Top 100 best museums in Norway

Akershus Fortress, also known as Akershus slott og festning in classical Norwegian, is a significant historical site located in Oslo, the capital city of Norway. It is situated by the Oslo fjord, offering picturesque views of the water body. The fortress is also conveniently located next to the city hall, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city center.

Please note that the Viking Ship Museum will be temporarily closed for renovations from September 2021 until 2025/2026. This is an important piece of information for tourists planning to visit the museum during this period.

The Borgund Stave Church is a historical monument located in Borgund, within the Lærdal municipality of Sogn og Fjordane county, Norway. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Norway's rich history.

The Lofoten Stockfish Museum is situated in the picturesque village of Å, within the municipality of Moskenes. This location is part of the stunning Lofoten islands, in the county of Nordland, Norway. The museum provides an opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of this region.

The Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway, serves as a platform for the Nobel Peace Prize and the ideals it embodies. This center is not just a museum, but a place where culture and politics intersect to encourage involvement, discussion, and reflection on topics such as war, peace, and conflict resolution.

The Oslo City Museum, located in the heart of Norway's capital, is a department of the larger Oslo Museum. Since 2006, it has been an integral part of the city's cultural and historical landscape, offering visitors a deep dive into the rich history of Oslo.

The Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, located in Oslo, Norway, is a privately owned contemporary art gallery. It was established and opened to the public in 1993, making it a relatively recent addition to the city's cultural scene. The museum is known for its collection of modern and contemporary art, and it has become a significant cultural institution in Norway.

The Bergen Aquarium, situated in Nordnes, Bergen, has a rich history dating back to its opening on August 27, 1960. At the time of its inauguration, it was the largest aquarium of its kind in Northern Europe. This historical significance adds to the charm and appeal of the aquarium for visitors.

The Historisk museum, located in Oslo, has been welcoming visitors since its opening in 1904. This museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of Norway, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the past and gain a deeper understanding of the country's heritage.

Oscarshall palace, a summer palace in neo-Gothic style, is situated on Bygdøy by Frognerkilen in Oslo. This location offers a unique blend of historical architecture and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists who appreciate both. The palace was designed by Danish architect Johan Henrik Nebelong for King Oscar I and was completed in 1852.

The Polar Museum, known as Polarmuseet in Norwegian, is located in the northern Norwegian city of Tromsø. It is a place where visitors can explore exhibitions about Norwegian polar expeditions and hunting traditions in the polar regions. These exhibitions provide a deep insight into the history and culture of Norway's relationship with the polar regions.

The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, also known as Norsk Folkemuseum, is located in Bygdøy, Oslo, Norway. It is a cultural history museum that houses extensive collections of artifacts from all social groups and regions of the country. This provides a comprehensive insight into the diverse cultures and histories of Norway.

Gamlehaugen is a castle located in Norway, approximately seven kilometers south of Bergen in the district of Fjøsanger. It serves as the official residence of the Norwegian royal family during their stays in Bergen. The castle is situated on a hill at the northern end of Nordåsvannet, a branch of the Grimstadfjorden.

St Mary's Church, also known as Mariakyrkja or Mariakirken, is a significant religious site located in the heart of Bergen, Norway. Situated in the Bryggen area, this parish church is part of the Church of Norway and is easily accessible due to its central location. It is one of the churches for the Bergen Cathedral parish, which is part of the Bergen domprosti (arch-deanery) in the Diocese of Bjørgvin.

The Fram Museum, located in Oslo, Norway, is a museum dedicated to the history of Norwegian polar exploration. It is situated on the peninsula of Bygdøy, an area that is also home to several other museums. The museum was inaugurated on May 20, 1936, and it pays tribute to Norwegian polar exploration and three notable Norwegian polar explorers – Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup, and Roald Amundsen.

The Gamle Bergen Museum is an open-air museum situated in the Sandviken district of Bergen. The museum was constructed around the old pleasure garden known as Elsesro. This location offers a unique historical setting for visitors to explore.

Ekebergparken Sculpture Park is a unique blend of nature, history, and art. Located in the southeast of Oslo, Norway, this national heritage park offers a unique experience for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The park is nestled in a wooded area, providing a serene backdrop for the various sculptures that adorn its landscape.

