7 Summer Highlights at the Norwegian Maritime Museum

Along one of the world's longest coastlines, people and boats have been inseparable throughout Norwegian history.

Step into the Boat Hall and explore the By Sea exhibition — home to the largest collection of open traditional boats in Norway: 13 beautifully preserved 19th-century vessels, each reflecting local tradition and craftsmanship unique to its region.

On the mezzanine, Maritime Oslo takes you back to 16th- and 17th-century Oslo, with boat finds and other archaeological artefacts from the major excavations carried out over the past decade at Bjørvika in Oslo.

• From 1 July: Join a guided tour (included in admission)

What was life really like at sea? At Sea! brings you face to face with the people who made their lives on the water — from Vikings and pirates to cooks and boatswains. Personal effects, clothing, letters and diaries turn history into something you can feel.

Trace Norway's maritime transport history in On Schedule: Ships and Ship Traffic, and step aboard the preserved steamship DS Sandnæs to imagine life travelling the coast over a century ago.

• From 1 July: Join a guided tour (included i admission)

Explore the Ocean is a feast for the senses — and a firm favourite with kids. Encounter mythical sea creatures, explore the ocean's hidden world and engage with the big challenges facing our seas: from plastic pollution to the green solutions of the future.

Voyages with the Chief and Sally Jones is a playful attraction for children of all ages! Cast off on the Queen of Congo, drop into the Gorilla Bar or go exploring in our very own jungle!

But there is plenty more to discover throughout the museum. Step aboard the steamship DS Sandnæs and travel the coast the way people did over a century ago. Look carefully along the floor of At Sea! and spot the cats, monkeys, worms and other creatures that have lived on board ships. And in Maritime Oslo, uncover real treasures and shipwrecks excavated from the clay of Oslo harbour.

The Norwegian Maritime Museum sits right at the water's edge on the beautiful Bygdøy peninsula — one of Oslo's most scenic spots. Getting here is half the experience: a short ferry ride across the Oslofjord from the city centre brings you straight to the museum's doorstep.

Once you've explored the exhibitions, there's no need to rush. The green surroundings just outside the museum are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic in the sun, or a refreshing swim. And if you'd rather sit back and take it all in, Café FJORD is right there with coffee, snacks and fjord views to match.