Explore Tønsberg, the oldest city in Norway, located on the west coast of Oslofjord near road E39 between Oslo and Kristiansand. Whether you’re here for a few days or just passing through, Tønsberg offers a wide range of historical sites and natural beauty.
Popular attractions and places in Tønsberg
Here are 8 must-see attractions during your visit to Tønsberg:
Slottfjelltårnet – Castle Rock Tower
Tønsberg Brygga
Saga Oseberg
Verdens Ende
Tønsberg Cathedral
Torås Fort
Slottsfjellsmuseet
DS Kysten coastal tours
We visited these attractions during our short road trip along the Oslofjord coast, offering insights into their historical and cultural significance.
Slottfjelltårnet – Castle Rock Tower in Tønsberg
Slottfjelltårnet, the defining symbol of Tønsberg, stands atop Castle Mountain. Built in 1888, the 17-meter-high tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Oslofjord.
Explore the Tunsberghus Fortress ruins, Norway’s largest medieval ruin park, open all year round. King Håkon Håkonsson constructed the fortress, and it remains a significant part of Norway’s Middle Ages history.
Visiting hours: The tower is open from April to October.
Tønsberg Brygga
Tønsberg Brygga is a vibrant summer promenade in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect place for dining, entertainment, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. With restaurants, pubs, live music, and summer events, Brygga attracts locals and visitors alike.
The guest pier is an ideal spot for those arriving by boat to dock and enjoy the city. Even a short walk along the pier offers great views and a taste of Tønsberg’s waterfront charm.
Saga Oseberg – A Viking Ship Replica
Saga Oseberg is an exact replica of a Viking ceremonial ship originally built in AD 820. The ship, constructed using ancient tools and techniques, is one of the most notable Viking finds in Norway. You can visit the original Oseberg ship at the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo.
Launched in 2012 by the Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation, the ship is moored at Tønsberg Brygga and occasionally sets sail during summer months. For Viking history enthusiasts, seeing the ship is a must.
Verdens Ende – The End of the World
Verdens Ende, or “The End of the World,” is part of Færder National Park, easily accessible by car or boat. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying panoramic views of the Skagerrak Strait.
One of the park’s highlights is Vippefyret, a historic tilting lighthouse. Verdens Ende is famous for its beautiful coastal scenery and the series of islets connected by small bridges, perfect for a scenic walk.
Tønsberg Cathedral
Located between Tønsberg Brygga and Slottfjell, Tønsberg Cathedral is the city’s second-tallest building, standing 39 meters high. Built in 1858 on the ruins of a 12th-century church, the cathedral was designed by architect Christian Henrik Grosch in Gothic style.
The interior features beautiful carvings, particularly the four Evangelists and their symbols. Tønsberg Cathedral is a must-see for those interested in religious architecture.
Torås Fort – WWII Military Fort
For history lovers, Torås Fort offers a glimpse into Norway’s role in World War II. Established in 1939 by the Norwegian Armed Forces, the fort was expanded during the German occupation and features bunkers, cannons, and command centers.
Torås Fort is perfect for hiking, with several trails around the fort offering stunning views over Tjøme and the Oslofjord. It’s a fascinating mix of history and nature.
Slottsfjellsmuseet – Tønsberg’s History Museum
At the foot of Slottsfjellet lies Slottsfjellsmuseet, a museum dedicated to Tønsberg’s rich history. The museum showcases the city’s medieval roots and features the Tunsberghus Fortress ruins, one of the largest in the Nordic region.
The museum also houses Hvalhallen, home to a 27-meter-long whale skeleton—the world’s largest preserved skeleton of its kind. Slottsfjellsmuseet gives visitors a deep dive into Vestfold’s historical and cultural significance.
DS Kysten Coastal Tours
DS Kysten, a historic steamship built in 1909, now offers coastal tours around Tønsberg and Byfjorden. After extensive repairs, DS Kysten embarked on her first voyage in 2019. Enjoy a nostalgic journey along Norway’s stunning coastline aboard this beautiful, fully restored liner.
Discover all these locations and more in our short video from the trip to Tønsberg and Verdens Ende.
