Tønsberg Travel Guide (Vestfold/East Norway/Norway/Nordic countries/Europe)

Introduction to Tønsberg

Tønsberg is a lovely city located in Vestfold, in East Norway. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic outdoors, and stunning natural surroundings. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Tønsberg is an ideal destination for backpackers, solo travelers, and families alike.

List of Places to Visit in Tønsberg

Here’s a list of some of the best places to visit and things to do in Tønsberg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Slottsfjellsmuseet: This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Tønsberg’s history, from the Viking Age to the present day. The museum is located on the grounds of the historic Slottsfjell fortress.
Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum: This modern art museum features works by some of Norway’s most renowned contemporary artists.
Tønsberg Domkirke: This ancient cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is one of the most treasured cultural treasures in Tønsberg.

Natural Attractions of Tønsberg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Midtåsen Sculpture Park: This beautiful park is located on a hilltop overlooking the Tønsbergfjord, and features a stunning collection of modern sculptures.
Ilene Nature Reserve: Covering over 26 square kilometers, this protected nature reserve is home to numerous hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and scenic vistas.
Færder National Park: This sprawling national park is located on the southwestern coast of the Oslofjord and features stunning landscapes, lighthouses, and picturesque fishing villages

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tønsberg

Tønsberg is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts as it offers numerous scenic hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to explore the stunning natural surroundings. Some of these hiking and biking routes include:

Tønsberg Way: This 50-kilometer trail follows the coastline of the Tønsbergfjord, from Tønsberg to Sandefjord. Along the way, hikers and bikers can enjoy stunning views of the fjord and the surrounding countryside.
Midtåsen Ridge Path: This 10-kilometer trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in Tønsberg. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and takes visitors through forests and meadows.

Best Things to Do in Tønsberg: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Tønsberg:

Sandefjord Whale Safari: This tour takes visitors out on the water to see whales, seals, and other marine life up close.
Viking Ship Museum: This museum houses several well-preserved Viking ships and provides visitors with a glimpse into the life of the Vikings.
Tønsberg Brewery: This historic brewery offers guided tours of its facilities, as well as tastings and other events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tønsberg

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Tønsberg:

Day 1: Explore Tønsberg’s museums, including Slottsfjellsmuseet and Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum.

Day 2: Take a hike along the Midtåsen Ridge Path, followed by a visit to the Midtåsen Sculpture Park.

Day 3: Visit Færder National Park and explore its many hiking trails and scenic vistas.

Day 4: Go on a Sandefjord Whale Safari and see these majestic creatures up close.

Day 5: Explore Tønsberg’s historic sites, such as the Tønsberg Domkirke and the Oseberg Burial Mound.

Day 6: Enjoy a day at one of Tønsberg’s beautiful beaches, such as Tjøme or Nøtterøy.

Day 7: Take a tour of the Tønsberg Brewery and sample some of the locally brewed beer.

Food and Drink Scene in Tønsberg

Here’s a list of some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample during your visit to Tønsberg:

Must-Try Dishes

Fiskesuppe: This traditional Norwegian fish soup is a hearty and flavorful soup made from a variety of locally caught fish.
Smørbrød: This open-faced sandwich is a staple of Norwegian cuisine and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as smoked salmon, shrimp, or pickled herring.
Brunost: This traditional Norwegian cheese has a unique caramel-like flavor and is typically served on bread or crackers.

Local Beverages

Aquavit: This traditional Scandinavian spirit is made from fermented grain and is typically flavored with herbs and spices such as caraway, dill, and fennel.
Mead: This honey-based wine is a sweet and delicious beverage that has been enjoyed in Scandinavia for centuries.

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

Tønsberg offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay in Tønsberg:

Quality Hotel Tønsberg: This modern hotel is located in the heart of Tønsberg and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
Tønsberg Vandrerhjem: This budget-friendly hostel offers clean and comfortable accommodations, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge area.
Guesthouse Gjestgiveri: This charming guesthouse is located in the historic Quarter of Tønsberg and offers cozy rooms and a lovely garden.

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

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Tønsberg:

Viking-inspired jewelry: The Vikings have a long and storied history in Tønsberg, and many local craftsmen create beautiful jewelry inspired by the Viking era.
Local honey: Norway is known for its delicious honey, and Tønsberg’s beekeepers produce some of the best in the region.
Hand-knitted woolens: Norwegian woolens are both warm and stylish, and Tønsberg is a great place to pick up a cozy sweater or hat to keep you warm during the winter months.

Local Culture and Customs of Tønsberg

Here are some cultural customs to keep in mind during your visit to Tønsberg:

Respect for nature: Norwegians have a deep respect for the environment and take great care to protect their natural surroundings.
Punctuality: Norwegians are known for their punctuality, and it is considered rude to be late for appointments or meetings.
Hygge: This concept of coziness and contentment is an essential part of Norwegian culture and is reflected in everything from the decor of local cafes to the warm and welcoming hospitality of the locals.

Best Time to Visit Tønsberg

The best time to visit Tønsberg is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and many of the outdoor activities and attractions are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tønsberg

Here are a few things to keep in mind during your visit to Tønsberg:

Do:

Try the local cuisine: Norwegian cuisine is unique and delicious, and Tønsberg offers some of the best examples.
Take a hike: The natural scenery surrounding Tønsberg is breathtaking, and the hiking trails offer an excellent way to explore the region up close.
Respect the environment: Norwegians take great care to protect their natural surroundings, and visitors should do the same.

Don’t:

Forget your rain gear: The weather in Tønsberg can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella.
Be late: Punctuality is essential in Norwegian culture, so be sure to arrive on time for appointments and meetings.
Forget to tip: Tipping is not expected in Norwegian restaurants, but it is always appreciated.

Safety and Health

Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your visit to Tønsberg:

Safety in Tønsberg

Be aware of your surroundings: Like any city, Tønsberg has its share of petty crime, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your valuables.
Stay on marked trails: Venturing off into the wilderness without a guide can be dangerous, so it’s important to stick to marked trails.

Health in Tønsberg

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential, especially during the hot summer months.
Protect yourself from the sun: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are all essential items to protect yourself from the strong Norwegian sunshine.

Getting to Tønsberg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options for getting to Tønsberg:

By plane: Tønsberg is served by several airports, including Sandefjord Airport (TRF), Oslo Airport (OSL), and Torp Airport (TRF).
By bus: Tønsberg is well-connected to other cities via bus, with regular routes to Oslo, Sandefjord, and other destinations.
By car: Tønsberg is easily accessible by car via the E18 highway.

How to Get Around in Tønsberg

Here are some transportation options for getting around Tønsberg:

Walking/biking: Tønsberg is a very walkable and bikeable city, and many of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.
Bus: Tønsberg has a reliable bus system, with routes that cover the entire city.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Tønsberg, but they can be expensive compared to other transportation options.

Where to Go Next from Tønsberg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider after your visit to Tønsberg:

Oslo: Norway’s capital city is just a short train ride away from Tønsberg and offers a wide range of attractions, including world-class museums, restaurants, and shopping.
Larvik: This picturesque seaside town is located just a short distance from Tønsberg and offers numerous outdoor activities, excellent seafood restaurants, and a charming city center.
Telemark Canal: This stunning canal system connects some of Norway’s most picturesque lakes and is a popular destination for kayaking and boating enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Tønsberg is a beautiful and vibrant destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage, enjoying the great outdoors, or sampling delicious local cuisine, Tønsberg has it all. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well prepared to plan your next trip to this gem of a city.

Tønsberg Image Gallery

Castle Rock Tower.

Østre Bolærne. (Author: Chell Hill)