The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History — Attraction in Oslo

This is my third visit over the past 20 years but my first where I got the chance to properly take photos of each building. I spent so much time outdoors, I did not get to properly enjoyed the indoor exhibitions before they close at 4pm. Nevertheless, it is fascinating to see the interesting architecture which has so much history attached to them. After getting my ticket, I started walking into the compound slowly. Some of the houses are decorated in the interior as well so we can witness what a typical home would look like back then. There was even a school, a church, a barn and a store. The grounds were maintained so well. The buildings were kept as close to their original state as can be. I appreciate the signboards located at various intervals as they provide a good source of information and insights to the various types of building and which era they are from. The area is quite huge and to appreciate everything properly, you need to walk around the entire grounds. Since I visited during Friday afternoon, there were not many tourists around and I felt I had the while place to myself. This place is quite easy to visit since it is so close to Oslo and I took a bus from the National Theatre and the bus stops right in front of the musuem. Although the exhibition closes at 4pm, the musuem grounds are still accessible and they...

Norwegian Museum of Cultural History Review

The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History is a must-visit attraction in Oslo, offering a deep dive into Norway's history, culture, and traditions. It’s conveniently located, and the experience starts even before you arrive—just hop on the 30 bus from Oslo City, which drops you right outside the museum. The journey is quick and hassle-free, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.

The museum itself is incredible. The open-air section features beautifully preserved historical buildings, including the stunning Gol Stave Church, which is a highlight. Walking through the traditional farmhouses and villages feels like traveling back in time. The indoor exhibitions are equally captivating, with artifacts that showcase Norwegian culture, from Sami traditions to urban development.

The location is stunning, with views of the Oslo Fjord adding a serene backdrop to the experience. The museum is well-organized, with friendly staff and plenty of signs in English for international visitors.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot to explore, and plan for at least a few hours to take it all in. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Norwegian culture, this museum is a fantastic...

If you think “folk museum” means a couple of dusty chairs and one old photo, think again. This place is HUGE – it’s basically Norway in miniature. You wander through centuries of history, from wooden stave churches that look straight out of a Viking saga ⚔️ to old houses where you half expect grandma in bunad to offer you waffles.

Pro tip: come well-rested and plan to spend several hours – this isn’t a “quick stroll” kind of museum. Also, pack a snack 🥪. The café is tiny, usually crowded, and not quite ready to feed all of all the tourists who suddenly realize they’re starving at the same time. A sandwich in your backpack will make you the smartest visitor on site.

Having once lived in Norway (my daughter was even born here ), I have a soft spot for places like this. They remind me of all the “survival lessons” I picked up from Norwegians: protect your skin in the icy wind, never tease trolls in the forest (they will remember 👀), jog even when the rain is sideways, eat an ocean’s worth of fish 🐟, and when life gets too stressful… light a candle , call it hygge... and pretend the laundry doesn’t...