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Explore Oslo’s history, polar adventures, and Polynesian explorers on this 4-hour guided museum tour featuring boat rides, interactive exhibits, and expert guides.

The Oslo: Norwegian Explorers and Culture 3 Museum Tour offers an engaging journey through Norway’s rich exploration history and cultural heritage. Priced at $349 per person, this 4-hour private tour combines visits to three renowned museums, scenic boat rides, and immersive exhibits. It’s perfect for travelers interested in polar expeditions, Norwegian traditions, and legendary explorers like Thor Heyerdahl. The tour starts with a pick-up from central Oslo, including options from your hotel or City Hall, making logistics straightforward.
This tour shines with its expert live guides speaking Spanish, English, or Norwegian, and includes ferry rides and museum admissions. While food and drinks are not included, the experience offers a well-paced exploration of Norway’s exploration history, Norwegian heritage, and Polynesian adventure. Travelers who enjoy learning through interactive displays and unique ship experiences will find this tour both informative and captivating.
You can check availability for your dates here:Museum lover? We've covered these other cultural institutions in Oslo
The tour begins in central Oslo, where you are picked up and then taken to the ferry for a 10-minute boat trip across the Oslo fjord in summer, or a bus in winter. This scenic ride sets the tone for the day, offering striking views of the surrounding landscapes and city skyline. The first museum visited is the Norwegian Cultural Museum, an open-air site showcasing houses from the 11th century to today. Visitors walk through historical Norwegian homes, gaining insight into local life through the ages.
Following this, the tour proceeds to the Fram Museum, which centers on polar exploration. Here, you step aboard the ship Fram, known for reaching the farthest north and south points on Earth. The exhibit includes the cabins and living quarters of polar explorers, providing a tangible feel of their brave journeys. The guide explains how these explorers lived and the significance of the vessel in polar history.

One of the standout features at the Fram Museum is the replica of the northern lights, where visitors can witness an interactive display simulating the aurora borealis. Adjacent to this, a chill room allows you to feel sub-zero temperatures, giving a sense of the extreme conditions faced by polar explorers. This combination of sensory experiences makes the museum visit both educational and memorable.
Next, the tour moves to the Gjoa Museum, focusing on Thor Heyerdahl’s famous Northwest Passage voyage. Here, you hear the story of how Heyerdahl’s expedition embarked on this historic journey. The museum features displays about the Gjoa ship and the challenges of Arctic navigation, offering an in-depth look into Norwegian maritime history.
The final museum stop is the Kon-Tiki Museum, dedicated to Thor Heyerdahl’s balsa wood raft that traveled from South America to Polynesia in 101 days. The open embarkation made of balsa wood is on display, allowing visitors to observe the craft that connected continents in a pioneering adventure. The museum provides insights into Heyerdahl’s theories and the significance of his expeditions.
More Great Tours NearbyThis private group tour includes pick-up in central Oslo and all museum entries, with live guides available in multiple languages. The ferry rides are included, or a bus in winter, ensuring smooth transportation between stops. The tour is designed for comfort—comfortable shoes are recommended, and large luggage is not permitted. The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
The combination of museum visits, scenic boat rides, and interactive exhibits offers a well-rounded perspective on Norway’s exploration history. Notably, the expert guides are praised for their knowledge, making the experience both informative and engaging. The highlight of boarding the ship that reached the farthest points and exploring Thor Heyerdahl’s adventurous spirit stands out as a major attraction.
The inclusion of visual and sensory experiences, like the northern lights replica and chill room, enhances understanding of the explorers’ environment. This tour is particularly suited for those with a keen interest in polar and maritime history, as well as Norwegian culture.
The tour’s duration of four hours makes it an efficient way to explore key sites without feeling rushed. Since food and beverages are not included, it’s advisable to plan for snacks or meals before or after the tour. Comfortable shoes are essential given the walking involved, and travelers should note that pregnant women are not recommended to join due to physical activity and environmental elements like the chill room.

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Norway’s exploration legacy through three carefully selected museums. The scenic boat trip adds a special touch, connecting visitors with the natural beauty of Oslo’s fjord. The interactive exhibits and expert guides make complex stories accessible and engaging, while the ferry and museum visits ensure a smooth, cohesive experience.
While the price of $349 reflects a premium, it covers all admission fees, transportation, and guided commentary. This makes it a convenient and educational choice for travelers eager to understand Norway’s maritime achievements and cultural history.
“Fantastic guide!”
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes ferry (or bus in winter), entrance to the museums, live guides, and pick-up in central Oslo.
How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.
Is food included?
No, food and beverages are not included; travelers should plan accordingly.
Can I join the tour if I have large luggage?
No, large bags are not allowed to ensure comfort and safety during the museum visits.
What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak Spanish, English, and Norwegian.
Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women due to environmental elements and activity levels.
How do I get to the pickup location?
Pickup is included at your hotel in central Oslo or from City Hall—please inform the tour provider of your preferred location.
What makes this tour different from other Oslo sightseeing options?
Its focus on polar exploration, maritime history, and Norwegian culture, with interactive exhibits and a scenic fjord boat ride, makes it unique and educational.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The provided information does not specify age restrictions, but given the environmental conditions and walking involved, it’s best suited for older children and adults.
How do I reserve my spot?
You can reserve now and pay later, allowing flexibility while securing your place in this engaging exploration of Norway’s history.
This Oslo: Norwegian Explorers and Culture 3 Museum Tour offers a rich, hands-on look at Norway’s maritime and exploration history, perfect for those eager to combine cultural learning with scenic experiences.
You can check availability for your dates here: