All ethnology museums to visit in Norway

Explore the cultural diversity and heritage at 70 ethnology museums in Norway. These museums offer insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of various communities.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in Norway:

  1. Oslo City Museum1

    Oslo City Museum

     Oslo
    The Oslo City Museum, located in the heart of Norway's capital, is a department of the larger Oslo Museum. Since 2006, it has been an integral part of the city's cultural and historical landscape, offering visitors a deep dive into the rich history of Oslo.
  2. Historical Museum2

    Historical Museum

     Oslo
    The Historisk museum, located in Oslo, has been welcoming visitors since its opening in 1904. This museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of Norway, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the past and gain a deeper understanding of the country's heritage.
  3. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History3

    The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

     Oslo
    The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, also known as Norsk Folkemuseum, is located in Bygdøy, Oslo, Norway. It is a cultural history museum that houses extensive collections of artifacts from all social groups and regions of the country. This provides a comprehensive insight into the diverse cultures and histories of Norway.
  4. North Cape Hall4

    North Cape Hall

     North Cape
    A very interesting exhibition about life so far north, in and around Nordkapp. You'll find a souvenir shop and a restaurant here as well.
  5. Hedmark Museum5

    Hedmark Museum

     Hamar
    The Anno Museum, located in the former county of Hedmark in southeastern Norway, is a regional group of cultural and natural history museums. Spread across 23 different locations, the museum offers a diverse range of exhibits and collections that reflect the rich history and natural beauty of the region.
  6. Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society6

    Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society

     Hammerfest
    The Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society, also known as the Polar Bear Club, is a unique attraction located in the town of Hammerfest in Troms og Finnmark, Norway. This small exhibition is dedicated to the town's mascot and heraldic crest, the polar bear. It's a fascinating place to learn about the history and culture of this remote town.
  7. Stavanger Museum7

    Stavanger Museum

     Stavanger
    Stavanger Museum, established in 1877, is a museum of natural and cultural history located in the city of Stavanger, Norway. It offers a rich collection of exhibits that reflect the natural and cultural history of the region.
  8. Museum of Archaeology Stavanger8

    Museum of Archaeology Stavanger

     Stavanger
    Visit this museum to see fascinating archeological artifacts coming from different times of Norwegian history.
  9. The Arctic University Museum of Norway9

    The Arctic University Museum of Norway

     Tromsø
    The Tromsø University Museum welcomes over 110,000 visitors each year. It offers a variety of exhibits, with eight permanent displays and two to three temporary exhibitions held throughout the year. These exhibitions provide a comprehensive overview of the region's history, culture, and natural environment.
  10. North Cape Museum10

    North Cape Museum

     Honningsvåg
    The North Cape Museum, also known as Nordkappmuseet, is situated in the Norwegian city of Honningsvåg, within the municipality of Nordkapp. This central location makes it easily accessible for visitors.
  11. The NTNU University Museum11

    The NTNU University Museum

     Trondheim
    The NTNU University Museum, also known as the Museum of Natural History and Archaeology, is a significant institution located in Trondheim, Norway. It is part of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse natural environment of the region.
  12. The Norwegian National Museum of Justice12

    The Norwegian National Museum of Justice

     Trondheim
    The Justice Museum, also known as Justismuseet, located in Trondheim, is Norway's national museum dedicated to the police, judiciary, and penal system. The museum was initially established in 2001 under the name Norwegian Legal Museum, or Norsk rettsmuseum, and was renamed to its current title in 2016.
  13. Ryfylkemuseet13

    Ryfylkemuseet

     Sand
    Ryfylkemuseet, located in Sand, serves as the regional museum for the municipalities in Ryfylke in Rogaland county. These municipalities include Forsand, Strand, Hjelmeland, Suldal, Sauda, Finnøy, Rennesøy, and Kvitsøy. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering insights into the history and culture of these municipalities.
  14. The Polstjerna14

    The Polstjerna

     Tromsø
    The MS Polstjerna, a Norwegian seal hunting ship that was put into service in 1949, is now a museum ship. It belongs to the University Museum of Tromsø, also known as Norges arktiske universitetsmuseum. This historical vessel offers a unique insight into Norway's maritime past and the seal hunting industry.
  15. Svalbard Museum15

    Svalbard Museum

     Longyearbyen (Svalbard)
    The Svalbard Museum, located in Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen, is a place where visitors can delve into the 400-year history of the Spitsbergen archipelago. The museum provides an understanding of the conditions that have allowed human life and activities to thrive on these islands. It's a great place to learn about the region's past and how it has shaped the present.
  16. 16

