About Viking Ship Museum
Currently closed and being expanded, the museum will reopen in 2027 to display the Oseberg, Gokstad and Tune ships — the best-preserved Viking longships in the world.
Founded in 1926, Viking Ship Museum has been welcoming visitors for over 100 years. Today it draws approximately 600,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited history & civilization museums in the world. Located in Oslo, Norway, the museum holds a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 11,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why Viking Ship Museum ranks #148
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. At #148 in our composite ranking, Viking Ship Museum represents the kind of institution that rewards a deliberate visit — less visited than the mega-museums, but no less rewarding in what it offers. Key recognitions include: Reopening 2027.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 1.5 hours, planning your route through Viking Ship Museum is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Oseberg Ship
- ◆Gokstad Ship
- ◆Tune Ship
- ◆Burial finds
Recognition & awards
Viking Ship Museum has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Closed for redevelopment, reopens 2027 as Museum of the Viking Age.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 1.5 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: Viking Ship Museum is located in Oslo, Norway at coordinates 59.9046°N, 10.6843°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of Viking Ship Museum
Viking Ship Museum was established in 1926, making it a relatively modern institution. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Oslo. With 600,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in Norway's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important history & civilization museums in the Europe region.
Other top history & civilization museums
If you enjoy history & civilization museums like Viking Ship Museum, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #37Smithsonian National Museum of American HistoryWashington, United States
- #38Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and CultureWashington, United States
- #48Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque & MuseumIstanbul, Turkey
- #68National Museum of KoreaSeoul, South Korea
- #87Vasa MuseumStockholm, Sweden
More museums in Oslo
Oslo is home to 3 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to Viking Ship Museum with these nearby institutions:
- #54Munch Museum (MUNCH)🎭 Artist & Single-Subject
- #147Vigeland Park (Vigeland Museum)🎭 Artist & Single-Subject
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Viking Ship Museum?
Closed for redevelopment, reopens 2027 as Museum of the Viking Age. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at Viking Ship Museum?
Most visitors recommend spending 1.5 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is Viking Ship Museum located?
Viking Ship Museum is located in Oslo, Norway. The exact coordinates are 59.9046°, 10.6843°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is Viking Ship Museum known for?
Three Viking longships preserved. Key highlights include Oseberg Ship, Gokstad Ship, Tune Ship. The museum holds a 4.6/5 rating from 11,000 reviews.
How many people visit Viking Ship Museum each year?
Viking Ship Museum receives approximately 600,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in Norway.
When was Viking Ship Museum founded?
Viking Ship Museum was founded in 1926, making it 100 years old. It is categorised as a history & civilization museum in our directory.
