The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet
The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet
4.5
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Tours & experiences
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Top ways to experience The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Sentrum
How to get there
- Jernbanetorget • 6 min walk
- Grønland • 9 min walk
Best nearby
Restaurants
1,347 within 3 miles
Attractions
497 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- gardkarlsenStavanger, Norway5,868 contributionsA great place to visitFirst of all you can walk around it and on top of it - if you come there on a nice day, people will be relaxing in the sun or taking a dip in the ocean around the opera. Inside you can get guided tours (book in advance) and it is interesting to see the actual opera hall but also get to walk behind the stage itself. And if you do want to visit an opera performance there are quite a lot of options. Good seats can be expensive but you can actually buy a place just to stand and see a show for 100 kroner which is a good deal.Visited January 2020Written January 17, 2020
- Gluteus MaximusWhitchurch, United Kingdom65 contributionsAmazingBeing on a budget, I did not take the tour, but instead chose to simply walk up to the roof, which is open to all members of the public. It's a great experience and offers great view over the fjord, as well as good photo opportunities. Also is worth visiting g at nightVisited February 2020Traveled soloWritten February 23, 2020
- EmeraldDiva3,501 contributionsBeautiful at sunsetVery distinctive building, beautifully situated by the water. On a sunny day, the reflections on all that glass are gorgeous. It is good to go inside and wander around, some very interesting angles and spaces in there. Once outside again, you can walk up onto the roof, quite unique. Oslo is not the prettiest city to view from up high, but this is a free attraction and it is quite lovely to be on the roof at sunset.Visited February 2020Written March 27, 2020
- midway42Georgia3,057 contributionsA tour of Norway’s signature performing arts venue.Norway’s tradition of opera is by modern standards fairly recent. The world-famous soprano Kirsten Flagstad put the country on the map after her debut at the Met in 1935, and she became the country’s first Opera Director in 1957. The Norwegian National Opera and Ballet Company ensued, and garnered enough attention and resources to build a home for their performances. In 1999 the Norwegian legislature confirmed construction of the theater, and 350 entires were submitted. The Norwegian architectural firm Snohetta was declared the winner, and the rest is history. Construction took four years and over 700 million dollars, and the current Opera House was opened to the public in 2008. I passed by here on a whim, to confirm the pier that my cruise to Oscarsburg was going to depart from later in the week. The exterior of the building was so striking I spontaneously decided to visit and walked around the roof for maybe thirty minutes. This was a bit of a surreal experience, as you can literally go down to the water’s edge and fifteen minutes later be on the apex of the roof with views across the harbor. As there were no performances, I decided to take a fifty minute walking tour later that week. This was well done, starting in the foyer and continuing to the medium and large performance halls, as well as the back stage lifts and costume shop. Our docent was well versed in the history of the venue as well as the current operations. In summary, despite the fact I didn’t get to see a performance, this was a worthwhile visit. First, the building is simply magnificent to look at. While the exterior is striking, the interior is more subtle but no less impressive. I’m not an “architectural expert” by any means but certainly on a visceral level this was a worthwhile stop. Second, the behind-the-scenes perspective of the amount of time, effort, people, and money that it takes to run a venue and opera/ballet performance was fascinating. My only small quibble would be that the tour only focussed on the interior of the building; an extra (final?) stop outside to explain the roof and maybe the “She Lies” sculpture would have made a good presentation perfect. Recommended. Even those without an interest in the performing arts will enjoy a rooftop walk and the accompanying views. Others will want to take a tour and, hopefully on my next visit, a performance.Visited July 2022Written July 31, 2022
