Updated for 2026: The palace remains one of Oslo's easiest landmark stops: stroll the park, catch the guard change, and check the official site if you want a summer interior tour.
The Royal Palace is the official residence of Norway's monarch, King Harald V. Set on a low rise in central Oslo and framed by a formal park, it is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.
The foundation stone was laid in 1825 by King Charles John, but financial problems slowed construction, and the palace was not completed until 1849. Its neoclassical design is restrained rather than showy, with tall columns, a broad facade, and a crisp triangular pediment.
By royal standards, the palace is relatively modest, with 173 rooms. It was originally built as the Norwegian residence of a king whose main court was in Stockholm, so for years it was used only during visits. That changed in 1905, when Norway chose its own king, Haakon VII, and the palace became a true working royal home.
A quick way to tell whether the monarch is in residence is to look at the flag: when the royal standard is flying above the palace, the king is there.
Most visitors come for the exterior, the immaculate park, and the daily changing of the guard at 13:30. If you want to see inside, guided tours usually run during the summer season.
