Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and of Military History
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Armed Forces Museum

4.5
·2k reviews·, Norway

Explore Norway's military evolution from Viking times to today, featuring weapons, uniforms, and impressive war machines.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and of Military History

Armed Forces Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Norway's military evolution from Viking times to today, featuring weapons, uniforms, and impressive war machines.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A vast collection of weapons and war machinery, from Viking swords to modern tanks, makes this a must-see."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring a translation app

Many info signs are in Norwegian. A translation app helps unlock the full story of the exhibits! :iphone:

Oslo Pass for savings

If visiting multiple sites, the Oslo Pass offers free entry and can be a great money-saver. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Viking Age to Modern Warfare

Viking Age to Modern Warfare

Main Exhibition Halls

Explore centuries of military evolution, from Viking swords to contemporary firearms. A comprehensive journey through Norway's defense history.

War Machinery Encounters

War Machinery Encounters

Outdoor Exhibits

Get up close with cannons, tanks, and armored vehicles. Some exhibits even allow you to step inside for a unique perspective.

Uniform and Weaponry Displays

Uniform and Weaponry Displays

Exhibition Halls

Detailed displays of historical uniforms and an extensive collection of weapons, showcasing the craftsmanship and evolution of military gear.

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Planning Your Visit

Oslo Pass Advantage

Consider the Oslo Pass for free entry to the Armed Forces Museum and many other Oslo attractions. It can save you money if you plan to visit multiple sites, as highlighted by visitors who found it a great value.Reddit

Language Accessibility

While the museum is rich with artifacts, many information placards are primarily in Norwegian. Visitors recommend bringing a translation app or being prepared for a more visual experience if English is your primary language.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
More relaxed pace, good for families
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Oslo Trip - Secret tips?

Bring a translation app

Many info signs are in Norwegian. A translation app helps unlock the full story of the exhibits! :iphone:

Oslo Pass for savings

If visiting multiple sites, the Oslo Pass offers free entry and can be a great money-saver. :ticket:

reddit.com

What to do for six hours in Oslo

reddit.com

My trip to the norwegian military aircraft collection part 2

Wear comfy shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collection. :athletic_shoe:

Explore outdoor exhibits

Don't miss the impressive cannons and vehicles outside! Great photo ops. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Oslo on a budget

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring a translation app

Many info signs are in Norwegian. A translation app helps unlock the full story of the exhibits! :iphone:

Oslo Pass for savings

If visiting multiple sites, the Oslo Pass offers free entry and can be a great money-saver. :ticket:

Wear comfy shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collection. :athletic_shoe:

Explore outdoor exhibits

Don't miss the impressive cannons and vehicles outside! Great photo ops. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Armed Forces Museum for its vast collection spanning centuries of Norwegian military history, from Viking artifacts to modern weaponry and impressive war machinery. The ability to see and even enter some vehicles is a major draw. However, a recurring point of feedback is the limited amount of information available in English, which can make understanding the exhibits challenging for international guests.

"One of the best (smaller) military museums I have been to! Vast collection of weapons from the viking era swords to modern day guns and everything in between. Also some interesting uniforms and even a Canon on a sledge."

Cyriel Rademacher

"Amazing museum in terms of scale, two floors filled with war artifacts dating back centuries. The exhibits flow naturally from the past to the present and showcase weaponry and uniforms. Detailed information provided to accompany."

Sarah Hartman

"Lots of cool things to see here. Only a few info placards are in English, so that was hard for us. It was still cool to see all the things they have out in display. We liked the way it was set up. It has you basically loop around the building, so it's easy to see everything."

Sam K

What People Like

Vast collection of weapons
Impressive war machinery
Historical uniforms

What People Dislike

Limited English information

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Armed Forces Museum is located within Akershus Fortress. You can reach the fortress by walking from the city center, taking a bus to the 'Akershus Festning' stop, or by tram to 'Rådhusplassen' and then a short walk. It's easily accessible as part of exploring Oslo's historic waterfront.

Parking directly within Akershus Fortress is limited and often restricted. It's recommended to use public transport or park in nearby city center garages and walk to the fortress. This aligns with general advice for navigating Oslo's historic areas.

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Oslo Central Station to Akershus Fortress, offering scenic views along the way. This is a popular option for many visitors exploring the city on foot.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Armed Forces Museum is often included with the Oslo Pass, making it a cost-effective option for multiple attractions. Without the pass, there is an admission fee, but specific prices can vary. Checking the official museum website or the Oslo Pass details is recommended.

Generally, advance booking is not required for the Armed Forces Museum, especially if you have the Oslo Pass. However, during peak tourist seasons or for special events, it's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for any booking recommendations or requirements.

The opening hours for the Armed Forces Museum typically align with the general opening times of Akershus Fortress. They can vary seasonally, so it's best to consult the official museum website or the Akershus Fortress visitor information for the most up-to-date hours.

