Nature lovers adore this unique botanical garden. The Toien Garden, as it is also called, was opened in 1814 and offers its visitors a peaceful oasis containing 35000 plants from 7500 different species spreading over an area of 150 hectares, making it one of Oslo’s most important tourist sites, but the garden is also popular among the locals. The plants are grown in greenhouses and open gardens which each tell their own stories. The botanical garden teaches us about the diversity of flora and the importance of its preservation, housing even some native Norwegian plant species that are deemed endangered. The Palm House, dating back to 1868, and the Victoria garden, first opened in 1876, provide onlookers with exotic plant species from various corners of the globe.
Along with the floral diversity, visitors can enjoy statues done by British artist Tome Hare. The botanical garden also offers visitors with the chance to visit the Natural History Museum which offers zoological and geological exhibits. The Zoological Museum consists of exhibits of Norwegian and international wildlife, while the Geological Museum, situated in the same building, offers the famous Stones and Bones exhibit to its visitors.
Every Thursday, the Natural History Museum offers free access (the only exceptions being school breaks and national holidays). There is no entrance fee for the Botanical Garden, whereas the National History museum costs €12 for adults and €6 for children, while children under the age of six have free access.
The Botanical Garden houses many toxic plants.
Children must be kept under the supervision of their parents while in the Garden.
Running is permitted.
Dogs are to be kept on a tight leash at all times.
The willow row in the Botanical Garden is a place for children to play (climbing onto the trees is not allowed).
If you are in need of food and drink, the Handverk Botaniske café is nearby.
Grass fields designated for picnics are also available at the Garden.
Barbecuing is not allowed.
Working hours of the Botanical Garden
1st April –30 September 2020 – Monday to Sunday from 7am to 9pm
1st October 2020 -31 March 2021 – Monday to Sunday from 7am to 5pm
Name in Norwegian: Botanisk hage
Author of the text:
Maja Glavaš, Bachelor with Honours in Communicology. Works in Tourism.
Contact: [email protected]; instagram: travel_europe1
Photo credit: Didrick Stenersen/VisitOSLO