    The Viking Planet

     Oslo
    The Viking Planet is a unique digital museum experience with two locations in Norway, one in Oslo and the other in Haugesund. These museums offer a unique insight into the world of the Vikings, using advanced technology to bring history to life.
  17. Perspektivet Museum17

    Perspektivet Museum

     Tromsø
    The Perspektivet Museum, established in 1996 in Tromsø, is a foundation with a mission to impart and develop knowledge. It aims to foster understanding of life's connections, create tolerance for cultural diversity, and contribute alternative perspectives on culture and society. This mission is reflected in the museum's collections and exhibitions, making it a unique place to explore and learn.
  18. Midgard vikingsenter18

    Midgard vikingsenter

     Borre
    Midgard vikingsenter is an exhibition facility located in Horten municipality, in the Vestfold and Telemark county of Norway. The center is dedicated to conveying knowledge about the Viking Age, with a particular emphasis on the history of Vestfold. It provides an opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history and culture of the Vikings, making it an interesting destination for history enthusiasts.
  19. Nordland Museum19

    Nordland Museum

     Bodø
    The Nordland Museum, situated in the heart of Bodø in Nordland, Norway, is a significant part of a larger consortium of 18 museum units spread across nine municipalities within the county of Nordland. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region.
  20. Buekorps Museum20

    Buekorps Museum

     Bergen
    The Buekorps Museum, located in Bergen, Norway, is a unique institution dedicated to the traditional neighborhood youth marching organization, Buekorps. This museum offers a deep dive into the history and traditions of this local organization, providing a unique perspective on the cultural heritage of Bergen.
  21. Museum of Cultural History21

    Museum of Cultural History

     Oslo
    The exhibitions of the Cultural History Museum are spread across four main buildings in the city center of Oslo. These include the Historical Museum located at Frederiks gate 2 and Frederiks gate 3, the Laboratory at Frederiks Gate 3 and St. Olavs Gate 29, and the Viking Ship Museum situated on the Bygdøy peninsula. Each of these locations offers a unique insight into different aspects of Norway's cultural history, providing a diverse and enriching experience for visitors.
  22. 22

    Fyresdal bygdemuseum

     Fyresdal
    The Fyresdal Bygdemuseum is situated in the heart of Fyresdal municipality. Although it falls under the jurisdiction of the Vest-Telemark Museum, it is managed by a local board. This gives the museum a unique blend of regional and local influences, making it a fascinating place to explore.
  23. Røros Museum Smeltery23

    Røros Museum Smeltery

     Røros
    The Rørosmuseet holds a special responsibility for several significant aspects of the region. This includes the World Heritage site Røros, the South Sami cultural history, the mining history, and the preservation of buildings. Visitors can explore these diverse facets of the region's history and culture during their visit.
  24. Asker museum24

    Asker museum

     Asker
    The Asker museum, also known as Valstads samlinger, is a cultural history museum. It is situated in Hvalstaddalen, which is also referred to as Kunstnerdalen, in Hvalstad in the Asker municipality. This location is known for its rich cultural history and is a part of the Akershusmuseet.
  25. Norwegian Forestry Museum25

    Norwegian Forestry Museum

     Elverum
    The Anno Norsk skogmuseum, located in Elverum, is a nature and cultural history museum with a national mandate for outdoor industries. These include hunting, trapping, sports fishing, inland fishing, forestry, and the forest industry. The museum also has a broad focus on nature management and outdoor life. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in these areas, offering a comprehensive insight into Norway's rich natural and cultural history.
  26. Anno The Glomdal Museum26

    Anno The Glomdal Museum

     Elverum
    The Glomdalsmuseet in Elverum is a cultural history museum dedicated to the regions of Solør and Østerdalen. It is recognized as one of the largest open-air museums in Norway, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural history of these regions in an immersive outdoor setting.
  27. Nordvegen History Centre27

    Nordvegen History Centre

     Avaldsnes
    The Nordvegen History Centre is a unique experience and dissemination centre located in Avaldsnes, on the northern part of the island of Karmøy in Rogaland. It serves as a hub for exploring the rich history of the region, offering a variety of exhibits and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Nordvegen History Centre offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
  28. The Sami Collections28

    The Sami Collections

     Karasjok
    De Samiske Samlinger, located in Karasjok, is the primary museum dedicated to Sami art, culture, and history. It provides a comprehensive insight into the rich heritage of the Sami people, showcasing a wide range of artifacts and artworks that reflect their unique traditions and way of life.
  29. Coastal Museum in Sogn og Fjordane29

