National Museum

I had only positive impressions of the museum. The museum is modern, well-equipped, and has explanatory signs next to almost every exhibit. The first floor is no less interesting than the second floor with paintings. Paintings by both international and well-known Norwegian artists. There is also a toilet and a small shop with souvenirs

Very extensive collection of artworks spanning from classical to modern pieces. You can spend many hours here because there is just so much to see. The first floor is more application artworks while the second floor has the classics like Munch’s The Scream. Make sure to check your food and liquids before heading into the exhibition to save time. You can also use the wifi to download the audio guide on your phone.

Amazing experience, you can stay here for days! It's also the home of that screaming painting from Munch called Spring, Van Goth self-portrait, and many other fabulous pieces. If you are carrying anything with you, a locker is provided to you as nobody is permitted since no bags are permitted in this area.

Great museum. Was able to see some exceptional original art pieces. Breathtaking. Loved it. Would advise to go early. Was nice and quiet when I arrived (just after 10am), but was overcrowded by the time I left.

A Stunning Experience at the National Museum, Oslo I had the pleasure of visiting the National Museum in Oslo, and it was truly an inspiring experience. The museum is beautifully designed, blending modern architecture with a deep sense of history. What impressed me the most was the creative and technologically advanced way in which Norway presents its cultural heritage — from digital displays to immersive installations that make the past come alive. As a Sri Lankan, it made me reflect on how we also have a rich and much older history, yet our presentation methods often don't do justice to our incredible past. Sri Lanka's history spans over 2,500 years of written records, including ancient kingdoms, sophisticated irrigation systems, and a deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. In contrast, Norway's recorded history begins around 800 CE, during the Viking Age. Yet, the National Museum in Oslo showcases every era of their history with elegance, clarity, and pride. When I compare this to the Sri Lanka National Museum, while it holds some truly priceless artifacts — like those from Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa — the presentation can feel outdated. The spaces lack interactivity, and many displays don't fully convey the context or cultural richness behind the items. Sadly, much of Sri Lanka's ancient heritage was lost or looted during colonization, with many treasures now held in museums abroad, such as in London. But that’s all the more reason to protect and exhibit what remains in the most dignified and engaging way possible. Norway has shown how history can be preserved not only through conservation but also through storytelling and experience. I strongly believe Sri Lanka can take inspiration from this — by integrating technology, upgrading museum environments, training staff in curation and museum education, and, above all, investing in making our own people proud of our heritage. The Oslo museum visit left me with both admiration and hope — admiration for what Norway has accomplished and hope for what Sri Lanka can still achieve. And to anyone reading this — I warmly invite you to visit Sri Lanka and explore its ancient cities, timeless traditions, and stories carved in stone.

Beautifully curated museum in a lovely building near the waterfront. I wish we had more time to spend here! Definitely see The Scream by Munch, but there are a large variety of paintings and styles.

Somewhat confusing to follow the room disposition, but the quality of the collection compensates for absolutely anything. Wonderful airy cafe in the middle of the museum’s second floor, allowing for a good rest during the visit.

Fantastic museum! Lots of lovely dresses and pieces from the royal family. Well organized. I do wish there were more original sculptures. Quite a few of the pieces are plaster casts but they are still gorgeous. It's a minor gripe.

I can't recommend going to this museum. There only two exhibits, the majority of them mid century modern furniture. Save yourself some time and walk through an Ikea instead.

Even with free admission on Sundays, this museum (English translation: National Museum of Architecture) wasn't worth visiting. I'm being polite when I say it was deadly-dull. There were literally just two rooms, of which one had a lot of bird houses and nothing more. The other room had a few boring items - and that was all, folks. The museum *does* have a very attractive-looking restaurant - very bright & airy - and it also has outdoor seating. We didn't eat there, although I asked for a glass of water and the young woman was very pleasant. The other staff (the woman at the reception desk and the guard) were also pleasant.

If you are a fan of architectural design, this place is a "five". If you couldn't be bothered or you're knowledge ended when they taught the difference between Ionic and Doric and Corinthian columns in grade school, I'd pass on this one, even with the free Sunday admission, and tend toward the national gallery etc. A quick see, you wont need much time here to see everything, so grab a bite at the restaurant and go check out the castle which is nearby, especially on clear days.