
National Museum
Explore centuries of Norwegian and international art, from Munch's 'The Scream' to royal fashion, in this stunning, centrally located museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

National Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of Norwegian and international art, from Munch's 'The Scream' to royal fashion, in this stunning, centrally located museum.
"Spectacular museum with a wide array of art including Gaugin, Monet, Munch and many more."

⏳ Allow 3-4 Hours
You'll need this time to see the 3 floors of art. Take breaks at the cafe!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the audio guide for deeper insights into the exhibits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Norwegian Art Collection
Explore iconic Norwegian paintings and sculptures, a cornerstone of the museum's vast artistic treasures.

Munch's 'The Scream'
Upstairs gallery
Witness one of Edvard Munch's most famous and haunting works, a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Fashion Exhibition
Discover stunning formal gowns from Norwegian royalty, showcasing historical and contemporary design.

Gauguin and Monet Works
Admire masterpieces by international artists like Gauguin and Monet, adding global flair to the collection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Munch's Masterpieces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
National museum - can't miss things to see?
⏳ Allow 3-4 Hours
You'll need this time to see the 3 floors of art. Take breaks at the cafe!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the audio guide for deeper insights into the exhibits.
Oslo Trip - Secret tips?
Museum recommendations Oslo
👑 Royal Fashion Display
Don't miss the impressive collection of formal gowns worn by Queen Maud and Queen Sonja.
🎨 Munch's 'The Scream'
See one of Munch's iconic works here, even if you visit the dedicated Munch Museum.
Recommendations for a weekend in Oslo?
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow 3-4 Hours
You'll need this time to see the 3 floors of art. Take breaks at the cafe!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the audio guide for deeper insights into the exhibits.
👑 Royal Fashion Display
Don't miss the impressive collection of formal gowns worn by Queen Maud and Queen Sonja.
🎨 Munch's 'The Scream'
See one of Munch's iconic works here, even if you visit the dedicated Munch Museum.
☕ Cafe & Restrooms
Plenty of spots to relax, grab a coffee, and use facilities to avoid fatigue.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Museum for its spectacular and diverse art collection, featuring Norwegian masters, international icons like Munch, Gauguin, and Monet, and a unique fashion exhibition. The beautiful layout, helpful staff, and amenities like a cafe and rest areas contribute to a highly enjoyable and worthwhile experience, even for those not typically keen on modern art.
"Spectacular museum with a wide array of art including Gaugin, Monet, Munch and many more.
It’s a beautiful layout that takes 2-3 hours on average. Really good audio guide and helpful staff.
Well worth a visit.
Also houses fashions from today’s designers. The showstoppers for me were the number of formal gowns displayed from both Queen Maud and Queen Sonja."
Pam Gray
"One of the best museums in Oslo . It is near to aker brygge close to national theatre please have some good amount of time as it has 3 floors with good collection so it will require Atleast 3-4 hours.
But don't worry they have caffe, restroom and ample seats to relax so you won't get tired or hungry.
Also they have a lot of activities for kids too."
ABHINAV MISHRA
"The first floor of this museum is incredibly well laid out. All exhibits are exceptionally compelling, laid out masterfully. Upstairs there is also a Munch room, if you can't go to the dedicated museum definitely visit this!"
Matthew Hart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Museum is centrally located near the National Theatre and Aker Brygge. It's easily accessible by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from other central Oslo attractions.
Yes, the National Museum is conveniently situated close to the National Theatre and the popular Aker Brygge waterfront area, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
From Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL), you can take the Flytoget Airport Express Train to the city center, then transfer to local transport or walk to the museum. Alternatively, regional trains and buses are available.
If you are staying in central Oslo, walking to the National Museum is a great option. It's a pleasant stroll from many hotels and other key city landmarks.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the National Museum can be limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or walk if possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the National Museum is generally free for all visitors, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
While admission is free, it's always a good idea to check the official website for any special exhibitions that might require advance booking or timed entry, especially during peak seasons.
The National Museum typically opens its doors from Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times and any potential closures.
The National Museum displays one version of Munch's 'The Scream'. While there isn't a specific time, it's part of the permanent collection, so it's usually accessible during regular museum hours.
Admission to the National Museum is free for all, so there are no specific discount days. This policy makes it a welcoming destination for all art lovers.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours at the National Museum, but to fully appreciate the extensive collections across three floors, allocate 3-4 hours.
Highlights include Norwegian art, Edvard Munch's 'The Scream,' international masterpieces by Gauguin and Monet, and the fascinating fashion exhibition featuring royal gowns.
Yes, the National Museum often has activities and exhibits that can engage children, making it a family-friendly destination.
Yes, the museum offers an audio guide that enhances the visitor experience by providing detailed information about the artworks and exhibits.
Absolutely! The museum is designed with visitor comfort in mind, featuring ample seating areas throughout its galleries and a cafe where you can relax.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the National Museum has a cafe where visitors can enjoy refreshments, snacks, and light meals, providing a convenient spot to take a break.
The cafe typically offers a selection of coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and other light fare, suitable for a quick bite or a relaxing coffee break.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the artworks. The cafe is the designated area for dining.
The museum is located near Aker Brygge, a vibrant waterfront area with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a wide range of dining experiences.
While the cafe offers refreshments and light snacks, it's more geared towards quick breaks. For a full meal, exploring the nearby Aker Brygge area is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas of the National Museum, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Always check for specific signage.
Yes, flash photography is typically not allowed to prevent damage to sensitive artworks. Some special exhibitions may also have stricter photography rules.
Photography for personal use is usually permitted for Munch's works, provided flash is turned off. It's always best to confirm with museum staff or signage.
Yes, using your phone camera for non-flash photography is generally permitted for personal memories and social sharing, as long as it doesn't disrupt other visitors.
The museum's architecture and well-lit galleries offer many aesthetically pleasing spots for photos. The grand entrance and some of the larger exhibition halls are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider utilizing the audio guide, which can sometimes be adapted for younger audiences or provide interesting facts that can be shared with children. The museum's central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Oslo, such as exploring the nearby waterfront or parks. Remember to check the museum's website for any specific family programs or workshops that might be running during your visit.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the unique fashion exhibition, which offers a different perspective on art and culture through historical royal attire. The museum's commitment to showcasing both national and international art ensures a comprehensive and rewarding experience for anyone passionate about the visual arts. The free admission policy makes it an accessible destination for extended study or repeated visits.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Take advantage of the cafe for a quick coffee or snack to maximize your time. The free admission is a significant bonus for day-trippers looking to experience culture without additional costs. Combine your museum visit with a stroll along Aker Brygge or a visit to the nearby National Theatre for a well-rounded Oslo experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Norwegian Art
Visitors often praise the museum's layout, which makes navigating the diverse collection an enjoyable experience. The first floor, in particular, is noted for its compelling exhibits and masterful presentation. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious first-time visitor, the Norwegian art section offers a rich and rewarding journey through the nation's artistic heritage.
Beyond Norwegian Masters
In addition to paintings, the museum features a fascinating fashion exhibition. This section highlights historical and contemporary design, with a particular focus on formal gowns worn by Norwegian royalty, such as Queen Maud and Queen Sonja. This unique display adds another layer of cultural exploration, connecting art with history, tradition, and the evolution of style. It's a surprising and delightful addition that many visitors find particularly memorable.
Planning Your Visit
For those seeking deeper understanding, an audio guide is available and highly recommended. It offers valuable context and insights into the artworks, enriching the overall experience. The museum's staff are also noted for being helpful, ready to assist visitors with any questions they may have. With its free admission, convenient location, and engaging exhibits, the National Museum is a must-visit destination in Oslo.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit