Norwegian Parliament, aka The Sorting, is the main destination for decision-making and political debates in the country. This is where democratic action takes place like the introduction of legislation, authorisation of public spending, and imposition of taxes. If you are keen on understanding the functioning of the Norwegian Government then this is a great place for you.
You can take an English-based guided tour and understand all about the process. This tour is free for everyone and is around 1 hour long. On this tour, you can view the beautiful artwork and special exhibitions which showcase the history and culture of the country.
The Parliament House in Oslo gives you a chance to watch live debates and attend open committee meetings. They give you a proper insight into the legislative process. You can also participate in seminars and educational workshops. Special programs for school kids are also scheduled so that they can begin understanding the political functioning of the country.
Highlights
• Take a guided tour of the Norwegian Parliament and understand its history and functioning to get an insight into its contribution to the country.
• Be a front-seat observer of the live debates and open committee meetings to understand the legislative process and how the Norwegian Parliament works.
• Attend seminars and educational workshops designed to tell the visitors about the Parliament's functioning and its entire political process.
• Participate in the book launches, lectures, and cultural activities hosted at the parliament and experience the special ceremonies planned within the premises.
• Get some refreshments from the café inside the premises to relax and fill your stomach after a long tour of the Norwegian Parliament of Oslo.
How To Reach
- By Car: The Norwegian Parliament is 5.5 km from Oslo City Centre and will take approximately 15 minutes to reach via private car or cab.
- By Bus: A direct bus runs from Oslo Bus Terminal to Storgata every 6 minutes and takes approximately 10 minutes to reach. From the bus stand, it will take 12 minutes to reach via walk.
- By Walk: If you are at Storgata, the distance from there to the Norwegian Parliament will be merely 12 minutes via walk.
Best Time To Visit
The Norwegian Parliament is open throughout the year to the public.
- Best Season: Visit between April and June or September and October for a relaxed experience.
- Best Day in the Week: Visit on the weekdays to avoid long queues and heavy crowding.
- Best Time of the Day: Visit early in the morning or in the afternoon to avoid crowds and get an immersive tour.
Other Essential Information
- Guided tours of the parliament are available but often require booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Ensure you carry a form of identification as visitors may be required to present a valid ID.
- While there is no strict dress code for visiting, it is advisable to dress smartly, especially if attending a parliamentary session.
- Security checks are mandatory for all visitors entering the building.
Take a tour of the Main Building
The Norwegian Parliament building is where the longtime seat is present. It was constructed from 1860 to 1866 and depicts a blend of Neo-Gothic and Neo-Romanesque architecture. This building is characterised by intricate details and yellow bricks, turning it into an iconic landmark. You can participate in the guided tour of the parliament to understand the culture, history, and political functioning. This includes a grand staircase, debate hall, and various rooms which display the political history of Norway.
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Get glimpses into the political practices at the Parliament Chamber
This main chamber is where the elected representatives pass legislation and debate on ongoing political agendas. It is symbolic and functional, reflecting the country’s true commitment to transparency and democracy. On your guided tour, you can view the chamber from the public gallery and understand the parliamentary process. This will give you a better understanding of the parliamentary process, the importance of key decision-making, and the responsibilities of various representatives.
Take a look at the exhibits in Eidsvoll Gallery
This gallery is named after the Eidsvoll building. It was where the constitution of the country was drafted (1814). The gallery represents a vast collection of historical figures, including the frames of every Norwegian president ever. There are exhibits of the country’s democracy which give you an insight into its political evolution. You will also get a closer look at the milestones which shaped today’s governance.
Explore the Parliament Library
Understand the functioning of the parliament and the history of the country at the library. This resourceful arena was created in 1814 and has a huge collection of parliamentary records, legal documents, and political literature. The interior and architecture of this library are quite impressive. There are huge reading rooms, classic furnishing, and ornate woodwork. It acts as a historical archive and a research facility for the Norwegian representatives.
