
Akerselva River Walk Oslo
An 8km urban oasis, the Akerselva River Walk winds through Oslo, blending nature, history, and vibrant city life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking

Akerselva River Walk Oslo
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 8km urban oasis, the Akerselva River Walk winds through Oslo, blending nature, history, and vibrant city life.
"A lovely place to walk along the river, see cool stuff, and relax."

🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Official maps are scarce. Download an offline map of the Akerselva River Walk before you go to avoid getting lost.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Akerselva River Walk is an 8km path, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant stroll.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maridalsvannet Lake
Northern end of Akerselva
Start your journey at Oslo's largest lake, a serene beginning to your urban river exploration.

Urban Waterfalls & Bridges
Various points along the river
Discover hidden waterfalls and charming bridges, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities.

Industrial Heritage Sites
Mid-section of the walk
See remnants of Oslo's industrial past, now transformed into cultural hubs and green spaces.

Picnic Spots & Swimming Areas
Along the riverbanks
Enjoy a relaxing picnic or a refreshing dip in designated swimming spots during warmer months.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Start Your Akerselva Adventure
Navigating the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Must visit places in Oslo
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Official maps are scarce. Download an offline map of the Akerselva River Walk before you go to avoid getting lost.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Akerselva River Walk is an 8km path, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant stroll.
Best walks in Oslo
Oslo trip with my Mom
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are many lovely spots along the river to enjoy a picnic lunch or snack.
🏊♀️ Bring Your Swimsuit
During summer, designated areas along the river are perfect for a refreshing swim.
Is it true that there neighborhoods in Oslo that people avoid especially at night?
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Official maps are scarce. Download an offline map of the Akerselva River Walk before you go to avoid getting lost.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The Akerselva River Walk is an 8km path, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant stroll.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are many lovely spots along the river to enjoy a picnic lunch or snack.
🏊♀️ Bring Your Swimsuit
During summer, designated areas along the river are perfect for a refreshing swim.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The walk offers diverse views, from natural landscapes to urban art and industrial remnants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Akerselva River Walk for its calming atmosphere and scenic beauty, offering a refreshing urban escape. It's a popular spot for relaxation, running, and enjoying nature within the city. However, some find navigation challenging due to a lack of clear maps and occasional construction detours.
"The walk along Akerselva river is calming. You're supposed to start at Kjelsås (get there by tram 12 or bus 54 from Jernbanetorget central station) but there are no maps available to guide you on the walk. At Stillatorvet bus station (just before the Kjelsås station), there is a lovely (but not secluded; expect a small, family- friendly crowd) picnic spot. Here & along the river are many swimming spots and at a ponit just further along from Stillatorvet the water is shallow enough that you can see the pebbles in the river bed and stand in & paddle your feet with a toddler. Unfortunately, farther on there was a large ugly construction site with no clear directions on how to carry on the walk. a solo sign was in Norwegian only and I'm not sure if it had anything to say about the walk. It would help if Oslo tourism department could provide online accessible maps to guide an Oslo novice on the walk. We saw a little " waterfall" but even local Norwegiens picinicking there hadn't heard of Beier Bridge so we couldn't see the supposedly larger and prettier waterfall there. (A map available on the visitOslo site would help! but there's none!)"
a agha
"Good place to run or just walk and talk with someone. Calm place, good to relax and chill"
Mathias Mantelli
"love it. good place to walk along the river, see cool stuff."
Nat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can start the Akerselva River Walk from Maridalsvannet, Oslo's largest lake. To get there, take tram 12 or bus 54 from Jernbanetorget central station towards Kjelsås.
Yes, several bus and tram lines run near the Akerselva River Walk, making it easy to access different points along the trail or to depart if needed.
Absolutely! You can start from the Oslo fjord and walk north towards Maridalsvannet, or vice versa. The experience offers different perspectives.
Much of the Akerselva River Walk is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for strollers and some wheelchairs. However, some sections might have uneven terrain or stairs.
You can use public transport to reach various points along the river. For example, Stillatorvet bus station is located midway and offers access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Akerselva River Walk is a public space and is completely free to access. You don't need any tickets to enjoy the scenery.
There are no entrance fees for the Akerselva River Walk. It's an open public park and pathway for everyone to enjoy.
The Akerselva River Walk is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. You can visit at any time of day or night.
While generally safe, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas or during late hours. Some sections are well-lit.
While official guided tours might be limited, local walking groups or independent guides may offer tours. It's also a great walk to explore on your own.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see a mix of natural beauty, urban art, historic industrial buildings, waterfalls, and charming bridges. It's a diverse and engaging walk.
Yes, there are cafes and restaurants located near various points along the river, especially in the more urbanized sections.
Yes, there are designated swimming spots along the river, particularly in the warmer months. Always check local advisories for safety.
Absolutely! The walk offers a variety of photogenic scenes, from serene nature to interesting architecture and cityscapes.
You might spot various bird species, ducks, and other small urban wildlife along the riverbanks.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for picturesque bridges, the waterfalls, historic industrial buildings, and the reflections in the water. The changing seasons also offer unique photo opportunities.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often provides beautiful light for photography. Midday can be good for capturing details of the industrial architecture.
Don't miss the chance to photograph the contrast between nature and the urban environment, as well as any public art installations you encounter.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive views.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's best to check with Oslo authorities regarding drone operation in public spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, and consider starting your walk from the Kjelsås area, which has some lovely, family-friendly picnic locations. While there might be occasional construction, the overall experience is engaging and offers a great way to explore Oslo's nature and history together.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Starting from Maridalsvannet and walking south provides a clear direction, but feel free to explore sections that catch your eye. Be prepared for potential detours due to construction and consider having an offline map handy, as signage can sometimes be limited or in Norwegian only.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Oslo's Industrial Past
Many of these industrial sites have been revitalized, offering a fascinating glimpse into how Oslo blends its heritage with modern urban life. You'll see how the river's power is still acknowledged, even if its industrial function has largely ceased. The walk provides a unique perspective on the city's transformation from a manufacturing center to a vibrant, contemporary capital.
Nature and Recreation Along the River
Keep an eye out for the various small waterfalls and the clear waters that allow you to see the pebbles below, especially in shallower sections. These natural elements, combined with the well-maintained paths, make the Akerselva River Walk a popular choice for runners, walkers, and families looking for an accessible outdoor experience within the city.
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