Fram Museum 🇳🇴

Located on the Bygdøy peninsula in Oslo, Norway, the Fram Museum invites you to explore the history of Norwegian polar exploration. Opened on May 20, 1936, this dedicated museum honors the daring journeys of legendary polar explorers Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup, and Roald Amundsen. Center stage belongs to the original polar exploration ship, Fram.

Designed by Scots-Norwegian shipbuilder Colin Archer to Nansen's specifications in 1891, the Fram retains its intact original interior, allowing you to step directly inside the vessel to view how explorers lived. Beyond the ship itself, you will discover vibrant images showcasing polar fauna, including polar bears and penguins. The museum also features a separate dedicated building housing the Gjøa, the first vessel to transit the Northwest Passage under Amundsen and his crew of six on a three-year voyage completed in 1906.

Fully accessible to visitors since 2017, the Gjøa offers an up-close look at this historic achievement. Situated near other popular destinations like the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Norwegian Maritime Museum, and Bygdøy Royal Estate, the Fram Museum provides an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking authentic stories of historic polar adventure.

What to see at Fram Museum

• Step inside the original exploration vessel Fram to view its intact interior
• Explore the Gjøa, the first ship to navigate the Northwest Passage
• Learn about legendary Norwegian polar explorers Nansen, Sverdrup, and Amundsen
• Discover visual exhibits depicting polar wildlife like penguins and polar bears

Visiting tips

Combine your trip to the Fram Museum with visits to adjacent Bygdøy attractions like the Kon-Tiki Museum or the Norwegian Maritime Museum.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Fram Museum is easy to reach on Oslo’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Oslo Opera House and Akershus Fortress. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Oslo travel guide.