Oslo, Norway, is a rather small capital city, by European standards.  It is most accessible by boat via the Oslofjorden, a rather dramatic entry through a narrow channel surrounded by woods.  The city center is fairly compact, pleasant to walk, and contains several attractions, such as Oslo Dunkirk (Oslo Cathedral), and the distinctive Radhuset or Town Hall, as well as numerous museums. 

            A bit further a field, on the Bygdoy Peninsula, a short ferry ride from the city center, are more museums, a few of which deserve mention.  Here the visitor will find the Viking Ship Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum, and the Norwegian Folk Museum.

            Another sight, just out of the city center, is Vigeland Sculpture Park, a tribute to Gustav Vigeland, Norway’s greatest sculptor.

            Gary’s Gem:

                        A great side trip from Oslo is the “Norway in a Nutshell” trip via train, bus, and boat.  The round trip begins early, in Oslo, with the Oslo-to-Bergen train.  In Bergen, take the fast coastal ferry to Sognefjord and the town of Balestrand. From here another boat brings the visitor to Flam. Then it is onto the Flam-to-Myrdal train, a spectacular ride from sea level to the top of a plateau and the Myrdal Train Station. The last leg is the train back to Oslo. This entire trip, with an overnight stop in Bergen, provides a wonderful introduction to the best of Norway.