Oslo , Norway

Private Akerselva River Walk

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About this experience

Join us on an private urban walk along the beautiful Akerselva river finishing with an optional local food tasting at Oslo's famous Mathallen indoor food hall.
The Akerselva River Walk is a must-do for anyone visiting Oslo, offering the perfect mix of nature, culture, and history.

Available options

Private Akerselva River Walk

What's included

Public Transportation Ticket

Experienced Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

After a short introduction and briefing from your tour guide, you will hop on one of the city's commuter trains bound for Maridalen Lake. This lake is one of Oslo's main drinking water sources and also the headwaters of the Akerselva River. Our walk begins just below the lake next to the Technical Museum at Kjelsås, winding through forested areas and colorful wooden houses.

Soon you will start to see a change in the landscape surrounding the river as we start to move into the more industrial heart of the city. Here old factories harnessed the power of the Akerselva and damns were created leaving beautiful waterfalls for us to enjoy. Here your guide will tell you a bit about this storied history, as well as it's impacts on the river itself.

If time allows we'll take a detour up to the beautifully preserved wooden houses of Telthusbakken and Damstredet (Oslo's "most instagrammed" streets!)

The tour ends in the vibrant Vulkan district, home to the much loved Mathallen food hall. Here, your guide will take you inside of the food hall and drop you off at one of the food vendors called Helt Vilt (Translation: Totally Wild) for optional delicious food tasting. Don´t worry - our guide will give you their best recommendations on what to try from the huge variety of local Norwegian food!

Before saying goodbye, we will give you a public transport ticket and explain the easiest way back to the city center. Alternatively, we encourage you to spend some more time in this wonderful part of the city, possibly exploring the hip Grunnerløkka neighborhood, or by continuing along the Akerselva foot path all the way to where it empty's into the fjord.

This tour is one of our favorites and one of the best ways to spend a few hours in the city while still feeling close to nature!

What's not included

Food and Drinks (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The walking part of this tour takes around 3.5 hours (Including time spent on Public Transportation). The walking distance is about 6 km. How long you spend at the food tasting portion of the trip is up to you!

Children must be accompanied by at least 1 adult. Recommended minimum age for children is 10 + years old.

Reasonable standard of fitness required. Comfortable shoes and weather appropriate clothing is required

Meeting point

All our hikes start outside Backstube Opera, in front of the cafe, in central Oslo.

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