    Coastal Museum in Sogn og Fjordane

     Florø
    The exhibitions at the Coastal Museum in Sogn og Fjordane provide a glimpse into the life on the coast of the region from the mid-18th century to the present day. The displays cover various aspects of coastal life, including fishing, seafaring, coastal crafts, and the life of the fisherman farmer. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the region's history and culture in an engaging and informative way.
  30. Ä´vv Skolt Sámi museum30

    Ä´vv Skolt Sámi museum

     Neiden
    The Äʹvv Skolt Sámi Museum is a cultural-historical institution dedicated to the Skolt Sámi people. It is located in the town of Neiden, in the Sør-Varanger municipality of Troms og Finnmark, Norway. The museum is part of the Tana og Varanger museumssiida foundation, which operates four Sámi museums in northeastern Norway.
  31. Árran31

    Árran

     Drag
    Árran is a cultural center dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Sami culture, with a particular focus on the Lule Sami culture. It is located in the town of Drag, which is part of the Norwegian municipality of Hamarøy in the Nordland province. This location makes it a unique destination for tourists interested in learning about the indigenous cultures of Norway.
  32. Intercultural Museum32

    Intercultural Museum

     Oslo
    The Intercultural Museum, also known as Interkulturelt Museum, is situated at Tøyenbekken 5 in Oslo, Norway. This location is easily accessible and is a convenient spot for tourists who are interested in exploring the cultural diversity of Norway.
  33. Karmsund Civic Museum33

    Karmsund Civic Museum

     Haugesund
    The Karmsund Civic Museum, located in Haugesund, provides a comprehensive overview of the recent cultural history of Nord-Rogaland. This museum is an excellent place for tourists interested in understanding the local culture and history of the region.
  34. Sør-Varanger museum34

    Sør-Varanger museum

     Kirkenes
    The Sør-Varanger museum has a special focus on the region's complex border history. It provides a detailed portrayal of the historical events and cultural exchanges that have shaped the region, from the Norwegian-Russian shared area that the municipality was a part of before the border drawing in 1826 to today's multicultural society.
  35. Valdres Folkemuseum35

    Valdres Folkemuseum

     Fagernes
    The Valdres Folkemuseum is a folk museum situated at Storøya, just outside Fagernes in Nord-Aurdal, Innlandet county, Norway. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Norwegian history and culture in a beautiful natural setting.
  36. Romsdal museum - Krona36

    Romsdal museum - Krona

     Molde
    The Romsdal Museum, located in the Romsdal district of Møre og Romsdal county, Norway, is a significant cultural institution in the region. Based in Molde Municipality, the museum has various sites spread across the region, making it a comprehensive representation of the area's history and culture.
  37. Nordmøre museum37

    Nordmøre museum

     Kristiansund
    The Nordmørsmusea AS is a cultural history museum located in the Nordmøre district of Møre og Romsdal County in Norway. It provides a comprehensive insight into the regional history and culture of the area.
  38. Varanger Museum Esbensengården38

    Varanger Museum Esbensengården

     Vadsø
    The Varanger Museum has a variety of visiting sites and exhibitions that stretch from Pasvik in the south to Vardø in the north. These include the Pomormuseet in Vardø, Tuormainengården, Esbensengården and Kjeldsenbruket in Vadsø, as well as the Grenselandmuseet, Labahågården and Strand school dormitory in Sør-Varanger. Each of these sites offers a unique insight into the region's history and culture.
  39. 39

    Guovdageainnu gilišillju-Kautokeino Bygdetun

     Kautokeino
    The Kautokeino bygdetun (Guovdageainnu gilišillju) in Kautokeino is a museum dedicated to Sami art, culture, and history. It is part of the RiddoDuottarMuseat, a network of museums that focus on the Sami people and their culture. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of exhibits showcasing the rich history and vibrant culture of the Sami people.
  40. Vardø museum40

    Vardø museum

     Vardø
    Vardø museum, established in 1894, holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in Finnmark. This historical establishment offers a unique insight into the region's past, making it a significant point of interest for those keen on understanding the cultural and historical evolution of Finnmark.
  41. Stiklestad National Cultural Centre41

    Stiklestad National Cultural Centre

     Stiklestad
    The Stiklestad National Cultural Centre (SNK) is a museum situated in Stiklestad, Verdal in Nord-Trøndelag. It serves as a national hub institution, tasked with the special responsibility of disseminating knowledge about Olav the Holy, the Battle of Stiklestad, and the part of Norwegian history that is linked to the events that took place at the site. The museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of Norway, particularly focusing on the life and times of Olav the Holy and the significant Battle of Stiklestad.
  42. Nord-Troms museum42

