Heading to Tonsberg, in southern Norway, is a great getaway for the summer if you are planning a visit to the country. This city, the oldest town in the land of the midnight sun, offers teeming attractions, from wonderful Scandinavian nature to Viking sites. It doesn’t stop there! There is a wide variety of worthy cultural events here, a dramatic seascape from Brygga, or “pier” in Norwegian, and succulent lapskaus, a Norweigian stew - it’s all waiting to be discovered.
Here is a list of what to do in Tonsberg, to guide you:
1. See the scape of the oldest Norwegian town from Tonsberg Fortress
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you are looking to explore the Tonsberg of the past, don’t miss out on Tonsberg Fortress. The ruins found at this historical site are a silent witness to how King Harald I united the country and it illustrates the importance of Tonsberg as Norway’s oldest town. The castle was built in the 13th century, by King Haakon Haakonson. To get a worthy view of the old town and the beautiful blue horizon, just take a few steps up the decrepit stairs.
Tonsberg Fortress
Address: Slottsfjellet, Tonsberg 3101, Norway
Contact Number: +47 33 34 81 26
2. Drop in Vestfold County Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Museum-hopping in Vestfold County is a nice way to explore Tonsberg, in a short time, and the Vestfold County Museum is just a few minutes away from the train station. This spot highlights a dazzling display of excavations, but the main attraction is the mind-blowing Oseberg Viking ship. To see a humungous blue whale skeleton, stop at the museum’s Whale Hall. Other must-visit attractions include the Vestfold Farmyard and the Viking Hall.
Vestfold County Museum
Address: Farmannsveien 30 Tønsberg, Norway
Opening Hours: 11 am to 4 pm
3. Take the air around Brygga in Tonsberg
Brygga which literally means “pier”, is an immaculate spot for strolling and enjoying the restored Quayside buildings and peaceful sea view. Discover the town’s vibrancy at the night clubs and restaurant, along the waterfront. To sight another point of interest, the magnificent display of Maserati’s and racing boats, shouldn’t be missed.
Brygga i Tonsberg
Address: Nedre Langgate, Tonsberg 3126, Norway
Website: Brygga i Toensberg (in Norwegian)
4. Engage in the Tonsberg Medieval Festival
For those interested in checking out some of the local festivals, participating in the Tonsberg Medieval Festival is unmistakably the right pick. The biggest medieval festival in Norway, featuring a Grand Parade performed by Vikings, knights, and shamans, is indeed notable for many. Don’t forget to join in all the excitement, with the fun games, puppet shows and the Celtic harp performances.
Tonsberg Medieval Festival
Address: Slottsfjellet (Castle Rock), Tønsberg, Viken District, Vestfold County
Website: Tonsberg Medieval Festival
5. Savor Norwegian fish and chips at Roar i Bua
Craving fish and chips, while in Tonsberg? Then hitting Roar i Bua, sitting elegantly at Brygga, is something you shouldn’t skip. There is a wide assortment of seafood here, including king crab and sushi – the king prawns and the incredibly good salmon sandwich are also hot items. Reserve your picnic table and grab some food, while enjoying the exotic sundown.
Roar i Bua
Address: Honnorbrygga, Tonsberg 3126, Norway
Website: Roar i Bua
6. Be astonished by the masterpieces at Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum, popularly known as Haugar, and nestled in the middle of Mollebakken, is a worth a visit. It boasts eye-catching exhibitions displaying Norwegian and international modern arts and crafts – check out the CONSERVING exhibition of photographs, by Daniel & Geo Fuchs, presenting out of the ordinary animal and human fetuses.
Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum
Address: Gråbrødregaten 17, 3110 Tønsberg, Norway
Website: Haugar Vestfold Kunstmuseum
7. Feed the soul at Tonsberg Cathedral
Tonsberg Cathedral, home to the bishopric of Tonsberg, is an old, Lutheran-style church, in the hub of Tonsberg. As a matter of fact, it was a parish church, modified into cathedral building, in 1948. The Gothic architectural design, with four evangelists, as well as the epic painting of Jesus at Gethsemane, will impress visitors, making you want to stay longer to absorb the peaceful atmosphere.
Tonsberg Cathedral
Address: Storgaten 53, 3126 Tønsberg, Norway
Contact Number: +47 33 37 47 00
8. Have a casual dining experience at Havariet
Your trip will be incomplete if you leave Norway before tasting the food at Havariet. The “by the sea” atmosphere will surely add to your dinner, which is sure to be lovely. The wide dining options include Rekesmørbrød (prawn sandwich), Biffsmørbrød (beef sandwich), and Skagensmørbrød (Skagen sandwich) – but the monkfish and king crab are also favorites.
Havariet Restaurant
Address: Nedre Langgate 30E, 3126 Tønsberg, Norway
Website: Havariet *in Norwegian
9. Reflect on a polar hero at the Roald Amundsen Sculpture
If you think Norway is just famous for Vikings, you will find your stereotype vastly short sighted. The country also has a host of historical figures, including one who conquered the harsh and dreary Arctic to become the first man to land on the South Pole. To commemorate the phenomenal Norwegian explorer, Roald Amundsen, the city has built a memorial statue, which can be found on Halvdan Wilhelmsens Allee.
Roald Amundsen Sculpture
Address: Halvdan Wilhelmsens Allee, Tonsberg 3110, Norway
Opening Hours: 24 hours
10. Trace the Viking civilization at the Oseberghaugen Royal Mound
Seeking some Viking remnants? Then you need to take a short trip to the Oseberghaugen Royal Mound. It’s where the eminent Viking ship, known as the Oseberg, was discovered. Although it’s simply a burial mound, the site conceals a rich history. In addition to being a historical site, the grassy spot is arguably ideal for either picnicking or walking the dog.
Oseberghaugen Royal Mound
Address: Slagendalen, Tonsberg 3110, Norway
Contact Number: +47 33 31 29 19
Find your little Viking adventure in Tonsborg
Arranging a stopover in Tonsborg will give you a chance to get close with the Vikings, the scenic Scandinavian landscape, and worthy cultural sites – and don’t overlook the special Norwegian delicacies. Make this aged town in Norway your northern European travel destination, this summer!
History
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