Discover Oslo's unique museum peninsula
Just west of central Oslo, Bygdøy is home to some of the city's best-known museums, as well as forests, beaches and trails alongside the Oslofjord.
Bygdøy is easy to reach by the local 30 bus from the city center, and once there, you might even spot the King's cows grazing on Bygdøy Royal Farm.
But there’s a even more fun way to get there – let’s take the boat!
The journey begins at Aker brygge.
Leave the city behind ...
And discover a whole new side of Oslo.
Step aboard the Fram
Located right next to the ferry pier, The Fram Museum lets visitors walk aboard the original polar ship Fram, exploring the cabins, deck and engine room where Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup and Roald Amundsen prepared for their legendary expeditions.
It's history you can literally walk into!
Meet one of Norway's greatest explorers
Just next door, discover the original Kon-Tiki raft and learn about the extraordinary story of Thor Heyerdahl's voyage across the Pacific.
And who better to carry on his legacy than his own granddaughter? Today, she leads the museum, bringing fresh perspectives to Heyerdahl's story through revamped exhibitions and new initiatives.
Fun for the whole family
Continue to the Norwegian Maritime Museum, also just next door!
Interactive exhibitions tell the story of Norway's maritime heritage, while younger visitors can explore an engaging children's play area.
Travel through Norwegian history
Next up is the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, one of Europe's largest open-air museums. More than 150 historic buildings transport visitors through centuries of Norwegian life.
It's about a 20-minute walk from the museums by the pier, or you can hop on a Ruter bus for a few stops.
Meet costumed interpreters, learn about traditional farm life and experience a true living museum, with animals, activities and special programmes during the school holidays.
A medieval masterpiece
One of the museum's highlights is the magnificent Gol Stave Church. Dating back to the 1200s, it is one of Norway's finest examples of medieval wooden architecture.
From garden to table
Visiting on a weekend? Stroll over to Gartneriet at Bygdøy Royal Farm and enjoy seasonal dishes made with organic ingredients grown and harvested right on the farm.
A royal hidden gem
Continue your stroll to Oscarshall, the beautiful 19th-century royal summer palace overlooking the Oslofjord. Open during the summer season – check opening hours before you visit.
The viking ships are returning!
In late 2027, the new Museum of the Viking Age is set to open on Bygdøy, bringing the world-famous Viking ships back on display in a spectacular new museum.
Ready to explore Bygdøy? Here's everything you need to know before you go!
While the museums are the main attraction, Bygdøy is also one of Oslo's favourite places to enjoy the outdoors.
Spring often arrives early on the peninsula, making it a popular destination for walking, cycling and picnics long before the rest of the city has turned green. Throughout the year, the museums host seasonal exhibitions, family activities and special events, so there's always something new to discover.
If you feel like stretching your legs, follow the trails through Kongeskogen – the King's Forest – named after the nearby Bygdøy Royal Farm, the royal family's country estate. Continue towards Huk, Paradisbukta or Bygdøy Sjøbad to enjoy some of Oslo's most popular beaches and beautiful views across the Oslofjord.
Want to save some time? A local Ruter bus connects the museums and beaches before returning to central Oslo.
PS! Keep an eye out along the way – you might even spot cows and horses grazing in the fields around the Royal Farm!
The must-see attractions for a perfect day at Bygdøy.
Use the map below to discover how easy it is to explore the peninsula on foot.
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