Spirited Oslo

Oslo was long regarded as a rather dull city, but then something happened. Suddenly people began talking about Oslo and describing it as one of the most interesting places in the Nordic countries, with a wide selection of restaurants and a lively nightlife.

One place to experience the new, trendy atmosphere is at Aker Brygge. This is the old dockyard area, where the old brick buildings nowadays house several fashionable restaurants.

Seafarers and explorers
The Norwegians have always been navigators, as is clear from the maritime atmosphere of their capital city. For further confirmation of this, simply pay a visit to the island of Bygdøy. The old Viking ships that have been unearthed there give wings to the imagination and arouse feelings of awe and respect. How on earth did they manage to conquer such vast oceans and kingdoms with such tiny ships? Other amazing attractions at Bygdøy include Thor Heyerdahl's Kon-Tiki and Ra.

Kings and golden winter sporting memories
A stroll along Karl Johan, the longest street in the city, is the nicest way to get the feel of life in Oslo. This is also a busy shopping street, which includes the elegant and exclusive Paleet shopping centre. Karl Johan ends in park with the royal castle.

Speaking of royals, the heir to the Norwegian throne is every bit the prototype Norwegian: a spirited outdoor type who can be more readily visualised in a chunky sweater engaged in telemark and backcountry skiing than in regal paraphernalia. This distinctive Norwegian spirit can be enjoyed, for example, at the legendary Holmenkollen, where there is also a museum of skiing.