Plizio Visual Lab
Skansen Museum
The Skansen Museum in Tromsø is a cultural-historical gem, located on the grounds of the oldest preserved fortification in the city. The history of the site dates back to the Middle Ages, when the first defensive structures were erected here to protect the harbor. The current main building of the museum was built in 1789 and originally served as the residence of the Danish-Norwegian vice-consul. The architecture is an excellent example of the North Norwegian building style of the late 18th century, with its massive wooden walls and bright facade. Visitors can view exhibits on city history, polar trade, and daily life in the Arctic. The site is surrounded by a small park, which is one of the few green areas in the historic city center and gives a view of the Tromsøysund strait.
- Location: Norway
- Top sights: Galleri 7 · Modern Art Gallery · BUL-salen
- Nearby: Ranheim (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -3 | -2 | 3 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 4 | 0 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 129 | 112 | 118 | 94 | 94 | 134 | 133 | 136 | 149 | 123 | 122 | 140 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The main building of Skansen was completed in 1789.
- It is the oldest preserved house in the city of Tromsø.
- The fortress ramparts likely date back to around 1250.
- Skansen was designated a protected monument in 1978.
- The museum is part of the Perspektivet Museum network.
- A former 19th-century customs office is located within the complex.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Skansen Museum (10)
Trøndelag Senter for Samtidskunst
Center for contemporary art in Trondheim, hosting exhibitions and projects.
Nye Hjorten Teater
Theatre in Trondheim, offering a diverse repertoire of plays.
PoMo🏛 museum
Museum in Trondheim, dedicated to postmodern art and design.
Stiftsgården🏛 museum
Former royal residence in Trondheim, now a museum and event venue.
Stiftsgårdsparken🌳 park
Park in Trondheim municipality, Norway, with green spaces and paths.
BUL i Nidaros
Theatre in Trondheim, presenting local productions and cultural events.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Skansen building located?
What is special about this house?
Can you visit the interior?
What is the history of the site?
Is there a garden?
Skansen Museum: where is it located?
Skansen Museum: what is there to see?
Skansen Museum: when is the best time to visit?
Skansen Museum: why is it worth visiting?


