A very interesting exhibition about life so far north, in and around Nordkapp. You'll find a souvenir shop and a restaurant here as well.

The Kon-Tiki Museum in Oslo is a privately owned and operated institution that houses a collection of vessels and artifacts. These items were used or brought back from the numerous expeditions conducted by the renowned explorer Thor Heyerdahl (1914–2002). The museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the world of maritime exploration and understand the historical significance of these expeditions.

The Anno Museum, located in the former county of Hedmark in southeastern Norway, is a regional group of cultural and natural history museums. Spread across 23 different locations, the museum offers a diverse range of exhibits and collections that reflect the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

The West Norway Museum of Decorative Art, also referred to as KODE 1, is a significant cultural institution located in the city of Bergen, Norway. The museum was established in the year 1887, making it a long-standing part of the city's cultural landscape. It houses a diverse collection of decorative arts, with a particular emphasis on works from the past 500 years.

Polaria, situated in Tromsø, northern Norway, holds the distinction of being the world's most northerly aquarium. This unique location offers visitors a chance to explore marine life in a setting unlike any other. The aquarium is easily accessible and provides an exciting opportunity to learn about the Arctic's unique ecosystem.

The Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene, located on Bryggen in Bergen, Norway, offers a unique insight into the life of Bergen drivers of the German Hanse. This museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region, and to understand the significant role that the German Hanse played in shaping the city's past.

The Forsvarsmuseet, also known as FMU, is a museum dedicated to defense history. It is situated in building 62 at the historic Akershus Castle in Oslo, Norway. This location not only provides a fitting backdrop for the museum's exhibits but also adds to the overall experience of understanding Norway's military history.

The museum focuses on the history of shipbuilding and seafare in Norway from the Viking period until today.

Oslo Reptile Park is a unique destination in Norway, being the only reptile park in the country. This privately owned animal park offers a unique opportunity to see a variety of reptile species up close.

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum, situated in the city of Stavanger, was inaugurated in the year 1999. The museum spans an area of about 5,000 square meters, providing ample space for its exhibits and installations.

During the tumultuous times of World War II, Villa Grande served as the residence of Vidkun Quisling, a prominent figure of the era. Known as Gimle at the time, the villa was the center of Quisling's activities. This historical context adds a layer of intrigue and significance to the villa, making it a point of interest for those interested in World War II history.

Today, the ruins of Sverresborg serve as an open-air museum for the Trøndelag region, which includes Sør-Trøndelag and Nord-Trøndelag. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's history and culture in an immersive and interactive way.

The Norwegian Mining Museum, also known as Norsk Bergverksmuseum, is the national museum dedicated to mining in Norway. It is situated in the former Smeltehytte, a building dating back to 1844, located at Hyttegata 3 in Kongsberg. This museum provides a comprehensive insight into the history and significance of mining in the country.

Bjørneparken, previously known as Vassfaret Bjørnepark, is a wildlife park that houses Norwegian predators, wild deer, and farm animals. The park is a great place for visitors to get a close look at Norway's native wildlife in a safe and controlled environment.

The Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society, also known as the Polar Bear Club, is a unique attraction located in the town of Hammerfest in Troms og Finnmark, Norway. This small exhibition is dedicated to the town's mascot and heraldic crest, the polar bear. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history and culture of this remote town.

The Breheimsenteret, also known as the Breheim Center, serves as a museum and one of the three visitor centers for the Jostedalsbreen National Park. It provides a wealth of information about the park and its surroundings, making it a valuable resource for tourists looking to explore the area.

The Norwegian Maritime Museum is situated in a prime location at Bygdøynesveien on the Bygdøy peninsula. This location is on the western side of Oslo, the capital city of Norway. The museum's location is easily accessible and offers a scenic view of the surrounding area.

Troldhaugen, located in Bergen, Norway, is the former residence of the renowned Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and his wife Nina Grieg. This historic site offers visitors a unique insight into the life and work of one of Norway's most celebrated composers.

The Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology, located in Oslo, serves as the national museum for industry, science, technology, and medicine. It provides a comprehensive insight into the country's industrial history and advancements in various scientific fields.

