Oslo Opera House: Walk on the Roof
The Oslo Opera House opened in 2008 and was designed by Snøhetta. One of its most unique features is that you can walk on the roof - it's made of white Carrara marble and granite, and the walk is completely free.
Getting There
The Opera House is about 600m from Oslo Central Station. Take the pedestrian bridge to reach it easily. Most public transport stops at Jernbanetorget, which is the main transport hub.
Public Transport Options
- Tram: Lines 12, 19
- Bus: Routes 34, 37, 54
- Metro: To Jernbanetorget station
- App: The Ruter app handles all Oslo transport
The Roof Walk Experience
The roof is open 24/7 during summer months. Winter access is restricted for safety - they rope off sections when it's icy. The best times to visit are early morning or sunset for the most spectacular photos. The marble gets quite dazzling even on cloudy days.
You'll get excellent views of the fjord and city skyline. Sometimes there are free concerts on the roof in summer. It doesn't usually feel crowded, making it a peaceful experience.
Tours and Performances
Guided Tours
Guided tours run for 50 minutes and cost 150 NOK. They include access to backstage areas. Booking ahead is recommended.
Venue Information
- Main auditorium: Seats 1,364
- Two smaller venues: Seat 200 and 400 respectively
Inside the Building
The foyer is free to enter and features massive windows with beautiful oak interiors. There's a stunning chandelier with 5,800 crystals that's worth seeing.
Important: No photos are allowed during performances, and there's limited photography inside the foyer now.
Nearby Attractions
- MUNCH Museum: Located next door
- Opera Beach: Great for swimming in summer
- Bjørvika area: The whole area is easily walkable from Central Station
Worth Knowing
The Oslo Opera House won the EU Prize for Contemporary Architecture in 2009. The floating sculpture "She Lies" sits in the fjord nearby and is worth checking out.
The angled roof design is quite unusual - most opera houses you just go inside, but this one invites you to climb it and experience the architecture from above.
Practical Tips
- Best times to visit: Early morning or sunset for photos
- Winter access: Limited due to ice - check conditions
- Photography: Allowed on roof, limited inside foyer
- Cost: Roof walk is free, tours cost 150 NOK
- Duration: Allow 1-2 hours for roof walk and foyer visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the roof walk really free?
Yes, walking on the roof is completely free and open to the public.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or sunset provide the best lighting for photos. Summer offers 24/7 access, while winter has restrictions due to ice.
Can I take photos on the roof?
Yes, photography is allowed on the roof. However, no photos are permitted during performances inside the building.
How long should I spend there?
Allow 1-2 hours to walk on the roof, explore the foyer, and take in the views.
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