Downtown Oslo: Self-Guided Highlights and History Audio Tour

Oslo , Norway

Downtown Oslo: Self-Guided Highlights and History Audio Tour

Active

(10 reviews)

40m

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Are you tired of having to be a part of large tour groups? Well, don’t worry because this self-guided audio tour through Oslo was made for you! Explore the downtown highlights of Oslo with me the right way: Walk at your own pace, relax when you feel like it, and take as much time as you like.

The tour starts from Oslo's famous public square in front of the town hall and traces a route up to the Royal Palace, before walking down Karl Johan Avenue, Oslo’s main street. Along the way, I'll fill you in on some of Norway's history, its royal family and its famous writers. You’ll take in Oslo's famous historic sights and also experience a more modern side of Oslo, with its shops, street musicians and parliament. We'll end the tour in Bjørvika, a bay with a perfect view of the National Opera and Ballet.

The tour is ready whenever you are and the audio plays automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smartphone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline.

Available options

Downtown Oslo: Self-Guided Highlights and History Audio Tour

What's included

VoiceMap Application

Lifetime access to Exploring Downtown Oslo tour

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Aker Brygge is a shopping center built on the remains of an old shipyard. It's a popular meeting spot to grab a bite to eat or a drink after work.

The Nobel Peace Center building used to be an old railway station, where trains from the western parts of Norway arrived. The building now serves as a museum about the Nobel Peace Prize and tells the story of the Peace Prize founder Alfred Nobel, as well as past winners.

The park that surrounds the Royal Palace was built during the 1840's. It has many majestic trees, well-kept lawns and beautiful ponds, some of them with fountains. The park is a popular recreational area for the citizens of Oslo, and even served as a base for hippies in the mid-1960's.

Stop 4 Pass by

Paris has its Champs Elysees, New York has its Broadway, Oslo has Karl Johan Avenue – or just “Karl Johan”. The first part of the street was already established in the 1500s, but since 1852 it has been known as “Karl Johan” – named after the King.

In the old days the Østbanehallen was the central railway station for the northern routes in Norway. After a complete transformation, the Østbanehallen reopened in 2015 and features shops, restaurants, a hotel and the Oslo Visitor Center.

What's not included

Smartphone

Transportation

Food/Drink

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

CMN EN

Written guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 1.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

9 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Oslo

Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a vibrant city nestled between the Oslofjord and lush green forests. Known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural scene, and commitment to sustainability, Oslo offers a unique blend of urban and natural experiences.

Top Attractions

Vigeland Sculpture Park

The world's largest sculpture park made by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. It features over 200 sculptures in bronze and granite.

Art 1-2 hours Free

The Viking Ship Museum

Showcases well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts from the Viking Age, offering a glimpse into Norway's maritime history.

Historical 1-2 hours NOK 160

The Oslo Opera House

A stunning example of modern architecture, designed by Snøhetta. Visitors can walk on its sloping roof for panoramic views of the city and fjord.

Architecture 30 minutes to 2 hours Free to walk on the roof, performance tickets vary

The Munch Museum

Dedicated to the works of Edvard Munch, featuring iconic pieces like 'The Scream' and 'Madonna'.

Museum 1-2 hours NOK 160

The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

An open-air museum with over 150 historic buildings from different periods and regions of Norway.

Historical 2-3 hours NOK 160

The Royal Palace

The official residence of the Norwegian monarchs, offering guided tours of the lavishly decorated rooms.

Historical 1-2 hours NOK 140

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fårikål

A traditional Norwegian stew made with lamb, cabbage, and spices, often considered the national dish of Norway.

Main Course Contains meat and gluten (if served with bread)

Lutefisk

A traditional Christmas dish made from dried fish treated with lye, served with boiled potatoes, bacon, and mustard sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and gluten (if served with bread)

Rakfisk

Fermented fish, typically trout or char, served with flatbread, sour cream, and onions.

Appetizer Contains fish and gluten (if served with flatbread)

Kjøttkaker

Norwegian meatballs, often served with potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry jam.

Main Course Contains meat and gluten (if served with bread or gravy)

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Kayaking Rock Climbing Spa Treatments Beach Lounging Coffee Shop Hopping Museum Visits

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The weather is warm, and all attractions are open.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Norwegian
Widely spoken: English, Swedish, Danish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Oslo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a high level of security. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Oslo Airport, Gardermoen • 47 km from city center

By train

Oslo Central Station

By bus

Oslo Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Oslo Taxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Aker Brygge Grünerløkka Kvadraturen Frogner

Day trips

Drøbak

30 km from Oslo • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and the famous Christmas house of Santa Claus.

Holmenkollen

10 km from Oslo • Half day

A famous ski jump and museum offering panoramic views of Oslo, as well as hiking trails and a ski museum.

Tønsberg

65 km from Oslo • Full day

Norway's oldest town, known for its rich history, medieval ruins, and beautiful coastal scenery.

Festivals

Oslo Jazz Festival • August Oslo International Church Music Festival • June Oslo Pride • June

Pro tips

Use the Ruter app for public transport tickets and schedules
Book popular attractions and restaurants in advance, especially during peak season
Take advantage of free attractions and activities, such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and hiking trails
Dress in layers to accommodate variable weather conditions
Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local neighborhoods