Stavanger Museum, established in 1877, is a museum of natural and cultural history located in the city of Stavanger, Norway. It offers a rich collection of exhibits that reflect the natural and cultural history of the region.

The Tromsø Art Association, known as Tromsø Kunstforening in Norwegian, has a rich history dating back to 1877. It has been in continuous operation since 1924, making it one of the oldest cultural institutions in Tromsø. This long-standing presence in the city's cultural scene has allowed it to become a significant reference point for art in Northern Norway.

The Henie Onstad Kunstsenter is an art museum located in Høvikodden, Bærum municipality, Viken county, Norway. It is situated on a headland that extends into the Oslofjord, approximately 10 kilometres southwest of Oslo. This location offers visitors a unique combination of art and beautiful natural surroundings.

The Mini Bottle Gallery, also known as Småflaskemuseet, is a unique museum located in Kirkegaten, Oslo. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique experience for tourists interested in unique collections.

Visit this museum to see fascinating archeological artifacts coming from different times of Norwegian history.

Stiftsgården is a significant landmark in Trondheim, Norway. This large wooden palace, located in the city center, serves as the official residence of the king when he is in town. Its central location and historical significance make it a point of interest for tourists visiting the city.

Established in the summer of 1997, Risør Akvarium is the only saltwater aquarium in Sørlandet. This unique feature makes it a distinctive destination for tourists interested in marine life.

Sporveismuseet Vognhall 5, also known as the Oslo Tramway Museum, is a transport museum situated in the Majorstuen area of Oslo. The museum exhibits a collection of preserved metro trains, trams, buses, and trolleybuses that have served the city over the years. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the city's public transportation history.

The Norwegian Aviation Museum, inaugurated by King Harald V on May 15, 1994, holds the distinction of being the national museum of aviation for Norway. It is also the largest aviation museum in the Nordic countries, spanning an impressive 10,000 square metres.

The Norwegian Resistance Museum, also known as the Home Front Museum, is situated in the historic Akershus Fortress in Oslo, Norway. This location not only provides a fitting backdrop for the museum's collection but also adds to the overall experience of understanding Norway's history during World War II. The fortress itself is a significant historical site, and the museum's location within it allows visitors to combine their visit with a tour of the fortress.

Ledaal is a historical manor situated in Eiganes, Stavanger. It was constructed between 1799 and 1803, serving as a summer residence and pleasure garden for the Kielland family. This period property offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the Kielland family during the turn of the 19th century.

The Lillehammer Art Museum boasts three main collections. The first collection consists of over 100 paintings from the Matisse school, donated by the museum's founder, Einar Lunde, in the 1920s. The second collection was donated by antique dealer Oscar Johannesen in 1958 and includes a wide range of 19th-century pieces. The third and most recent collection was donated by Jon Dobloug in 2008, featuring 159 paintings from the 1980s and 1990s.

The Munch Museum, also known as Munch since 2020, is an art museum located in Bjørvika, Oslo, Norway. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the life and works of the renowned Norwegian artist, Edvard Munch. It provides a comprehensive insight into Munch's artistic journey and his significant contributions to the world of art.

The Norwegian Olympic Museum is a sports museum situated in Lillehammer, Norway. It is conveniently located near the Lysgårdsbakken in Håkons Hall, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area.

The Lofoten Museum, also known as Lofotmuseet, is situated in the town of Kabelvåg, within the Vågan municipality. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience in the heart of Lofoten.

The Tirpitz Museum is a war museum situated in Kåfjord, a location just outside the city of Alta in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway. This museum is dedicated to the history and artifacts of the battleship Tirpitz, which played a significant role during World War II. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the past and understand the historical significance of this battleship.

Siljustøl, located in the borough of Ytrebygda in Bergen, Norway, is a museum that was once the home of renowned composer Harald Sæverud and his wife Marie Hvoslef. This historical site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life and work of the composer, providing a rich cultural experience.

The University Museum of Bergen is home to a wide range of anthropological and archaeological collections. These collections include significant Norwegian archaeological remains from the Viking period. These exhibits provide a deep insight into the history and culture of Norway, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and archaeology.