    Nord-Troms museum

     Storslett
    The Nord-Troms Museum, established on May 20, 1979, is dedicated to the preservation, management, documentation, dissemination, and research of the cultural heritage of Nord-Troms. This museum is a significant institution in the region, providing insights into the rich history and culture of Nord-Troms.
  43. 43

    The Coastal Museum in Øygarden

     Oni
    The Coastal Museum in Øygarden is a cultural-historical museum that showcases the coastal culture of Vestland. It is situated in the municipality of Øygarden, making it a significant cultural landmark in the region.
  44. Voss folkemuseum44

    Voss folkemuseum

     Vossavangen
    The Voss Folkemuseum is a district museum situated near Vossevangen in the Voss municipality of Vestland. The museum was established in 1917 with the primary aim of preserving the old courtyard of the Mølster farm. It was opened to the public as an open-air museum in 1928, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the historical and cultural heritage of the region.
  45. Bø museum45

    Bø museum

     Bø
    Bø Museum is situated in the scenic locale of Oterholt in Bø, within the Midt-Telemark municipality. It operates as a part of the larger Telemark Museum, offering visitors a chance to explore a slice of local history and culture.
  46. Hålandstunet46

    Hålandstunet

     Hålandsosen
    Hålandstunet is a division of the Ryfylkemuseet, located just a short detour from highway 13 in Erfjord. This historic large farm has been restored and consists of the main house, Målarstova, and Håmannsbua. The history of Håland as a museum farm began in 1960 when Rogaland Folkemuseum received Målastova and Røykstova with Håmanns-bua as a gift from Hadle Haaland.
  47. Langsæ gård47

    Langsæ gård

     Arendal
    Langsæ gård is a historic farm located in the municipality of Arendal, just a short walk from the city center. In the late 1800s, it served as a pleasure farm for the merchants of Arendal and also functioned as a merchant's farm. This gives visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle and economic activities of the period.
  48. Sunnfjord museum48

    Sunnfjord museum

     Mo
    The Sunnfjord Museum is a district museum that serves the inner municipalities of Sunnfjord, including Jølster, Førde, Gaular, Fjaler, and Naustdal. The museum is located in the host municipality of Førde.
  49. Øyfjell Local History Museum49

    Øyfjell Local History Museum

     Øyfjell
    The Øyfjell Local History Museum is a significant historical site located in Øyfjell, Vinje in West Telemark. Constructed in 1931, the museum is built from wedge-shaped granite, showcasing the architectural style of the period. This gives visitors a glimpse into the past and the rich history of the region.
  50. The Norwegian Museum of Travel and Tourism50

    The Norwegian Museum of Travel and Tourism

     Balestrand
    The Norwegian Museum of Travel and Tourism is situated in the scenic town of Sogndal, in Vestland county, Norway. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique insight into the history of tourism in the country.
  51. Veien cultural heritage park51

    Veien cultural heritage park

     Hønefoss
    Hringariki Kulturminnepark, also known as Veien Kulturminnepark, is a cultural heritage park situated in Ringerike, a region in the province of Buskerud, Norway. This park is a significant site for those interested in cultural history, offering a glimpse into the past of this Nordic country.
  52. Sjøhuset i Bergevik52

    Sjøhuset i Bergevik

     Forsand
    The Sjøhuset i Bergevik is a museum located in the municipality of Forsand. It is part of the Ryfylkemuseum's area of operation, making it a significant part of the region's cultural heritage. Visitors to the museum can learn about the history of the area and its people, and gain insights into the traditional industries that shaped the local economy and way of life.
  53. Norwegian Fishing Village Museum53

    Norwegian Fishing Village Museum

     Å
    The Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, also known as Norsk Fiskeværsmuseum, is located in the village of Å, within the municipality of Moskenes in the Lofoten region of northern Norway. The museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Norwegian fishing.
  54. Norwegian Forest Finland Museum54

    Norwegian Forest Finland Museum

     Grue Finnskog
    The Norsk Skogfinsk Museum, or Norwegian Forest Finnish Museum, is a cultural history museum dedicated to the forest Finnish culture in Southern Norway. It was established in 2005 by the Gruetunet Museum, Finnetunet, Austmarka Historielag, and Åsnes Finnskog Historielag, which have since been transformed into departments under the museum. The museum serves as a significant cultural and historical resource for those interested in the forest Finnish culture and history.
  55. Saemien Sijte55

    Saemien Sijte

     Snåsa
    Saemien Sijte is a Southern Sami museum and cultural center located in Snåsa in Nord-Trøndelag. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about the Southern Sami culture and history.
  56. Várdobáiki samisk senter56

