VESTFOLD
Vikings, skerries, and the sweet and slow life
Welcome to the end of the world!
That’s what the name Verdens Ende means. Situated at the southernmost tip of Tjøme in Færder National Park, this is where land meets sea, offering dramatic views of the endless horizon.
/17.3596,65.4818,2.1,0/200x200@2x?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidmlzaXRub3J3YXkiLCJhIjoiY2p2ZXd6N2FxMHNodjQzcDZ6eWZzczc2YyJ9.SKR8r-oEFusQxkBUhsLQNg&attribution=false&logo=false)
Experience the lively yet relaxed atmosphere in quaint seaside havens like Tønsberg – Norway’s oldest town and home to the Slottsfjell Music Festival.
All the towns in Vestfold – Stavern, Larvik, Sandefjord, Tønsberg, Horten, and Holmestrand – face the sea. They are known as summer towns, but there are plenty of reasons to visit them regardless of the season!
Viking history is everywhere in Vestfold. Four of Norway’s historic Viking ships were found here and you can see the original Klåstad ship, more than 1,000 years old, at the Slottsfjell Museum. You can also sail on a replica Viking ship at Vikingodden in Tønsberg.
At Midgard Vikingsenter in Borre, you can visit the great Viking hall, see exciting exhibitions, and take selfies with real Vikings (friendly locals in costume – don't worry!).
Or how about visiting Kaupang, Norway’s first town and Viking settlement, located in Larvik?
For some naval history, head to Karljohansvern just outside Horten. This was Norway's main naval base and is now a living museum that hosts cultural events throughout the year.
This is also where you'll find the Preus Museum, which exhibits photography and visual art.
Another important maritime location is Fredriksvern Verft in Stavern. Construction on the historic shipyard and naval base began in 1750 in response to the threat of war with Sweden. Wander around the historic buildings that once housed the navy.
Just a short drive away, you can also explore the cultural landscape of Mølen – Norway's largest pebble beach, with 230 cairns from the Iron Age.
If you’re an art lover, you’ll be busy in Vestfold.
Visit the home of Edvard Munch, the world-famous painter of The Scream, in Åsgårdstrand.
See Andy Warhol’s tribute to Edvard Munch at Haugar Art Museum in Tønsberg, and experience the art of one of Norway's most renowned painters, Odd Nerdrum, at the Nerdrum Museum at Sjøparken in Stavern.
If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway, or want to pamper yourself in scenic surroundings, Vestfold has you covered. Treat yourself to a night or two at popular spots like the spa hotel Farris Bad or Nevlunghavn Gjestgiveri, or enjoy a luxurious farm stay at Engø Gård.
Bring your friends along and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in Vestfold.
The region offers plenty of locally grown ingredients and freshly caught delicacies from the sea.
A tasty highlight is the restaurant Sjøslag in Larvik, where sea views and an à la carte menu showcase seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Vestfold is also known as one of the most family friendly regions in Norway.
Visit one of the many activity parks, like Scandinavia's largest climbing park Høyt & Lavt, or Aktiv Fritid Tjøme!
Find everything from llamas to water slides at Foldvik family park!
Don’t worry if the weather isn’t on your side – from museums and Viking centres to wellness oases, there are plenty of fun indoor activities to enjoy in Vestfold too!
Ready for a proper seaside holiday?
Read more about Larvik, Sandefjord, Tønsberg and Færder, Horten, and Holmestrand.