Welcome to Porsgrunn in Norway – a charming riverside town in Telemark where industrial heritage meets modern creativity. Set along the Porsgrunn River, this small yet dynamic city combines culture, innovation and coastal nature, making it an inviting destination for both business and leisure.

City life and riverside atmosphere

Porsgrunn’s compact centre is easy to explore on foot, with lively shopping streets, cafés and restaurants lining both sides of the river. The waterway defines the city’s character, creating a calm and picturesque setting for a stroll along the quayside. Among its modern architectural landmarks stands Powerhouse Telemark — designed by the renowned Norwegian firm Snøhetta — one of the world’s most energy-efficient office buildings.

Porcelain, culture and family experiences

The city is best known for Porsgrunds Porselænsfabrik, Norway’s historic porcelain factory, where elegant craftsmanship has been part of local life since 1885. Visitors can tour the factory, browse the outlet store, or explore exhibitions that celebrate this proud design legacy. Across the river lies DuVerden Maritime Museum & Science Centre, offering hands-on exhibitions, VR experiences and creative workshops for all ages. Porsgrunn also has a vibrant cultural scene and hosts the Porsgrunn International Theatre Festival (PIT) every summer – one of Norway’s most distinctive and engaging performing arts events.

Coastal nature and easy connections

Surrounded by fjords and forested hills, Porsgrunn is ideally placed for outdoor adventures. Enjoy a swim at nearby beaches, explore the scenic archipelago by kayak or boat, or take a short trip into the countryside for hiking and cycling. Its central location also makes travel easy – Porsgrunn Station offers direct train connections to Oslo and convenient bus or train links to Kristiansand, making it an easy stop between city and sea. This accessibility, combined with modern meeting rooms and conference venues makes Porsgrunn an inspiring choice for both business events and leisure stays.

Nearby destinations

Skien
Langesund
Larvik
Sandefjord