Oslo

Visit the Akershus fortress when in Oslo, and be prepared to be spellbound by this incredible combination of medieval defences and more refined Renaissance-era elements. The fortress has been altered at every stage of Oslo's history. If you dare, venture into the dungeons, followed by the chapel and Norway's resistance museum!

This little gem is an absolute delight. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History is home to 155 replicas of traditional houses, giving you the chance to appreciate the differences between different regional architectures, from the urban to the rural. Traditional cooking, crafts, dances and more are all showcased here, immersing you in the authentic flavours of Norway. A fantastic way of spending an afternoon.

Take to the mountains to try Norway's favourite national sport: skiing. The Holmenkollen skiing museum is a must, outlining the history of skiing and leading you up to the top of the ski-jumping hill. From the top, expect breath-taking views over the entire city. The ski simulator and zip-line are perfect for getting pulses racing.

All aboard for Karl Johans Gate and Møllergata! These are the city centre's two busiest high streets, encompassing everything you need during a stay in town. Shop, grab a snack or sit down to a meal, enjoy a drink at a terrace, try an escape room, go to a gig or dance the night away.

A stone's throw away from Hausmanns Gate is Grünerløkka. This former workers' neighbourhood is now a hipster area with a boho feel, crammed full of colourful little two- or three-floor buildings. On-trend bars, new-wave Norwegian cuisine and quirky little boutiques are on hand to keep visitors coming back for more.

Lutefisk is a Scandinavian speciality and an Oslo staple. This dried fish (such as cod) is rehydrated over several days. Lutefisk is served with potatoes, mushy peas and bacon - a real taste of the North!

Vafler are incredibly popular waffles, made from a pancake-like batter and sometimes flavoured with cardamom. These heart-shaped waffles are wolfed down for breakfast and at tea time, topped with jam, cream, or whatever takes your fancy for an extra helping of indulgence.