🇳🇴 Evening Walking Tour in Oslo’s Vibrant Waterfront (Guided)

🇳🇴 Evening Walking Tour in Oslo’s Vibrant Waterfront (Guided)

Welcome to Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital and a city shaped by the sea. Today, we invite you to join us on a scenic walking tour along the city’s stunning waterfront, where centuries of history meet contemporary Nordic design and culture. We are starting in the stylish neighbourhood of Tjuvholmen: a sleek, modern corner of Oslo build on the sea and known for its striking architecture, open-air galleries, and seaside vibes. From here, we’ll stroll along the Aker Brygge promenade: a lively hub that captures the essence of Oslo’s urban waterfront life. As we walk, we’ll pass by some of the city’s most prominent landmarks, like the Nobel Peace Centre, the National Museum & the City Hall. All of them important institutions that speak to Norway’s identity and global role. [“What’s Next”: sculpture designed by the artist Brendan Murphy and belonging to his series of installations known as “Boonji Spaceman”.] Across the Aker Brygge promenade, we’ll step back in time as we explore the historic Akershus Fortress, Oslo’s medieval stronghold. A fortress that we will not only admire from its impressive exterior, but from which we will also venture to enter the castle itself, a place once a royal residence and a witness to some of the most pivotal chapters in Norway’s history. After the castle we’ll continue by the waterfront stretch where traditional harbour life meets modern Oslo. There, we’ll walk by the popular floating saunas, before arriving at one of the city’s most celebrated public spaces: Deichman Bjørvika, Oslo’s main library. Far more than a place for books, this award-winning cultural venue is also worth exploring, and you’ll later understand why. To end our tour we will visit the iconic Oslo Opera House, a marvel of modern architecture rising from the fjord and where the roof doubles as a public plaza: a place where we’ll take time to appreciate its striking exterior and unique place in the city’s cultural landscape. [Aker Brygge Promenade] As we walk along the Aker Brygge Promenade, we’re in one of Oslo’s most iconic and lively waterfront areas, a place that perfectly reflects the city’s transformation over the past few decades. Not long ago, what you are now seeing before your eyes was actually quite different. For over a century, this was the site of “Akers Mekaniske Verksted”, one of Norway’s largest and most important shipyards. [“Into the Future”, equestrian sculpture by Tore Bjørn. It uses the horse as a universal metaphor for beauty and transformation.] Founded in the mid-1800s, Akers Mechanical Workshop, played a central role in Norway’s industrial era. Here, thousands of workers produced ships, engines, and other heavy machinery that sailed all over the world and helped power the nation’s maritime economy. Just imagine: the air here used to smell of oil and seawater, and the clanging of metal echoed from dawn to dusk. [Floating saunas] Back then, this is how it was the heart of industrial Oslo: gritty, functional, and closed off to the public. But everything changed in the 1980s. As shipbuilding declined and the yards were abandoned, the city saw an opportunity, not just to develop real estate, but to redefine its relationship with the waterfront. What followed was one of the boldest urban renewal projects in Scandinavia: turning this industrial zone into a vibrant, open, mixed-use neighbourhood that welcomed people back to the fjord. This area is now home to shops, restaurants, offices, apartments, and wide open public spaces. On sunny days, like today, it feels like the whole city comes down to Aker Brygge. Locals grab a coffee or a cold beer, sit along the quay, and watch the ferries and sailboats drift by. There’s a saying here: “When the sun shines, Oslo moves to the fjord.” And this is exactly what they mean. [Tribute to Aasta Hansteen, sculpted by the norwegian artist Nina Sundbye. It reflects Mrs. Hansteen’s strong, characteristic personality. She was a pioneer for women’s rights, championing gender equality and freedom of expression in the 19th century.] From Aker Brygge, locals take the regular ferries to and from their coastal towns & Villages. Tourists, on the other hand, have several different mini-cruise options for a relaxing tour around the fjord. And here comes my piece of advice: if you’re on a budget, I recommend taking the hourly B1 ferry. This particular ferry operates a circular route that takes approximately an hour to complete before returning to Aker Brygge. The price is included in the public transport ticket that you can consider purchasing when visiting Oslo (e.g.: the 24-hour ticket or the 7-day ticket); It is a ticket valid not only for buses and trams, but also for the B1 ferry too. So, it basically won’t cost you any extra money and you’ll have, in my opinion, a “free” & wonderful glimpse of the Oslofjord. [National Museum/Nasjonalmuseet] For those who may be interested in a slower pathed video, I have the B1 ferry tour available. You can immerse going around the fjord with it and even walk in any of the 4 islands where I get off. I’ll link the playlist “Season Islands” for those who would like to take the ferry later and/or visit any of the islands I visit. We’re walking by the Aker Brygge tram stop; and getting off here means choosing one of the best-connected spots in central Oslo. Just a few steps from here, you find some of the city’s most iconic waterfront destinations. Just behind us is Aker Brygge, the lively promenade along the fjord we just walked along. To one side of the tram stop, the ferry terminal where boats leave regularly to the islands of the Oslofjord, perfect for a quick escape into nature. And just across the other side of the tram lines, you find not one, but two major cultural landmarks: the Nobel Peace Centre, and the impressive National Museum. Let’s take a moment to focus in a building that holds global significance: the Nobel Peace Centre. Located in what used to be Oslo’s old Western Railway Station, it is now beautifully repurposed as a museum and exhibition space dedicated to peace, human rights, and the work of Nobel laureates from around the world. But today, as you can see, the atmosphere is a little different. Right now, they are hosting the Nobel Peace Festival, an open-air celebration that brings together music, food, and people from all walks of life. It’s a beautiful contrast. Inside, you’ll find powerful exhibitions and personal stories of those who’ve fought for peace in the face of conflict. And outside, you have music, laughter, and shared meals, a reminder that peace isn’t just a political concept, it’s also about connection, community, and joy. And just a few steps from the Nobel Peace Centre is the National Museum (now in the back to the right). The National Museum is one of Oslo’s most important institutions, and a true highlight for anyone interested in art, architecture, or Norwegian culture. The building is completely new (2022), and now the largest art museum in the Nordic region. Just for the architecture itself it is already worth the visit: sleek, minimalistic and with a distinctive illuminated hall on top known as the “Light Hall”, which glows like a lantern at night. Inside, you’ll find a sweeping collection that spans centuries, from classical European masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works; but perhaps most famously, this is where you can see Edvard Munch’s original “The Scream”, one of the most iconic paintings in the world. Beyond Munch, the museum showcases the best of Norwegian design, crafts, and even furniture, giving you a broader understanding of how this country’s artistic identity has developed over time. Whether you’re an art lover or just a curious visitor, the National Museum offers a beautifully curated journey through visual culture, with plenty of quiet corners to pause and take it all in. The building with scaffoldings and, unfortunately, partially covered with a white tarpaulin, is Oslo City Hall, or Rådhuset as it’s called in Norwegian. It might not look ornate in the traditional sense, but this is one of the most important buildings in the country. It’s impossible to miss this imposing brick building from anywhere in Aker Brygge. Built between 1931 and 1950, its design was a bold departure from the classical style of most European city halls. Here, it’s all about function and symbolism: clean lines, strong materials, and a very Nordic sense of groundedness. The two towers aren’t just decorative: they house administrative offices and, in one of them, a massive carillon with 49 bells that play melodies several times a day. But here’s a curious twist of history: the building’s completion was delayed for nearly a decade by World War II. When it finally opened, it was more than just a civic building: it became a symbol of post-war recovery and national pride. And what makes this building especially famous, though, is what happens inside every December: the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. [Peter Jansen: a legendary naval hero in Norwegian-Danish history. He was better known as “Thunder Shield” (Tordenskiold), his noble title name granted by the Danish King. He died at the age of 30 shortly after a duel he had with a Swedish officer with whom he had a heated dispute.] While the other Nobel Prizes are awarded in Stockholm, the Peace Prize is uniquely Norwegian and handed out right here in Oslo. That means the world’s eyes turn to this very hall when laureates from around the world gather to be honoured. [Statue of Franklin D. Roosevelt. A Norwegian tribute to the U.S. president, specially due to his role with Norway and the Second World War. A president, who, by the way, was awarded, posthumously, with the Nobel Peace Prize here in Oslo.] [Akerhus Fortress / Akershus Festning] I’ll start the fortress tour in about 2 minutes. You can skip ahead to minute 23:39 (next timestamp) or continue walking with me. [Me: “Hi, can I say hello to the dog? (yes)”. “What’s his name? (Kenzo).” “It’s very beautiful. (Thank you).” “Ha det!” – Bye bye, or literally “Have it (good)!”.] [Oslo City Hall in the back] As we leave Aker Brygge behind and continue along the waterfront, we stumble across the sturdy stone walls of Akershus Fortress, one of the most historically significant sites in all of Norway. Strategically perched above the Oslofjord, Akershus has served as a guardian of Oslo for more than 700 years. Built in the late 1200s, it was originally commissioned by King Håkon V, at a time when the city was little more than a vulnerable outpost: wooden buildings prone to fire and a coastline exposed to raiders and rival kingdoms. The king needed a stronghold, a deterrent, and a refuge, and this hill overlooking the fjord offered just that. What followed was not just the construction of a fortress, but the shaping of a national symbol. Over the centuries, Akershus became the stage for some of the most defining moments in Norway’s history. Imagine what this would have looked like centuries ago: soldiers stationed at the gates, archers patrolling the ramparts, the sound of church bells echoing across the water… [The triangular structure by the pond is a scenario for concerts & events.] During the Middle Ages, the fortress repelled sieges and stood firm against Scandinavian power struggles. In the 17th century, it was modernised into a bastion-style fortress, designed to withstand the new threat of cannon fire. Now, as we walk up this gently sloping ramp, we’re following in the footsteps of kings, generals, prisoners and citizens who came here not just to defend a capital, but to shape a nation. From here, the views stretch over the harbour and modern Oslo beyond, offering a quiet contrast to the fortress’s aged silence. The entire complex is still partially in use by the Norwegian military, but much of it is open to the public. The grounds themselves are peaceful, even romantic is you ask me, and is often used today for concerts, ceremonies, and quiet afternoon walks. And every stone surrounding us has a story to tell, and we’ll learn more when we enter the castle before us. Just ahead lies the heart of the fortress: Akershus Castle, once the royal residence of Norwegian and Danish kings. It was within these walls that diplomacy and defence met, coronation banquets were held, kings strategised and prisoners waited in the dungeons below. Let’s walk inside and pay a visit to this marvellous piece of history. As we step through the gate, we arrive in the inner courtyard of Akershus Castle, a quiet, open space that was once the functional core of the royal fortress. Surrounding us are historic buildings that served as barracks, stables, storehouses, and support quarters, all constructed at different times through the fortress’s long evolution, and essential to today’s daily operations of the fortress. Though modest in appearance, these structures were vital to the castle’s ability to house troops, feed the court, and defend the capital. The courtyard itself also acted as a secure buffer zone: any visitor had to pass through here before reaching the castle itself. One of the most memorable historical events here occurred in the early 1600s, when the castle became the seat of power for King Christian IV, who not only renovated the complex in Renaissance style but also ruled during one of the most turbulent periods of Nordic history. His vision gave the castle much of the appearance we see today. Let’s discover it. [Facility entrance & Gift Shop] This was once the castle’s main kitchen and where meals were once prepared. It was, in fact, the warmer area of the castle and one of the most comfortable rooms to be in. I won’t go into much detail in every room; I’ll generally give you one or two details in each room so we can move through the castle relatively smoothly. [The Sheriffs Chamber] This chamber portrays the appearance in the 16th century; The sheriff and his assistant were responsible for managing a quarter of Norway, which was under the administration of Akershus Castle. Their task was to collect taxes and agricultural products to bring back to the castle for self-consumption or sell as income. Comfortable by the fireside, they were not very popular in the castle, as they spent much of their time playing cards and engaging in idle chatter. Let’s walk down into the remains of the passageways system of the castle built into 3 metres thick walls of medieval times. [School Room] The castle children attended their classes here. To the right of the room, you can see the entrance to the teacher’s bedroom. On the wall, you can see what remains of the original painted decoration. Unlike the rest of the castle, where the walls were usually covered in fabric, here they were simply painted. [The Dungeon] In the middle ages, the castle had towers in which prisoners were locked up. Under Christian IV these towers were demolished and prisoners would serve their sentences in one of the four cells located down here in the dungeons. With no lighting and dump air which would freeze on the walls in winter, you can imagine this was not a very inviting place to be. One of the cells is called “The Witches’ Cell,” probably because it once held a woman who was accused of being a witch… [The Vaulted Cellar] This long cellar was originally used for storage and provisions, serving as a vital part of the castle’s infrastructure. The stone vaulted ceilings were not only architecturally strong, but they also helped regulate temperature, making the space ideal for keeping food, wine, and supplies during long winters or sieges. [Royal Mausoleum] In the marble sarcophagus in the middle lies King Haakon VII (First king of Norway) and Queen Maud. In the sarcophagus beside, rest his son King Olav V and his wife Crown Princess Märtha of Sweden. In the walls opposite to them are the graves of 3 more members of the ancient royal family: To the left King Håkon V (responsible for the construction of Akershus Fortress) lying together with his queen consort Euphemia. And in front… King Sigurd I, or “Sigurd the Crusader”. King Sigurd I became legendary for being the first European king to join the Crusades, participating in the Norwegian Crusade from 1107 to 1110, by leading a remarkably military expedition through Iberia, Ibiza & Formentera, Sicily and all the way to Jerusalem. [The Castle Church] The atmosphere here is intimate: not grand in scale, but rich in detail. You’ll notice the influence of Baroque and Rococo architecture in the gilded accents and decorative woodwork. The altarpiece displays the statues of “Faith” (to our right) holding the bible and communion chalice); and “Charity” (to our left, with the flame of Faith burning from the head), is holding the horn of plenty. The “Lamentation of Christ” sits in the centre, and above it, written in the language of the Old Testamet, it reads “Jehova”, which is Hebrew for God. Though it might surprise you, this wasn’t originally built as a church. The space once served as part of the castle’s banquet hall, until it was converted in the 1700s into a formal chapel. The organ, built in 1753, has been restored and still fills the chapel with sound during services and special events. [Royal cypher of King “H-aakon 7”] Before leaving the hall, notice the modest balcony on the upper left. There, members of the royal family would sit when attending to ceremonies. Although this chapel has served already for many centuries as a royal and military place of worship, it is still used today for occasional state ceremonies, services, and memorials. And as a curious fact, those who work in the military today can choose to marry and baptise their children here if they so wish. [The Daredevil] Now we enter one of the most evocative and intriguingly named chambers of the castle: “Djevelens Hall”, commonly nicknamed as “The Daredevil”. With its thick masonry, barrel-vaulted brick ceiling, and shadowed corners, the room carries a weight, not just in its construction, but in its history. [The child found the chick! – It’s a game for the kids; hence the chick in the helmet of the armor.] Though the name “The Daredevil” is quite possible a modern nickname, some believe it was inspired by the room’s cold, isolating atmosphere, or perhaps by the severity of its function during Akershus’s time as a military stronghold. In any case, in this room we find some of the finest Norwegian tapestries. They portray how these walls must have looked at the time. This one, for instance, was woven by Ingeborg Arbo in the 1940s. It depicts the fish market of Kristiania (then Oslo) around the 1740s. These smaller examples show biblical motifs in Norwegian tapestries. [The East Wing] This is a 1930s room built on what used to be a 17th century store house constructed by the castle’s east wall (visible to the right). It was used to store house articles like table and bed linen. Today, though, this room is the main entrance from the courtyard to the official reception rooms. We now need to cross back through “The Devil’s Hall” to access the rest of the castle. “The Daredevil’s” hall was built during the 17th-century renovations under King Christian IV, and likely served military purposes, possibly as a guardroom, a store for munitions, or even a holding cell. [In this tapestry, woven in the 16th century, the motif in unclear. Here, Roman soldiers hand over a decapitated head of a man.] [On the opposite wall, we have “Vertumnus and Pomona”, based on a classical tale of the same name. Pomona was a nymph who, uncharacteristically, was not a lover of wild nature, but preferred to spend her time in an enclosed garden.] We are going to leave behind “The Daredevil”, to visit one of the greatest halls of the castle: “The Hall of Christian IV”. We are halfway through the castle tour (there are about 15 minutes left before we continue our tour outside again), and we are yet to visit some of the most grandiose chambers of the castle. [Hall of Christian IV] Now we’ve arrived in the Hall of Christian IV, named after the Danish-Norwegian monarch who left a lasting architectural and political imprint on Norway, and, as you’ll learn, he was not particularly known for understatement. This hall was part of the grand Renaissance transformation of Akershus Castle in the early 17th century. Christian IV, who reigned for an impressive 60 years, set out to modernise the fortress from a medieval stronghold into a royal residence that reflected the style and ambition of European courts of the time. This hall was likely used for ceremonial receptions, banquets, and state affairs, designed to impress foreign dignitaries and meant to project order, strength, and authority. And Christian IV? He was quite a character. Known for being cultured, ambitious, and flamboyant, he had a flair for public works and a particular fondness for putting his name on things. After a devastating fire destroyed much of Oslo in 1624, Christian IV ordered the city to be rebuilt closer to the fortress and gave it a brand new name: Christiania. It stayed that way for over 250 years, until the name officially reverted again to Oslo in 1925. [The Prince’s Chamber] The Prince’s Chamber is a room that offers us a glimpse into the more private side of life within Akershus Castle. Unlike the formal grandeur of the ceremonial halls, this space feels intentionally reserved. It was likely used by members of the royal family or trusted nobles as a retreat for thought, conversation, or planning. The craftsmanship here still reflects the ambitions of the Renaissance renovations under Christian IV, but on a more intimate scale. And yet, royal privacy in those days was always relative: one space often flowed into the next. The Green Chamber, named for the deep green tones that once adorned its walls and furniture, served as a more formal receiving room. A place where important guests could be welcomed in a setting that struck a careful balance between elegance and comfort. It’s a step up in both prestige and decor, suggesting that the deeper you moved into the royal apartments, the more privileged the access was. From a private study to a semi-public parlour, the spatial layout reflected not only function, but rank, ritual, and reputation. [The Romerike Hall] We are now inside one of the most formal and versatile rooms in Akershus Castle. Unlike the personal chambers we’ve just passed, this hall was designed with gathering and governance in mind. Its name, taken from the Romerike region east of Oslo, hints at the ties between Norway’s heartland and its seat of power. Everything about the room speaks to quiet authority: the plain but noble proportions, the absence of heavy ornament… all suggest a space built not to impress with luxury, but to command respect through function. [If you’re wondering why there are stuffed chicks randomly placed, it’s so kids can play find them during their visit to the castle; There’s one to be found in each room and kids can note down in their sheet how many of them they’ve found.] In this room is where matters were discussed, plans were drafted, and officials or noble guests were received when the occasion didn’t call for fanfare but still demanded formality. Imagine this room centuries ago: long tables set, candles flickering against the whitewashed stone, and conversations stretching across the room. While it doesn’t carry the ceremonial weight of a throne room, the decisions shaped in halls like this often had lasting impact beyond these stone walls. [The Margrethe Hall] This Hall was named after Queen Margrethe I, consort of King Håkon VI (1340-1380). Unlike the grand formal spaces we’ve seen, this room tells us a more intimate and, in some ways, more human story. It was here, in “the ladies’ floor”, that Queen Margrethe lived during her time at Akershus in the late 14th century. [2 cannon openings from the 16th century. Residents had to live with the practicalities of defence. After all, defending themselves took precedence, even if they were mounted in your dining room.] This single, expansive hall functioned as an all-purpose living space: for eating, sleeping, socializing, and even defence. Although these were private quarters, it wasn’t private in the way we’d imagine today. The queen would have shared this space with ladies-in-waiting and servants, and daily life played out against a backdrop of cold stone and necessity. It was in fact here, within these very walls, that Margrethe gave birth to her son, Olav, the last Norwegian-born prince until Prince Harald was born more than five centuries later. But perhaps the most haunting detail we know comes from a letter she wrote shortly before Olav’s birth. In it, Margrethe describes severe food shortages, noting that even she and her household were starving. This was due to the Black Death, which had decimated entire communities and farmlands that provided them with abundance. [The Hall of Olav V] But the plague didn’t stop Margrethe from becoming one of the most remarkable women in Scandinavian history. After Håkon’s death, she went on to become regent of both Norway and Denmark, and later the de facto ruler of the Kalmar Union, uniting Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under a single crown. She never got to rule under the title of queen regnant, but she held full sovereign power and is remembered as one of the most powerful women of Scandinavian. We’ve stepped into The Hall of Olav V, a room that stands as both a tribute to Norway’s medieval heritage and a symbol of its enduring monarchy. This hall is a reconstruction, completed in 1976, of what was believed to be the Great Hall of the medieval castle. [Emanuel Vigeland, brother of the sculptor Gustav Vigeland.] In the Middle Ages, this space would have been the heart of royal festivities and decision-making: a place where banquets were held, alliances forged, and the course of the kingdom debated. The large rose window was reconstructed in the 1920s, and the stain-glass you can see was made by Emanuel Vigeland. In the middle you have the lamb of god; on the top, the virgin Mary with baby Jesus, and all the other sections have various saints from the old Norwegian Kingdom. This hall was named after King Olav V (ruler from 1957 to 1991), king affectionately known as “the people’s king”, a monarch remembered not for medieval glory, but for his humility, courage, and closeness to the people. Naming the hall after his death was a symbolic gesture, connecting Norway’s medieval heritage with its modern royal identity. Today, the Hall of Olav V serves as a venue for official events and cultural gatherings, bridging the past and present within these storied walls. As we conclude our indoor exploration of Akershus Castle, we’ll step back outside to continue our journey through the fortress grounds. Take the opportunity to grab a tea/coffee; I’ll meet you again at the exit in a minute. I hope you’ve enjoyed our visit to the castle, and that you’ve refilled your tea or coffee for the second half of this tour. I’m going to put the link to the castle’s website in the video’s description box. You can access it later if you want to find out more about this magnificent castle. It’s a place I highly recommend visiting if you ever come to Oslo. Also a big thank you to them for allowing me to film inside. [To the right, Aker Brygge, the place where we came from.] As we step through the western gate of Akershus Fortress, it’s hard not to feel the weight of history here. And it’s not only the history that lingers… but perhaps something (or someone) else. The fortress is often associated with one of its most enduring legends: the story of Mantelgeisten, or “The Cloak Ghost”. Described by many as a tall, silent figure wrapped in a long dark cloak, this ghost has been reportedly seen gliding through the hallways, stairwells, and courtyards, and in particular around the corridors and prison areas. What makes Mantelgeisten so chilling is his stillness. Witnesses describe him as moving without sound, without expression, and without a face… The earliest reports of his presence go back centuries, with soldiers and night watchmen on duty describing the unnerving feeling of being watched, only to turn and see a cloaked figure disappear into the darkness. Who was Mantelgeisten in life? No one really knows. Some say he was a nobleman betrayed and executed within the fortress walls, and his soul now bound to the grounds. Others claim he was a wrongly accused prisoner, perhaps left to die in the dungeons below. What all versions share is the sense that his spirit remains unsettled, walking endlessly through the fortress. And as a matter of fact, even during the Second World War, when Akershus was used as a prison by Nazi occupiers, German soldiers are said to have reported encounters with the ghost, and many refused to patrol certain areas alone at night. The Cloak Ghost was feared enough that additional lighting was added in some corridors to ease the nerves of the guards. Near the older walls and the gun batteries, keep an eye on the shadows. After all, in a place with nearly 700 years of history, where royal courts, foreign invaders, and condemned prisoners have all passed, it’s no surprise that some say… not everyone has truly left. [End of the legend of “The Cloak Ghost”] It’s time to leave behind Oslo’s past, and jump back again to the current era. We are on the other side of the fortress hill, on the opposite side of the Aker Brygge promenade. This is the waterfront stretch where most saunas are located. Some of them are on land (like “SALT”), while others are floating on the sea. As we continue our walk along the promenade that connects SALT and the Opera House, you’ll notice a rather distinctive feature of Oslo’s waterfront: the floating wooden boxes, glass cubes, and colourful huts dotting the shore. These are saunas, and not just any saunas: they’re part of a thriving cultural phenomenon that has taken deep root in Norwegian life. To the casual visitor, it may seem surprising to find so many people basking in intense heat, only to leap into the icy waters of the Oslofjord moments later, but for Norwegians, this ritual is both rejuvenating and rooted in tradition. The sauna culture in Norway draws inspiration from its Nordic neighbours (particularly Finland), where saunas are an institution; but in recent years, Norwegians have truly made it their own as well. The modern resurgence of public saunas in Oslo began in the mid-2010s, with an urban push to make the fjord more accessible and to reintegrate the waterfront into everyday life. These saunas (whether operated by SALT, Oslo Badstuforening, or other companies) offer locals and visitors a space not just