Moss Travel Guide

Explore the stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and historic landmarks of Moss, Norway with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Moss

Located in Østfold county in East Norway, Moss is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and unique culture. With its stunning fjords, beautiful beaches, and lush green forests, Moss is a nature lover’s paradise. The town is known for its rich cultural heritage, with several museums, galleries, and historic landmarks showcasing its long history. In this guide, we will take a closer look at some of the top places to visit, things to do, and must-try dishes in Moss.

List of Places to Visit in Moss

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Moss Town and Industrial Museum: This fascinating museum offers an insight into the industrial and maritime history of the town, with exhibits showcasing shipbuilding, pottery, and other local industries.
  • Gallery F 15: This contemporary art gallery is located in a scenic park overlooking the Oslofjord and hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
  • Galleri Henrik Gerner: Specializing in contemporary Norwegian painting and sculpture, this gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
  • Dronningens gate: One of the oldest streets in Moss, Dronningens gate features several historic wooden houses and offers a glimpse into the town’s past.

Natural Attractions of Moss: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jeløya Island: Connected to mainland Moss by a scenic bridge, Jeløya island is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The island is also known for its diverse wildlife, with several rare bird species nesting here.
  • Refsnes Beach: With its crystal clear waters and fine sand, Refsnes Beach is a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball.
  • Vansjø: This vast freshwater lake is ideal for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The lake is surrounded by several hiking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding forests and fields.
  • Kyststien Trail: Stretching over 50 kilometres along the Oslofjord, the Kyststien Trail is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The trail offers unparalleled views of the fjord, islands, and coastal landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Moss

Moss has a wide range of hiking and biking trails, covering everything from scenic coastal paths to lush green forests. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Kyststien Trail: As mentioned earlier, this trail stretches over 50 kilometres along the Oslofjord and offers some of the most stunning coastal views in Norway.
  • Jeløy Ring: This scenic route circles Jeløya island and covers a distance of around 24 kilometres. The trail offers a mix of coastal paths, forest trails, and charming villages.
  • Sarpsborg-Moss Trail: This picturesque trail runs along the Glomma River, connecting Moss with the town of Sarpsborg. The route covers a distance of around 25 kilometres and passes through several scenic spots, including the Visterflo Nature Reserve.

Best Things to Do in Moss: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour of the Oslofjord: Moss is an ideal starting point for a boat tour of the stunning Oslofjord. Several operators offer guided tours that cover everything from scenic islands to historic forts.
  • Kayaking Adventure: With its calm waters and stunning scenery, Moss is a perfect destination for kayaking enthusiasts. Several local operators offer kayaking tours, ranging from relaxed sunset paddles to challenging expeditions.
  • Art Walk: Moss is known for its vibrant art scene, and several local organizations offer art walks that showcase the town’s best galleries, public art installations, and creative spaces.
  • Fishing Expedition: With its vast lakes, rivers, and fjords, Moss offers excellent fishing opportunities for everyone from beginners to experienced anglers. Several local operators offer guided fishing expeditions that cater to all skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Moss

Day 1: Explore the town’s cultural heritage with a visit to the Moss Town and Industrial Museum, followed by a stroll along Dronningens gate.

Day 2: Take a boat tour of the Oslofjord and discover the stunning coastal landscape, historic forts, and charming islands.

Day 3: Hike the Kyststien Trail and enjoy the countless natural wonders along the path.

Day 4: Cross the bridge to Jeløya island and spend the day at Refsnes Beach. In the evening, visit Gallery F 15 and enjoy dinner at the adjacent café.

Day 5: Kayak the calm waters of the Oslofjord and discover hidden coves, rocky islets, and abundant wildlife.

Day 6: Take an art walk around the town and discover the vibrant local art scene.

Day 7: Rent a bike and explore the picturesque villages and lush green forests of the Sarpsborg-Moss Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Moss

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fårikål: This traditional Norwegian lamb and cabbage stew is a local favourite, especially during the colder months.
  • Rakfisk: A fermented fish dish that is popular in many parts of Norway, rakfisk is a delicacy that packs a punch.
  • Rømmegrøt: A traditional porridge made with sour cream, milk, and flour, rømmegrøt is a hearty and filling dish that is best enjoyed with lingonberry jam.

