With more than 1,000 years of history, Oslo offers plenty to see and experience. Touring options range from laid-back visits to museums and historical architecture to food tours and extreme sports. The costs range from free to upscale experiences in luxury private limos and aboard yachts, all priced accordingly. Most tours run year-round, with a nod to time of year and weather.

Founded in 1048, this southeastern Norwegian city has grown along the harbor at Oslo Fjord since the Viking Age, with spectacular mountain views in every direction. Known for their healthy diets and hours in the sauna, take a cue from the local Norwegians and leave your car in the garage, opting instead to walk or bike through the city.

Guided walking tours are a great bargain, usually taking around two hours with a local guide, or board the Hop-On Hop-Off tourist buses that cover many major points of interest. English is widely spoken, and locals love to suggest a “secret” restaurant or piece of local history you just can’t miss.

Biking on the roof of the Opera House © Torid Baklund / VisitOslo

Taxis are spotless and abundant if you prefer to ride. To sample the local cuisine, choose among the food tour and hidden gastro gems of the city, or tour the local breweries where you’ll sample the best of the city’s fresh-brewed beers. For cross-country skiing, arrange a trip to Skidmore Oslo, the area’s primary ski resort with its 18 slopes.

For something exotic, experience a floating sauna tour from the waterfront, ending in the Oslo Fjord. Or perhaps book a visit to The Well, one of the most famous spa hotels in all of Europe, offering more than 10 pools and 15 saunas for relaxing — clothing optional.

After your tours, enjoy a ride back to your hotel in a retro motorcycle sidecar, and you’ll see the most popular landmarks alfresco.