Being in one of the happiest places in the world, Norway, took me on a journey of discovery. I was grateful for such an opportunity that few people get to experience. Oslo and other ‘Scandic’ countries had been on my bucket list, and finally, I was all set to explore them.
On a previous trip to Europe, Norway’s capital served as a stopover en route to Tromso. This time, I stayed as a tourist.
The tag of being one of the happiest places in the world was evident from the moment my trip began. An hour into the seven-hour-long flight, conversations that started as murmurs transformed into loud, jovial chatter at high decibels.
I could see people leaving their seats to stand on the sides, forming small groups and talking. This kind of camaraderie on an aircraft is seldom seen, and it was infectious.
Radiant Norwegian Summers
It is not without reason that Norway tops the list of the happiest countries. Geographically, countries closer to the Arctic Circle are endowed with radiant sunshine for almost 20 hours a day in the summer.
Doesn’t bright and sunny weather work wonders for the mood, acting as a balm to the soul?
For someone who has never witnessed such a phenomenon, seeing the sun’s last rays disappear over the horizon as late as 10:45 pm is fascinating. And it didn’t end there.
A few hours later, I was woken up at 3:30 am to the first rays of the sun seeping in. It was absolutely incredible. It’s the realm of near-endless twilight.
These near-endless days not only inspire a sense of boundless energy but also stretch the time for sightseeing to nearly 9–10 hours.
Last year, as I looked out of the airport window, the surroundings gave me the impression that Oslo would be a quaint European city blanketed in snow.
However, this time it was summer, and Oslo revealed a completely different side: a modern, green city basking in pleasant weather under clear blue skies.
The locals were making the most of the season; sunbathing, enjoying picnics in the beautiful green parks and stepping out in their coolest summer outfits.
For travelers like me, who aren’t used to this kind of climate, it didn’t feel particularly warm, though it was certainly pleasant. In fact, I couldn’t have managed without a jacket during the evenings.
Museums and Landmarks
While Oslo may not have the remarkable medieval buildings or Gothic architecture that many other European cities are famous for, it offers several other attractions that are equally worth experiencing, the most notable among them being:
The Nobel Peace Center is an intimate museum in the heart of Oslo, presenting the history of the Nobel Peace Prize through exciting exhibitions and events.
Besides, there are several museums where you can experience everything from historical treasures to world-class art. One is the Historical Museum in central Oslo, which currently holds Viking Age objects from a collection previously housed in the Vikings Museum, which is currently under renovation.
There’s also a Natural History Museum worth visiting.
The Opera House is Norway’s largest music and performing arts institution. Its uniquely designed structure stands out. Visitors can walk on the sloping roof or continue into the beautiful, open foyer.
Oslo Fjord Cruises
One of the highlights of this part of Norway is its stunning surrounding fjords, and cruising through them is an experience not to be missed.
A variety of fjord sightseeing cruises are available from the pier, giving tourists several options to choose from. Tickets can be conveniently purchased directly at the counters near the departure point.
The cruise we chose was a two-hour classic tour. This tour sailed past the fortress, the Opera House, and charming islands dotted with cute summer houses. As the boat glided across the expansive, deep-blue waters, surrounded by emerald-green rolling hills, the views were absolutely breathtaking.
Scenic Tram Routes
We enjoyed tram journeys that are such an integral part of the city, connecting the centre to the quieter suburbs.
Being in the mood for adventure, one such ride took us to the last stop. Here we stepped down and found ourselves in the midst of a serene forest, a still lake reflecting the sky and a cluster of pretty cottages. Sights like these are so refreshing, uplifting our spirits and making us slow down and simply take it all in.
More than half of Oslo is covered by forests and parks, making it a lush green carpet during the summer. In winter, this green landscape transforms into a snowy winter wonderland, ideal for skiing and other winter activities.
Harbourfront Cafes
I found some of the best eateries and cafes with outdoor seating and cosy patios along the harbour promenade.
Not only was the decor stylish and inviting, but the food was also fresh, flavourful, and beautifully presented. From freshly caught fish and succulent salmon to pizzas and crisp salads, there was something to suit every taste.
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Author Bio: Ratna Singh is a travel writer and editor based in Bangalore with over a decade of experience creating travel, lifestyle, and wellness content. Ratna writes immersive travel stories that go beyond conventional itineraries—focusing on real experiences, cultural insights, and meaningful moments that connect readers to a destination. She is a Post Graduate in English and has travelled to 30 countries worldwide, experiences that have deeply shaped her perspective and storytelling style.
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