Local Beverages

  • Aass Brewery: Located in nearby Drammen, the Aass Brewery has been producing quality beer since 1834. Their premium pilsner is a local favourite.
  • Grevinnen Beer Hall: This popular microbrewery in Moss offers a range of craft beers and delicious pub food.
  • Moss Avis Kaffebar: This cozy café in the heart of Moss serves delicious coffee and homemade cakes.

Where to Stay in Moss: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Moss Hotel: Located in the centre of town, this historic hotel combines modern amenities with vintage charm. The hotel features a bar, restaurant, and fitness centre.
  • Moss Vandrerhjem Rygge: This budget-friendly hostel is located near the airport and offers comfortable dorms and private rooms.
  • Jeløy Radio Hotel: Surrounded by lush green forests and a short distance from the beach, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms, an outdoor hot tub, and a farm-to-table restaurant.

What to Buy in Moss: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Jeløy Salt: Produced from seawater harvested along the coast of Moss, Jeløy Salt is a popular seasoning that adds a unique flavour to any dish.
  • Glassblowing Artifacts: Moss is known for its flourishing glassblowing scene, and several local artists offer beautiful handcrafted artifacts, including vases, bowls, and sculptures.
  • Hand-knitted Wool Sweaters: Norway is famous for its wool sweaters, and Moss has several local shops that offer high-quality traditional designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Moss

Moss has a proud cultural heritage, with several festivals, celebrations, and traditions that reflect the town’s unique identity. Some of the most important events include:

  • Moss Bymarknad: This traditional market takes place in the city centre every September and offers everything from handicrafts to local food.
  • Moss Literature Festival: Held every spring, this festival celebrates Norwegian literature and features readings, workshops, and author talks.
  • Refsnes Gods Jul: This annual Christmas market takes place in the historic Refsnes Gods mansion and offers a magical atmosphere with live music, festive food, and crafts.

Best Time to Visit Moss

The best time to visit Moss is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is at its warmest, and the outdoor activities and attractions are in full swing. However, if you are interested in winter sports or cultural events, the winter months can also be a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Moss

Do:

  • Respect nature and the environment.
  • Be polite and courteous to locals.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take part in local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb wildlife.
  • Make loud noise in public places.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Overstep personal boundaries.

Safety and Health

Safety in Moss

Moss is generally a safe place to visit, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, like any other tourist destination, it is important to take basic precautions, such as keeping valuables safe, avoiding isolated areas at night, and staying aware of your surroundings.

Health in Moss

Norway has a well-developed healthcare system, and Moss has several hospitals and clinics that offer quality medical services. As an EU citizen, you are entitled to free emergency healthcare in Norway, but it is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers all eventualities.

Getting to Moss: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Moss

The nearest major airport to Moss is Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), located approximately 90 kilometres north-east of the town. From the airport, you can take a train to Moss or rent a car and drive to the town.

Bus Stations Near Moss

Moss has a bus station located in the town centre, which offers regular connections to major cities and towns in the region.

Other Options

Moss is well-connected with the rest of Norway by train, with frequent services to Oslo and other major cities. You can also rent a car and drive to the town, or take a ferry from one of the nearby islands.

How to Get Around in Moss

Moss is a small town that is easy to get around on foot or by bike. For longer distances, you can take a bus or taxi, or rent a car from one of the local agencies.

Where to Go Next from Moss: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Oslo: Norway’s vibrant capital city is located just a short train ride away from Moss and offers a range of attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic landmarks.
  • Fredrikstad: This picturesque coastal town is known for its well-preserved old town, charming canals, and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Halden: Located near the Swedish border, Halden is a historic fortress town that offers plenty of interesting sights, including the Halden Canal and the Fredriksten Fortress.

Conclusion

Moss is a hidden gem in Norway, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and unique culture. Whether you are a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Moss has something to offer everyone. We hope that this guide has given you a glimpse into the town’s many attractions and that you will be inspired to visit soon.

The Moss–Horten Ferry arriving in Moss The Moss–Horten Ferry arriving in Moss