Channel: www.visitnorway.com

Island hopping with Helgeroafergene

Helgeroafergene – Helgeroa ferry – takes you from Langesund to Siktesøya, Lille Arøya, Store Arøya and Stokkøya to Helgeroa. Helgeroafergene has daily departures throughout the summer. 

It is possible to buy a ticket upon boarding, but there is no guarantee of space without booking in advance.

If you take the trip from Langesund to Helgeroa you can experience Brunlanes by bike. Visit magic Mølen and the fishing village Nevlunghavn. If you want to go hiking, the coastal path goes all the way from Helgeroa to Stavern.

Huset Sandefjord

Huset Sandefjord is a restaurant and bar on Thor Dahls gate in central Sandefjord. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, with pizzas, open sandwiches, burgers, fish, meat dishes and vegetarian options. The menu changes throughout the year, and guests can combine a meal with shuffleboard or drinks at the bar.

Lunch, dinner and sharing dishes
The lunch menu includes open prawn and avocado sandwiches, pizzas and burgers. From 4 pm, the dinner menu also offers dishes such as fish soup, the catch of the day, braised beef cheek and beef tenderloin. For a meal to share, Huset offers a four-course sharing menu with several dishes served at the table. A children's menu and vegetarian options are also available, including pizza and a mushroom and nut burger. The menu varies with the seasons. Visit the restaurant's website for current dishes, prices and allergen information.

Bar, shuffleboard and summer garden
The bar serves cocktails and other drinks, and guests can enjoy a game of shuffleboard with friends or colleagues. On Fridays and Saturdays, DJs and a dance floor bring a different atmosphere later in the evening.
During summer, Huset opens its outdoor garden seating area, with a dedicated garden bar on Fridays and Saturdays.

Groups, private events and After Work
Huset welcomes groups of different sizes. A separate private room accommodates up to 35 people, while the restaurant has dinner capacity for up to 100 guests. Group menus are available, and the restaurant hosts a Friday After Work buffet from 4 pm to 6 pm, except during the main summer holiday period. Contact Huset for private events, group bookings and shuffleboard reservations.

Opening hours and reservations
Huset is open Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 11 pm, and from 11 am on Fridays and Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays.

Lunch is served from 11 am to 4 pm, followed by the dinner menu from 4 pm. Tables can be booked online through Huset Sandefjord's website. Groups of more than 20 people should contact the restaurant directly.

Check the website for current opening hours and reservations.

 

 

Vikingodden

On a voluntary basis, Oseberg Viking Heritage has built an archaeological replica of this ship only using tools and construction methods identical to what was used in the Viking Age. The construction took place on Vikingodden on the pier in Tønsberg, and here you can also see the copy of the Oseberg ship, Saga Oseberg, and the copy of another famous find: the Klåstad ship, which has been given the name, Saga Farmann. The original Klåstad ship is now the only Viking ship you can see at a museum in Norway and it is at the Slottsfjell Museum.

Saga Oseberg and Saga Farmann can be seen on Vikingodden all year round, except when they are on a cruise.

In 2021, the construction of an archaeological replica of the Gokstad ship also began. The construction will take place both at Vikingodden in Tønsberg and at the Whaling Monument in Sandefjord. Here you have the opportunity to join and build ships with the Vikings' tools.

At Vikingodden, there are skilled guides in place on the weekends who can tell you about Vestfold's rich Viking history.

Kiosk with souvenirs and gift items.

Oseberg Viking Heritage offers Viking activities and trips with the Viking ship Saga Oseberg for groups from 10-300 people!

Read more about Oseberg Viking Heritage on the website osebergvikingarv  and sagaoseberg.com​​​​​​

Boattrip with DS KYSTEN

Boattrip with DS Kysten – Summer season
Departures from Tønsberg pier at 12.00, with return at 16.00. Enjoy Norway’s oldest and most original coastal steamboat from 1909. 

You can prebook your ticket at DS Kysten.

The boat is certified for 99 passengers.

Food can be ordered in advance.

Departure from "Honnørbrygga" in Tønsberg. Attendance 45 minutes before departure.

Please Contact DS Kysten for more information and requests! 

Holmestrand museum

Holmestrand Museum is a local history museum housed in an 18th-century building in the centre of Holmestrand. Its exhibitions tell the story of the town through maritime history, traditional trades, art and everyday life. Run by the volunteers of Holmestrand Museumsforening, the museum preserves stories about the people who lived and worked here.

From wealthy households to sailors' homes
Step into Holststuen, a recreated interior showing how the prosperous Holst family lived during the 1840s. The furnishings and period details offer a glimpse into a time when shipping and trade were central to life in Holmestrand.

The museum's historic kitchen and modest living room reveal a different side of everyday life. These displays illustrate the contrast between wealthy households and families of more limited means, including those waiting for sailors to return from sea.

Traditional crafts and working life
What did a traditional hairdressing salon look like? What tools did watchmakers and opticians use? The museum's craft displays feature workplaces representing trades such as tailoring, hairdressing, watchmaking and optics. You can also discover the story of a woman who ran her own photography business.

Holmestrand's maritime heritage
Shipping and shipbuilding played an important part in Holmestrand's development. The maritime exhibition explores the town's seafaring traditions, sailing ships and connections with trade. The painting and photography collection offers another perspective on the town, featuring local artists and historic views of Holmestrand.

A historic building with many stories
The museum occupies an 18th-century house originally built for the Holst family, who were involved in shipping, commerce and farming in nearby Botne. Over the years, the building was used for education, including as a school for local children and later a school for deaf pupils. It has been associated with Holmestrand Museum since 1932.

Plan your visit
Holmestrand Museum is located at Nils Kjærsgate 4 in central Holmestrand. The museum's official website lists regular opening hours on Sundays from 12 noon to 3 pm. Visits at other times may be arranged by contacting Holmestrand Museumsforening. Check the museum's website for the latest visitor information before your visit.

The Pilgrim Paths in Vestfold

The Pilgrim Path through Vestfold follows approximately 110 kilometres of Tunsbergleden, beginning in Larvik and continuing north towards Bærum. The route passes through farmland, woodland, small communities and historic towns. Along the way, you can discover sites connected to the Viking Age and the Middle Ages, with opportunities to combine walking with cultural experiences and overnight stays. Walk several stages or choose a shorter section. The complete Tunsbergleden route from Larvik to Haslum Church in Bærum is 190 kilometres long.

From Larvik to Sandefjord
The pilgrimage begins in Larvik, near the mouth of the Numedalslågen River. From here, the route crosses the Tjølling countryside, passing farms, woodland and old tracks. One of the historic sites along the way is Kaupang, an important Viking Age trading settlement. Further on, you pass Istrehågan, an Iron Age burial site known for its distinctive stone settings. These places offer a glimpse of life in Vestfold long before the development of today's towns. The trail continues towards central Sandefjord.

From Sandefjord towards Tønsberg
Leaving Sandefjord, the route passes Gokstadhaugen, the burial mound where the Gokstad ship was discovered in 1880. Heading north, the landscape alternates between farmland and coastal scenery. Depending on the route, the journey may involve boat connections via Veierland, a car-free island in Tønsbergfjorden. Check the current walking route and ferry services before planning this stage. From the Nøtterøy countryside, the pilgrimage continues towards Tønsberg.

Viking and medieval history in Tønsberg
In Tønsberg, you can explore one of Norway's historic town centres. Vikingodden, beside the waterfront, offers insight into traditional Viking shipbuilding and the Oseberg ship heritage. From the harbour, continue towards Slottsfjell, where the remains of the medieval Tunsberghus fortress overlook the town and fjord. Allow time to explore the area, visit a museum or enjoy a break before continuing your walk.

Towards Åsgårdstrand and Borre
North of Tønsberg, the route crosses woodland and continues towards Åsgårdstrand, a coastal town associated with the artist Edvard Munch. The path then leads towards Borre and its impressive Viking Age burial mounds. Nearby, Midgard Viking Centre offers opportunities to learn about the region's Viking heritage. The site also includes Gildehallen, a reconstruction inspired by the great halls of the Viking Age.

From Horten further north
Beyond Borre, Tunsbergleden passes the areas around Borrevannet and Løvøya, where medieval Løvøy Chapel is another historic landmark. The route continues through northern Vestfold towards Bærum. At Haslum Church, Tunsbergleden connects with Gudbrandsdalsleden, which leads onwards towards Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim.

A long-distance walk in stages
Tunsbergleden is suitable for both multi-day pilgrimages and shorter walks focused on nature and history. The terrain is generally gentle, but surfaces vary between paved roads, gravel tracks, woodland paths and historic routes. The entire trail is not wheelchair accessible, and some sections have incomplete waymarking. The recommended walking season is from March to November. Plan accommodation, meals and transport for each stage, particularly outside summer. Find official trail maps, GPX tracks and stage suggestions on the Pilgrim Paths website.

 

Plan your visit

Tunsbergleden begins in Larvik and crosses Vestfold before continuing north towards Bærum. Choose a single day walk or plan a longer pilgrimage.

Distance and duration
The route through Vestfold is approximately 110 km. The complete Tunsbergleden from Larvik to Haslum Church in Bærum is 190 km, with a suggested duration of around nine days. Actual walking time depends on your stages, pace and stops.

Starting point and stages
The trail begins in Larvik near the Numedalslågen River and passes through areas including Sandefjord, Tønsberg, Åsgårdstrand and Borre. Use the official digital map to select your stage and check the current route. If walking via Veierland, verify ferry connections and timetables in advance.

Terrain and waymarking
The terrain is generally gentle, with paved roads, gravel tracks, historic routes and woodland paths. Waymarking is incomplete in some sections. Carry an up-to-date map or GPX track. The full trail is not wheelchair accessible.

