Oslo

Situated at the head of the Oslofjord, Oslo is the oldest Scandinavian capital, and features a charming mix of old and new architecture, together with acclaimed museums, parks and monuments, making it a relaxing and rewarding holiday destination.

The highlight of a visit to Oslo is the 13th century medieval Akershus Fortress, featuring creepy dungeons with dark, damp cells, magnificent banquet halls and ornate staterooms, and a charming chapel which contains the crypts of King Håkon VII and Olav V. It was used by the Nazis during WW II as a prison and place of execution but is now occupied by the Norway Resistance Museum, which has a variety of exhibits of Norwegian life under German occupation. The grounds surrounding the fortress are perfect for picnics and relaxation, and afford spectacular views of the city and harbor.

Norway is famous for its artists, and two of them are celebrated in museums in Oslo. The Munch Museum contains a collection of more than 5000 drawings and paintings by Norway's most famous artist. Munch's most famous painting, The Scream, resides in the National Gallery. Nearby, Vigeland Museum and Park showcases the works of the renowned sculptor Gustav Vigeland amid a beautiful expanse of trees, grass, and ponds. Another artistic attraction is the National Theatre, with its superb rococo hall.

Oslo has plenty of luxurious accommodations, excellent restaurants and charming cafes. The nightlife is numerous and varied, with bars, clubs and pubs to suit all tastes.

A rewarding excursion can be made to the nearby Bygdøy Peninsula, located across the harbour from Oslo. It features a large open-air folk museum, maritime museums housing excavated Viking ships and Thor Heyerdahl's balsa raft Kon-Tiki; restored stave churches; and some pretty beaches. Further afield is the Nordmarka, a wilderness area on Oslo's northern border, and the quaint fishing village of Risor, with its picturesque harbour and island of Stangholmen.

International airlines link Oslo with most major European cities, and transportation options into the city are numerous and reliable.