Tromsø attraction guide · Folklore

Troll Museum Tromsø: what to expect and how to visit

Want an easy indoor stop in central Tromsø? The Troll Museum is a compact journey through Norwegian tales, handmade creatures and northern folklore. It is best enjoyed as a short, curious visit rather than a full-day museum plan. Here is what the ticket covers and how to find the entrance.

The Troll Museum building photographed in central Tromsø in 2021
The museum building photographed in 2021. Follow the current entrance directions before visiting.
WhereKaigata 3, 3rd floor; enter via Samuel Arnesens gate
AllowAt least 30–45 minutes (museum’s advice)
October hours09:00–18:00 daily; check holidays
Adult admissionNOK 200 when checked

The short answer

Is the Troll Museum worth visiting?

Yes, if you enjoy folklore or need a family-friendly indoor stop that fits between other plans. This is a small museum devoted to trolls, myths and fairy tales, with handmade figures and story-led displays. The museum recommends at least 30–45 minutes; you can stay longer for the guides, quiz and games.

It is less suitable if you want a large history collection or a deep account of Arctic exploration. For that, start with the Polar Museum. For live Arctic animals, see Polaria. The Troll Museum fills a different gap: an approachable introduction to the stories people tell about the North.

Inside the museum

What will you see?

The museum describes its current exhibition as a mix of handmade figures, whole-scene installations, classic illustrations and storytelling. Its themes include Norwegian fairy tales, trolls and the history behind them. It also introduces Northern Norwegian folklore and Sámi traditions; those are distinct traditions, so give each its own attention as you move through the displays.

01

Trolls and tales

Meet characters and creatures from the stories, then read how different versions of a tale developed.

02

Folklore in context

Look beyond the figures to the beliefs and cultural settings that shaped the stories.

03

Time to play

The standard ticket includes a troll quiz and board games, useful if your group wants a slower finish.

A visitor using a tablet beside a sea-troll figure in the Troll Museum
A sea-troll display photographed in 2021; exhibits may change. Photo: Per Lykkelig / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; displayed with a crop.

Admission

How much are Troll Museum tickets?

On 16 October 2026, the museum listed NOK 200 for adults, NOK 100 for children aged 5–12, and free entry for children under 5. The family ticket was NOK 450 for two adults and two children; students and seniors were NOK 150 with valid ID. Check the official ticket page for the final price and ticket terms on your date.

A standard ticket covers the exhibition at your own pace, plus printed and audio guides, a quiz and board games. You can buy online or at reception. A guided group tour is a separately booked add-on, so do not assume one is included with ordinary admission.

Timing

Opening hours and time needed

The museum currently lists 09:00–19:00 daily for most months, with 09:00–18:00 in April, May, September and October. It says major holidays can change the schedule and that it closes on 17 May. Recheck the official FAQ for your date.

Allow at least 30–45 minutes, as the museum recommends. That works for a first look; leave more time if you want to read the stories, use an audio guide or play the games. There is no timed route through the exhibition on a standard ticket.

Who it suits

Is it good for children and rainy days?

It is a practical option with children because the visit can be short and the ticket includes games and a quiz. The museum says it welcomes all ages. Some stories and figures may feel atmospheric or a little eerie to younger children, so decide based on what your child enjoys rather than expecting a conventional play area.

For a rainy day, it pairs naturally with another central indoor stop. If your group wants animals and a longer visit, Polaria is the stronger choice. If you want history, choose the Polar Museum. You can also see our rainy-day guide for more options.

A child viewing a digital troll through a tablet at the museum in 2021
A child using a tablet at the museum in 2021; ask the venue which interactive features are available now. Photo: Per Lykkelig / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; displayed with a crop.

Finding the entrance

Where is the Troll Museum in Tromsø?

The current address is Kaigata 3, 3rd floor, 9008 Tromsø, by the harbour. The entrance is on Samuel Arnesens gate, not directly from the Kaigata frontage. The museum says to take the lift to the third floor. Use its current directions if the building looks different from older photos.

It is within walking distance of central hotels and the cruise docks. The museum has no visitor parking of its own; paid parking is available nearby. It says the building has a lift, the exhibition can be used with a wheelchair or walker, and there are places to sit. Contact the museum for any specific access needs before you go.

Common questions

Troll Museum Tromsø FAQ

Can you buy tickets at the door?

Yes. The museum says tickets are sold online and at reception. Check the official ticket page for current prices and any date-specific conditions.

How long does a visit take?

The museum suggests at least 30–45 minutes. Stay longer if you want to use the guides, read more of the stories or play a game.

Is the Troll Museum the same as the Polar Museum?

No. The Troll Museum covers folklore and fairy tales at Kaigata 3. The Polar Museum is a separate attraction about Arctic exploration and Tromsø’s polar history.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

The museum says the building has a lift and the exhibition is accessible with a wheelchair or walker. Contact it about your specific needs before visiting.

Sources and review

We checked these primary sources on 16 October 2026. Prices, hours, exhibition details and access arrangements may change.

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