Porsgrunn Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the beautiful Telemark region of Norway, Porsgrunn is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. With its picturesque surroundings and vibrant atmosphere, Porsgrunn is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Norway.

One of the highlights of Porsgrunn is its stunning natural landscapes. The city is nestled between the majestic fjords and rolling hills, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Visitors can explore the nearby Telemark Canal, a historic waterway that winds its way through the region. Take a boat tour or go kayaking to truly appreciate the beauty of this scenic canal.

For history enthusiasts, Porsgrunn is home to several fascinating landmarks and museums. The Brevik Town Museum showcases the city's rich maritime history, with exhibits that delve into the lives of sailors and shipbuilders. The Porsgrunn Maritime Museum is another must-visit attraction, where you can learn about the city's seafaring past and explore a collection of ancient artifacts.

Art lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in Porsgrunn. The city is known for its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the works of local artists. Don't miss the Porsgrunn Art Association, a hub for contemporary art that hosts regular exhibitions and events. For a taste of traditional Norwegian crafts, visit the Porselensmuseet (Porcelain Museum), where you can admire exquisite porcelain pieces created by local artisans.

No trip to Porsgrunn would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to indulge in fresh catches of the day at one of the many waterfront restaurants. For a true taste of Norwegian gastronomy, try some traditional dishes like lutefisk or rakfisk, accompanied by a glass of aquavit, a popular Scandinavian spirit.

Alternative names: Population: 36.4 thous. (2020)Area: 76.85 mi²Elevation: 26 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 59°8'20"N, 9°38'58"E

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TelemarkNorway

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Porsgrunn Top Attractions

Porsgrunn Attractions - What to See and Explore

Porsgrunn offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Porsgrunn City Hall, Porsgrunn Bridge, Vår Frue Kirke, Gunneklevfjord. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Art Nouveau architecture • City hall
Porsgrunn City Hall
Porsgrunn City Hall is the seat of government for Porsgrunn city and municipality in Telemark, Norway. The current city hall was constructed in 1905 after the original building was destroyed in a fire.
Bridge
Porsgrunn Bridge
Porsgrunn Bridge is a drawbridge constructed of concrete. It is locationed in Porsgrunn town and municipality in Vestfold og Telemark county, Norway. The bridge, which was completed in 1958, connects the eastern and western sides of Porsgrunn town center.
Art Nouveau architecture • Church
Vår Frue Kirke
Our Lady of Good Counsel Church is a Roman Catholic parish church in the city of Porsgrunn in Vestfold og Telemark, Norway. The church is located in the center of town just south of Porsgrunn River, at the intersection of Sverresgate and Aallsgate.

Fjord
Gunneklevfjord
Gunneklevfjord is a small fjord at the head of Frierfjord in Porsgrunn municipality in Telemark county, Norway. The west side of Gunneklevfjord is defined by the peninsula of Herøya, at the mouth of Telemarksvassdraget. Herøya features a large industrial park that was founded in 1928.
Bridge
Brevik Bridge
Brevik Bridge is one of two bridges that span the mouth of the Frierfjord. It connects the municipalities of Bamble and Porsgrunn in Vestfold og Telemark county. On the west side, in Bamble, lies Stathelle, while on the east side lies Brevik in Porsgrunn.
Bridge
Grenland Bridge
Grenland Bridge is Norway's highest cable-stayed bridge with a tower height of 168 metres. The bridge, which opened in 1996, is on route E18. It crosses the Frierfjord, a fjord which separates the municipalities of Porsgrunn and Bamble in Vestfold og Telemark county.
Manor house
Borgestad Manor
Borgestad Manor is an estate and manor house in the municipality of Skien in Vestfold og Telemark, Norway.
Bridge
Frednes Bridge
Frednes Bridge is a bridge located on Highway 354 in Porsgrunn municipality in Vestfold og Telemark county, Norway. The bridge crosses the Porrsgrunn River at the mouth where the Skien River passes out into Frierfjord at the site of Norsk Hydro's factory complex.
59°8'12"N • 9°38'14"E
DuVerden sjøfartsmuseum + vitensenter
History museum • Science museum • Children's museum
Concerts and shows • Theater
Grenland friteater
Grenland Friteater is one of the oldest independent theatres in Norway, based in the small industrial town Porsgrunn. Every year in June, Grenland Friteater organises the Porsgrunn International Theatre Festival.

Day trips

Porsgrunn – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Porsgrunn, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kongsberg Skisenter (Kongsberg), Whaler's Monument (Sandefjord), Oscarsborg Fortress (Drøbak).

36 milesN
Winter sport, Park, Ski area
Kongsberg Skisenter, Kongsberg
Nestled in the heart of Norway's scenic landscape, Kongsberg Skisenter emerges as a winter haven for ski enthusiasts. This alpine ski area, situated in the city of Kongsberg, offers a diverse range of slopes catering to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned...
20 milesE
Memorial
Whaler's Monument, Sandefjord
The Whaler's Monument, known locally as Hvalfangstmonumentet, stands as a proud testament to Sandefjord, Norway's rich maritime and whaling heritage. This striking bronze sculpture, which was unveiled in 1960, is the work of Norwegian sculptor Knut Steen.
50 milesNE
Specialty museum, Museum, Military museum
Oscarsborg Fortress, Drøbak
Oscarsborg Fortress stands as a monumental guardian of the narrowest point of the Oslofjord, near the quaint coastal town of Drøbak, Norway. This historic fortress, rich in military heritage, played a pivotal role in Norway's defense during the Second World War.
34 milesNE
Golf
Borre Golfbane
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Vestfold County, Norway, Borre Golfbane stands out as a premier golfing destination. This lush golf course is celebrated for its impeccable fairways and challenging layout, offering both seasoned players and beginners an unforgettable...
20 milesE
Specialty museum, Museum, Maritime museum
Sandefjord Museum, Sandefjord
Sandefjord Museum is a cultural beacon nestled in the coastal city of Sandefjord, Norway, renowned for its rich maritime history and significance in the Norwegian whaling industry. This museum serves as a vital repository for the region's seafaring heritage and offers...