Discover Tønsberg: Viking ships and medieval heritage
Accommodation in Tønsberg
Tønsberg combines medieval history with special insights into Norway’s maritime history. The ruins of Tunsberghus are visible on Slottsfjell, and the trading ship from Klåstad is on display at the Slottsfjell Museum. There is also art, the ruins of Olav’s Church and the Ilene nature reserve. Anyone looking for a holiday rental in Tønsberg can use the destination’s range of interests as a starting point for planning their trip.
Viking ships and medieval traces
The Slottsfjell Museum is in central Tønsberg, at the foot of Slottsfjell. Its exhibitions focus on the Middle Ages and the city’s history. The Viking Hall is home to the trading ship from Klåstad: it is Norway’s fourth Viking ship and the only surviving Viking ship displayed outside Oslo. This makes the ship more than just an individual attraction; it also represents a special part of Norway’s maritime history.
The medieval city of Tønsberg and Slottsfjellet are among Norway’s most significant areas of medieval cultural heritage. The ruins of Tunsberghus can be seen on Slottsfjell. Another historic stop is Tønsberg Cathedral: it was built in 1858 over the ruins of an 11th-century basilica dedicated to the Archdeacon St. Lawrence. The cathedral also houses furnishings from Lavranskyrka and the medieval Church of St. Mary.
Olav’s Church also offers a glimpse into Tønsberg’s earlier history. It was Norway’s only round church; today, its ruins remain. They are located in the city centre opposite the library. Visitors interested in historic buildings can discover different forms of medieval heritage, from the visible ruins on Slottsfjell to the remains of a former round church.
Ships at the quay and history nearby
At Vikingodden on the quay in Tønsberg, you can see replicas of the Oseberg and Klåstad ships: Saga Oseberg and Saga Farmann. They are there year-round, except when they are out sailing. As part of the shipbuilding project at Vikingodden, visitors also had the opportunity to help build ships using Viking tools. When planning your trip, it is worth distinguishing between viewing the displayed replicas and this hands-on experience connected to shipbuilding.
A cultural trail in the area around Tønsberg follows Vellebekken to the burial mound at Oseberghaugen. The 21.5-metre-long Oseberg ship dates from 834 AD and was found to be the grave of an important woman, possibly a queen. The connection between ship and grave makes the Oseberg story a special subject for anyone who wants to explore the finds in the surrounding area as well as the ship displays in Tønsberg.
Art, nature and your own interests
The Haugar Art Museum presents permanent and temporary art exhibitions. Throughout the year, it offers a range of events and activities for people of all ages. Art thus adds a distinct focus to the city’s historical themes. Those looking to accommodate different interests within their travel group can consider the museum’s exhibitions and programme alongside visits relating to ships and medieval heritage.
The Ilene nature reserve offers another side of the destination: it is a 90-hectare Ramsar site. You can find routes for paddling trips in Tønsberg on UT.no. Culture, art exhibitions and outdoor activities offer a range of options for planning your stay. Which of these you want to focus on can also influence your choice of a holiday rental in Tønsberg as a base for your trip.
Visitors can get tips and information about things to do in Tønsberg, Nøtterøy and Tjøme, as well as brochures, at the service centre in Tønsberg Town Hall, Halfdan Wilhelmsens allé 1c, 3104 Tønsberg. For further orientation, you can also visit the pages for Tønsberg Tønsberg and Tolvsrød Tolvsrød.
For the broader travel overview: Vestfold.
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