Moderna Museet
Sweden's modern art collection on Skeppsholmen, strong on the 1960s, with Tinguely and Saint Phalle's fountain outside.
Updated 20 October 2026
The museum opened in 1958 in a naval drill hall on Skeppsholmen and made its reputation quickly under Pontus Hulten, who brought in Duchamp, Rauschenberg and Warhol and staged shows that got international attention - Hon, in 1966, was a reclining figure by Niki de Saint Phalle that visitors entered through. Rafael Moneo's building of 1998 holds the collection now. The holdings run from Picasso, Matisse and Dali through American postwar work to the present, with a strong 1960s core. The Tinguely and Saint Phalle machine fountain sits outside, and the island itself is quiet with water on all sides.
What's there
- A collection strong in the 1960s - built under Pontus Hulten.
- Picasso, Matisse, Dali and postwar American work - the earlier rooms.
- Moneo's 1998 building - the museum's home since then.
- The Tinguely and Saint Phalle fountain - outside on the terrace.
When to go
Year round; closed Mondays. Two to three hours.
Practical notes
The permanent hang rotates, so a specific work may not be up. Temporary shows are charged separately. The island has limited food beyond the museum cafe. Winter wind on the walk over is severe.
Nearby
The architecture museum shares the building; Gamla Stan is across the water.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q1274511, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Moderna Museet
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.



