Munch Museum
26,000 works by Edvard Munch in a 13-storey tower on the waterfront
Overview
Munch donated his entire collection to the city of Oslo when he died in 1944. For decades, the works were housed in a modest building in Tøyen. The new museum, designed by Estudio Herreros, opened in October 2021 on the Bjørvika waterfront — the same harbour district as the Oslo Opera House.
The building is 60 meters tall with 13 exhibition floors. The exterior is clad in perforated, recycled aluminium panels that shift in transparency with the light. Inside, the galleries rotate selections from the 26,000-piece collection — no visit shows the same exhibition twice.
The Scream is here. Both the 1893 pastel version and the 1910 tempera painting are displayed in a dedicated, climate-controlled room on the 6th floor. Photography is allowed without flash. The room is small and intentionally quiet.
Beyond The Scream, the collection spans Munch’s full career: the early realist paintings, the Berlin period, the monumental University Aula murals (as studies), and the late self-portraits from Ekely. The breadth is the point — Munch was not a one-painting artist.
Highlights
The Scream
Both versions are displayed in a dedicated 6th-floor room. The 1893 pastel is the most recognised. Timed entry controls crowd size — book the first or last slot for the quietest viewing.
Architecture
60 meters tall, clad in recycled aluminium. The building leans 20 degrees at the top — visible from across the harbour. Designed by Spanish-Norwegian firm Estudio Herreros.
Rooftop Bar
The top floor has a cocktail bar with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Oslofjord. Open until late on weekends. The view across to Aker Brygge and the fjord islands is worth the drink price.
Rotating Exhibitions
With 26,000 works, the museum rotates constantly. Temporary exhibitions pair Munch with contemporary artists. Check the current programme before visiting — each visit is different.
Practical information
Getting there
Bjørvika waterfront, next to the Oslo Opera House. Tram 18, 19 to Bjørvika. Bus 34, 54, 74 to Operaen. 10-minute walk from Oslo S (central station).
Tickets
Timed entry only — book online at munchmuseet.no. Adults: 160 NOK. Under 18: free. Oslo Pass: included. Book 2–3 days ahead in summer.
Time needed
2–3 hours minimum. The Scream room takes 15–20 minutes. The rotating exhibitions fill 3–4 floors. The rooftop bar adds another 30 minutes.
Tips
First slot (10:00) and last slot (before closing) are quietest. The museum shop on the ground floor sells high-quality prints. The waterfront promenade connects directly to the Opera House roof — walk it after your visit.
Plan your Oslo trip
Oslo has more to offer. Explore the full city guide or browse other Norwegian cities.