Things To Do
in Borre

Borre is a coastal village on the Oslofjord known for its calm waters and scenic shorelines. It sits beside the Borre National Park, where ancient burial mounds whisper of Viking-age history. Visitors enjoy easy access to coastal trails, marshlands, and a close-knit Nordic atmosphere.

This compact area blends archaeology, nature, and maritime culture into a walkable, family-friendly destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Norwegian pastries and coffee. After your meal, stroll through the quaint streets of Borre, admiring the charming wooden architecture and soaking in the historical ambiance. Visit the Borre Mounds, ancient burial sites that date back to the Viking era, and marvel at the rich history they represent.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration by heading to the Borre National Park, where you can wander the scenic trails surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch while overlooking the fjord, taking in the stunning views that Borre has to offer. After lunch, visit the nearby Viking Museum to learn more about the fascinating culture and heritage of the Vikings.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, take a peaceful walk along the waterfront, enjoying the cool breeze and the sounds of nature. Dine at a local seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh catch-of-the-day dishes paired with local wines. After dinner, unwind at a cozy pub, perhaps trying a craft beer or a traditional aquavit while listening to local stories.

day 2
Viking Heritage and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for a day filled with Viking history. Head to the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, just a short drive away, to view some of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world. Engage with interactive exhibits that provide deep insights into the daily lives and customs of the Vikings.

afternoon
:

Return to Borre and participate in a guided tour that brings the Viking history to life, including reenactments and storytelling. Explore the nearby archaeological sites where you can see the remnants of Viking settlements and burial grounds. Take a moment to reflect on how these ancient warriors shaped Norway's history as you walk among the sites.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Norwegian restaurant, where you can taste dishes like reindeer stew or cloudberry dessert. After your meal, attend a local cultural event or performance highlighting Norwegian folklore and traditions. Cap off the night by indulging in some hot cocoa while sharing tales of your Viking adventures with fellow travelers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🚌Public transport day pass$8-20
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$120-200
🧭Local SIM plan$15-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Short drive to many coastal sights
  • Low crowds in shoulder seasons
  • High-quality public services and safety
  • Beautiful fjord scenery
  • Limited nightlife in small villages
  • Dishes can be pricey for larger groups
  • Weather can be unpredictable along the coast
  • "Hei" - Hi/Hello
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Hvor mye koster dette?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Borre

Visit one of these nice places.

Borre Mound Field

Ancient burial mounds set against the Oslofjord with panoramic coastal views.

Oslofjord coastline at sunset

Golden light reflecting off calm waters along the harbor and promenades.

Horten harbor promenade

Harbor scenes with boats, reflections, and industrial-chic settings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Borre

In Vestfold and along the Oslofjord, seafood stars alongside hearty Norwegian classics, often prepared with simple, fresh ingredients and seasonal produce.

Borre Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gravlaks

Cured salmon with mustard-dill sauce, a staple at markets and coastal eateries.

Must-Try!

Fiskesuppe

Creamy Norwegian fish soup with vegetables, best enjoyed with crusty bread.

Lamb with potatoes

Slow-cooked Norwegian lamb served with boiled potatoes and seasonal root vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Horten Market

Seasonal stalls offering fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks near the harbor.

Oslofjord Market (in nearby towns)

Casual stalls featuring local fish dishes, sandwiches, and regional treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Oslofjord region has a maritime climate with generally mild summers and cool winters. Rain is common year-round, and coastal winds can be brisk, particularly in the evenings along the water.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in both casual and formal settings.

Personal Space

Respect quiet conversation norms and keep a respectful distance in public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Norway has a very low crime rate. Standard coastal safety applies: watch for slick rocks, adhere to marked paths, and swim only in designated areas. Weather can change quickly near the water, so plan accordingly.

Tipping in Borre

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for table service is common if you’re satisfied.

Payment Methods

Card and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is less common but still accepted in some spots.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming trees; layering is key as mornings can be brisk.

Summer

Long daylight hours and comfortable temperatures; ideal for coastal walks and boat trips.

Autumn

Colorful foliage along the coast; cooler, windier conditions require a good jacket.

Winter

Short daylight hours and possible frost; indoors are warm and inviting, while coastal scenery can be starkly beautiful.

Nightlife Guide

Borre at Night

Nightlife in Borre is low-key. Nearby towns like Horten and Sandefjord offer pubs, casual bars, and occasional live music or open-mic events. Expect relaxed evenings rather than club culture, with many venues closing around midnight in off-peak seasons.

Hiking in Borre

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Oslofjord Coastal Trail

Gentle to moderate coastal hike with sea views and photo opportunities along the fjord.

Forest Trails around Borre

Shaded woodland paths offering wildlife viewing and quiet nature experiences.

Airports

How to reach Borre by plane.

Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)

Norway's main international gateway; about 2-3 hours by car/train to Borre.

Sandefjord Airport, Torp (TRF)

Nearby regional airport with domestic and international flights; a convenient option for southern Vestfold travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Borre itself is a small village with compact sights, making it very walkable for short trips. To reach broader coastal trails and neighboring towns, a car or local transit is helpful.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Seasoned families and retirees with strong ties to coastal life.

Families

Both local and visiting families seeking relaxed weekend getaways.

Tourists

Seasonal visitors drawn by Viking-age sites, fjord scenery, and easy coastal exploration.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Long-standing Norwegian sailing traditions with fjord breezes and accessible waters.

Cross-country Skiing

Popular in winter when snow is present in Vestfold and surrounding areas.

Football (Soccer)

A common local pastime with community teams and matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads around Borre are well maintained with light to moderate traffic. Public transport options include buses to nearby towns; car rental is common for exploring the wider region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Borre.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable medleys, salads, and dairy-based dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Norway provides universal healthcare. In Vestfold, access is via hospitals in Horten or Sandefjord. EU/EEA citizens may have access via the European Health Insurance, while visitors from other countries should have travel insurance; pharmacies are readily available.

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2025 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide