With a 24-hour ticket, travelers can enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off access and informative audio commentary in multiple languages. The tour covers 17 stops, including the Akershus Fortress, Viking Ship Museum, and Vigeland Sculpture Park.
While reviews are mixed, with some praising the tour’s comfort and convenience and others reporting issues with audio and customer service, the flexible timing and accessibility make it a practical option for those seeking an independent city exploration.
Priced at $46.32 per person, the tour offers a flexible and convenient way to see Oslo’s highlights.
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Oslo Kayak Tour “Fjord City”
For those seeking a unique and active way to explore Oslo’s picturesque fjord, the Oslo Kayak Tour “Fjord City” provides an exceptional opportunity.
Priced from $89.99 per person, this 2-hour tour offers 1-1.5 hours of on-water paddling, allowing participants to admire iconic landmarks like the Oslo Opera House and Akershus Fortress.
Led by knowledgeable local guides from Mad Goats, the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels and swimming abilities.
With flexible booking and a generous cancellation policy, the Oslo Kayak Tour is an excellent choice for both families and adventurous travelers looking to enjoy Norway’s stunning coastal scenery.
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Free City Walking Tour in Oslo
A well-regarded free city walking tour in Oslo allows visitors to explore the Norwegian capital’s iconic landmarks and learn about its rich history and culture.
The tour covers major sites like the Opera House, Royal Palace, and City Hall, providing engaging stories and insights through knowledgeable guides.
With a maximum of 30 travelers per group, the tour offers a personal experience and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Though free, tips are expected, and the tour boasts a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
The 1.5-hour tour starts at the iconic Tiger statue and ends near the Norwegian Parliament, making it a convenient and comprehensive introduction to Oslo for first-time visitors.
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Oslo: Grand City Tour and Fjord Cruise
One of the most comprehensive ways to experience Oslo’s highlights is the Grand City Sightseeing Tour by Bus with Fjord Cruise. Priced from $121 per person, this 7.5-hour tour takes visitors to key landmarks like the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Vigeland Sculpture Park, and the Fram Museum.
The package includes a scenic Oslofjord cruise and entrance tickets to museums. The tour travels by air-conditioned coach with a live guide providing historical context.
While not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues, it’s an excellent way for able-bodied travelers to see the city’s top sights. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary, though some found the cruise less engaging.
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Oslo Combo Tour: Grand City Tour and Oslo Fjord Cruise
The Oslo Combo Tour: Grand City Tour and Oslo Fjord Cruise provides a comprehensive introduction to Norway’s vibrant capital. Spanning approximately 8 hours, the tour includes guided visits to top attractions like the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Fram Museum.
Travelers will also enjoy a scenic boat tour of the picturesque Oslofjord. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most visitors.
While the fjord cruise has been criticized for lacking narration, the tour receives high ratings overall, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and beautiful landmarks.
With free cancellation available, this tour offers an efficient way to experience Oslo’s highlights in a single day.
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Oslo: City Highlights Christmas Walking Tour
Travelers seeking a festive introduction to Oslo’s city highlights can enjoy the Oslo: City Highlights Christmas Walking Tour.
Priced at €30.53 per person, this 2-hour English-language tour takes visitors on a stroll through the city’s iconic landmarks, including Karl Johans gate, the Norwegian Parliament, and Oslo Cathedral.
Along the way, they’ll learn about Norwegian Christmas traditions and see the sites illuminated for the holidays. The tour concludes at a charming Christmas market, allowing participants to shop for local treats and gifts.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour offers a moderate amount of walking, making it accessible to most visitors.
With a 4/5 rating based on 6 reviews, this tour provides a festive and informative introduction to Oslo.
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Oslo City Private Walking Tour
Offering a personalized exploration of Oslo’s renowned landmarks, the Oslo City Private Walking Tour provides an in-depth journey through the Norwegian capital’s rich history and captivating architecture.
With a 5.0 overall rating and 93% recommendation from travelers, this highly-rated experience showcases the city’s highlights over approximately 2 hours.
Led by knowledgeable and personable guides, the tour covers significant ground, from historical sites to architectural marvels, while sharing engaging cultural stories.
Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it operates in all weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for visitors seeking a comprehensive and immersive introduction to Oslo.
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Oslo: City Highlights Guided Tour by E-Scooter
For those seeking a novel way to experience Oslo’s top attractions, the Oslo: City Highlights Guided Tour by E-Scooter provides an exhilarating and efficient means of discovery.
This 3-hour tour, certified by GetYourGuide, allows participants to glide through the city on electric scooters, led by a knowledgeable guide. Covering key sights like the Opera House, Akershus Fortress, and the Royal Palace, the tour offers a unique and eco-friendly perspective on Oslo’s highlights.
With a 4.7 rating from over 1,100 reviews, this GetYourGuide activity is a popular choice for travelers looking to maximize their time in the Norwegian capital. The tour is priced at $43.02 per person, providing an engaging and memorable way to explore the heart of Oslo.
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City Excursion (Museums Free). Tour of Oslo City’S Hidden Gems
This private half-day tour of Oslo’s main attractions and hidden gems provides a personalized experience for exploring the city’s highlights.
Led by a Blue Badge guide, the tour visits key sites like the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet, Akershus Fortress, and the renowned Vigeland Sculpture Park.
With insider information and navigation, the tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Oslo, including suggestions for further exploration.
Priced at $452.38 for up to 12 people, the tour includes private transportation and public transit tickets.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a range of travelers.
