Oslo is a famous city of Norway. It is also the capital and the largest city of Norway. After Stockholm and Copenhagen, it is the third largest Scandinavian city. The history of the city of Oslo dates way back to 1838, when it was established as a municipality. Oslo contributes a handsome 17% to the national GDP. However, Oslo is listed as one of the most expensive cities in the world. Oslo is presently inhabited by about 600,000 inhabitants.

Oslo is surrounded by mountains and green hills. There are about 45 islands within the city limits. There are about 350 lakes in entire Oslo, which are the main source of drinking water for the greater part of Oslo. There are two small rivers in Oslo. Almost two thirds of the land area in Oslo is taken up by reserve forests.

Oslo enjoys a humid continental climate with mild to warm summers and cold, wet and chilly winters. At times, heat waves take place in the months from June to August. There is heavy snowfall in the months of December, January and February. At that time, Oslo becomes a popular destination for ice fishing, ice-skating and skiing.

Oslo is the seat of Norway’s national government and is the capital of the country. The parliament itself is an imposing building and most of the government offices, including the office of the Prime Minister are housed near the Parliament house.

Maritime knowledge is the prime source of economy of Oslo. It is one of the most important centers of maritime knowledge in the entire Europe. The maritime sector here boasts of above 1000 companies and over 10,000 employees. Most of the world’s major shipping companies are located here.

The cost of living is extremely high in Oslo. It was ranked 10th in the list of most expensive cities of the world. This reflects in the hotels in Oslo as well. The Oslo airport is the second largest airport in Scandinavia and is duly supported and served by high speed trains. The lightning quick trains and the efficient network of buses make travel in this city a real treat.

There are facilities of public ferries in order to roam about the scattered islands in the Oslo harbor basin. You can also travel to the far off countries like Germany and Denmark via the waterway.

There are quite a lot of things to see in Oslo. You will be simply dumbfounded by the brilliantly built Akershus Castle and fortress. The grandeur of the Norsk Folkemuseum will surely strike you. Apart from these two famous locations, there are the Armed Force Museum, The Historical Museum, and The New National Opera House and many others. The city boasts of the City hall, where the Nobel Peace prize ceremony is held annually.

The city of Oslo was the host for many Winter Olympic Games. This city has made reasonable progress in the sports arena, with reputed sportspersons coming out from the city. If you want a hassle free holiday in a relaxed mood and a pleasant atmosphere, there is no better place than Oslo. So, come, make the trip which you will remember for the rest of your life.