The Holmenkollbakken Museum, located in the city of Oslo, Norway, is home to the world's largest ski jump platform. This unique feature makes it a significant point of interest for tourists who are interested in winter sports or architectural marvels. The museum is named after the Holmenkollen mountain on which it is situated.

The Leprosy Archive of Bergen holds a unique position in the world as it is the first national patient register for a specific disease, in this case, leprosy. This archive provides a comprehensive view of the social and medical history of the disease, demonstrating how it contributed to the discovery of its causes. It is a significant resource for understanding the historical context of leprosy and its impact on society.

The Norges Fiskerimuseum (Norwegian Fisheries Museum) in Bergen is dedicated to the history of Norwegian fishing and fish processing industry. The museum showcases various aspects of the industry, including fishing nets, boats, and fishing gear. It provides a comprehensive insight into the evolution of the industry, from traditional fishing methods to modern fish farming.

The Ole Bull Museum Lysøen is a unique combination of a villa and a museum, situated on the picturesque island of Lysøen in Lysefjorden, within the Bjørnafjorden municipality in Vestland. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the region, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum, a visual arts museum in Northern Norway, holds a significant role in the region's cultural landscape. Established in 1985, the museum moved to its current location in Tromsø in 2001. The building, originally designed by architect Søren Andreas Wiese-Opsahl in 1917, has a rich history, having served as a post and telegraph office and later as a police station.

The Atlantic Sea-Park, located in Ålesund, Norway, is a significant aquarium that was established in 1951. The current facility, which was officially inaugurated on 15 June 1998, is one of Scandinavia's largest saltwater aquariums and a leading tourist attraction in the region.

The Kristiansand Cannon Museum is situated in Møvik, a location that is just 8 kilometers west of the town centre of Kristiansand in Norway. This makes it easily accessible for tourists who are visiting the town and are interested in exploring the historical and military aspects of the region.

The Tromsø University Museum welcomes over 110,000 visitors each year. It offers a variety of exhibits, with eight permanent displays and two to three temporary exhibitions held throughout the year. These exhibitions provide a comprehensive overview of the region's history, culture, and natural environment.

VilVite is a science center situated at Marineholmen, adjacent to Puddefjorden in Bergen. The center is owned and managed by Bergen Vitensenter AS, and it is designed to provide the public with knowledge in the fields of mathematics, science, and technology through hands-on experimentation with the equipment available.

Muséhagen, situated at Muséplass 3, is a botanical garden that forms part of the University Museum of Bergen's natural history department. Established between 1897 and 1899, the garden spans 14 acres and houses approximately 3,000 different species collected over the years. Most of these species were gathered as seeds from wild plants in Norway and around the world, but the garden also features cultivated forms of particularly beautiful or economically important plants.

Grini, originally built in 1939, was a Nazi concentration camp located in Bærum, a suburb southwest of Oslo, Norway. Initially intended as a women's prison, it was repurposed on May 2, 1940, to serve as a camp primarily for Norwegian political prisoners. This historical site provides a glimpse into the grim realities of World War II and the Nazi occupation of Norway.

The North Cape Museum, also known as Nordkappmuseet, is situated in the Norwegian city of Honningsvåg, within the municipality of Nordkapp. This central location makes it easily accessible for visitors.

The NTNU University Museum, also known as the Museum of Natural History and Archaeology, is a significant institution located in Trondheim, Norway. It is part of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse natural environment of the region.

Rockheim, also known as The National Discovery Centre for Pop and Rock, is Norway's national museum for popular music from the 1950s to the present. It is a part of the Sør-Trøndelag Museums and is located in a former grain warehouse in Trondheim. The museum opened in 2010 and has been directed by Sissel Guttormsen since 2013.

In 1938, the section of the Setesdalsbanen between Kristiansand and Grovane was converted to standard gauge to be incorporated into the Sørlandsbanen. The remaining part of the line was decommissioned in 1962. However, an 8 km stretch of the line has been preserved and is currently functioning as a heritage railway.

The National Gallery of Norway, situated in Oslo, is a significant part of the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design. Since 2003, it has been a part of this larger institution, offering visitors a comprehensive look at Norwegian and international art, architecture, and design.

