Viking Ship Museum Copenhagen
Explore five ancient Viking ships and witness live boatbuilding at this immersive museum in Roskilde, Denmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Viking Ship Museum Copenhagen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore five ancient Viking ships and witness live boatbuilding at this immersive museum in Roskilde, Denmark.
"An unforgettable experience for anyone who loves Norse history and mythology!"
🎯 Consider the Copenhagen Card
Covers transport to Roskilde & museum entry. Saves money!
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk from Station
Enjoy a pleasant 15-min downhill walk to the museum.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Skuldelev Ships
Main Exhibition Hall
Five original Viking ships, over a thousand years old, excavated from Roskilde Fjord.
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Live Boatbuilding
Outdoor Workshop Area
Witness craftsmen building new Viking ships using traditional tools and techniques.
Sailing Experience
Harbor Area
Embark on a sailing trip in a replica Viking ship for an immersive historical adventure.
Interactive Kids' Area
Children's Workshop
Kids can build their own miniature Viking ships and test them in a water pool.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Roskilde
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Consider the Copenhagen Card
Covers transport to Roskilde & museum entry. Saves money! +1
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk from Station
Enjoy a pleasant 15-min downhill walk to the museum.
📅 Check Workshop Schedules
Live demos & hands-on activities are a highlight.
⛵ Book Sailing Tours Early
Immersive experience, but can be cancelled due to weather.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Consider the Copenhagen Card
Covers transport to Roskilde & museum entry. Saves money! +1
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk from Station
Enjoy a pleasant 15-min downhill walk to the museum.
📅 Check Workshop Schedules
Live demos & hands-on activities are a highlight.
⛵ Book Sailing Tours Early
Immersive experience, but can be cancelled due to weather.
🏛️ Combine with Roskilde Cathedral
A UNESCO site nearby, worth a visit. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Viking Ship Museum for its authentic Viking ships and immersive experiences. The live boatbuilding and sailing tours are highlights, offering a tangible connection to the past. While some found the restaurant decent, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit for history and mythology enthusiasts.
"An unforgettable experience for anyone who loves Norse history and mythology! The Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde is not just a museum - it’s a journey into the heart of the Viking world. Standing face to face with actual ships that once sailed the seas over a thousand years ago gave me chills. These vessels, recovered from the Roskilde Fjord, are deeply tied to the seafaring spirit of the Norse people.
If you're passionate about Nordic mythology, this place is a dream. You can easily imagine these ships as the kind that carried warriors who worshipped Odin, sailed under Thor’s protection, and told tales of Loki’s mischief by the fire. The longships here evoke the legendary drakkars - dragon-headed ships said to sail across Midgard and into mythic battles.
The museum also shows how real Viking life blended seamlessly with the mythological world. The sea wasn't just water - it was sacred and feared, ruled by gods and creatures from the sagas. The craftsmanship of the ships reflects this reverence.
There are also live demonstrations of traditional boatbuilding using ancient tools, and you can even sail in replica Viking ships yourself - a truly immersive way to feel like part of a saga.
Beautifully located on the fjord, this museum is a must-visit. Whether you're a history buff, a mythology lover, or both, this is one of the most inspiring and atmospheric museums in Denmark."
Dmitry Zinger
"At the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, you’ll see the real Viking history — quite literally in pieces. The remains of five original Viking ships are displayed here, each with its own story of sea voyages, trade, and warfare.
There are guided tours and activities running throughout the day, so it’s worth checking the schedule when you arrive. The guide shares the fascinating history behind the five ships that were discovered just a stone’s throw from here, in Roskilde Fjord.
For those feeling hands-on, there’s a small workshop where you can try building your own miniature Viking ship. The kids especially loved hammering and sawing away.
I had signed up for the sailing tour, where you get to sail on a Viking ship and even help raise the sail as part of the crew. Unfortunately, only four of us showed up out of the ten tickets sold — the rain kept the rest away. Without enough people for the weight balance, the trip had to be cancelled. Safe to say, I was pretty disappointed — it’s not every day you get to sail like a Viking.
There’s also a restaurant by the museum. I tried the Viking platter — decent, but nothing to shout about."
Mei Chin
"This museum is an incredible place filled with authentic Viking ships, fascinating artifacts, and tons of interesting facts about the Vikings. Both children and adults will find plenty to explore and enjoy.
During my visit, there was a blacksmith workshop where a skilled craftsman demonstrated traditional forging techniques. There was also a shipbuilding area where craftsmen were using hand tools to build seaworthy Viking ships — a truly impressive sight.
For kids, there’s a small hands-on workshop where they can build their own miniature ships from scrap wood and test them in a water pool. There’s also a replica of a Viking household, complete with Viking clothing you can try on and a play area for children.
