Things To Do
in Tønsberg

Tønsberg is Norway's oldest town, known for its rich Viking heritage and historic landmarks. Nestled on the country's southwestern coast, it offers a picturesque harbor and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, charming streets, and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.

Tønsberg is also a gateway to the stunning Vestfold region, making it an ideal base for further explorations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tønsberg Fortress, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the Slottsfjell Museum to learn about the Viking Age and the local history of Tønsberg through engaging exhibits.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant such as 'Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum', which also features a unique art gallery.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the harbor and enjoy a breakfast at one of the waterfront cafes.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical area of Brygga, filled with colorful wooden houses, shops, and restaurants, and perhaps take a boat tour of the fjord.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local pub or bar to experience Tønsberg's nightlife and enjoy live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$30
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$20
🚌Public Transport Ticket$4
🏨Hotel Room per Night$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Higher living costs compared to other European countries.
  • Limited nightlife options outside summer.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Hei" - Hello
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Unnskyld" - Excuse me
  • "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kan jeg få regningen, vær så snill?" - Can I have the bill, please?

Places to Visit in Tønsberg

Visit one of these nice places.

Tønsberg Fortress

This historic fortress provides stunning views of the city and is a great spot for panoramic shots.

Brygga

The charming waterfront area filled with colorful buildings and boats is perfect for capturing the essence of Tønsberg.

Slottsfjell Tower

Climb to the top of this tower for breathtaking views and a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tønsberg

Tønsberg offers a delightful array of local cuisine that reflects its coastal heritage and Viking roots. From fresh seafood to traditional Norwegian dishes, you'll find plenty to savor during your visit.

Tønsberg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fiskesuppe

A creamy fish soup made with fresh local fish, vegetables, and herbs, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Raspeballer

Traditional potato dumplings served with meat and gravy, a hearty Norwegian dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tønsberg Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, local meats, cheeses, and handmade goods from regional artisans.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tønsberg has a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being late summer and early autumn. Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

Norwegians value personal space and may stand farther apart in social situations compared to other cultures.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Norway; lateness can be seen as disrespectful.

Quietness in Public Transport

Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transport; loud conversations are generally frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tønsberg is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, typical safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in case of any urgent situations.

Tipping in Tønsberg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

Tipping is appreciated in Norway but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, with contactless payments being widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists to the beaches and waterfront, with various festivals and outdoor events taking place.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures bring vibrant fall colors, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature walks.

Winter

Cold weather can bring snow, transforming Tønsberg into a winter wonderland, though some tourist services may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Tønsberg at Night

Tønsberg has a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The waterfront area, Brygga, is particularly lively during summer, with outdoor seating and events. Many venues feature live music, and the local crowd is friendly and welcoming. Whether you're looking for a quiet bar to relax or a place to dance the night away, Tønsberg offers something for everyone.

Hiking in Tønsberg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Borre National Park

Located just north of Tønsberg, this park features trails through historical burial mounds and scenic coastal views.

Nøtterøy Island

Accessible by ferry, Nøtterøy offers various trails with stunning views of the fjord and opportunities to explore the island's natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Tønsberg by plane.

Sandefjord Airport (Torp)

Located approximately 10 kilometers from Tønsberg, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tønsberg is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and paths leading to the harbor, parks, and historical sites. Biking is also a popular option, and there are bike lanes available for those who prefer cycling.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Tønsberg has a vibrant student population due to its educational institutions, contributing to the city's lively atmosphere.

Retirees

Many retirees are drawn to Tønsberg for its beautiful surroundings, cultural events, and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Tønsberg, with local clubs participating in various leagues and community games.

Handball

Handball enjoys a significant following in the region, with many youth clubs and competitions throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tønsberg is generally manageable, with main roads connecting the city to nearby areas. Public transportation includes buses that operate regularly, providing easy access to surrounding towns and attractions. Cycling is also a popular means of transport, with bike lanes available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tønsberg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check ahead for specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, particularly in cafes and restaurants that cater to diverse dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Norway is of high quality and accessible to both residents and tourists. In case of a medical emergency, visitors should contact local emergency services. Additionally, many pharmacies are available for minor ailments, and English is widely spoken by healthcare professionals.

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2025 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide