Kaupang Viking Town

Kaupang Viking Town is located beside Viksfjorden near Larvik, on the site of one of Norway's earliest urban trading settlements, established around AD 800. Here you can explore Viking Age trade and craftsmanship through archaeological exhibitions, a reconstructed building and guided experiences in the historic landscape.

Where Vikings lived and traded
More than 1,200 years ago, people gathered at Kaupang to trade goods, practise crafts and exchange knowledge. Its location beside the fjord made it an important centre for trade and travel during the Viking Age. Today, you can see a reconstruction of what a Viking house may have looked like, along with a model showing how parts of the settlement were arranged. Together with archaeological findings, these displays help bring the ancient trading town to life.

Discover the archaeological finds
Archaeologists have investigated Kaupang since the 19th century, and much of the original settlement remains unexcavated.
The exhibitions explain what archaeologists have discovered, how the excavations were carried out and what the findings reveal about trade, craftsmanship and power during the Viking Age. Guides from the Kaupang Project also bring the surrounding landscape to life, sharing stories about the people who lived here and the burial sites that reveal aspects of life and death in Viking society.

Viking activities and guided experiences
During the summer season, Kaupang offers activities for children and adults. Depending on the programme, these may include archery, archaeological digging, storytelling and guided walks at Northern Kaupang. Activities take place on selected days during the season. Guided tours indoors and outdoors are available during regular opening hours when other activities are not taking place.

Explore the cultural heritage trail
Fasanatur is a free cultural heritage trail featuring questions and activities related to the area. Starting at the car park, it can be explored independently of the Viking Town's regular opening hours. Kaupang is also a worthwhile stop along the Viking Trail through Vestfold, which connects burial sites and other important places from the Iron and Viking Ages.

Group visits to Kaupang
Kaupang Viking Town also welcomes groups by prior arrangement. Visits can be adapted to include historical storytelling, traditional crafts, Viking games and food prepared over an open fire. Contact the Kaupang Project in advance to arrange a group experience suited to your needs.

Plan your visit
Kaupang Viking Town is located at Kaupangveien 276, beside Viksfjorden in Larvik municipality. The visitor centre normally opens for the summer season from late June to late August. In 2026, regular opening hours were Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am–5 pm. Outside the summer season, visits are available by prior arrangement.

An admission fee applies to the visitor centre, while the outdoor cultural heritage trail is free to explore.
Check the Kaupang Project's official website for current opening hours, ticket prices, activity programmes and group bookings before travelling.