Reviews are mixed, with some concerns about the guide’s focus and historical information.
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Oslo: 5-Hour Private City Highlights Walking Tour
Explore Oslo’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems on this comprehensive 5-hour private walking tour. Priced from $579.29 per group, this excursion takes you to the city’s must-see sites, including the Nobel Peace Center, Oslo City Hall, and the Royal Palace.
Wander through the Vigeland Sculpture Park and explore the Fram Museum, all with the convenience of included public transportation. Led by a multilingual guide, the tour offers flexibility with free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended for this immersive experience, which boasts a perfect 5/5 rating from previous participants.
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City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Offering a convenient way to discover Oslo’s iconic landmarks, the City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour provides travelers with the flexibility to explore the Norwegian capital at their own pace.
Running from June to October, the tour features 11 stops and 15 points of interest, covering notable attractions like the Akershus Fortress and Vigeland Sculpture Park.
Though the buses operate every 30 minutes, customers report inconsistent frequency.
While the audio commentary is available in multiple languages, its quality and relevance have received mixed reviews.
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Oslo: City Highlights Guided Bike Tour
A guided bike tour offers an engaging way for visitors to discover Oslo’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The Oslo: City Highlights Guided Bike Tour takes riders on a 3-hour journey through the city’s key sights. Participants can expect to see the Royal Palace, the Parliament Building, and the Akershus Fortress, all while learning about Oslo’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour also includes a stop at the picturesque Frogner Park, home to the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park.
With its efficient use of time and interactive nature, this bike tour provides an excellent introduction to Oslo’s top attractions for active travelers.
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2-Hour Essential Oslo in the City Center Guided Walking Tour
For travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Oslo’s history and culture, the 2-Hour Essential Oslo in the City Center Guided Walking Tour provides an engaging alternative to the previously discussed bike tour.
Priced at $29.08 per person, this small-group experience (maximum 22 travelers) is led by knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides who share insights on the city’s highlights.
Participants praise the personalized nature of the tour and the guides’ effectiveness, though a few note the need for more engaging storytelling.
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Oslo: 2-Hour Private City Walking Tour
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Oslo’s highlights can embark on the Oslo: 2-Hour Private City Walking Tour.
This private walking tour covers the city’s key sights, including the Nobel Peace Center, Oslo City Hall, the Royal Palace, and the Oslo Opera House.
Led by a live guide fluent in multiple languages, the tour provides historical context and insights into Oslo’s rich cultural heritage.
Priced at $361.40 per group, the tour offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
With a 4.7/5 rating based on 81 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for its knowledgeable guides and ability to showcase Oslo’s blend of historical and contemporary architecture.
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Oslo: Private VIP City Tour by Luxury Minivan With Driver & Guide
This private VIP tour of Oslo offers travelers a comprehensive and luxurious way to explore the city’s highlights.
The 4-hour tour includes 2 hours in a luxury minivan with a private driver and guide, as well as 2 hours of guided walking. Priced at SEK 4,925.78 per person, the tour provides pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and gratuities.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Cruise ship passengers can also book the tour, which has a flexible itinerary and operates in all weather conditions.
With a 5.0 rating and positive reviews, this private VIP tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized and premium Oslo experience.
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Oslo: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The Oslo City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers visitors a convenient and flexible way to explore the Norwegian capital’s top attractions.
With a 24 or 48-hour pass, travelers can hop on and off at any of the 12 stops, including the Royal Palace, Viking Ship Museum, and Oslo Opera House.
The open-top double-decker buses provide panoramic views, and an audio guide is available in 9 languages.
Discounts on attractions and free Wi-Fi add value.
While the overall rating is 3.9/5, reviewers praise the easy-to-find stops and frequent buses, though the audio guide could be clearer.
This tour provides an excellent introduction to Oslo for first-time visitors.
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Oslo: City Highlights Walking Tour
On a 2-hour Oslo: City Highlights Walking Tour, visitors explore the Norwegian capital’s historical heart and modern landmarks.
Starting at the Nobel Peace Center, the tour leads through the medieval Akershus Fortress, the Christiania Torv and Kvadraturen districts, and the striking Oslo Opera House on the fjord.
Along Karl Johan Street, walkers admire Oslo Cathedral, Parliament, the National Theater, and the University of Aula, concluding near the Royal Palace.
Priced from $31.37 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and runs rain or shine.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and cultural insights, though some suggest more photo opportunities and restroom breaks.
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Oslo: City Highlights Guided Tour by Coach With Fjord Cruise
Typically, the Oslo: City Highlights Guided Tour by Coach with Fjord Cruise provides visitors with a rundown of Norway’s vibrant capital. Priced at $94.11 per person, the 5.5-hour tour includes panoramic sightseeing by coach, a visit to the iconic Holmenkollen Ski Jump, a guided walking tour of the Vigeland Sculpture Park, and a 2-hour cruise on the Oslofjord.
While the cruise is praised for its scenic views, some travelers felt it was more of a harbor cruise than a true fjord experience. The tour offers an excellent value for money, though some may prefer a shorter itinerary or a longer fjord excursion for a more immersive experience.
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Recap
Oslo offers a variety of city tours to suit different interests and budgets. From electric scooter tours to guided walking and coach tours, visitors can explore the city’s highlights and discover its rich history and culture. Whether you prefer an active or more leisurely experience, there’s a tour option that’ll give you a great introduction to the vibrant Norwegian capital.