Arrival in Oslo
Oslo & free afternoon - Nestled between shimmering fjords and dense, misty forests, Oslo has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Thanks to the country's natural resources and strong economy, Norway is one of the richest countries in the world - and in true Nordic style, this once overlooked city’s wealth has been infused into angular architecture, art and design projects. It's a beguiling mix of old and new, with world-class museums, contemporary architecture and beautiful open spaces. And this morning, you'll see it all on a guided tour accompanied by an expert local guide. With a smaller group of your fellow explorers, we'll travel along Oslo's main thoroughfare, Karl Johnas Gate, to see one of the country's most important buildings, the Royal Palace, where the King and Queen of Norway live and work. Nearby is the Ibsen Museum, dedicated to the playwright, Henrik Ibsen - who wrote famous works such as Peer Gynt, An Enemy of the People and A Doll's House. You'll also see the famed Vigeland Sculpture Park, which is home to more than 200 bronze, granite and cast-iron sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. The tour ends at the fascinating Kon-Tiki Museum celebrating the life and achievements of Norwegian explorer, Thor Heyerdahl, and the nearby Fram Museum, which houses the polar exploration ship used in the race to reach the South Pole by explorer Roald Amundsen. Continue exploring this walkable city independently with an Oslo Pass. This allows you free admission to 30 museums and attractions and unlimited public transport throughout the city. (You'll also find several restaurants throughout the city also offer discounts on food, so it's worth researching further to see what's included or speaking to your knowledge Tour Manager!). This evening, enjoy a taste of authentic Norwegian cuisine at a cosy local restaurant. The delicious dishes showcase the unique flavours and cooking techniques which have placed Norway firmly on the food map.