
National Theatre
Oslo's historic National Theatre, a grand 19th-century venue showcasing Norwegian and international drama, celebrated for its architecture and cultura...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch a performance

National Theatre
Best Time
Catch a performance

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oslo's historic National Theatre, a grand 19th-century venue showcasing Norwegian and international drama, celebrated for its architecture and cultural significance.
"A powerful symbol of Oslo and a cornerstone of Norwegian cultural life, preserving rich theatrical traditions."

🎯 Check 'What's On' Schedule
Always check the National Theatre's official website for the latest performance schedule and booking information.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
The theatre is a central spot in Oslo, perfect for starting your city exploration on foot.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the imposing 19th-century facade and statues of Ibsen and Bjørnson. The building itself is a work of art.

Statues of Playwrights
Outside the Theatre
Iconic statues of Norway's greatest playwrights, Henrik Ibsen and Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, stand proudly outside.

Theatrical Performances
Main Auditoriums
Experience world-class drama, from classic Norwegian plays to contemporary international hits. Check the 'what's on' schedule.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Consider a Guided Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Layover in Oslo
🎯 Check 'What's On' Schedule
Always check the National Theatre's official website for the latest performance schedule and booking information.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
The theatre is a central spot in Oslo, perfect for starting your city exploration on foot.
What to do in Oslo within a short amount of time (few hours)?
Suprising my Girlfriend with Trip to Oslo
🏛️ Guided Tour Insight
Don't miss the guided tours to learn about the theatre's history and art.
Oslo for the day
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check 'What's On' Schedule
Always check the National Theatre's official website for the latest performance schedule and booking information.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
The theatre is a central spot in Oslo, perfect for starting your city exploration on foot.
🏛️ Guided Tour Insight
Don't miss the guided tours to learn about the theatre's history and art.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the National Theatre as a powerful symbol of Oslo and a cornerstone of Norwegian culture, highlighting its grand architecture and the iconic statues of Ibsen and Bjørnson. Many recommend the guided tours for their historical insights and the chance to appreciate the building's art and styling. While primarily a venue for live performances, its status as a landmark is universally acknowledged.
"The National Theatre (Norwegian: Nationaltheatret) in Oslo is one of Norway's most prominent and historic cultural institutions. Located in the heart of Oslo, it is a key venue for theatrical performances, including plays, operas, and other cultural events.
The theatre's opening in 1899 was a major national event, attended by King Oscar II of Sweden and Norway.
It has survived two world wars and remains a resilient symbol of Norwegian culture.
The theatre's clock tower is a recognizable landmark in Oslo.
The National Theatre in Oslo is not just a venue for performances but a cornerstone of Norwegian cultural life, preserving and promoting the country's rich theatrical traditions."
Aleksandar Miljic
"A very nice place, definitely a powerful symbol of Oslo. The building itself is a landmark with its grand fascade and statues of Henrik Ibsen and Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson outside. These two are the country’s greatest playwrights. It is the main stage for Norwegian drama and classical theatre, and still central in Oslo’s cultural life."
Konstantinos Kontovas
"I recommend doing the guided tour. There is plenty of related art on the walls and the styling of the building is fantastic. I was quite surprised to see how small everything is given how big Oslo is."
Scott Campbell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Theatre is centrally located in Oslo, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. If you're using the Oslo Pass, public transportation is often included.
While there might be some paid parking garages in the vicinity, it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to the central location and potential parking challenges in Oslo.
Yes, if you are staying in the downtown area of Oslo, the National Theatre is within walking distance of many hotels and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official National Theatre website, or in person at the theatre's box office. For popular shows like 'Prima Facie', booking in advance is highly recommended.
The theatre's opening hours vary depending on performance schedules. It's best to check the official website for specific showtimes and box office hours.
Yes, the National Theatre has multiple auditoriums, including the main stage, the Amfiscenen, and the Hovedscenen, each hosting different types of productions.
While the National Theatre primarily offers live performances, some productions might be available for streaming or broadcast through initiatives like 'National Theatre at Home' or 'NT Live' in cinemas. Check their website for current offerings.
'Prima Facie' is a critically acclaimed play that has been performed at the National Theatre, often starring well-known actors. It's a popular production, so booking tickets early is advised.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The National Theatre is a historic building with beautiful architecture, art collections, and statues of famous playwrights. Guided tours are available to explore its history and interior.
The National Theatre generally strives to be accessible. It's advisable to contact the theatre directly or check their website for specific accessibility information regarding seating and facilities.
There isn't a strict dress code for most performances at the National Theatre. Smart casual attire is generally appropriate, but it's always a good idea to check if a specific event has a particular dress requirement.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended for visitors interested in the theatre's history, art, and architecture.
The statues outside the National Theatre depict Norway's most celebrated playwrights, Henrik Ibsen and Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The National Theatre may have a cafe or restaurant on-site, offering refreshments and light meals. It's best to check their official website for current dining facilities and opening hours.
The area around the National Theatre in Oslo is bustling with various dining options, from traditional Norwegian cuisine to international fare. Exploring the nearby streets will reveal many excellent choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally not permitted inside the auditoriums during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. However, you may be allowed to take photos in the lobby areas or during guided tours, but always check for specific signage or ask staff.
The grand facade of the building, the statues of Ibsen and Bjørnson, and the interior architecture (where permitted) are excellent subjects for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a guided tour as a family activity. It can be an engaging way to introduce children to the history and grandeur of a significant cultural institution in a less formal setting than a performance. The central location also makes it easy to combine a visit with other family-friendly attractions in Oslo.
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the opportunity to take a guided tour. It provides invaluable context about the theatre's history, its architectural significance, and the legacy of the playwrights it celebrates. This deeper understanding can significantly enhance your appreciation of the performances you witness.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Norwegian Theatre History
Beyond its role as a performance venue, the National Theatre is an architectural landmark. Its imposing 19th-century facade and the iconic statues of Norway's most celebrated playwrights, Henrik Ibsen and Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, outside its doors, are instantly recognizable. Inside, the building houses art and boasts a styling that reflects its historical significance. A guided tour offers a deeper appreciation of this rich history and the artistic treasures within.
Experiencing a Performance at the National Theatre
To ensure you don't miss out on popular shows, it's crucial to book tickets in advance. The theatre's 'what's on' schedule is regularly updated on its official website, providing details on upcoming plays, cast information, and performance dates. Whether you're a seasoned theatre-goer or a first-time visitor, experiencing a performance here offers a profound connection to Norwegian arts and culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit