When you visit Oslo, Norway, exploring the National Gallery (Nasjonalgalleriet) offers a rich journey through Norwegian and international art. Established in 1842 following an 1836 parliamentary decision, the gallery originally resided in the Royal Palace before moving to its own dedicated building in 1882. Today, as part of the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, the gallery's collection is housed in a building on the harbor front designed by architects Kleihues + Schuwerk within the Fjordbyen development.
Inside, you will discover extraordinary masterpieces from both local creators and globally renowned painters. Norwegian artistic heritage shines through works by Edvard Munch, including iconic creations like The Scream and a version of Madonna, alongside pieces by Johan Christian Claussen Dahl, Erik Werenskiold, Christian Krohg, Harriet Backer, and sculptor Julius Middelthun. Beyond domestic treasures, the extensive collection showcases European Old Masters such as El Greco, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Artemisia Gentileschi, as well as 19th and 20th-century international icons including Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, and Pablo Picasso.
Whether admiring classical historical canvases or groundbreaking modern art, this Oslo institution provides an exceptional cultural experience.
What to see at National Gallery of Norway
- Edvard Munch masterpieces including The Scream and a version of Madonna
- Norwegian art by Johan Christian Claussen Dahl, Christian Krohg, and Harriet Backer
- European Old Masters by El Greco, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Artemisia Gentileschi
- 19th and 20th-century paintings by Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, and Pablo Picasso
- Harbor front setting designed by architects Kleihues + Schuwerk in Fjordbyen
Visiting tips
Keep in mind that the gallery's collection moved to its location on the harbor front in June 2022.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
National Gallery of Norway 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.
See the full Oslo travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.