The Geological Museum in Oslo, also known as the Geologisk og paleontologisk museum, is a significant part of the Natural History Museum of the University of Oslo. Established in 1917, the museum has a rich history and is a testament to the scientific and cultural heritage of the city. It was founded on the initiative of Geology Professor Waldemar Christofer Brøgger and opened to the public in 1920 with numerous exhibits.

The Stavanger Maritime Museum is situated in the Norwegian city of Stavanger, specifically at Strandkaien 22 on the west side of the Vågen harbor. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the maritime history of the region while enjoying the scenic harbor views.

Damsgård Manor, located in Bergen, Norway, is a significant landmark known for its unique rococo style. It is considered one of the best-preserved wooden structures from the 18th century in Europe. This architectural gem offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the elegance and sophistication of the rococo era.

The Ice Skating Museum, known as Skøytemuseet in Norwegian, has a rich history dating back to 1914. It is conveniently located at Frogner Stadium in Oslo, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum's location also adds to its charm, as it is situated in one of the city's most popular sports venues.

The Preus Museum, located in Horten, is recognized as the national Norwegian museum for photography. This museum is dedicated to the art and history of photography, making it a unique destination for photography enthusiasts and those interested in the evolution of this art form.

The Royal Norwegian Navy Museum, also known as Marinemuseet, is a maritime museum that provides a comprehensive documentation of the history of the Royal Norwegian Navy. The museum is situated in the former naval base of Karljohansvern in Horten, located in the Oslo fjord, in the southern part of Norway. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich naval history of Norway in a setting that has been a part of that history itself.

Namsskogan Familiepark is a unique combination of a zoo and an amusement park located in Namsskogan, Norway. This park offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

The Trondheim Science Centre, known locally as Videncenteret i Trondheim, is situated in the historic building of Norges Bank on Kongens gate in Trondheim. This location adds a unique charm to the museum, combining the allure of history with the excitement of science.

The Bergen Technical Museum is a technical museum situated in the preserved old tram depot, Trikkestallen, at Thormhøhlensgate 23 in Møhlenpris, Bergen. This location is steeped in history and provides a unique setting for the museum.

The KaviarFactory is a contemporary art venue situated in Henningsvær, Lofoten. It was initiated and is currently managed by Venke Hoff. This venue has become a significant platform for international and local artists to showcase their work, contributing to the vibrant art scene in the region.

The Norwegian Canning Museum, known as Norsk Hermetikkmuseum in Norwegian, is situated in the city of Stavanger. The museum provides a detailed insight into the history of the Norwegian canned goods industry from 1880 to 1925. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the evolution of the industry and the role it played in the country's economic development during that period.

The Hordamuseet, a department of the Bergen City Museum, is situated in the Fana district of Bergen. It comprises a museum building and an open-air department that houses thirty buildings. This location offers a unique insight into the historical architecture and lifestyle of the region.

The Museum of Reconstruction for Finnmark and North Troms is a significant historical site located in the town of Hammerfest, Norway. The museum is dedicated to commemorating the destruction and subsequent reconstruction of the town following World War II. It offers a wide range of displays, including photographs and items from the town during that period. The exhibits depict the events and the town's reconstruction, providing a vivid picture of the town's history.

The Armoury, also known as the Army Museum, is situated in the Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim, Norway. This location itself is steeped in history, providing a fitting backdrop for the museum's extensive collection of military artifacts.

The Justice Museum, also known as Justismuseet, located in Trondheim, is Norway's national museum dedicated to the police, judiciary, and penal system. The museum was initially established in 2001 under the name Norwegian Legal Museum, or Norsk rettsmuseum, and was renamed to its current title in 2016.

The Norwegian Deaf Museum, known as Norsk Døvemuseum in Norwegian, is a significant cultural institution located in Trondheim, Norway. It operates as a division of the Trøndelag Folkemuseum, contributing to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Elingård, also known as Elingaard herregård, is a manor house and an estate situated in Fredrikstad, a city in Viken county, Norway. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and grandeur of the manor house.

Sandefjordmuseene, also known as Hvalfangstmuseet, is a unique museum located in Sandefjord, Norway. It is the only museum in Europe that is dedicated to the whaling industry. This specialization makes it a unique destination for those interested in learning about whales and the history of whaling.