About

The Porsgrunn River divides this charming city into two: the East Side (Østsida) and the West Side (Vestsida). We invite you to a unique city walk in Porsgrunn where you will discover a rich blend of modern urban development and preserved 18th-century history in Grenland.

The East Side Route: From Promenade to Osebakken

Start your walk by parking at the Down Town shopping center and stroll along the beautiful river promenade.

Bratsberg Brygge: Modern Waterfront Life

The first area you encounter is Bratsberg Brygge, an exciting new residential area. Here, a vibrant wharf environment has been created with shops at street level and lovely outdoor areas along the canals.

  • Art: Notice the unique sculptures along the wharf, created by the artist Marit Bente Nordheim.

The Town Hall Amphitheater and Porcelain Art

Continuing up along the river, you will arrive at the beautiful and distinctive Town Hall Amphitheater (Rådhusamfiet), located down by the river in front of Porsgrunn Town Hall.

  • Attraction: The Amphitheater has been chosen as Porsgrunn's Millennium Site. Pay special attention to the detailed porcelain decorations in the stairs – a tribute to the city's porcelain history.

Osebro: Porsgrunn's Oldest Residential Quarter

If you continue north, you will reach the district of Osebro. This is among the best-preserved parts of Porsgrunn city center and one of the city's oldest residential areas. Here you will find a pleasant atmosphere, historic buildings, and many cozy spots along the river promenade for a cup of coffee or a bite to eat.

Osebakken Bathing Area: Urban Recreation

Further north is the Osebakken bathing area. This is a great resting spot almost in the middle of the city, facilitated for swimming, sunbathing, and grilling.

Crossing to the West Side: Historic Moldhaugen and Viewpoint

Cross the Porsgrunn Bridge (Porsgrunnsbrua) (near Down Town) to cross the river to "Vessia," as the locals call the west side. Turn right immediately after crossing the bridge and follow the promenade further into Vestregate, and then Bybakken.

Moldhaugen: 18th-Century Sea Houses

Continue to Moldhaugen, an old and charming residential area. Here, old houses and sea houses (sjøboder) stand as fine examples of 18th and 19th-century building traditions.

Lysthusåsen: The City's Best Viewpoint

At the top of the hill, the stairs lead up to Lysthusåsen (The Gazebo Hill).

  • History: The place was formerly named Constituitionsåsen (Constitution Hill), where the Constitution was celebrated on May 17, 1826.
  • Name and view: Today's name comes from the gazebo (lysthus) that was erected at the viewpoint. On the built-up viewing platform, there are two cannons that were previously used to signal incoming ships (skuter).