Centred around the Norwegian capital, Oslo, Akershus is a traditional region named after a medieval castle built in the 1290s to protect the city. Until 1919, it was a fief that encompassed much of Eastern Norway and was merged into the county of Viken in 2020.
Things to do in Akershus
From the modern museums of Oslo to the thrilling rides of TusenFryd, Akershus offers something for the whole family.
Sightsee in Oslo. Home to outstanding museums and striking architectural landmarks, Oslo serves as the pulsing capital of Norway. Delve into the country’s fascinating past at the waterfront Norwegian Maritime Museum and see artefacts uncovered from ancient burial chambers at the Viking Ship Museum. Visit the Holmenkollbakken ski-jumping hill for sweeping views across the Oslofjord.
Get your thrills at TusenFryd. One of the largest amusement parks in Norway, TusenFryd is home to adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters, kid-friendly carousels and casual eateries. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can cool off at the BadeFryd waterpark, which features swimming pools, a lazy river and a huge waterslide.
Visit the Oscarsborg Fortress. Situated on two islets in the middle of the Oslofjord, the Oscarsborg Fortress was originally constructed in the 17th century under the reign of Christian IV. Browse the military artefacts on display at the Oscarborg Fortress Museum and venture through the subterranean tunnels below or coincide your visit with one of the live concerts held in the summer months.
Explore the Henie Onstad Kunstsenter. Positioned on a headland jutting into the Oslofjord, the Henie Onstad Kunstsenter was founded in 1968 by the Olympic figure skating champion Sonja Henie and her husband Niels Onstad. Its collection of modern and contemporary art includes works by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Yayoi Kusama, as well as the Norwegian Modernist artist Jakob Weidemann.
Getting around Akershus
Oslo Airport is the main aviation gateway to Akershus and is a 45-minute drive from the city centre. Trains travel from Oslo to destinations throughout the region, while buses connect most of the towns and villages.