Overview
The Oslo Royal Palace is the official residence of the Norwegian monarch, situated in the center of the capital. This grand palace, built in the neoclassical style, offers guided tours and beautiful gardens open to the public.
The palace serves as the official residence of the Norwegian monarch and is a significant cultural and historical site in Norway.
Location
Address
Slottsplassen 1, Oslo
Neighborhood: Sentrum
Coordinates
59.913800, 10.752300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
May-September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better photo opportunities
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • Blooming gardens
- • Longer days
summer
warm to hot
- • Extended opening hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
cool to cold
- • Fall foliage
- • Cooler weather
winter
cold to very cold
- • Holiday lights
- • Indoor exhibits
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tour tickets in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (some walking and stairs)
- • Uneven surfaces in gardens
- • Stairs in palace
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash (limited)
Currency
Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least 2 weeks for guided tours
- • Official website or authorized tour operators
- • 48 hours prior for refund
- • Available for tour tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Oslo Royal Palace Guide
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tour booking, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Palace cafe, Garden rest areas
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Oslo Airport (OSL)
Distance: 50 km
Travel Time: 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 1.5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful gardens, and free access to the grounds make it a beloved local spot
Historical Significance: Important events such as royal weddings and national celebrations have taken place here
Insider Tips
- Free entry to the palace grounds at all times
- Best food and coffee at the palace cafe
- Evening walks in the garden are less crowded and peaceful
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Norwegian waffles at the palace cafe
- • Ask for guide John for the best tour experience
- • Visit nearby Karl Johans Gate for shopping and dining
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Norwegian, English, German, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour (afternoon)
Tips: Capture the grandeur of the entrance with a low angle
Result: Stunning shot of the palace facade
Palace Gardens
Best Time: Spring (blooming flowers)
Tips: Use the gardens' colors and symmetry for vibrant shots
Result: Beautiful garden photographs
Palace Square
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the entire square and palace
Result: Iconic palace square photographs
Changing of the Guard
Best Time: During the ceremony
Tips: Capture the action and detail of the guards
Result: Dynamic shots of the royal guard
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Theatre
Distance: 300m
Walking: 4 min
Type: Theatre
Parliament of Norway
Distance: 400m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Government Building
Royal Palace Park
Distance: 100m
Walking: 2 min
Type: Park
Karl Johans Gate
Distance: 500m
Walking: 6 min
Type: Shopping Street
Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Museum
Akershus Fortress
Distance: 1.2km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Historic Fortress
Reviews
Based on 12,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book guided tour in advance"
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Don't miss the changing of the guard"
- "Palace gardens are perfect for picnics"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (4)
Quick Info
Available Tours
61
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
12,000