Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Routes & schedule

Jump aboard the hop-on hop-off bus tour and uncover Oslo’s rich history, art, and Nordic charm! The journey kicks off at Karl Johans Gate, a lively boulevard flanked by historic buildings like the Norwegian Parliament. Glide to Vigeland Sculpture Park, home to over 200 evocative sculptures, before delving into Viking lore at the museums of Bygdøy. End the journey at Akershus Fortress, a medieval stronghold guarding Oslo’s shores, and the sleek, glacier-like Oslo Opera House.

Schedule

• First bus: 10am from stop 1 Karl Johan Street

• Last bus: 4:30pm from stop 1 Karl Johan Street

• Frequency: Every 30 mins

• Popular stops: The Kon-Tiki Museum, The National Opera House & The Royal Palace

Winter schedule (From Nov to Mar)

• First bus: 10:30am from stop 1 Karl Johan Street

• Last bus: 3:45pm from stop 1 Karl Johan Street

• Frequency: Every 45 mins

• Popular stops: The Kon-Tiki Museum, The National Opera House & The Royal Palace

Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.

You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.

Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Discover Oslo's top sights on this 24-hour or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour that includes over a dozen stops and free WiFi, allowing you to explore at your own pace with ease. The tour covers major landmarks such as the National Opera House, Kon-Tiki Museum, and the Royal Palace, providing a comprehensive overview of Oslo's cultural and historical highlights. Each bus arrives every 30 minutes, ensuring that you can see everything from the Viking Ship Museum to Akershus Fortress within a comfortable timeframe. With seven different language options for the audio guide—English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Norwegian, and Russian—you'll have no trouble understanding the rich history behind each attraction. The tour also includes discounts on museum admissions, making it an excellent value for visitors wanting to see as much of Oslo as possible in a day or two.

Explore National Opera House’s Modern Architecture

Your tour stops at the National Opera House where you can admire its modern design and innovative features. Opened in 2008, this iconic building covers an area of approximately 15,400 square meters and stands as a testament to Oslo's commitment to contemporary architecture. Visitors often marvel at its unique exterior made up of thousands of granite stones that slope down to the water’s edge like a mountain landscape. Inside, the opera house houses two main performance halls—the Grand Hall with over 1,350 seats and the Black Box Theater for smaller productions—and several other venues. The building's design allows visitors to walk right up to its facade and even onto the roof, offering stunning views of Oslo Fjord and the city skyline. This makes it a unique experience compared to traditional opera houses, as it integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings.

Discover Kon-Tiki Museum’s Fascinating History

At the Kon-Tiki Museum, guests can delve into the adventurous spirit of Thor Heyerdahl and his famous 1947 expedition across the Pacific Ocean. The museum houses a replica of the balsa raft used in the journey along with other artifacts from Heyerdahl’s subsequent expeditions, such as the Ra II and Tigris voyages. Visitors spend around an hour exploring exhibits that detail the challenges faced during these historic crossings, highlighting the resilience and ingenuity of early explorers. The museum's unique collection sets it apart from typical maritime museums by focusing on human stories rather than just ships and navigation tools.

Marvel at Royal Palace’s Gothic Splendor

The Royal Palace serves as a centerpiece for Oslo’s royal history, dating back to its construction in 1849. This magnificent structure covers an area of about 250,000 square feet and is renowned for its gothic architectural style with intricate details like spires and gargoyles. Inside, visitors can see the throne room, reception halls, and private apartments used by Norwegian royalty. The palace hosts several public events annually, including the annual Norwegian Constitution Day celebrations on May 17th. Unlike other royal residences around Europe, the Royal Palace offers a more intimate look into Norway’s monarchy through guided tours that take you through various chambers showcasing historical artifacts and artworks.

Tour Highlights

• Explore National Opera House with modern design
• 24 or 48 hours pass with free WiFi access
• Audio guide in seven languages including Norwegian
• Experience Viking Ship Museum’s ancient treasures
• Hop off at Akershus Fortress for a historical walk
• Enjoy panoramic views from Ekeberg Park along the tour route
• Access to Kon-Tiki Museum with Thor Heyerdahl exhibits
• Convenience of discounts on museum admissions included

Perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and families, this hop-on hop-off bus tour provides an immersive experience through Oslo's most iconic landmarks. The flexible 24-hour or 48-hour format allows you to explore the National Opera House’s innovative design, wander through the Viking Ship Museum’s ancient treasures, and admire the Royal Palace’s gothic splendor, giving you a comprehensive view of Oslo's rich cultural heritage while enjoying scenic views along the way.