    Várdobáiki samisk senter

     Evenskjer
    Várdobáiki Sami Center is a hub for Sami culture in South Troms and Northern Nordland. It is situated in Evenskjer, a part of the Skånland municipality in Troms. This location serves as a cultural epicenter, providing a deep insight into the rich Sami culture and heritage.
  57. Varanger samiske museum57

    Varanger samiske museum

     Varangerbotn
    The Varanger Samiske Museum, also known as Várjjat Sámi Musea or VSM, is a Sami museum situated in the town of Varangerbotn, within the Nesseby municipality in East Finnmark. This museum is dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of the Sea Sami cultural history in Varanger, Sami prehistory, and contemporary Sami culture.
  58. Herøy Open Air Museum58

    Herøy Open Air Museum

     Silvalen
    The Herøy Open Air Museum is situated at the Herøy Parsonage on the island of Sør-Herøy in Nordland county, Norway. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural history of the region while enjoying the natural beauty of the island.
  59. Lindesnes Bygdemuseum59

    Lindesnes Bygdemuseum

     Vigeland
    The Lindesnes Bygdemuseum, located in Vigeland, was established on November 24, 1990. Originally situated in the city center, the museum was relocated to Kulturtorvet in 2009. This move allowed the museum to be co-located with the Galleri Gustav Vigeland and the Lindesnes library, creating a cultural hub for visitors to explore.
  60. Skedsmo bygdemuseum60

    Skedsmo bygdemuseum

     Skedsmokorset
    The Skedsmo Bygdemuseum, Huseby gård is a museum situated in Skedsmokorset, within the Skedsmo municipality. It operates as a department under the Akershusmuseet. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region.
  61. Hallingdal Museum61

    Hallingdal Museum

     Nesbyen
    The Hallingdal Museum, located in Nesbyen in the Hallingdal region of the Norwegian province of Viken, is an open-air museum. It offers a unique opportunity to explore Norwegian history and culture in a natural and authentic setting.
  62. 62

    Vadsø museum – Ruija kvenmuseum

     Vadsø
    The Vadsø museum - Ruija kvenmuseum is located in the old NRK building at Grensen 1 in Vadsø. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique setting for the museum's exhibits.
  63. 63

    The Contemporary Museum for Northern Peoples

     Fossen
    The Contemporary Museum for Northern Peoples, located in Gáivuotna/Kåfjord, was officially inaugurated on July 21, 2011 by Culture Minister Anniken Huitfeldt. This museum is a significant cultural institution that documents and communicates the cultural expressions and regional Sami culture and history of the northern peoples.
  64. 64

    Kokelv sjøsamiske museum

     Kokelv
    The Kokelv sjøsamiske museum is a Sami museum situated in the village of Kokelv, within the Hammerfest municipality in Troms and Finnmark. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Sami people.
  65. 65

    Tana museum

     Polmak
    The Tana museum, situated in Polmak in the Tana municipality, is a cultural institution that emphasizes the River Sami culture in the Tana Valley. The museum was established in 1985 when the municipality purchased the Polmak guesthouse to operate the museum. The River Sami culture, as defined by the museum, is a culture that originates from a distinctive livelihood closely tied to fishing, wilderness, and agriculture.
  66. 66

    Nordvik old trading post

     Glein
    Nordvik gamle handelssted, situated in Dønna municipality, is recognized as the municipality's millennium site. This trading post is believed to be the oldest and best preserved in Northern Norway, offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich trading history.
  67. 67

    Trysil Engerdal museum

     Trysil
    The Trysil/Engerdal Museum is a unique institution with several open-air museum locations scattered around the regions of Trysil and Engerdal in Norway. These locations offer a diverse range of exhibits and experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the area.
  68. 68

    Rennebu Bygdetun

     Voll
    Rennebu Bygdetun, the oldest and most comprehensive part of Rennebu Bygdemuseum, is located on the Haugen farm in Voll, Rennebu. The farm was purchased by Rennebu Historielag in the early 1950s and was officially opened as a museum on July 4, 1965. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region.
  69. 69

    Grong bygdemuseum

     Bergsmoen
    Grong Bygdamuseum is a cultural history museum situated in Grong, Nord-Trøndelag. This museum offers a unique insight into the local history and culture of the region, making it an interesting destination for those who are interested in learning more about the area's past.
  70. 70

    Hemsedal bygdetun

     Ullsåk
    Hemsedal Bygdatun is a quaint museum located in Ulsåk, a part of the Hemsedal municipality in Viken county, Norway. This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the local history and culture of the region.