Sandefjord boasts miles of coastline, as well as a rich historical heritage. Vikings have left their mark here, as has the fishing industry. Discover beaches, urban life, fascinating history, art, and more!
Located about 120 kilometres south of Oslo, Sandefjord is a modern yet charming seaside town and a popular holiday destination for Norwegians. The city has large forests and numerous sandy beaches that offer recreation and relaxation year-round.
In between the sandy beaches lie a series of sheltered coves and beautiful smooth, sloping rocks down to the shore. You can choose between bustling beaches or more secluded swimming spots along a coastline that is almost 150 kilometres long.
The Vikings lived in the area around the Oslofjord about 1,000 years ago. Traces of their civilisation remain in Sandefjord through the artefacts and monuments they left behind. This is where the famous Gokstad ship was found, and the area is home to several other sites and historic landmarks from the Viking Age.
Streets lined with small, traditional wooden houses and large, up-to-date complexes for modern living make for a varied and exciting city centre.
Sandefjord is home to a variety of galleries, sculptures and museums, including the Whaling Museum, Europe’s only museum dedicated to whaling and its history, and a good starting point for learning about Norway’s whaling industry. There are several options for getting to Sandefjord and around.
Find more inspiration on Sandefjord’s official website.
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Top things to do
Don't miss these highlights.
SandefjordArt for All in the World
The summer 2017 made Sandefjord a much more colourful city as the organisation Art for All in the World along with Visit Vestfold and Sandefjord Kunstforening (Art foundation) successfully orchestrated and conducted a project which gave more colour to the city. Seven mural artists from all over the world were brought together in Sandefjord in a project under the umbrella Inclusiveness, Tolerance and Diversity.
Where to stay
Book comfy hotels or cosy cabins. Find your home away from home.
Food and drink
Taste delicious local food and book a table at a fine restaurant.
Getting here and around
Plan your trip and buy tickets for public transportation with Entur, Norway's national travel planner.
By train
The train stops in Sandefjord on its way between Oslo and Skien. It takes a little less than two hours from Sandefjord to Oslo.
By bus
There are several daily departures by express bus between Oslo and Sandefjord. The journey takes about two hours.
By car
Sandefjord is located 120 kilometres south of Oslo by road.
If you go by car from Oslo, follow the main road E18 to Sandefjord.
By boat
The ferry lines Color Line and Fjord Line link Sandefjord with Strömstad in Sweden. There are several departures daily, and travel time is 2 hours and 30 minutes. Read more about travelling to Sandefjord by ferry.
By plane
There are several domestic and international flights to and from Torp Sandefjord Airport.
The airport is located 7 kilometres northeast of Sandefjord. From there you can go by both train and bus to Sandefjord and Oslo.
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
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