- Masood KDar es Salaam, Tanzania1,441 contributionsA piece of ArtThe Opera building situated across the station in the heart of the city is in itself a piece of art. Upon inquiry we were told that the design was that of a Glacier. Even if one doesn’t go to see a show, one does go up the building which is like big wide ram where wheelchairer and prams can also be taken. Youngsters throng this place a lot and you see the entire skyline and the harbor of Oslo from the vantage point. We had a beautiful sun-set view from up above. Do visit if you are in the city centre, particular during evening hours. You won’t regret spending an hour over here.Visited February 2020Written March 25, 2020
- cecilieeidslottOslo, Norway36 contributionsBeautiful Opera-building - a "MUST" if you're in OsloWe went to see Madame Butterfly. It's always fun to come to the Opera-building in Oslo. The architecture is very beautiful and worth a closer look! Haven't eaten at the restaurant - it's not all that appealing as it is placed sort of in the middle of the 1st floor where all the Opera guests hang out between acts. The place is nevertheless worth a visit and a glass of wine!Visited February 2020Written February 17, 2020
- Mark_DornochDornoch, United Kingdom1,509 contributionsVisually stunningAn amazing architectural result. At the head of the Oslofjord, this stunning modern building of Italian white marble and granite is a must see when visiting Oslo. You can walk up on to the roof but tread carefully in wet weather. There are steps and foot treads to make it less dangerous. Great views from the top of the building down the Fjord and across the City. Has the appearance of an iceberg at the end of the Fjord. Very impressive. Unfortunately it was closed the day we visited but no doubt worth a visit inside and to a performance if you ever have the opportunity.Visited May 2020Written April 6, 2021
- sattelite101,059 contributionsBeautiful exterior overlooking harbor.We viewed this beautiful structure at night while walking along the waterfront after dinner. It looked spectacular in the reflection of the water and people were walking along the angled roof. We watched the floating saunas and people jumping into the icy waters , then back again. It was beautiful .Visited February 2020Traveled with friendsWritten February 2, 2020
- debchan2015Aberdeen, United Kingdom20 contributionsA must-see on a trip to OsloDefinitely visit this if you are in Oslo. It's immense fun walking up on the roof, seeing the views and people-watching. Restaurants within are over-priced and over-rated with mediocre customer serice (having had drinks, snacks and a meal there) but there are plenty of other options in the surrounding area. Good accessibility, baggage storage and cloakroom areas. I loved the elegant but understated architecture both in and out. Attended Alexander Eckmans Swan Lake and did the behind the scenes tours. Both absolutely stunning.Visited June 2022Written June 26, 2022
- Dazzliedee22 contributionsWalk on the Roof!What an amazing building, I had no idea that there was a building like this in Oslo, it commands an amazing position and you can actually walk all over the roof and the views from the top are spectacular, you can even see the Olympic Ski jump in the distance! Unfortunately the day we visited the Opera House was closed but it did not matter as the experience of walking up and over and down the roof was just incredible . This is an absolute must if you are visiting Oslo and also it was a fun experience, I would imagine it can rival Sydney for the roof walk, also a very imposing building. Highly recommendedVisited November 2019Written January 8, 2020
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
6,066 reviews
Excellent
3,893
Very good
1,829
Average
290
Poor
30
Terrible
24
Nimrod207
Tel Aviv29 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
I did not go to an Opera show but had a few hours to walk around town.
The opera house is an impressive piece of architecture just on the shore line.
What makes it very unique is the fact that it’s massive roof is accessible to the public
The opera house is an impressive piece of architecture just on the shore line.
What makes it very unique is the fact that it’s massive roof is accessible to the public
Written February 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OnThe50Yardline
Dallas, TX98 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
The National Opera is a beautiful place with modern architecture. Everywhere you look, there is tastefully designed features with a great deal of significance and attractive appeal. Like the white marble floors, the symmetric oak wood walls, and the lighting that is back lit for as the tic appeal. Even the bathrooms have amazing features. It is something you have to see and visit when in Oslo, even if you aren’t attending a performance.
Written January 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mikael F
Helsinki, Finland30,625 contributions
Aug 2020
This Opera House completed in 2008 has a beautiful location next to the sea. The white exterior appears to rise from the water. You can climb on its roof and enjoy the panoramic views of Oslo and the fjord.
Written August 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JohnRegoPark
Rego Park, NY1,082 contributions
Jun 2022
The tour is definitely worth taking because it gives context to the site. The architects strive to enhance the Norwegian experience into the construction of the building and hence we have what looks like a white ski slope on the outside. It's a people-friendly zone with many showing up for outdoor activities and using the space as a community plaza The opera house itself only seats 1400 but the backstage is absolutely vast, and must be seen on a tour. Summer is a good time to go since there isn't much activity going on in the house itself, so you can see the inner workings without a bother. English tours take place on the hour.
Written July 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
66AMS
Maidenhead, UK211 contributions
Feb 2020
A stunning building in the centre of Oslo. Amazing architectural features outside as well as in. You can walk up to the roof and look over the harbour. You can also enter the building and see the open areas without a charge. We saw a ballet in the smaller hall which was very good. There is a cafe which we did not use and a bar when there are evening events..
Written May 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
K B
Lafayette, CA433 contributions
Jun 2022
Booked a tour of the Opera House for "behind the scenes". The building was beautiful and the tour was interesting. But I was disappointed that they disallowed "behind the scenes" photography. I guess the explanation was they were putting on a show and didn't want things posted on social media. I get that but I had no intention to post anything but still was not allowed to photograph, not even the inside of the main theater which is definitely public domain.
That being said, it is a beautiful building and the 'behind the scenes' look was interesting.
That being said, it is a beautiful building and the 'behind the scenes' look was interesting.
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brian D
Denver, CO2,393 contributions
Aug 2022
An amazing opera house located right in the heart of Oslo. Located right on the harbor, you can walk right alongside the Opera House, or literally, walk right on the roof! Seating almost 1,500 people, this is a great place to see a performance. If you can't make it to a performance, you should still visit just to appreciate the fabulous architecture of the Opera House. Is it an opera house or a public park? You decide. Just don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the walk and see some incredible views of Oslo all around.
Written October 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hamiczech
Ostrava, Czech Republic553 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
Stunning building which u cant miss. It is possible to walk on the roof. It is just at the sea so you have amazing view. On the ground floor there is a cafe with outdoor terrace but when the weather is nice probably you will not find free table. Must be great also inside but we werent.
Written May 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RohitAgharkar
Nashik, India134 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
Spell binding architecture and design!
Great use of wood, concrete, glass and textures throughout the building.
The building is open to all and you can actually experience and feel the structure inside out top to bottom - quite literally. The entry is free and you can even climb on top of it.
The guided tour is highly recommended where they even take you backstage to show the various finishing & practice areas.
If possible, please watch the opera or ballet. The main hall is a marvel and the stage is absolutely insane!!
Great use of wood, concrete, glass and textures throughout the building.
The building is open to all and you can actually experience and feel the structure inside out top to bottom - quite literally. The entry is free and you can even climb on top of it.
The guided tour is highly recommended where they even take you backstage to show the various finishing & practice areas.
If possible, please watch the opera or ballet. The main hall is a marvel and the stage is absolutely insane!!
Written November 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KentishManOfKent
Tenterden, UK416 contributions
Mar 2023
I had a few hours to kill in Oslo as i was heading to Bergen the following day, so i headed down to the Harbour area.
The Oslo Opera House really stands out. It reminded my of the Sydney Opera House for some reason.
Along with a lot of other people, i walked up on to the large roof incline which heads up to the top of the building, which is a great place to view that part of Oslo.
Once back on the ground, i walked along the side of the building that faces the harbour and you can see inside many windows showing the artistic creations for the opera, such as clothing, masks, hats and wigs etc, which was a great touch!
The Oslo Opera House really stands out. It reminded my of the Sydney Opera House for some reason.
