Members of the public lined up to catch a glimpse of the new king. 53, as he arrived with the royal family for a service in the church of Asker, just south of the capital.
The late king enjoyed massive support, despite the slew of scandals that dogged his family in the final stretch of his 35-year reign.
READ ALSO: Norway's King Haakon VIII pays tribute to late father in first speech
Memorial services were planned in churches across the country, and outside Oslo Cathedral -- where the government attended the service -- hundreds started lining up in the morning to try and get a seat.
Standing in line, Aud Ragnhild Skar, a lecturer at University of Oslo, told AFP that it felt "natural" to take part in the service.
"I've been deeply affected by the fact that King Harald has died. I felt a desire to be part of the community and to share the grief over his passing," Skar said.
'Beloved'
Also waiting in line was nurse Sissel Engedal who said Harald had been "a very significant and important and beloved king."
A national period of mourning has been declared. No date has been set for the late king's funeral.
READ ALSO: Europe's monarchs and world leaders mourn Norway's King Harald
On Tuesday, King Haakon will swear an oath of allegiance in parliament.
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