Munch Museum (Munchmuseet)
Edvard Munchs Plass 1, Oslo, Norway, 0194
Housing Norwegian symbolist painter Edward Munch's life’s work, the Munch Museum opened in 1963 to commemorate what would have been the artist’s 100th birthday. The museum features works and belongings he had donated to the city; a magnificent collection of paintings, prints, drawings, watercolors, sculptures, notebooks, photographs, art tools, furniture, as well as his extensive collection of letters.Please note: The Munch Museum is reopening at a new location along the Bjørvika waterfront next to the Opera House in late 2021.
The Basics
Munch aficionados will appreciate the collection’s less conventional pieces, including lithographic stones, etchings, and woodcut plates, as well as newspaper cutouts, books, and other information about the artist, further encapsulating the full career of the artist. The most popular pieces here are arguably two of art history’s most iconic works, The Scream and Madonna.
Visit the museum with the Oslo City Pass, which allows free admissions to other must-visit attractions such as Kon-Tiki Museum and Akershus Fortress, and grants discounts at Tusenfryd Theme Park and Oslo Winter Park, among others. Extra benefits include free public transportation in select zones, discounted, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Munch Museum is a must-see for fans of the artist and anyone who appreciates fine art.
- Go to the cafe for a light meal, and the boutique that sells a nice array of catalogues, books, and souvenirs.
- Audio guides, guided tours, concerts, lectures, and screenings are available for a nominal fee.
- Guided tours in English are conducted once a day during July and August.
- The museum is stroller and wheelchair-friendly.xa0
- Sometime in 2020, a new Munch Museum will open at the Bjørvika waterfront next to the Opera House.
How to Get There
Munch Museum is located in the Gamle Oslo district of the city at the south side of Oslo’s Botanic Garden. From Central Station, take the Line 3 subway to the Tøyen stop, and walk to Tøyengata. Or, take bus Line 16 and stop at Tøyen skole. Walk north for a few minutes until you get to the museum. Parking is nearby.
When to Get There
The museum is generally open daily from morning until the afternoon. From September to May, the museum is closed on Mondays; during the spring and summer, the museum is open longer hours to accommodate more guests. Come on a weekday morning to beat the crowds. Peak season in Oslo coincides with the warm summer months (mid-June through August).
Stolen Scream
In 2004, two men walked into the museum and demanded both The Scream and Madonna paintings at gunpoint. While some experts at the time estimated the value of The Scream at around US$100m, others said it was almost impossible to put a number to it. Two years later, the paintings were recovered, having both sustained minimal damage, but the motives of the thieves were never understood.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!