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Akershus Castle and Fortress (Akershus Slott og Festning), Oslo

4.3
#2 of 58 in Historic Sites in Oslo
Must see · Castle · Historic Site
Originally constructed to defend the medieval town, Akershus Castle and Fortress (Akershus Slott og Festning) has since undergone several renovations and today stands as one of the city's symbols. Built in 1290, the castle boasts sturdy stone walls and fortifications that withstood 500 years of sieges and attacks. Visit this landmark and explore its grounds, which once served as the nexus of the national government and the seat of power for Norway's royal rulers. Outside, wander the cobbled pathways and courtyards surrounded by brick buildings and an imposing clock tower. Inside discover the different chambers and sections that now house military museums, historical displays, and a mausoleum with the tombs of Norwegian royalty. Keep in mind that, depending on the time of year, you may need to join a guided tour in order to access the castle. For Akershus Castle and Fortress (Akershus Slott og Festning) and beyond, use our Oslo trip planning site to get the most from your Oslo vacation.
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Tours to Akershus Castle and Fortress (Akershus Slott og Festning)

FROM $44 BOOK WITH VIATOR Small-Group Oslo Bike Tour: City Highlights
4.8
Duration: 3 hours
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FROM $29 BOOK WITH VIATOR 1,5 hour City Cruise | 5 stops
3.8
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Tours from $29 »
FROM $47 BOOK WITH VIATOR City Sightseeing Oslo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
3.8
Duration: 1 hour
Tours from $47 »

Akershus Castle and Fortress (Akershus Slott og Festning) reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.0
3,154 reviews
Google
4.5
TripAdvisor
  • By Patrick D
    Construction of the castle began around the late 1290s by Håkon V, it was completed during the 14th century. Akershus is the old medieval fortress serving as the representative of the king. . It had.....  more »
  • By Aquastar30
    Nice castle from the 12 century. Well worth a walk around the castle and surroundings. No entrance fee to walk around.  more »
See more on TripAdvisor »
Google
  • By Anjali Gopakumar
    Akershus Fortress is a very regal fortress; however, I truly loved the little exhibition inside the visitor's centre with all the history behind the fortress, and the detailed description of the wars that it had seen over the years. For someone with very little knowledge on the Norwegian history, the exhibition, coupled with the tour around the fortress- was very, very interesting!
  • By RichieMuse .
    The fort is currently closed for renovation and is due to be open by the summer. We were able to walk around the fortress but we couldn't go inside. There are other places to see around the area so it's not bad if you go there but you won't be able to currently enter the fort.
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