Oslo is the biggest city in Norway, and has been the country's capital since 1814. The Goverment and Parliament are located here, and at the end of Oslo's main street, Karl Johans gate, you find the Royal Palace.
A green city
Oslo has a great location at the head of the Oslo Fjord, surrounded by forested hills. The city is a great destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Even in the city centre, the nearest park is never more than a few blocks away. A ten-minute boat ride from the centre takes you to lovely beaches on the Oslo Fjord islands. In the winter Oslo has hundreds of kilometers of cross-country trails within the city boundries, in addition to eight ski centres.
In 2007 Reader's Digest ranked Oslo as number two on a list of the world's greenest, most liveable cities!At the same time Oslo has everything you would expect from a capital.
The city offers an abundance of attractions, shopping possibilities and a flourishing cultural life, and a choice of restaurants which is almost unparalleled in Scandinavia.
The possibilities are always many – whether you want to enjoy a sumptuous meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant or you prefer a brisk, refreshing dogsleigh ride in the snow-draped winter forest.
- Municipality of Oslo, total area: 454 km2
- Inhabitants 2008: Municipality of Oslo 560 000, urban area 860 000 (Norway approx. 4.7 million)
- Forest: 242 km2
- Parks, sports fields etc.: 8 km2
- Number of islands in the Oslo Fjord: 40
- Number of lakes within the city boundries: 343
- Length of the Oslo Fjord: 100 km
