Top 100 best museums in Scandinavia

Kronborg Castle, situated near Elsinor in Denmark, is a significant historical site. It is one of the four Danish monuments that were declared a World Heritage Site in 2000. This recognition by UNESCO underscores the castle's historical and cultural importance, making it a noteworthy destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.

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.

Fågelsjö Gammelgård, also known as Bortom Åa or the Old Farm of Fågelsjö, is a significant historical site located in Fågelsjö. This village is one of the oldest in a region that was colonized by the Finns in the 17th century. The site offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the region, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history and culture.

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 Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet) is a maritime museum in Stockholm that is located on the island of Djurgården that houses the only fully intact seventeenth-century ship, the Vasa, which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. The main hall of the Vasa Museum contains the ship itself, as well as exhibits rel

Christiansborg Palace, situated on the islet of Slotsholmen in central Copenhagen, is a unique blend of a palace and a government building. This dual function makes it a significant landmark in Denmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's political and royal history.

Skansen is the world's first ethnographic open-air museum as well as one of the most extensive ones. It was founded in 1891 and its primary aim was to show how people in different parts of rural Sweden lived before the emergence of an industrialized society. Visitors to the Skansen Open-Air Museuma

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.

Givskud Zoo, located in Givskud, 20 kilometres north west of Vejle in Denmark, is a unique combination of a zoo and a safari park. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to get up close with a variety of animals in a safe and controlled environment.

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.

Kronborg Castle, situated near Elsinore in Denmark, is a significant historical site. It is one of the four Danish monuments that were declared as World Heritage Sites in 2000. This recognition by UNESCO underscores the castle's historical and cultural importance, making it a noteworthy destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.

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.

Frederiksborg Castle, situated in Hillerød on the Danish island of Zealand, is a water castle of significant historical and architectural value. It is recognized as the largest and most important building of the Nordic Renaissance. Today, it serves as the home of the Danish National Historical Museum, offering visitors a chance to delve into Denmark's rich history.

Drottningholm Palace, a royal domain, is situated in the municipality of Ekerö, just outside of Stockholm. It is located on the island of Lovön, one of the many islands in Lake Mälaren. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Statens historiska museum, also known as the Historical Museum, is situated in the heart of Stockholm, Sweden. Specifically, it is located at the intersection of Narvavägen and Linnégatan in the Östermalm district. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other attractions, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The National Aquarium Denmark, also known as Den Blå Planet, is a public aquarium situated in Kastrup, a suburb of Copenhagen. It was opened to the public in March 2013 and holds the title of being the largest aquarium in Northern Europe. This modern facility offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse range of marine life.

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 Rosenborg Castle is a renaissance castle located in Copenhagen that was built in 1606 and was used as the seat of Danish kings for about a hundred years. The castle was opened to the public in 1838 and it houses a museum which displays the Royal Collections, artifacts spanning a breadth of royal

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.

Copenhagen Zoo is situated in the municipality of Frederiksberg, which is nestled within the capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, offering a unique opportunity to explore one of the oldest zoos in Europe without having to travel far from the city center.

The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, previously known as the Museum for Modern Art, is a Danish museum for modern art located in Humlebæk in Fredensborg Municipality in North Zealand. The museum was inaugurated on August 14, 1958, and has since become a significant cultural landmark in Denmark. It offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and landscape, attracting approximately 600,000 visitors annually, making it one of Denmark's most visited museums.

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is an art museum in Copenhagen that holds and displays a collection built around the collection of the Danish beer magnate Carl Jacobsen, with especially antique sculpture from the ancient cultures around the Mediterranean, including Egypt, Rome and Greece. Apart from the

H.C. Andersen's Childhood Home is a small museum situated in Munkemøllestræde 3-5, originally known as Klingenberg 646, in Odense. The museum covers a total area of approximately 42 square meters.

The discovery of the Trelleborgen castle in Skåne dates back to the late 1980s. The remains of the castle were found at the intersection of Svenstorpsgatan and Bryggaregatan. This historical finding has contributed to the rich history of the town of Trelleborg.

Gammelstad Church Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located 10 km north of Luleå, Sweden. It is situated at the northern end of the Gulf of Bothnia, making it a significant historical and cultural site. The town is a well-preserved example of a 'church town', a type of settlement that was once common in northern Scandinavia. Its unique architecture and rich history make it a fascinating destination for tourists.

The Experimentarium is a science center located in Hellerup, Denmark. It was established in 1991 and has since been a hub for scientific exploration and learning. The center offers a variety of exhibits and shows that demonstrate scientific phenomena to the public.

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.

The Viking Ship Museum, located in Roskilde, is Denmark's national museum dedicated to ships from the prehistoric and medieval periods. This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the maritime history of Denmark, showcasing a variety of ships that played a significant role in the country's past.

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 Vitlycke Museum is not just a museum, but also an information center situated in the rock carving area of Tanum in Bohuslän, Sweden. This location is significant as it is home to a rich collection of rock carvings, making it a unique destination for those interested in history and archaeology.

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.

Junibacken is a unique children's attraction located on the beautiful island of Djurgården in Stockholm, Sweden. This special place was founded by Staffan Götestam, Fredrik Uhrström and Peder Wallenberg. It offers a magical world dedicated to children's literature, making it a perfect destination for families with young children.

Fotografiska is the Swedish Museum of Photography located in the district Södermalm in the Swedish capital Stockholm. This centre for contemporary photography is located directly on the water in the building of the former large customs house (Stora Tullhuset), which was built in 1906-1910 according

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.

In 1572, Uppsala Castle was severely damaged by a fire. The task of rebuilding the castle was given to Franz Parr. This event marks a significant turning point in the castle's history, as it led to the introduction of new architectural elements and designs.

Fredriksdal Museums and Gardens is an open-air museum situated in the Fredriksdal district of Helsingborg, a city in the province of Skåne län, Sweden. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore Swedish history and culture in a beautiful outdoor setting.

The Ribe Viking Centre is an experience centre and open-air museum that provides a deep dive into Denmark's Viking Age. It is conveniently located in the village of Lustrup, just about 2 km south of Ribe. This makes it easily accessible for tourists who are interested in learning about the Viking history and culture.

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 The National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) is the largest museum of cultural history in the whole country. This museum, located in Copenhagen will guide you through several thousand years of both Danish and foreign culture. Highlights of the collections include Golden Horns of Gallehus, Gun

The Wadden Sea Centre, located in Vester Vedsted, near Ribe, Denmark, serves as a visitor centre and museum for the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wadden Sea. This centre is a gateway to the world of the Wadden Sea and provides an immersive experience for visitors to learn about this unique intertidal zone of the North Sea.

ABBA The Museum is a Swedish museum dedicated to the pop group ABBA in the Djurgården district of Stockholm in Sweden. The museum displays its collection of exhibits, which includes the artists' clothing, golden records and other original memorabilia. Furthermore, ABBA The Museum, which opened in Ma

Ájtte, the Swedish Mountain and Sami Museum, is a cultural and natural history museum located in Jokkmokk, Lapland, Sweden. It specializes in the culture and nature of the mountainous area of Northern Sweden and serves as the main museum and archive for the Sami culture of Sweden. The museum was inaugurated in June 1989 and is owned and managed by a foundation established in 1983 by the Swedish Government, the Norrbotten Region, the Jokkmokk Municipality, and the two national Sami organizations Svenska Samernas Riksförbund (National Union of Swedish Sami people) and Same Ätnam (Sami land).

Frilandsmuseet, also known as 'Old Denmark - Open Air Museum', is one of the world's largest and oldest open-air museums. It boasts more than 100 buildings from all over Denmark, providing a comprehensive insight into the country's architectural history. The museum is located north of Copenhagen, in Lyngby, and has been open to the public since 1897.

The National Museum for Science and Technology, also known as Tekniska museet, is a technological museum situated at 7 Museivägen in the Museum Park of Gärdet in Stockholm. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of nature and technology for visitors to explore.

Tom Tits Experiment is a science centre located in Södertälje, a municipality in Stockholm County, Sweden. The centre prides itself on being Sweden's first and largest science centre, offering a wide range of scientific and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.

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.

Millesgården is an art museum and sculpture garden situated on the island of Lidingö in Stockholm, Sweden. It was once the home of the renowned sculptor Carl Milles and his wife, artist Olga Milles. The museum is divided into three main sections: the artists' former residence, an art gallery, and a sculpture park. This unique combination of art, history, and nature makes it a fascinating destination for art lovers and tourists alike.

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 Linnaeus Garden in Uppsala, also known as Linnéträdgården, holds the distinction of being the first botanical garden in Sweden. It was named in honor of the renowned scientist Carl Linnaeus, who is credited with establishing the foundations of modern taxonomy. This garden serves as a testament to Linnaeus's significant contributions to the field of botany and offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of botanical research in Sweden.

The ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum is an art museum in Aarhus. The museum comprises a total of 20,700 square metres on ten floors, which makes it one of the largest art museums in Northern Europe. The ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum features four galleries, the ARoS Focus gallery, a floor with installations. In ea

Koldinghus, located in the city of Kolding on the Jutland peninsula, is the last of the ancient royal castles in Denmark. The castle was founded in the 13th century and has been expanded over the centuries. It has served various functions throughout history, including a fortress, a royal residence, a ruin, and a war negotiation scene. Today, it operates as a museum.

Gustavianum, the oldest standing building at Uppsala University, has a rich history dating back to its construction between 1622 and 1625. It served as the main building of the university for over a century, from 1778 to 1887. Since 1997, it has been repurposed as the university's museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.

The TID - Museum for Odense is a cultural history museum located in the heart of Odense. It is situated in a block surrounded by Sortebrødre Stræde, Hans Mules Gade, Claus Bergs Gade and Overgade on Østerbro. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

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.

The Viking Museum, previously known as Vikingaliv, is a permanent exhibition that provides a deep dive into the Viking Age. This museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Vikings, their lifestyle, culture, and history. It's a place where history comes alive, and visitors can gain a comprehensive understanding of this fascinating era.

Axel Ebbes Konsthall, situated in the city of Trelleborg in southern Sweden, is a part of the local museums. This location is ideal for tourists who are interested in exploring the cultural and historical aspects of the region. The museum offers a unique insight into the local art scene and is a significant part of the city's cultural heritage.

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.

The Match Museum, located in Jönköping, Sweden, is a unique institution as it is one of the few museums in the world dedicated to matches. This makes it a distinctive destination for those interested in the history and production of matches.

Skokloster Castle, a Swedish Baroque castle, was constructed between 1654 and 1676 by Carl Gustaf Wrangel. The castle is situated on a peninsula of Lake Mälaren, nestled between Stockholm and Uppsala. This location offers a picturesque setting for visitors to explore the historical architecture.

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 Viking Fortress Trelleborg, also known as the Museum at Trelleborg, is a cultural history museum situated at the circular fortress Trelleborg near Slagelse. This museum showcases archaeological finds from and around Trelleborg, providing visitors with a glimpse into the Viking era.

Cisternerne, located in Copenhagen, Denmark, serves as an exhibition space for contemporary art. It offers one annual site-specific total experience, along with a wide range of events throughout the year. This unique venue provides a distinctive experience for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, with its unique architecture and atmosphere.

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.

Den Gamle By is an open-air town museum in Aarhus that is focused on illustrating Danish town culture. The museum consists of 75 historical buildings collected from 20 settlements from all over Denmark. The town with its buildings as a whole is the main attraction but most buildings can also be visi

The Funen Village is an open-air museum situated in the neighborhood of Fruens Bøge in Odense, Denmark. This location offers a unique opportunity to explore Danish history and culture in an immersive, outdoor setting.

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 Danish Railway Museum, a four-star tourist attraction, is conveniently located in Dannebrogsgade in Odense, right next to the Odense Train Station. This makes it easily accessible for tourists who are visiting the city or passing through.

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.

One of the most striking features of the station is a 70-meter high concrete tower. This tower was previously equipped with advanced collection equipment, making it a significant part of the station's operations.

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.

Birka, a fortified commercial settlement of the Swedes, is located on the small island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren, Sweden. It is situated 30 kilometers west of the current city of Stockholm. This historical site offers a unique insight into the Viking era and the early history of Sweden.

Kulturen is an open-air museum and a museum of cultural history located in the heart of Lund, Sweden. It occupies two blocks in the city center, making it easily accessible for tourists. The museum is the second oldest open-air museum in the world, following Skansen in Stockholm. It offers a unique opportunity to explore Swedish history and culture in an immersive, outdoor setting.

Nyborg Slot, located in Nyborg on the Danish island of Funen, is a restored medieval castle. This historical site offers a glimpse into Denmark's past, with its rich history and architectural beauty. The castle's restoration has preserved its medieval charm, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and architecture.

Glimmingehus is a medieval castle located in Simrishamn Municipality, Scania, in southern Sweden. It is recognized as the best preserved medieval stronghold in Scandinavia, offering a unique glimpse into the architectural and defensive strategies of the era. The castle's rich history and impressive preservation make it a fascinating destination for those interested in medieval history and architecture.

Gripsholm Castle is not just a historical monument, but also a living museum. It houses the Swedish State's portrait collection, which includes over 4,000 portraits of Swedes who have made significant contributions to history. Visitors to the castle can follow the development of portrait art from the 1500s to the present day. This collection, managed by the National Museum in Stockholm since the 1860s, offers a unique insight into Swedish history and culture.

The Chinese Pavilion of Drottningholm is a small palace nestled in the municipality of Ekerö, in the province of Stockholm. This unique structure is part of the Royal Domain of Drottningholm, making it a significant part of Sweden's cultural heritage.

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 Fisheries and Maritime Museum, located in Esbjerg, Denmark, is a privately owned institution that has been open to the public since 1968. The museum offers a unique insight into the history and culture of Danish fisheries and maritime activities. It is a great place for tourists to learn about Denmark's rich maritime history and the importance of fisheries in the country's development.

Värmlands Museum is the provincial museum of the Swedish province of Värmland. It is situated in the city of Karlstad, which is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The museum's primary role is to document and convey the history, art, and cultural heritage of the Värmland province.