Things To Do
in Kongsberg

Kongsberg is a charming town in Norway known for its rich mining history and beautiful landscape. Nestled in a valley surrounded by forested hills, it offers a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor adventure. The town features a picturesque river, historic buildings, and a vibrant community spirit.

Visitors can enjoy both the tranquility of nature and the excitement of local festivals throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kongsberg
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kongsberg Silver Mines, where you can take a guided tour to learn about the town's silver mining history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then explore the Kongsberg Church, a stunning baroque-style church built in the 18th century.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Norwegian restaurant and then take a leisurely stroll along the river, enjoying the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a hike on the nearby trails of Bergsjø, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Norwegian Mining Museum to gain insight into the area's mining history.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner and drinks at a local pub, where you can enjoy live music and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$3-$5
🏨Hotel Night$100-$200
🚌Local Transport Ticket$5
🍺Local Beer$7-$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and heritage
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Variety of outdoor activities available
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • Some areas may be less accessible without a car
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kan jeg få menyen?" - Can I have the menu?
  • "Unnskyld" - Excuse me
  • "Ja" - Yes

Places to Visit in Kongsberg

Visit one of these nice places.

Kongsberg Church

A stunning baroque church with intricate architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Kongsberg's history.

The Silver Mines

The entrance to the historic silver mines offers dramatic photos with its rugged landscape and mining structures.

The River Numedalslågen

A picturesque river that winds through Kongsberg, ideal for nature photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kongsberg

Kongsberg offers a delightful array of local cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage and natural resources. From traditional dishes to modern culinary twists, there's something for every palate.

Kongsberg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kjøttkaker

Norwegian meatballs served with potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry sauce, a hearty and traditional meal.

Must-Try!

Raspeballer

Potato dumplings often served with meat or vegetables, a staple in Norwegian cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kongsberg Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh local produce, homemade goods, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kongsberg experiences a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are mild to warm, averaging around 20°C (68°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, with moderate temperatures and varying rainfall. Overall, the climate allows for a range of outdoor activities year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Norwegians value personal space; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Be Punctual

Being on time is considered polite and shows respect for others' schedules.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Keep noise levels down in public areas, as Norwegians appreciate a calm atmosphere.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kongsberg is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. Standard precautions should be taken, such as securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be accessed easily, and locals are often willing to help if you need assistance.

Tipping in Kongsberg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, having some cash on hand for small purchases or markets is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures with blooming flowers and the start of outdoor activities; it's a great time for hiking.

Summer

Warm weather makes it ideal for exploring the outdoors, with long days and vibrant local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage create a beautiful backdrop for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring snowfall, perfect for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.

Nightlife Guide

Kongsberg at Night

Kongsberg's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a variety of bars, pubs, and restaurants. Local establishments often feature live music, and the atmosphere is welcoming. While not as bustling as larger cities, there's a sense of community that makes for enjoyable evenings out. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink or a lively night with music, Kongsberg has options to suit different preferences.

Hiking in Kongsberg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bergsjø Hiking Trail

A scenic trail with varying difficulty levels, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and lakes.

Kongsberg Forest Trail

This trail winds through lush forests and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels, providing a tranquil escape into nature.

Airports

How to reach Kongsberg by plane.

Notodden Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Kongsberg, this small regional airport offers limited flights but is a convenient option for domestic travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kongsberg is quite walkable, with a compact town center that makes it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a reasonable walking distance, and the scenic riverside paths offer pleasant strolls. However, some of the outskirts may require transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Kongsberg has a significant number of young families, attracted by the town's quality of life and educational facilities.

Retirees

The town is also home to retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and outdoor lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cross-Country Skiing

A popular sport during winter months, with many trails available for both beginners and experienced skiers.

Football

Football is widely played and supported in Kongsberg, with local teams engaging in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kongsberg is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. However, during peak hours, minor congestion may occur, but it's usually manageable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kongsberg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Kongsberg offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus ahead of time.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available at various eateries, but confirming with the staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kongsberg is of high quality, with local clinics and hospitals available for medical needs. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 113, and most healthcare providers speak English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers health-related issues.

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2025 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide