Cruise Companion

Day 4 · Oslo, Norway

Architectural Heritage of Oslo
Architectural Heritage of Oslo
Demanding · Duration: 6 hours · ADDITIONAL COST

History, Culture and Grand Designs Discover Oslo’s rich architectural heritage during a guided walk to view the city’s medieval and modern sites. Meet your guide and walk along the Oslofjord toward the medieval Akershus fortress. Along the way, view prime examples of architecture from the Middle Ages to several 19th-century buildings designed in the style of the Norwegian National Romanticism movement. Stop for a three-course lunch in the Kvadraturen neighborhood, known for its well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century architecture and fountain in Christiania torv Square. Then, see the Oslo Opera House, a sleek glacier-inspired landmark that anchors the city’s waterfront. Home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, the building’s sloping roof doubles as a public promenade providing panoramic views of the fjord and city skyline. Cap your excursion with a stop at the Ekeberg viewpoint for vistas of the Oslofjord. * Demanding - Physically challenging activities, including extensive walks, hiking, riding, water sports, and high altitude activities. Activities by foot may contain difficult, unpaved surfaces and/or multiple stairs and steep inclines. Total time walking or standing may e

A Tale of Two Vigelands
A Tale of Two Vigelands
Moderate · Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes · ADDITIONAL COST

Scandinavian Art, Landmarks and History Uncover the legacies of brothers Gustav and Emanuel Vigeland, two iconic figures of Norwegian art. Meet your guide and drive by motor coach to the Vigeland Museum, where you will learn about the story of the siblings who contributed to Oslo’s cultural landscape. Take a guided tour of Gustav’s former apartment and studio, which contains a collection of his works. Next, continue your drive past Vigeland Park to view its grand marble and wrought iron Main Gate; the park’s wrought iron gates inspired the design of the Wintergarden on board your ship. At the Emanuel Vigeland Mausoleum, a museum and tomb for Gustav’s equally talented brother, view a selection of frescoes and sculptures before entering the 17th-century Oslo Cathedral, which features stained glass commissioned by Emanuel. The cathedral regularly plays host to many of Norway’s national ceremonies. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Behind Closed Doors at the Munch Museum
Behind Closed Doors at the Munch Museum
Moderate · Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes · PRIVILEGED ACCESS - ADDITIONAL COST

Works and Restoration of Norway’s Masterpieces Enjoy Privileged Access to Oslo’s Munch Museum on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour. Discover the brilliance of Edvard Munch, Norway’s beloved expressionist artist, and get a sneak peek at the museum’s inner workings. Upon arrival, meet your expert art historian, and take a private tour of the exhibition, stopping to view Munch’s renowned work. Learn more about this captivating artist and his long and successful career, which began at the age of 17. See the museum’s private collection of printing plates that showcase Munch’s innovative and surprising techniques. Then, gain exclusive insight into the work of the conservation department, and meet the museum’s team of skilled craftsmen, who painstakingly restore precious works and prepare masterpieces for viewing. After, enjoy coffee and cake before returning to your ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Culinary Delights of Oslo on Foot
Culinary Delights of Oslo on Foot
Moderate · Duration: 4 hours · ADDITIONAL COST

Fresh Seafood and Tasty Delights Savor the appetizing offerings of Oslo during a walk with tasting stops along the way. Meet your guide at your pier and begin your journey through Oslo’s gastronomic scene by sampling seafood the Norwegian way. Continue on foot to the city center, where you will soak up its atmosphere as you stroll past boutique cafés, restaurants and bars. Admire the city’s monuments, both old and new, and learn about the history, local traditions and typical gastronomic specialties found in Oslo. Pause at local venues to taste local produce and experience the range of flavors that typical Norwegian delicacies offer, from savory to sweet. Your appetite sated, enjoy a casual stroll through the streets before returning to your ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Full-Day Classical Oslo
Full-Day Classical Oslo
Moderate · Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes · ADDITIONAL COST

An In-depth Overview of Norway’s Capital Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of Norway during a full-day excursion. Embark on a short drive by motor coach to Vigeland Park, created by Gustav Vigeland. Walk with your guide among Vigeland’s 200-plus sculptures, representing the different stages of human life. Continue on to the Holmenkollbakken ski jump for views of Oslo and the fjord below. Then, head to the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Norwegian Maritime Museum to learn about Norway’s seafaring history and maritime art. After lunch at a local restaurant, view the facade of City Hall, home to the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Cap your excursion with a guided visit to the Nobel Peace Center to learn about the history of its world-famous prize. While there, see an authentic medal won by a Norwegian laureate, and learn about past winners through interactive displays. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Holmenkollen Trek
Holmenkollen Trek
Demanding · Duration: 4 hours 45 minutes · ADDITIONAL COST

Scenic Vistas in Heart of Norwegian Ski Country Explore the striking landscapes of Holmenkollen during an invigorating trek around this picturesque mountain. The gateway to the popular recreation area of Nordmarka, Holmenkollen is renowned for its beautiful vistas and international ski competitions. After meeting your guide, transfer by motor coach to the trailhead. Upon arrival, set off along the path to begin your 3-mile walk. Your route will take you past the idyllic waters of Øvresetertjern, then down to the toboggan track that was the site of the 1955 World Luge Championships. Enjoy refreshments as your guide tells stories of local lore. You will also see the ski jumping hill called “Midtstubakken” and the Holmenkollen Chapel, built by noted Norwegian architect Holger Sinding-Larsen. Take in the panoramic views over Oslo and free time to explore the Ski Museum before returning to your coach for the journey back to your ship. * Demanding - Physically challenging activities, including extensive walks, hiking, riding, water sports, and high altitude activities. Activities by foot may contain difficult, unpaved surfaces and/or multiple stairs and steep inclines. Total time walking

Ibsen’s Oslo on Foot
Ibsen’s Oslo on Foot
Moderate · Duration: 4 hours · ADDITIONAL COST

Henrik Ibsen’s Literary Legacy Walk through Oslo to discover the city where world-renowned dramatist Henrik Ibsen wrote his greatest works. Meet your guide and walk through one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the world to discover the literary legacy of influential Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. Considered “the father of modern drama,” Ibsen wrote enduring works such as Peer Gynt, A Doll’s House and Hedda Gabler , which have remained beloved staples of theaters around the world. Make your way along Karl Johans gate, the city’s main thoroughfare, to see the writer’s famous quotes etched into the pavement. Explore locations that were central to his work and personal life, including his apartment, now the Ibsen Museum and Theater. After, enjoy a taste of local cakes accompanied by tea or coffee at a nearby historic hotel. After, return to your ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Norwegian Explorers
Norwegian Explorers
Moderate · Duration: 4 hours · ADDITIONAL COST

Viking Ship, Kon-Tiki and Norway’s Polar Explorers Get an in-depth look at the history of the Vikings and Norway’s most notable explorers. Norway’s long history of exploration extends back to the Viking Age. At the Kon-Tiki Museum, learn about the voyages of renowned explorer Thor Heyerdahl. Browse numerous texts, maps and books, and view the Kon-Tiki balsa-wood raft Heyerdahl, used to sail from Peru to Polynesia in 1947. Explore the Fram Museum, which chronicles the polar expeditions of Norwegian explorers, including Roald Amundsen-the first person to reach both the North and South Poles. Cap your excursion with a visit to the Norwegian Maritime Museum to discover Norway’s seafaring history, and see its nautical paintings by famous artists such as Hans Gude and Axel Revold. There, enjoy a short film on Viking traditions and culture, and see a replica of the Gokstad ship, the largest Viking ship in Norway. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Norwegian National Romanticism Movement
Norwegian National Romanticism Movement
Moderate · Duration: 6 hours · ADDITIONAL COST

A Cultural Movement to Honor Norway’s Unique Identity Discover the importance of Norway’s National Romanticism movement through art, architecture and culture. From 1840 to 1867, Norway’s creatives drew from the country’s beautiful landscapes and unique culture to create a body of art and literature that celebrated its identity. During visits to some of Oslo’s significant sites, learn the history of the movement and how it shaped culture throughout Norway’s quest for national pride. At the National Museum, see works from some of the most famous visual artists of the era. Then, visit the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum) to see more than 150 relocated buildings alongside a vast collection of artifacts from around the country. After lunch, cap your visit with a stop at the royal country house of Oscarshall, a 19th-century summer palace which is adorned with art from Norway’s National Romanticism movement. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Oslofjord by Boat
Oslofjord by Boat
Easy · Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes · ADDITIONAL COST

Sail Oslo’s Archipelago Board a boat and sail past idyllic islands into the sheltered bays of the Oslofjord. Oslo is situated at the head of its namesake fjord, with views of Akershus Fortress and the two towers of City Hall from its harbor. Climb on board your sailboat, and after a short safety briefing, cruise past quaint islands-including Hovedøya and the Dyna Lighthouse-through narrow inlets and into sheltered bays, observing Scandinavia’s oldest capital from all angles. Your boat passes close to the peninsula of Bygdøy, with its many museums and beautiful beaches. Here, the Norwegian Maritime Museum has veteran sailing ships moored outside, and the impressive Fram Museum houses the polar ship of the same name. Enhance your experience at sea by learning the art of shelling shrimp and tasting their sweet flavor. After your trip at sea, return to the pier and your ship. * Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.

Oslo Highlights & Vigeland Park
Oslo Highlights & Vigeland Park
Easy · Duration: 3 hours · INCLUDED

A Glimpse of Norway’s Cultured Capital Take in Oslo’s eclectic blend of contemporary flair, rich history and scenic views. Meet your guide, board your motor coach and drive past the medieval Akershus Fortress, built during the 1290s by Norse king Håkon V. Pass by some of Oslo's notable sites, including the Oslo Opera House, Nobel Peace Center, the Royal Palace and the Parliament building. Arrive at Holmenkollen, home to the world-famous ski jump set atop the city's most prominent hill. This historic structure dates back to 1892. After time for photos, return to the city and set out to explore Vigeland Park, named after the sculptor whose work adorns this expansive green space. Your guide will accompany you on a stroll along its pathways to view some of the 200-plus stone and bronze sculptures depicting the human life cycle. After, return to your ship. * Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.

Privileged Access to the National Museum
Privileged Access to the National Museum
Moderate · Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes · PRIVILEGED ACCESS - ADDITIONAL COST

An Exclusive Look at World-Class Masterpieces Behind Closed Doors Enjoy a Privileged Access visit to an iconic cultural treasure and architectural gem by Oslo’s stunning waterfront. Upon arrival, meet your museum expert for an exclusive pre-opening visit to the National Museum, established through the merger of four of Norway’s leading institutions in art, culture and design. As a single entity, the museum is home to the largest public collection of paintings in Scandinavia. See inside the mind of Edvard Munch away from the crowds during a private viewing of The Scream , and view works from the Norwegian National Romanticism movement. After refreshments, embark on a behind-the-scenes tour of the photography department, and discover the techniques employed by conservationists to restore precious works. Viking’s exclusive cultural partnership with the museum offers a rare opportunity to see how the world’s masterpieces are protected for future generations. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.

The Great Explorer Fridtjof Nansen
The Great Explorer Fridtjof Nansen
Easy · Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes · ADDITIONAL COST

Life and Legacy of a Norwegian Icon Discover the influence of one of Norway’s greatest explorers, the scientist and humanitarian Fridtjof Nansen. More than a great Arctic explorer, Nobel laureate Fridtjof Nansen was also a scientist, diplomat and humanitarian who helped save thousands of lives through international relief work. Learn about his remarkable legacy during visits to two sites devoted to his life. The Fram Museum tells the story of Norway’s polar exploration through exhibits, including a polar simulator that mimics the region’s freezing temperatures. You will also step on board the Fram , a record-holding sailing vessel built in Norway for polar research. At Polhøgda, Nansen’s home from 1901 until his death in 1930 and now the home of the Fridtjof Nansen Institute, learn about the research foundation, which is focused on international environmental, energy and resource management. After your visit, return to your awaiting ship. * Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.

Traditional Glassworks & Modern Art
Traditional Glassworks & Modern Art
Moderate · Duration: 7 hours · ADDITIONAL COST

Visit Hadeland Glassworks and a Sculpture Park Discover traditional glassblowing techniques and see world-class sculptures in the Norwegian countryside. Founded in 1762, Hadeland Glassworks still makes glass using centuries-old methods, producing an extensive array of wine glasses and special designer goods. Journey north by motor coach from Oslo to the shores of Lake Randsfjorden. During your one hour, 15-minute drive, your guide will relay stories of the region’s rich Viking history. Upon arrival at the lakeside factory, explore the facility and its picturesque surroundings. Watch the glassblowers at work and try your hand at glassblowing or glass designing. Next, drive to Kistefos Museum, a gallery and sculpture park located on the grounds of a historic wood pulp mill. During a guided tour, view its sculpture collection, consisting of works by world-renowned artists including Yayoi Kusama, Claes Oldenburg and more. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.