Good to know
The recommended walking season is 1 March to 1 November, depending on weather and ground conditions. Plan accommodation, food and water for each stage. Opening hours and transport services may vary, especially outside summer. Respect farmland, nature and historic sites along the trail.

Explore route maps and plan your walk →

Hotell Karljohansvern, Sjømilitære Samfund

The hotel has several great conference rooms for 2 to 200 people. All meeting rooms have good daylight, equipped with modern AV equipment and the rooms have co2 meters to ensure good air. Various packages are offered for one or more day conferences. The hotel's staff are highly qualified in the field of planning and conducting meetings and conferences and they are happy to help you tailor the package that is perfect for you.

Horten Storstue is perfect for all types of companies. If you want a small company with your business associates, a large gala dinner, wedding or other private events, the hotel is ready to welcome you and your guests. They have capacity for up to 144 people for dinner in the King's Hall, as well as several rooms for smaller parties.

In the basement you will find a beer brewery, where 14 different types of beer are brewed.

Stavern Dykkersenter

Stavern Dive Center performs all types of diving services, search and salvage as well as various boat services.

Diving equipment and boat supplies and own service workshop are sold in the store.

Offers PADI diving courses and diving trips all year round.

Galleri ER

Galleri ER is an art gallery in the heart of Sandefjord, located at Kongensgate 12. With 300 square metres of exhibition space across two floors, the gallery presents paintings, prints and sculptures by more than 70 artists from throughout Norway. Visitors can explore a wide selection of original artworks alongside changing solo and group exhibitions throughout the year.

Explore art across two floors
Galleri ER offers a spacious setting for discovering different artistic styles and techniques. The gallery is divided into four exhibition areas: Hallen, Tress, Base and White Box. Here, you can explore original paintings, fine art prints and sculptures in a variety of materials and styles. The gallery represents a wide selection of Norwegian artists, with exhibitions changing regularly. Whether you are looking for a piece of art for your home or simply enjoying a cultural break, take your time to discover the collection and find your favourites.

Changing exhibitions and opportunities to meet artists
Throughout the year, Galleri ER hosts solo and group exhibitions featuring established and emerging artistic voices. New exhibitions often open on Saturdays, with the exhibiting artists frequently attending the opening events. The programme provides opportunities to explore new techniques, discover different artists and engage more closely with contemporary Norwegian art. Check the latest exhibition programme to see what is on during your visit.

Buy original art and explore framing services
Galleri ER is both an exhibition space and a commercial art gallery. Visitors can purchase original paintings, prints and sculptures, with advice available when choosing an artwork.The gallery also offers professional framing services, with a wide selection of frames to suit different artworks and interiors. If you are considering a painting or print for your home, Galleri ER offers the opportunity to try selected works on your own wall before making a decision. Art consultancy and decorative solutions are also available for private homes and businesses.
Browse available works through the Galleri ER online shop.

A welcoming gallery in central Sandefjord
Galleri ER is owned and managed by Elisabeth Rudberg, who has run the gallery since 2016. The gallery aims to make art approachable, offering a welcoming environment where visitors can explore, ask questions and discover new artists. Its central location in Kongensgate makes it an easy stop while shopping or exploring Sandefjord.

Discover more art in Sandefjord
For more artistic experiences, visit Galleri Brown, which combines visual art, ceramics, printmaking and creative workshops.
You can also explore Sculptures in Sandefjord, featuring public artworks in parks and open spaces around the town.
Find more inspiration in the Galleries in Sandefjord guide.

Plan your visit
Galleri ER is located at Kongensgate 12, 3210 Sandefjord, Norway, in the pedestrian-friendly town centre. The gallery is normally open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 am–4 pm. Hours may vary during public holidays and holiday periods. Admission to the regular gallery exhibitions is free. Art purchases, framing services and special events may have separate charges.

Allow time to explore both floors, whether you are making a short visit or spending longer looking for an artwork.
Contact the gallery in advance for information about wheelchair access, step-free entry and accessibility between the two floors.
For current information, visit the official Galleri ER website.

 

Eidsfoss

Eidsfoss is located between the lakes Bergsvannet and Eikeren north in Vestfold. If you go there you will arrive at a charming village with an exciting history. Here you can enjoy the tranquillity, good food and drink and at the same time learn more about an important part of our cultural heritage; the iron works.

Take a tour along the cultural trail that goes through beautiful scenery and exciting historic buildings or book a tour in advance. At Hovedgården you can find out how the owners of the Jernverket lived while strolling through the partially restored baroque garden. There are people living in the three well-kept working areas today, and in some of them there are galleries and museum exhibitions.

In the summer both Eikern and Bergsvannet offer nice places for a swim.

Landhandelen is Norway’s oldest of its kind, which is still in operation, and here you are taken back to a time when the shop on the corner had it all.

At the Jernverket museum you can learn more about the 250-year history of the industrial company A / S Eidsfos verk and the local community that grew up around it. The well-preserved workers' homes form a historic framework form all the events that are held every year.