Vestfold Travel Guide

Discover Vestfold in Norway with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in Vestfold. Explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.


Introduction to Vestfold

Located in East Norway, Vestfold is a charming region that offers a mix of rich history, culture, and natural beauty. This region is characterized by its rugged coastline dotted with picturesque islands, beautiful fjords, and rolling hills. Vestfold is a popular destination for tourists who appreciate art, history, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Vestfold

Here are some of the top places to visit in Vestfold:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Viking Ship Museum: Located in Tønsberg, this museum is home to the world-famous Oseberg ship, along with other Viking treasures.
  • Hvalfangstmuseet: Situated in Sandefjord, this museum is dedicated to the town’s whaling history.
  • Midgard Historical Centre: Located in Borre, this center offers a glimpse into the Viking Age with its impressive burial mounds and reconstructed longhouses.

Natural Attractions of Vestfold: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mølen: This striking pebble beach, located in Larvik, offers panoramic views of the sea.
  • The Horten Trail: This hiking trail takes visitors through the stunning scenery of Horten, dotted with pine forests and lakes.
  • Tjøme: This island is a popular destination for nature lovers and features many hiking and cycling trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vestfold

Vestfold is a popular destination for cyclists and hikers of all levels. Some of the best routes include:

  • Tønsberg - Sandefjord Trail: This picturesque trail spans 34 kilometers and offers stunning views of the sea.
  • The Coastal Path: This well-marked trail runs along the coastline of Vestfold and features several camping sites along the way.
  • Borre National Park: This park has several hiking trails that take visitors through its lush forests and offer a glimpse into its rich history.

Best Things to Do in Vestfold: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Færder National Park: This park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and includes many hiking trails.
  • Take a Boat Tour of the Oslofjord: This scenic boat tour takes visitors through the beautiful waters of the Oslofjord and offers a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
  • Visit the Villa Malla Garden: This charming garden in Sandefjord is filled with exotic plants and stunning sculptures.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vestfold

Here is an example itinerary for a week-long visit to Vestfold:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Viking Ship Museum in Tønsberg
2 Hike or bike along the Tønsberg - Sandefjord Trail
3 Explore Færder National Park
4 Take a boat tour of the Oslofjord
5 Visit the Midgard Historical Centre in Borre
6 Discover the Horten Trail
7 Relax on the beaches of Tjøme

Food and Drink Scene of Vestfold

Vestfold offers a unique culinary experience with its delicious seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fiskesuppe: This hearty fish soup is a staple dish in Vestfold.
  • Pølse og Potetstappe: This dish consists of sausages served with mashed potatoes and is a popular comfort food in Vestfold.
  • Kjøttkaker: This dish features meatballs served with boiled potatoes and lingonberry sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Akevitt: This traditional Norwegian drink is distilled from potatoes and is a popular accompaniment to seafood.
  • Eplemost: This refreshing apple juice is made from locally grown apples and is a favorite among locals.

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

Vestfold offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

  • Farris Bad Hotel: This luxurious hotel in Larvik offers stunning sea views and features a spa and wellness center.
  • Quality Hotel Tønsberg: This hotel is conveniently located near the city center and offers comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities.
  • Sandefjord Motor Hotel: This hotel offers affordable accommodation with easy access to the town’s attractions.

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

Vestfold offers a variety of unique and locally sourced souvenirs and products. Here are some ideas:

  • Norwegian Knitwear: Vestfold is known for its high-quality knitwear, including sweaters, hats, and mittens.
  • Vestfold Honey: This locally produced honey is a delicious and unique souvenir to bring home.
  • Handmade Pottery: Artists in Vestfold create beautiful handmade pottery, including plates, bowls, and vases.

Local Culture and Customs of Vestfold

The people of Vestfold are proud of their history and cultural heritage. Visitors can learn more about the local culture through art, music, and traditional festivals. Dressing appropriately for the weather is important, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Vestfold

The best time to visit Vestfold is between June and August, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so visitors should expect larger crowds and higher prices. The shoulder season, from May to June and September to October, is also a great time to visit as the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vestfold

Do:

  • Do try the local seafood, especially the shrimp and lobster.
  • Do take your time and explore the region’s natural beauty.
  • Do be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to the locals or their customs.
  • Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather and bring comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vestfold

Vestfold is generally a safe destination, although visitors should take precautions against petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in tourist areas. It is also important to follow safety guidelines when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Vestfold

Vestfold has a high standard of healthcare and visitors should have no issues accessing medical care if needed. However, it is still important to have adequate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Vestfold: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vestfold

  • Sandefjord Airport Torp
  • Oslo Airport Gardermoen

Bus Stations Near Vestfold

  • Tønsberg Bus Terminal
  • Sandefjord Bus Station
  • Horten Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train from Oslo to Tønsberg, Sandefjord, or Larvik.

How to Get Around in Vestfold

Vestfold has a good transportation system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. Cycling and walking are also popular options, especially for exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Where to Go Next from Vestfold: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can consider:

  • Oslo: Norway’s capital city is just a short train ride away and offers a range of attractions, including museums, galleries, and historical landmarks.
  • Telemark Canal: This impressive canal connects the cities of Skien and Dalen and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Stavern: This charming coastal town is known for its picturesque harbor, galleries, and museums.

Conclusion

Vestfold is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a mix of historical attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the region’s rich Viking heritage, sample delicious local cuisine, and take in the stunning natural beauty of its coastline and countryside. With a well-developed transportation system and a range of accommodation options, Vestfold is the perfect destination for travelers of all ages and interests.



    Larvik
    Stokke
    Tønsberg