Oslo Parliament Building © Alena Stalmashonak | Dreamstime
The vibrant capital city of Oslo has been an influential destination since the 1040s, serving as a hub for trade, banking and industry — today it’s still all of those things, as well as a cultural mecca that simultaneously preserves and celebrates its history while also looking and building toward the future. Here are a few of the top things to do to experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Norway’s most popular city.

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For an introduction to the city, its culture and history, take a stroll down Karl Johans Gate, the city’s main street. Connecting the Norwegian Royal Palace, the parliament building, Oslo Central Station, the National Theatre and Stortinget, the nearly mile-long street is a great way to take in the city’s storied past, beautiful architecture and great local markets, shops and cafés.

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Oslo’s parks are not only some of the prettiest places in the city, but they also boast impressive sculptures and cultural emblems embodying the city’s past. Vigeland Sculpture Park is the largest of its kind, home to more than 200 bronze, granite and wrought iron sculptures, all made by one artist. Frogner Park is another lovely spot, historically part of Frogner Manor and home to the Oslo City Museum.

Museum of Cultural History © Demerzel21 | Dreamstime
Get to know the maritime city, its people and customs at the Museum of Cultural History, Folk Museum and Viking Ship Museum, and hear the tales of Norwegian polar exploration at the Fram Polar Ship Museum. For something a little different, the Emanuel Vigeland Museum, located in a hidden mausoleum, is described by visitors as one of the most unique exhibition experiences anywhere in the world.

Akershus Castle © Nanisimova | Dreamstime
See all the sights for which the city is known, including Akershus Castle and Fortress, dating to 1299; Oslo City Hall boasting impressive interiors with paintings, sculptures, carvings and other preserved cultural treasures; Drobak, a small village south of the city, easy to reach by ferry or bus, offering views of the fjord; and Oslo Cathedral, dating to 1694, featuring stunning stained glass and a gold-plated altar.

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Catch a show at The Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, the first fully professional performance organization in the country. Located on the city’s harbor, the award-winning complex offers views of Oslo and the fjord, as well as world-class programming. Shows take place on the complex roof, foyer and three stages: The Main House, which seats 1,369; Second House, which seats 400; and the Studio, a more intimate theater for 200.

Farikal © Alexander Mychko | Dreamstime
A trip to Oslo isn’t complete without experiencing some traditional Norwegian culinary treats. Sample everyday dishes like fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew), kjøttkaker (large meatballs), steamed salmon or fish soup. Wash it down with a beer from Olympen, an old wood-paneled beer hall and eatery serving classic Norwegian food, or Schouskjelleren Mikrobryggeri, an underground brick cellar brewery.

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Venture just outside the city limits to Sognsvann Lake, and take in the scenic views from more than two miles of hiking, walking and, in the winter, cross-country ski trails. The lake is especially stunning in the winter, and in the summer it’s perfect for fishing, swimming and picnicking on the lake’s sandy beaches. To get to the lake, take the No. 5 Metro to Sognsvann.