Museums: art and design marry architecture

The National Museum, Opera House and Munch Museum are the must-see stops for art, history and culture lovers, but there are at least a couple more on the agenda, such as the Aker Brigge district with its modern art galleries and the Astrup Fearnley Museum, located along the harbour pedestrian street and dedicated to contemporary art: its particular configuration, with its three pavilions topped by a huge glass wing, makes it easily recognisable as the work of Renzo Piano. Not far away, opposite Pier 1, is one of Oslo's most interesting cultural institutions: the National Museum. Opened in the summer of 2022, it houses collections of modern art, including some works by Munch, and permanent galleries dedicated to international design before and after 1900. Inside, there is an excellent café-restaurant with large windows where you can dine in a cosy and finely furnished ambience. Also not to be missed is the new Munch Museum. Opened in 2021, easily accessible from the centre on foot or by tram, it is a place to 'lose yourself' among the exhibition spaces in a futuristic 13-storey building; at least half are dedicated to the artist's works, including three different versions of his most famous painting, The Scream. A drink at the skybar on the top floor with a view of the fjord or brunch in the beautiful cafeteria overlooking the fjord on the ground floor are a fitting conclusion to an immersive journey (the interactive room with objects that belonged to the artist is beautiful) into the painting of Munch and other contemporary artists.