Exploring Oslo’s Bounty

The most upscale residential neighborhood in Oslo, the Bygdoy peninsula is sprinkled with stunning homes (the most posh of which are painted white, historically the most expensive color),

The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, an open-air museum with traditional houses taken from all over Norway, is another must-visit on the Bygdoy Peninsula.

Gol Stave Church at Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, which dates back to 1866 and is still used for weddings.

The ferry from Oslo's waterfront to the Bygdøy Peninsula takes only 10 minutes, yet the peaceful rural area feels a world away from the city.

Few people know to go inside, but Oslo's City Hall is one the the most beautiful buildings in Europe.

The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded at Oslo's City Hall (the only Nobel prize awarded outside of #Sweden) and the interior walls are completely covered in vibrant murals detailing Norwegian history and daily life.

The Oslo Opera House is in the center of a lot of recent development; the Munch Museum is moving locations and will open behind the iconic structure in 2018.

The dining room at Alex Sushi, a favorite with sushi purists that is often name Oslo's best restaurant after the three-Michelin-stared Maaemo.

One of the best boutiques in Grünerløkka is Dapper, a menswear concept store that is split into three parts with ones dedicated to shaving, biking and clothing.

Boats are available to take visitors around the Oslofjords, either as part of a group or on a private boat.

Sunset hour in Oslo.

One of the more than 200 sculptures depicting the stages of life at Vigeland Sculpture Park.

The Bygdøy Peninsula's Viking Ship Museum, home to ships from the 9th and 10th centuries.

Cool contemporary art is strewn throughout the Tjuvholmen neighborhood, which was designed by 20 architects.

The Holmenkollbakken ski jump is 20 minutes outside downtown Oslo, but a must-visit for design, sport or skiing fanatics.

The view from the Holmenkollbakken.

While the Munch Museum is great for the artist's die-hard fans, visitors who just want to see his famous painting The Scream can see it at Oslo's National Gallery.

Locals enjoy the early evening light from atop the ramparts at Akershus Fortress.

The café/hangout space at Mesh, a members-only society that calls itself The Nordic Creaters’ Community, is the perfect spot to grab a bite or coffee—and observe the city’s hipster set.

For some of the city's best shopping and vintage curios, head to Grünerløkka neighborhood, which feels a bit like Brooklyn in Norway. One of the best spots for unique treasures is Fransk Bazar, a vintage shop owned by two French expats who gather antique furnishings and posters from as far back as the early 1800s.

Fun finds at interior design shop Eske.

Approaching the Bygdoy Peninsula, home to six can't-miss museums, by ferry.

Contemporary art lovers cannot miss the Renzo Piano-designed Astrup Fearnley Museum. Housing a fraction of one of Norway's most extensive private art collections, the cutting-edge museum displays many famous works, including Jeff Koons' Michael Jackson and Bubbles statue.

Milla is one of Oslo's best concept stores and sells familiar names (Missoni Home, Jonathan Adler) but also unique furnishings including a taxidermy boar and ostrich.

A sunny day at the park in front of Oslo's National Theater.

A guard keeps watch at Akershus Fortress, one of several Norwegian castles that inspired Arendelle in Disney's Frozen.

The up-and-coming Barcode area, which was named after the appearance of these high-rise buildings when seen together.