to warm up, but to gather, unwind, and connect with nature. Especially during the long, dark winters, this hot-cold therapy is more than just a novelty: it’s seen as a deeply therapeutic practice that boosts circulation, clears the mind, and strengthens both body and spirit. But the tradition runs deeper than just wellness trends. The use of heat baths and sweat rituals has been documented in Scandinavia for over a thousand years, dating back to the Viking Age. Back then, steam bathing was often a communal and even spiritual experience, used for cleanliness, healing, and socialising. Some historians even suggest the Norse people believed that sweating helped purge not only physical toxins but also negative energy. Today, the fjordside sauna scene has evolved into something both ancient and cutting-edge. Some even host midnight concerts, storytelling nights, or group meditation sessions, all with a view over the water and the skyline of Oslo. And these group of floating saunas we have just walked by, are just a few of them. Behind the Opera House and the Munch Museum there are more. And beyond that even more. So while it may look like a modern trend, stepping into one of these saunas is actually stepping into a long Nordic legacy: one that balances the raw elements of heat, cold, and water, and brings people together in the simplest, most elemental way. [Statue of Kirsten Flagstad, one of Norway’s most renowned opera singers, celebrated for her powerful soprano voice and significant contributions to the world of opera.] Before visiting the Opera, let’s take a short detour to visit what has been the most fascinating library I’ve ever visited in my life. At first glance, you might not expect one of Oslo’s most exciting, imaginative, and downright cool places to be… a library. But this is no ordinary library. This is Deichman Bjørvika, the main branch of Oslo’s public library system, and it’s unlike any library you’ve ever seen before. It opened its doors in 2020 and, only a year later, it was named the Best Public Library in the World. When you step inside, sooner rather than later you will understand why. Located just across from the Opera House (in the newly transformed district of Bjørvika), we find the “Deichman Library”. A cultural powerhouse that isn’t just a place for books. It’s a shelter from winter’s darkness, and a community living room for locals and visitors alike. Especially during the long Norwegian winters, when daylight lasts just a few hours, this building comes alive. People come not only to read or study, but to attend film screenings, take part in maker workshops, record podcasts, listen to talks, and even watch live performances under the soft glow of the upper floors. [Interactive screen for kids; apparently not active now.] You’ll find students tucked into cozy corners, artists sketching by the windows, families curled up in story nooks, and travellers simply wandering through for the experience. One of the things that makes Deichman special is how democratic it feels. There are no barriers to entry. You don’t need a library card to walk in. Everything is open, inviting, and designed to be explored, even if you’re not sure what you came for. And then there’s the design: modern, yes, but also deeply thoughtful. Floating bookshelves, dramatic staircases, reading zones suspended above the atrium… it’s part sculpture, part sanctuary. The architecture plays with light and transparency in a way that feels alive, like the building is breathing with the seasons. The Children’s Area (coming now) features cozy reading nooks shaped like caves, tiny houses children can crawl into, a storytelling stage, and even interactive installations that respond to touch and sound. There’s also plenty of parking for trolleys clearly signposted (e.g. under the escalator). The design invites young minds to roam freely, blurring the line between reading and play in a vibrant landscape where kids are encouraged to move, explore, and invent their own stories. Beneath the bottom floor, a silent choreography unfolds: an automated book-sorting system, where small robots glide along tracks, delivering books to where they’re needed. It’s one of those unexpected touches that perfectly captures the spirit of the place: futuristic, efficient, and quietly magical. On the other hand, some people come just to ride the escalators up and enjoy the panoramic views over the fjord from the top floor. But the soul of Deichman goes much deeper than its technology. Its roots trace all the way back to 1785, when Carl Deichman, an industrialist and philanthropist with a passion for learning, made a bold decision. He donated his personal collection of over 6,000 books (rare works, manuscripts, even scientific and philosophical texts), with one powerful belief: that knowledge should never be locked away. He lived during a time when books were still a luxury, and education was reserved for the privileged few. But Deichman imagined a different kind of society: one where learning was open to everyone, regardless of status. He saw libraries as places not just for storing books, but for unlocking minds. And he left a legacy that would outlive him by centuries. Today, more than 230 years later, that same vision thrives inside these walls. Deichman Bjørvika welcomes over a million visitors each year, not just to read, but to create, explore, and connect. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that just steps from here stands another iconic space of creativity: The Oslo Opera House. In fact, both the library and the opera are part of a greater vision for Bjørvika: transforming what was once an industrial harbour into a vibrant cultural quarter, where stories, sounds, and ideas come together at the edge of the sea. So from the written word to the sung note, from quiet reflection to powerful performance, feel free to move on from the world of books to the world of music once you are done here. You’ll find the next timestamp in minute 1:33:10. If you decide to stick along until then, I’ll walk you through some other interesting corners in our way down. [Makerspace & Creative Workshop Corner] And for those who love to create with their own hands, Deichman Bjørvika offers something truly special: a makerspace tucked within its walls. Here, technology and traditional crafts meet. Visitors can experiment with 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and textile tools, all available for public use. Whether you’re designing a prototype, fixing your clothes, crafting something unique, or simply curious to learn, this space invites you to roll up your sleeves and make something real. [It reads: “3D printers”] Workshops are often held here too, teaching everything from digital fabrication to traditional crafts, creating an environment where innovation feels tangible. It’s another reminder that Deichman is much more than a library. [End of our visit to the library.] Just by the Deichman Library, we have one of the capital’s most iconic and celebrated structures: the Oslo Opera House. Hugging the edge of the Oslo Fjord, this remarkable building seems to rise straight out of the water like a modern glacier of white stone and glass, sloping gently toward the city on one side, and dissolving into the sea on the other. Its presence is bold, yet somehow serene. Designed by the award-winning Norwegian firm Snøhetta, the Opera House opened in 2008 and instantly redefined the city skyline, not just as a performing arts venue, but as a radical expression of public space. With its gleaming roof (which we are about to walk), made from white Italian Carrara marble, this is a building that doesn’t tower above you, it invites you to walk on it. The sloping roof is one of the few in the world designed to be walked on, and in fact, it is one of the few opera houses on the planet where the roof receives more visitors than the auditorium itself. The rooftop is open all day, all year and to anyone: locals out on a morning jog, visitors watching the sunset, students reading in the sun, couples enjoying the stillness above the city… It’s basically a gathering space, a quiet stage for Oslo’s everyday life. And as we climb upward, the view only gets better. To your left, you have the rising silhouettes of Bjørvika (with the Munch Museum clearly visible behind the ferris wheel); To your right, the shimmering waters of the fjord; and all together, one of Europe’s most ambitious urban renewal projects. However, much like Aker Brygge’s Promenade, this was once an industrial port cluttered with shipyards and warehouses. Today, Bjørvika has been entirely reimagined, and the Opera House was the spark that ignited it. Its completion marked the beginning of the area’s transformation into Oslo’s cultural and architectural centrepiece. It now shares the neighbourhood with the Deichman Library, the Munch Museum, and soon, Norway’s new National Museum of Architecture. Inside the Opera House, things are just as extraordinary. Though we won’t be going in today, it’s worth knowing what lies beneath our feet. Try to picture this: The Opera House is home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, and contains more than 1,100 rooms, including state-of-the-art rehearsal studios, costume workshops, and a grand auditorium built entirely from oak, designed for optimal acoustics. The main stage is so technologically advanced that it can change entire sets at the push of a button, lifting, rotating, or dividing in seconds, a feat that puts it on par with the most innovative opera houses in the world. The stage has welcomed performances of Verdi, Wagner, Mozart, and modern experimental works, but also international stars like Renée Fleming, Jonas Kaufmann, and the Royal Ballet of London. And it’s not just about opera and ballet; concerts, lectures, and multimedia events also take place here, often fusing classical and contemporary styles in bold, Nordic fashion. Just beyond the edge of the Opera House, there’s a crystalline structure rising from the fjord, almost like a mirrored iceberg adrift in the sea. That is “She Lies”, a floating sculpture by Italian artist Monica Bonvicini, unveiled in 2010. It stands 12 meters tall and is made of stainless steel and glass panels, resting on a concrete platform anchored to the seabed. What’s truly remarkable is that it rotates gently with the wind and tides, slowly turning throughout the day as if adrift, a constantly changing form, much like the sea it inhabits. The sculpture was inspired by Caspar David Friedrich’s 1824 painting “The Sea of Ice”, a Romantic depiction of a shipwreck in the Arctic. “She Lies” reinterprets that frozen drama in a modern, geometric style, and serves as both a counterpoint and companion to the angular, glacier-like Opera House behind it. [The Opera Beach] Before walking by the beach, I want to show you the last surprise that the opera house has in store for us. On this side of the building there’s a long windowed corridor where rows of theatrical masks, wigs, and costumes are dramatically lit and displayed behind glass. These aren’t props from a museum: they’re working pieces from current productions. Each one represents a character, a transformation, a glimpse behind the curtain. It’s a quiet tribute to the artisans backstage if you will: the wigmakers, costume designers, and prop masters whose invisible labor brings every performance to life. It’s also a beautiful reminder that opera and ballet aren’t just about grand spectacle: they’re about the meticulous detail, the craftsmanship, and the magic of storytelling. And I think this city has lots of it. And with the rhythm of Cuban music drifting through the air, people enjoying by the edge of the Opera Beach, and Oslo locals making the most of the long August light, we bring our walk to a close. If you’ve enjoyed discovering Oslo’s waterfront with me (its stories, its quiet corners, and the way it blends the old with the bold) then perhaps this won’t be our last stroll together. There’s always more to explore, and you’re warmly invited to join me next time. Thank you for being here. “Until the Eighties, Oslo was a rather boring town, but it has changed a lot. If I go downtown, I visit the harbour to see the tall ships and ferries, and to admire the modern architecture such as the Opera House.”

🙋‍♂️ Walking Tour in Oslo’s Vibrant Waterfront

Join us on a golden summer evening as we take you on a captivating walking tour through one of Norway’s most scenic and culturally rich areas: the waterfront of central Oslo. Bathed in warm evening light, this immersive journey reveals a city that gracefully blends history, modernity, and Nordic charm.

We begin in the stylish neighbourhood of Tjuvholmen, stroll along the lively Aker Brygge promenade, and pass iconic landmarks such as the National Museum, the Nobel Peace Center, and Oslo’s City Hall. From there, we ascend into the majestic Akershus Fortress, where we explore centuries of Norwegian history, including the royal chambers and the medieval crypt.

As twilight deepens, we continue along Langkaia, where Oslo’s unique relationship with the sea comes alive through its buzzing floating saunas, vibrant urban spaces, and open waterfront. We visit the acclaimed Deichman Bjørvika Library, voted the best library in the world, and wrap up our experience by climbing the sloping roof of the world-renowned Oslo Opera House, with its striking views of the fjord.

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HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS WALK INCLUDE:

✨ Stroll in the vibrant waterfront of Oslo.
✨ Promenade in Aker Brygge: Nobel Peace Centre, National Museum & Oslo City Hall.
✨ Serene walk in the beautiful surroundings of the castle (Akershus Fortress)
✨ Visit to the majestic hilltop castle.
✨ The spooky legend-story of “The cloak ghost”.
✨ Walk by floating Saunas (and the history of this tradition).
✨ Visit to Deichman: the Best Library in the World.
✨ Exploring the rooftop of the Opera House.
✨ Relevant information & interesting facts about Oslo’s rich history, architecture & culture.

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TOUR DETAILS

📍Oslo / Norway
🗓️ August (2024)
⏰ Evening time 🌡️ Month avg. 16°C / 61°F

🗺️ Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7QVbscan71ccp78R9

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🎞️ Scroll down to discover the different PLAYLISTS we offer.

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⭐️ Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE by clicking here ⭐️
https://www.youtube.com/@worldpathstours/?sub_confirmation=1

🏰 Link to Akershus Castle Official Website: https://www.forsvarshistoriskmuseum.no/akershus-slott/en

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🎞️ PLAYLISTS

– I want to see…

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– I want…

📤 Discover more Playlists on the home page.

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🙆‍♂️ ABOUT ME

My name is Martin, a Spaniard currently living in Norway. After living in multiple countries including Germany, Scotland, Slovenia, Spain, and Norway, I’ve realised how much I love exploring outdoors. I decided to start a YouTube channel where I pour all my heart and soul into every video and my goal today is to take you to the planets nicest locations to learn from its history, facts and stories from a first person point of view. Join our community and let’s discover together the world of wonders we live in!

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CHAPTERS

0:00:00 – Preview
0:02:08 – ℹ️ Intro to Walking Tour in Oslo
0:06:03 – ℹ️ Aker Brygge Promenade
0:11:01 – ℹ️ Ferries & Boat Tours
0:13:18 – ℹ️ Nobel Peace Centre
0:16:00 – ℹ️ National Museum
0:18:18 – ℹ️ Oslo City Hall
0:23:39 – ℹ️ Akershus Fortress
0:28:28 – ℹ️ Akershus Castle (Backyard)
0:30:53 – ℹ️ Inside Akershus Castle
0:45:48 – ℹ️ Akershus Castle (2nd half)
1:01:59 – 📖 The spooky story of “The cloak ghost”
1:05:58 – ℹ️ The Saunas (and its history)
1:12:45 – ℹ️ Deichman Library
1:33:10 – ℹ️ Opera House
1:39:58 – ℹ️ She lies (iceberg sculpture)
1:41:45 – ℹ️ Theatrical wigs & costumes from the opera house
1:43:38 – ℹ️ Opera Beach
1:46:06 – Quote & Links

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📹 The sound and video have been filmed on location. Do not copy, reproduce, distribute, publish, display, perform, modify, create derivative works, transmit, or in any way exploit any such content without previous written authorisation.

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Arcadia – Wonders by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100326

Artist: http://incompetech.com/