Yes, the Armed Forces Museum is usually included in the benefits of the Oslo Pass, offering free admission. This is a significant perk for visitors planning to explore multiple museums and attractions in Oslo.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum showcases Norway's military history from the Viking era to the present day, featuring a vast collection of weapons, uniforms, cannons, tanks, and armored vehicles. Visitors can explore exhibits on different floors, with some outdoor displays allowing closer inspection.Reddit

Yes, children often find the displays of tanks, cannons, and historical weaponry fascinating. The opportunity to see and sometimes enter these vehicles can be a highlight for younger visitors, making it a family-friendly destination.

Information on guided tours can vary. It's advisable to check the museum's official website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival. However, many visitors find the self-guided experience informative, especially with a translation app for the Norwegian text.

A typical visit to the Armed Forces Museum can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your level of interest in military history and how thoroughly you explore each exhibit. The museum's layout encourages a comprehensive loop around the displays.Reddit

Akershus Fortress, where the museum is located, is a historic site and may have some accessibility challenges. While efforts are made to improve access, it's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific information regarding accessibility for wheelchairs or mobility issues.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside the Armed Forces Museum for personal use. However, it's always a good practice to look for any signage indicating restrictions, especially in areas with sensitive artifacts or temporary exhibitions.

The outdoor exhibits featuring cannons, tanks, and armored vehicles offer excellent photo opportunities. Inside, the diverse collection of uniforms and weaponry also provides visually interesting shots, especially if you can capture the scale and detail of the artifacts.

While personal photography is usually allowed, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect delicate exhibits. Tripods or professional photography equipment may also require special permission. Always adhere to any posted guidelines.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Armed Forces Museum is a hit with families, especially children, who are often captivated by the tanks, cannons, and armored vehicles on display. The ability to get up close to these impressive machines, and in some cases, even enter them, provides an exciting and memorable experience. It's a fantastic way to introduce younger visitors to history in a hands-on, visually stimulating environment.

While the Norwegian text on some exhibits might be a barrier, the visual nature of the displays, particularly the large machinery and diverse collection of uniforms and weapons, keeps kids engaged. Visiting during weekday mornings can help avoid larger crowds, allowing children more space to explore and interact with the exhibits. Don't forget to check out the outdoor displays, which are often a highlight for younger explorers.Reddit

Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Oslo Pass is your best friend when visiting the Armed Forces Museum. As it's often included with the pass, you can explore this extensive military history collection without an extra charge.Reddit This aligns perfectly with the goal of experiencing Oslo's rich cultural offerings without breaking the bank.

Beyond the entry fee, consider packing your own snacks and water, as on-site food options might be limited or pricier. Walking to Akershus Fortress from the city center is also a free and scenic way to arrive, saving on transportation costs. Prioritizing free activities and attractions covered by passes is key to a budget-friendly trip to Oslo.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Norwegian Military History

The Armed Forces Museum offers a comprehensive look at Norway's military past, spanning from the Viking Age to contemporary defense efforts. Visitors can trace the evolution of warfare through an impressive array of artifacts. The museum's layout is designed to guide you through this historical progression, making it an engaging experience for those interested in military history.

Key exhibits include a vast collection of weapons, ranging from ancient swords to modern firearms, alongside meticulously displayed uniforms that reflect different eras and branches of service. The presence of large-scale items like cannons, tanks, and armored vehicles adds a tangible dimension to the historical narrative. Some of these larger exhibits even allow visitors to step inside, offering a unique glimpse into the operational spaces of military machinery.Reddit

While the museum is rich in visual content, a common point raised by visitors is the limited amount of information available in English. Many placards are primarily in Norwegian, which can be a challenge for international travelers. However, the sheer volume and variety of the exhibits often compensate for this, providing a visually compelling and educational experience, especially when combined with a translation app or prior knowledge of military history.Reddit

Maximizing Your Visit with the Oslo Pass

For many visitors to Oslo, the Oslo Pass is a highly recommended investment, and the Armed Forces Museum is a prime example of why. The pass typically grants free admission to the museum, along with access to numerous other attractions, public transport, and even some guided tours. This can lead to significant savings, especially if you plan to visit several museums and historical sites during your stay.Reddit

When planning your itinerary, consider how the Oslo Pass can streamline your experience. Instead of purchasing individual tickets for each location, a single pass covers entry to places like the Armed Forces Museum, the Viking Ship Museum (though this is now the Museum of Cultural History), and the Fram Museum. This convenience allows for more spontaneous exploration and reduces the hassle of managing multiple tickets.

To make the most of the Oslo Pass, it's wise to map out your desired attractions beforehand and calculate potential savings. The Armed Forces Museum, being a significant historical site, is a great addition to any Oslo Pass itinerary, offering a deep dive into Norway's military heritage without an additional cost.

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