Along with a lot of other people, i walked up on to the large roof incline which heads up to the top of the building, which is a great place to view that part of Oslo.
Once back on the ground, i walked along the side of the building that faces the harbour and you can see inside many windows showing the artistic creations for the opera, such as clothing, masks, hats and wigs etc, which was a great touch!
Written March 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ana
Oslo, Norway8 contributions
Paga pra visitar?
Luciana Saito
Sao Paulo, SP845 contributions
A parte externa não paga. Mas se for ver o espetáculo sim paga...
Glenn R
St. John's, Canada8 contributions
What is the performance duration of Don Giovanni at the Oslo Opera House?
Thank you,
Glenn
Fabrizio M
Rome, Italy107 contributions
At least 3 hours.after all don Giovanni had thousands of woman 😊
anaAlgimiaDeAlfara
algimia de alfara18 contributions
Hola me podrías decir si para visitar la ópera , tenemos que pagar alguna entrada y dónde, no encuentro la página donde tenga que pagar para llevarme las entradas desde España
We E
Tirol, Austria129 contributions
Sorry i dont know
Shahzan
Brunei Darussalam6 contributions
Hi. Are we able to enter the building for visiting purposes only? And with no charge? We only hope to enjoy the opera’s interior designs. Thank you in advance
Madeleine V
Beenleigh, Australia39 contributions
Yes, no entry fees, to look around in the foyer, cafe or restaurant (and roof of course). Had lunch at the restaurant, good food.
Shahzan
Brunei Darussalam6 contributions
Hi. Are we able to enter the building for visiting purposes only? And with no charge? We only hope to enjoy the opera’s interior designs. Thank you in advance
stefanniederberger
Switzerland30 contributions
Yes you are able to enter the building but just some areas. Like the entrance hall the coffee next to it and some corridores
choni95
caba52 contributions
Hola Alguien me puede informar si hay visitas al edificios en enero, y si son en español, y finalmente, si conocen el horario. Gracias a quien tenga la gentileza de contarme.
harley005
Oviedo, Spain917 contributions
Hola !!!!! El edificio por fuera lo le des visitar todo el año , no necesitas guía. Al interior puedes acceder y disfrutar su maravilloso interior, también tiene cafetería con vista al fiordo. Lo que ya no pude visitar sin pagares la sala de conciertos , no me traje la información de precios y horarios pero tiene página web donde te pondrá si informar. Un saludo
umu3013
Marseille, France234 contributions
Îl y a des spectacles pas cher dans la "second floor" à opéra
Est ce que l'on voit les coulisses ?
Cest la scène principale ou pas ?
Vous nous conseillez le spectacle ou la visite ?
Merci
Patricia R
Argentina1,636 contributions
Bonjour, désolé mais je ne parle pas français.
Solo recorrí las terrazas y dos salones en el interior. No vi ningún espectáculo, pero creo que la visita vale la pena. Buen viaje!
sivelas
Oslo, Norway1 contribution
Hola,me gustaría que me aclararan esta frase: "...está concebido para ser recorrido y disfrutado externamente ¡en sus TECHOS en forma libre."
No entiendo muy bien si desde el interior del edificio se puede acceder hasta el techo de las salas o si desde el exterior del edificio se puede acceder al tejado o, mejor dicho, azotea del mismo. en este caso, cómo se accede desde el exterior del edificio al tejado o azotea?
Gracias de antemano por su aclaración
Manong K
Oslo, Norway27 contributions
Hello,
you can go from the outside to the top of the roof, its like to walk on a mountain.
From inside the building is no accsess to the roof.
Regards Manong
As I read, many comments said the view from the rooftop is beautiful.
My question is; are we free to go up there or do we have to had an opera ticket?
Thank you.
tabitha7772014
Oslo, Norway72 contributions
No it is free, the building is built in such a way that you can access the roof from the outside! It is broad, and safe, but in the winter it does get a bit slippery! Enjoy the view.
Helen
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