Introduction: Tønsberg Travel Guide
Tønsberg (Tønsberg) is located south southwest of Oslo and stands on the western coast of the Oslofjord near its mouth onto the Skagerrak. The city with its 42 419 inhabitants is the most populous town in the Vestfold region.
Tønsberg is generally considered the oldest city in Norway, founded by Vikings in the 9th century. Later Tønsberg was established as a municipality on 1 January 1838.
It is home to Tønsberg Fortress on Castle Mountain, which includes ruins from Castrum Tunsbergis, Norway’s largest castle in the 13th century. The place is famous for its outdoor music festival every July.
But Tønsberg is also home to Oseberg Mound, where the 9th-century Oseberg Ship was excavated.
Table of Contents
Mapping the Tønsberg Travel Guide
Getting there
The best way to go to Tønsberg is to first fly to Oslo International Airport (OSL) and then transfer to R11 train that goes straight there 1h37min.
If you are already in town, you can get from Oslo to Tønsberg by also riding on the R11 train from the central station.
Moving Around
The best way to move around Tønsberg is by renting a car. There are a couple of buses line that would get you by, but it is not the most convenient way.
We personally had our friend’s family living there so we were quite lucky on this point 😊
When to Visit
The best time to Visit Tønsberg is during summer, when the days are long and the night short. At this time, there is almost no night. From May to September the temperatures are also the highest.
Also, the medieval festival takes place in July!
Where to Stay
- (€): Stokke Apartment
- (€€): Nice apartment in Tønsberg City Centre
- (€€€): Clarion Collection Hotel Atlantic
Tønsberg has only 9 places to stay, if you want to stay in town the best option is the apartment €€ as the others are out of town.
What to Eat
The unique dish to try there is the whales’ steack in Verdens ende.
If not the regular recommendations in Norway are:
- Smoked Salmon
- Norwegian hot dog
- Reindeer steak of dry meat
And for a plat-based approach:
- Norwegian waffles
- Rye Bread
- Protein bars
Things to do Tønsberg Travel Guide
Slottsfjellsmuseet (Tønsberg museum)
Visit the beautiful little museum of Tønsberg and let yourself feel small next to whales’ skeleton. Then lean about the history of the town.
Slottsfjellet (The Castle Hill) & Tønsberg Fortress
Explore the ruins and remains of the biggest Fortress in Norway during the 13th century. Every July a famous festival is held there.
Slottsfjelltårnet (Castle Rock Tower)
This tower built as the 1000-year anniversary was completed in 1888. The tower is 17 meters tall and can be visited. From its top, you will get an amazing 360° panoramic view.
Brygga i Toensberg
Walk along the main coastal street in town where restaurants and small shops are located. It’s an amazing place to get some breakfast or dinner while enjoying the view.
Verdens ende
Go on a day trip to the end of the world (one of them). It was considered the end of the world in the past centuries. On the other side and if you are lucky you will be able to see Denmark.
2 days Itinerary Tønsberg Travel Guide
Day 1:
- Slottsfjellsmuseet (Tønsberg museum)
- Slottsfjellet (The Castle Hill) & Tønsberg Fortress
- Slottsfjelltårnet (Castle Rock Tower)
- Brygga i Toensberg
Day 2:
- Verdens ende
We have to find compromises. That’s the way it is in Norway.
