6 attractions for your Oslo Gardermoen stopover

Are you planning a stopover in the Norwegian capital the next time you're travelling? Have a look at these exciting museums and attractions near the airport.

If you're only in Oslo for one day it might seem like a hassle to travel into the city center. Luckily, there's a good selection of activities outside the city, more precisely in the area surrounding Gardermoen Airport. Here are our top six suggestions for how to make the most of your short stay:

1. Eidsvoll 1814

What better way is there to spend a day in the Norwegian capital then to visit one of the country's premier national symbols and learn about it's rich history? We're talking about The Eidsvoll House, where the Norwegian constitution was signed in 1814. The house, which is now a museum, is closely connected to Norway's history, independence and democracy. During summer, the kids can participate in exciting activities, so there is no reason why you shouldn't bring the whole family.

The Gardermoen area plays a central role in Norwegian military history and Ullensaker Museum tells an interesting story. The museum is located at one of the country's oldest drill grounds, which was built as early as 1740. Explore the many listed houses and their displays of national military archives. New this year is the exhibition Shots in the dark – what happened in the Trandum woods. It the story of the terrible executions taking place in the Trandum woods during World War II, as well as giving an insight how life was during the war. Today, the woods represent a memorial to the many who lost their lives there.

If you're a history enthusiast, take a journey back in time to Gamle Hvam Museum. Visit the gallery building, dating back to 1729, and experience how farmers lived almost 300 years ago. In the main building, you'll find a beautiful display of furniture from the second half of the 19th century. The museum also exhibits utilities used by the old blacksmiths, tailors, watchmakers and veterinarians. There are several events taking place during the year so make sure not to miss the best ones during your visit.

If you only have a few hours to spare you might not want to leave Gardermoen at all. Then you'll be happy to know that there are thrilling options close by as well. Visit the military's Aircraft Collection, consisting of almost 40 planes, including Norway's very first named Start. The collection also holds treasures from World War II and all of the Air force's jet fighters from the Cold War. Here you'll also get the chance to explore life as a pilot in on of the two flight simulators. One of them is made especially for children from 6 to 10 years, so that the whole family can imagine a life among the clouds.

For an evocative experience, visit the church ruins at Nes (Nes Kirkeruin), where the rivers Glomma and Vorma meet on a place of sacrifice from pre-Christian times. During the 1100's, the church was built in Roman style but it burnt down during the Seven Years' War. It was then rebuilt and expanded towards the end of the 17th century. In 1854, the church burnt down again, but this time it wasn't rebuilt because of the high risk of mudslides in the area. Even as a ruin the site is truly atmospheric, it's no wonder it's such a popular location for weddings.

If you are looking for something a bit different to do, visit the fascinating emerald mines (Smaragdgruvene) at Eidsvoll. At a small farmyard, you can have a close look at emeralds and learn more about the world's rarest stone, before you set out looking for them on your own. After walking about one kilometer by Lake Mjøsa, the mining area is located at the beach. Grab your spade, bucket and sieve and start digging for your very own emeralds, before the tours ends with a trip down one of the mineshafts. Bring a backpack and a packed lunch and prepare for a splendid day by the water.

Your next stopover in the Norwegian capital doesn't have to be spent at the gate as there are plenty activities and attractions near the airport. Stay at Radisson Blu Airport Hotel, Oslo Gardermoen, located close by the departure halls. This way you avoid using all you time on transportation and instead you can enjoy your stopover to the fullest.