Oslo: Legendary Viking Treasures (Private Bus Tour)

Location: Trondelag County, Norway
Price: $1,028 per group up to 15
Duration: 4 hours (plus travel time)
Provider: Explore Vikings

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Quick Look at the Viking Wonders

This private 4-hour bus tour isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s a hands-on journey into the world of the Vikings, just an hour from Oslo. For around $1,028 for a group of up to 15, you’ll explore spectacular archaeological sites, mound graves, and active shipbuilding yards. Your guide, whose name isn’t specified but clearly knows their Vikings, will lead you through history with lively commentary and engaging activities.

What we love most about this experience is getting up close with the Viking ships, especially the ongoing construction of new vessels — a rare glimpse into both history and contemporary Viking craftsmanship. The simple Viking lunch of soup and bread adds a cozy, authentic touch. Plus, the visit to Vikingodden in Norway’s oldest city lets you soak in the local atmosphere.

A potential consideration is that travel time to and from Oslo isn’t included in the 4 hours of the tour itself, so you’ll want to plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule.

This tour suits history buffs, families, or anyone curious about Viking life, who appreciates a personalized experience that combines storytelling, hands-on activities, and scenic stops.

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Key Points

Authentic Viking Experience: Visit active shipbuilding sites and archaeological mounds.
All-Inclusive Pricing: No hidden costs — lunch, entry fees, and snacks are covered.
Personalized Private Group: Up to 15 people, ideal for families or small groups.
Educational & Interactive: Guided tours with opportunities to see ships being built and explore Viking sites.
Convenient Pickup & Drop-off: Multiple hotel options in the Oslo area for easy access.
Additional travel time: Remember, your total trip duration includes the transfer to and from the Viking sites.

Exploring Norway’s Viking Heritage: What to Expect

The Journey Begins in Oslo’s Vicinity

Starting from your hotel in the Oslo region, the minibus smoothly whisks you away eastward, toward the heart of Norway’s Viking landscape. The ride itself offers a chance to get familiar with your guide, who will set the scene for what’s ahead. Expect a comfortable journey in a small private group, making it easy to ask questions and share impressions.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Gokstad Mound: Ancient Burial Site and Museum

Our first stop is the Gokstad Mound, where one of the world’s most important Viking ship discoveries was made. As you step out, you’ll find a photo stop, guided tour, and the chance to explore the Gokstad ship itself. This ship, dating back over 1,000 years, is a marvel of Viking craftsmanship, and standing beside it helps you appreciate the scale and sophistication of Viking seafaring.

According to travelers, “seeing the Gokstad ship up close was a highlight,” and the guided tour provides rich context about Viking burial customs and ship construction. Visitors also mention that the site offers a peaceful, almost reverent atmosphere, perfect for absorbing the history.

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The Oseberg Mound: A Clue to Viking Nobility

Next, we visit the Oseberg Mound, another significant Viking burial site. Here, you’ll get a photo opportunity and a guided walk, delving into the stories of Viking royalty and their elaborate funerary practices. The Oseberg ship, famous for its intricate carvings and craftsmanship, is a true testament to Viking artistry.

Reviewers comment, “the guided tour brought the ship’s history to life, making it more than just a display,” and you’ll appreciate the chance to see the craftsmanship firsthand. The site also gives you a sense of the landscape where Vikings once buried their elite.

Vikingodden: Norway’s Oldest City & Viking Point

After a short drive, you arrive at Vikingodden, located in Norway’s oldest city. This historic Viking point combines photo stops, guided tours, and local ambiance, giving you a tangible link between past and present. The views of the harbor and the coastline are stunning, and the site often features informative displays and reconstructions.

Visitors love the combination of scenic beauty and historical significance, noting that it feels both educational and relaxing. It’s a perfect mingle of outdoor exploration and deepening understanding of Viking culture.

Midgard Viking Centre: The Living Viking World

The tour then takes you to the Midgard Viking Centre, where the Vikings are brought to life through recreations, interactive exhibits, and ongoing shipbuilding. The centre is a working site, with new Viking ships being constructed, providing an exceptional behind-the-scenes look at Viking craftsmanship.

Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and some free time to explore the exhibits. The highlight is seeing real ship parts and tools, which makes Viking craftsmanship feel surprisingly tangible. The centre’s staff often offer engaging demonstrations, and you might even get to see some traditional Viking activities.

The Simple Viking Lunch & Refreshments

A highlight of the tour is the viking-style lunch, offering soup and fresh bread, along with coffee and snacks. While modest, this meal provides a warm, communal feeling, reminiscent of Viking feasts, and a chance to chat with your fellow travelers.

The Journey Back

After a full morning immersed in Viking history, the return journey offers time to reflect and discuss what you’ve seen. Since the total time includes travel, you’ll want to plan your day accordingly to maximize your experience.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For those with a keen interest in Viking history, this tour offers an accessible, engaging, and well-rounded glimpse into Viking life — from burial mounds and ancient ships to modern shipbuilding. The combination of sites, active ship construction, and authentic Viking food makes it a memorable and educational experience.

The private nature of the tour means you’ll receive personalized attention, and the small group ensures an intimate atmosphere. The cost may seem high, but considering all entry fees, the lunch, and the exclusive visits to active shipbuilding sites, it offers good value for history enthusiasts.

However, keep in mind that travel time is extra; if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to start earlier or plan additional days in the region.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers, families with kids, and small groups eager for a personalized Viking adventure. If you’re interested in seeing ships being built and exploring burial sites, this is a great choice. It also suits travelers who prefer guided, educational outings with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and explore at your own pace.

If you’re just in Oslo and want a meaningful Viking experience without the hassle of organizing visits to multiple sites, this tour offers a well-curated, hands-on approach that’s both fun and informative.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The core tour lasts four hours, but travel time to and from the Viking sites is not included, so you should plan for a full morning or afternoon outing.

What is included in the price?
All fees, taxes, entry tickets, a simple Viking lunch (soup and bread), snacks, and coffee or tea are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though some sites may have uneven surfaces, so it’s worth confirming your specific needs.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, pickups are available from 34 different locations across Oslo, Tønsberg, Sandefjord, Drammen, Asker, and Larvik, for your convenience.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides are available in English and Norwegian, ensuring informative commentary in your preferred language.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for small private groups of up to 15 people, providing a comfortable and tailored experience.

Final Thoughts

This private Viking tour offers a rich, hands-on experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and scenic stops, perfect for those who want to see Norway’s Viking treasures with a knowledgeable guide. Its personalized approach and inclusion of active shipbuilding and authentic Viking food make it stand out.

While it costs more than a standard tour, the depth of engagement and the opportunity to see working Viking ships being built makes it a solid value, especially for travelers eager to go beyond static museum displays. If you appreciate history that’s brought to life, enjoy small-group experiences, and want to explore Norway’s Viking roots firsthand, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Whether you’re a serious history buff or simply curious about Viking life, this tour promises a memorable and authentic glimpse into Norway’s legendary past, all wrapped in a friendly, small-group setting.