Akershus Fortress
A medieval castle and fortress above the harbour, with ramparts, royal tombs and wartime history.
About
Why visit Akershus Fortress
Built around 1300 to protect Oslo, Akershus was later rebuilt as a Renaissance royal residence. The grounds are free to wander and include the castle, the Royal Mausoleum, Norway's Resistance Museum and the Armed Forces Museum.
Not to miss
Highlights
The moments that define a visit to Akershus Fortress.
Akershus Castle
Halls, chapel and the Royal Mausoleum.
Ramparts
Free views over the harbour and Aker Brygge.
Norway's Resistance Museum
The story of the occupation in 1940–45.
Local know-how
Visitor tips
Small things that turn a good visit into a great one.
The fortress grounds are free; the castle interior charges admission.
Watch the changing of the guard, usually around midday.
Nearby
Combine with
Other guides within a short walk.
Oslo City Hall
The twin-towered home of the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, filled with vast murals — free to visit.
Open guideNational Museum
The Nordic region's largest art museum, with Munch, Norwegian landscape painting, design and a rooftop Light Hall.
Open guideOslo Opera House
A glacier-like marble building rising from the fjord, with a sloping roof you can walk right up for harbour views.
Open guide