The museum also has an excellent restaurant with delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.
And best of all — if the weather is good, you can join the crew of a real Viking ship replica and sail out to sea. An unforgettable experience!"
Julo Mihal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by train from Copenhagen to Roskilde, which takes about 30-40 minutes. The Copenhagen Card includes free public transport, making this journey cost-effective.
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Yes, some visitors have cycled from Copenhagen to Roskilde, covering around 50 miles.
Roskilde is a walkable city, especially between the train station, the Viking Ship Museum, and Roskilde Cathedral. +1 For longer distances or if you have the Copenhagen Card, public transport is also an option.
While Uber is not common in Copenhagen, there are taxi services available. An app called 'Big O' is mentioned for booking taxis. It's advisable to check local options upon arrival.
The museum is located in Roskilde, which is approximately 30-40 minutes away from Copenhagen by train.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is described as very reasonable. Purchasing a Copenhagen Card can provide free entry to the museum and cover your transport costs.
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Yes, guided tours in both Danish and English are typically included in the admission fee. Taking a tour is highly recommended to gain a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check the official Viking Ship Museum website for online ticket purchasing options to save time.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Many travelers find the Copenhagen Card to be a significant money-saver, as it includes free public transport and entry to numerous attractions, including the Viking Ship Museum. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum's centerpiece is the exhibition of five original Viking ships. You can also witness live boatbuilding demonstrations, participate in workshops, and even take a sailing trip on a replica ship. +2
Absolutely! Children can enjoy building their own miniature Viking ships in a workshop and testing them in water. There's also a replica Viking household and a play area.
Yes, the museum offers sailing tours on replica Viking ships, allowing you to experience life at sea like a Viking. It's recommended to book in advance and be prepared for potential weather-related cancellations.
The Sea Stallion is a significant replica Viking ship that is a centerpiece of the museum's exhibits and often featured in sailing demonstrations.
With a guided tour and exploring the exhibits, visitors typically spend around 3 hours at the museum.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a restaurant that is described as having delicious food and a cozy atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned trying a 'Viking platter' which was decent.
Roskilde is a charming town with various dining options. You might find local cafes and restaurants near the harbor or in the town center.
It's best to check the museum's policy on outside food. Picnics might be allowed in designated areas, but it's not explicitly mentioned.
The restaurant offers a Viking-inspired menu, with dishes like the 'Viking platter' mentioned. It aims to provide a cozy dining experience.
While the museum restaurant is an option, exploring Roskilde town center might reveal more budget-friendly cafes or bakeries.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in most museums, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
The five Viking ships themselves are incredibly photogenic. The outdoor boatbuilding area and the scenic harbor views also offer great photo opportunities.
If you participate in a sailing tour, you'll likely have opportunities to capture stunning photos of the ship and the fjord, weather permitting.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around museums and historical sites for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens would be beneficial for capturing details of the ships and wider shots of the museum grounds. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the large ships.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the day smoother, utilize the Copenhagen Card for easy transport and entry.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food, consider packing your own lunch or exploring local bakeries and cafes in Roskilde town for more affordable options than the museum restaurant.
🏛️ History Buffs & Mythology Enthusiasts
Engage with the guided tours to uncover the stories behind the ships and the gods they might have worshipped.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Skuldelev Ships: A Glimpse into Viking Seafaring
Each ship represents a different aspect of Viking maritime culture: a warship (longship), a cargo ship, a fishing boat, and two smaller ferries. Standing before these ancient vessels, some over a thousand years old, offers a profound connection to the past and the incredible seafaring prowess of the Norse people. These ships are not just artifacts; they are stories of trade, warfare, and exploration. The museum meticulously preserves and displays them, providing detailed information about their construction, origin, and the historical context in which they sailed.
Visitors can learn about the different types of wood used, the techniques employed by Viking shipbuilders, and the challenges of navigating the seas in these formidable vessels. For those seeking a deeper understanding, the museum offers guided tours that bring the history of the Skuldelev ships to life.
Beyond the Ships: Immersive Viking Experiences
For a truly hands-on adventure, visitors can opt for sailing tours on replica Viking ships.
The museum also caters to younger visitors with a dedicated children's workshop. Here, kids can unleash their creativity by building their own miniature Viking ships from scrap wood and then testing their creations in a water pool.
Planning Your Day Trip to Roskilde
+2 Many visitors opt to purchase the Copenhagen Card, which covers both the train fare and admission to the museum, making it a cost-effective choice. To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
While in Roskilde, it's worth combining your museum visit with a stop at the nearby Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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