Sandefjord is a picturesque Norwegian town located around 120 km (74 mi) south of Oslo. This city is steeped in history and bears the marks of its Viking ancestors who might have inhabited the area around 1000 years ago. Sandefjord is lined with a beautiful coastline and is home to galleries and museums. Whether you want to relax by the beach or immerse yourself in a new culture, this city has something for everyone and gives you a glimpse into the everyday lives of citizens in Norway. Sandefjord used to be the “whaling capital” of Norway and is the only place in Europe to have a museum dedicated to whaling. Blending its modernity and history seamlessly, find the best things to do in Sandefjord, Norway.
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1. Sandefjord museum
This museum is dedicated to the town’s history as a “whaling capital” and provides insight into the whaling industry and how it has left its mark on the city of Sandefjord. It happens to be the only museum in Europe that is focused on the subject of whaling and is also one of the largest whaling museums worldwide. Opened in 1917, this museum’s main objectives were to inform the general public on the history of whaling and information on their habitats and management. The museum houses a life-size replica of a 21-metre (68.9 feet) blue whale. It is also home to a collection of 150000 photographs, where about 30000 of those are related to whaling. It also contains an exhibit on the “Southern Actor” a whale catcher from the 1950s which has been restored to give the public a glimpse into the history of whaling. Guided tours can be booked year-round for a more educational experience
Sandefjord Museum
Address: Museumsgata 39, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway
Website: Sandefjord Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
2. Midtåsen sculpture park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are an art lover visit this beautiful sculpture park to look at the amazing work of Knut Steen. The sculptures are housed in a pavilion and is in a prime location; surrounded by nature. This was opened in the summer of 2009 and was designed by the architect Svein Lund. The landscape architect is Gullik Gulliksen. This hidden gem located on top of a hill has 16 of Knut Steen’s statues; 12 of which are made of marble and the other 4 are made of bronze and are placed in the garden. Reaching there may take a bit of time as you have to hike for a while. However, according to many visitors, it is a wonderful place to have a picnic and spend some ambient moments.
Midtåsen sculpture park
Address: Midtåsveien 2a, Sandefjord 3226, Norway
Website: Midtåsen sculpture park
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
3. Skjellvika
Skjellvika is a beautiful lagoon and one of the most popular beaches in Sandefjord. It is especially popular during the summertime and is a great place to relax and unwind. It is perfect for families and due to the shallow waters, it is reasonably safe for kids. It is used as a picnic spot by some visitors. There is a rocky mountain near the area and a walkway has been made for visitors. To visit, you have to follow the signboards towards Østerøya and after around 3 km (1.8 mi) turn left. Visit Skjellvika to relax in the lap of nature.
Skjellvika
Address: Skjellvikastien 1, Sandefjord 3237, Norway
Price: Free
4. The Gokstad Mound
If you want to peek into the past and get to know more about the history and heritage of this town be sure to check out the Gokstad Mound during your trip. Those who are interested in the history of Vikings in Norway, this is a place you would definitely want to check out. This is a large burial mound and is also called the “King’s Mound”. This location holds one of the most significant boat burial sites. The boat itself is currently in Oslo Museum but the site still holds information on the 9th-century Gokstad ship which was found in that area. Reopened in 2007, this grave gives visitors a glimpse into the past.
The Gokstad Mound
Address: Helgerodveien 3210, Sandefjord 3210, Norway
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Tønsberg Tønne
If you want to see a natural beauty that Sandefjord has to offer, look no further and head to Tønsberg Tønne. This is perfect for people who love outdoor activities. Don’t forget your hiking shoes and enjoy the scenery as you go on this trail. This walk leads you through a forest with the sea beside and you can enjoy the spectacular view at the end. The hike is relatively short and the beautiful scenery makes it a worthwhile experience.
Tønsberg Tønne
Address: 3237 Sandefjord, Norway
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Sandefjord Kirke
This beautiful church dates back to 1903 and is one of the more recognized landmarks of Sandefjord. This structure is made mainly of bricks and is surrounded by the church park’s beautiful greenery. With around 600 seats this church was built by the architect, Carl Michalsen. This was built after Sandefjord’s first church was unfortunately struck by a fire around 1900. It also has one of the best organs in the country. The church chimes in Sandefjord Kirke chimes at specific timings according to a computerised programme.
Sandefjord Kirke
Address: Stockfleths gate 11, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway
Website: Sandefjord Kirke
Price: Free
7. Galleri ER
This art gallery is located in Kongensgate, Sandefjord. Over 300 square meters (3229.2 square feet) and spanning 2 storeys, this gallery houses some truly unique art-work from talented artists. This gallery changes the artworks displayed in the exhibits every month and gives a few artists the opportunity to show their pieces to the public and help them gain recognition. There are also artists that they display regularly. This gallery is divided into a few different departments. If you want to buy a piece of artwork from this gallery and are unsure of whether it would match or clash with your house there are options for you to try out the pictures in your house by contacting the gallery before committing to purchase.
Galleri ER
Address: Kongens gate 12, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway
Website: Galleri ER
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 12pm - 3pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: Free
8. Bakgaarden
Bakgaarden or also known as “the backyard” is Sandefjord’s creative spot. You can find some of the oldest buildings, galleries and shops in this part of the town. Shops are set throughout the year that sell gorgeous hand-crafted goods. The talents of the people are on display as they sell jewellery, photographs, paintings, clothes, pottery etc. It also has a cafe that is well-visited that sells delicious food and great beverages. They have outdoor seating available as well as street parking. With a quaint and peaceful atmosphere, this place gives you a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals that live there and their talents.
Bakgaarden
Address: Kongensgate 35-37, Sandefjord 3213 Norway
9. Tuk Tuk Thai Sandefjord
This restaurant around Storgata will let you experience Thai cuisine thousands of miles away from Thailand. The food is delicious and the staff there is very friendly and attentive to your needs. Located in the heart of the city in a historical house, this place has a very comforting and cosy atmosphere. If you want to eat some good food at a place with fast service with your friends this place is great. This is a great casual hang-out spot to catch up with your loved ones over some food.
Tuk Tuk Thai Sandefjord
Address: Storgata 7, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway
Website: Tuk Tuk Thai
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 3pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 3pm - 11pm; Sun: 3pm - 9pm (closed on Mon)
10. Brygghuset Sandar
This cosy restaurant in Sandefjord is the perfect place to hang-out with your friends and family. With rustic furnishings and brick counters, this restaurant has a very comfortable atmosphere. They have a very extensive collection of craft beers. They also have a collection of wine and they serve great pizza to the customers. Pairing together the beer and pizza while basking in the calming ambience you can escape your busy everyday lives for a but. The staff is fast and efficient in their service.
Brygghuset Sandar
Address: Torggata 4, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway
Website: Brygghuset Sandar
Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 4pm - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 3pm - 1am (closed on Sun, Mon & Tue)
Get to know the hidden side of Norway
There is something for everybody in Sandefjord. Modern life and heritage blend together in this charming coastal town. The natural beauty, architecture and culture make it a worthwhile place to visit. With the help of this list, explore the hidden side of Norway.
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