University buildings on Karl Johan street in Oslo

National Gallery Of Norway

National Gallery of Norway, Oslo: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The National Gallery of Norway, now an essential part of the new National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design in Oslo, is a landmark institution preserving the nation’s artistic heritage and showcasing international masterpieces. Established in 1842 and recently relocated to a cutting-edge facility at Vestbanen in 2022, the museum offers visitors a rich journey through Norwegian art history—from Romantic Nationalism to modern expressionism—and connects this legacy with the broader European context. This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips to make the most of your visit (National Museum of Norway; Wikipedia; Britannica).

Historic university buildings at Karl Johan street in Oslo

National Gallery building in Oslo, Norway

Exterior view of the National Gallery in Oslo, Norway

Aerial view of Karl Johans gate and The Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway

Historic university buildings on Karl Johan street in Oslo

Painting of the third annual art exhibition in 1886 by Andreas Bloch

Andreas Bloch artwork from the 3rd Annual Art Exhibition 1886

Norwegian industry and art exhibition pavilion with flower beds and fountain

Salvation Army's annual congress gathering with attendees

Frelsesarmeens årskongres group photo from 20th century

Interior view of the National Gallery with classical sculptures and ornate architecture

Photo from memorial book Liv i kamp for Norge featuring Norwegian couple Marie and Gulbrand Lunde published in 1942

Quisling visiting German propaganda exhibition War and Correspondent in Oslo 1944

Historical view of Skulpturmuseet in Oslo before 1894

Introduction & Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Must-See Artworks & Exhibitions
Practical Tips
Nearby Attractions
FAQ
Conclusion & Recommendations
References

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Growth (1836–1900)

The National Gallery’s roots go back to a pivotal parliamentary decision in 1836, designed to cultivate Norwegian culture and identity through the arts. Officially opened in 1842 as the “Norwegian States Central Museum for Visual Arts,” it was first housed in the Royal Palace. The move to Universitetsgata in 1882—into a purpose-built structure designed by Heinrich Ernst and Adolf Schirmer—marked a turning point. The building itself is a protected heritage site (Wikipedia; National Museum of Norway).

Institutional Evolution & Integration

Over the years, the gallery’s mission and name have evolved, reflecting changes in Norwegian cultural policy. Key directors such as Jens Thiis and Sigurd Willoch helped shape its collection and reputation. In 2003, the National Gallery merged with other institutions to form the National Museum, and in 2022, it relocated to the new Vestbanen complex (Museums Association).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Tuesday & Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Thursday–Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Closed on Mondays
Note: Opening times may change during holidays and special events. Always check the official website before your visit.

Tickets & Admission

Adults: 200 NOK (approx. €17.50)
Students (under 25): 120 NOK (approx. €10.50)
Children (under 18): Free
Seniors/Oslo Pass holders: Discounts available
Special Exhibitions: May require an additional fee

Tickets can be purchased online via the National Museum’s website or at the entrance. Advance booking is recommended during peak periods and for popular exhibitions.

Getting There

Address: Brynjulf Bulls plass 3, Oslo
Public Transport:
- Bus: Nationaltheatret stop (lines 150, 160, 250)
- Metro: Stortinget station (all metro lines)
- Tram: Tullinløkka stop
- Walking: 10–15 minutes from Oslo Central Station
Parking: Limited; public transport is preferred. Parking garages are nearby.

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible (elevators, ramps)
Accessible toilets on all public floors
Service animals welcome
Hearing loops at the information desk and select exhibitions
Special guided tours for visitors with visual or hearing impairments available by appointment
Portable stools and plentiful seating (National Museum)

Guided Tours & Special Events

Regular guided tours in Norwegian and English
Audio guides available for rent in multiple languages
Workshops, lectures, and family activities during weekends and holidays
The Light Hall features major temporary exhibitions (Condé Nast Traveler)

Photography

Non-flash photography is allowed in most permanent galleries
Restrictions may apply for special exhibitions
Large bags to be stored in lockers

Visitor Amenities

Free cloakroom and lockers
Museum café with Norwegian and international dishes; vegan/vegetarian options available
Museum shop with art books, prints, and Norwegian design products
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout
Multiple rest areas with seating

Must-See Artworks & Exhibitions

Edvard Munch’s Masterpieces

The Scream (1893): The original version, a global icon of expressionism, is a must-see (The Crazy Tourist)
Madonna, The Sick Child, and other major Munch works are displayed in the dedicated Munch Room

Norwegian Romantic Nationalism

Bridal Procession on the Hardangerfjord by Adolph Tidemand and Hans Gude
Landscapes by Johan Christian Dahl
Atmospheric interiors by Harriet Backer

European Masters

Works by El Greco, Lucas Cranach the Elder, Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Pablo Picasso, and more enrich the collection (Visit Norway)

Decorative Arts & Contemporary Design

Norwegian silverware, ceramics, furniture, textiles, and modern design objects
Contemporary works by Lena Trydal, Per Inge Bjørlo, and others
The Light Room for rotating exhibitions (Life in Norway)

Sculpture, Prints, and Drawings

Over 900 sculptures and 950 plaster casts, plus a vast collection of drawings and prints. Select works can be viewed by appointment (Nasjonalmuseet)

Practical Tips

Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds
Family-Friendly: Interactive exhibits, family guides, and workshops available
Short Visits: Focus on the Munch Room, Norwegian Romanticism, and Light Hall exhibitions
Accessibility Needs: Contact the museum in advance for tailored support
Safety: Bag checks at entrance; lost and found at information desk

Nearby Attractions

Combine your museum visit with these nearby Oslo historical sites:

Royal Palace: Surrounded by gardens
Oslo City Hall: Nobel Peace Prize ceremonies
Oslo Cathedral: Historic landmark
Akershus Fortress: Medieval castle with panoramic views
Aker Brygge: Waterfront district for dining and shopping
Other notable museums: Munch Museum, Viking Ship Museum, Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the National Gallery of Norway’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday & Wednesday 10:00–20:00; Thursday–Sunday 10:00–17:00; closed Mondays (Introducing Oslo).

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online via the National Museum’s website or at the entrance.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the entire museum is wheelchair accessible with supportive facilities.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available; check schedules on the museum’s website.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is generally permitted; restrictions may apply for some exhibitions.

Q: What are the must-see artworks?
A: Don’t miss Edvard Munch’s The Scream and Madonna, Tidemand & Gude’s Bridal Procession on the Hardangerfjord, and masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, and Picasso.

Conclusion & Recommendations

The National Gallery of Norway, now part of the National Museum, offers an unparalleled exploration of Norwegian and European art. Its accessible facilities, central location, and exceptional collection make it a cornerstone of Oslo’s cultural scene. For the best experience: