Established in 1838, Moss is a lively coastal town along the Oslofjord, just south of the Norwegian capital. It stretches from the shores of Vansjø lake to the Jeløy peninsula, which is renowned for its abundance of beaches. The city’s rich industrial history is on display in the Møllebyen area while contemporary Norwegian art is showcased at Galleri F15.
Things to do in Moss
Spend your days relaxing on one of Moss’s many beaches, with both Sjøbadet and Fiske easily accessible from the town centre. Further afield, you’ll find several picturesque stretches of sand on Jeløy, such as family-friendly Tronvik Beach. Nature lovers can enjoy the leisurely walks that lead through the surrounding countryside, with many offering views of the Oslofjord.
One of Moss’s most atmospheric areas is Møllebyen, the former industrial centre of the town. Many of its old warehouses and milling buildings are adorned with cast-iron windows, brick pillars and intricately detailed masonry, and have now been transformed into trendy cafes and restaurants. The district is also home to the Moss City and Industry Museum, which brings the area’s past to life.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to Jeløy’s Galleri F15, which showcases changing exhibitions of contemporary arts and crafts from the Nordic region. It’s located in the courtyard of a 19th-century country estate and surrounded by landscaped gardens, a deciduous forest and the waters of the Oslofjord. Also, its on-site cafe is renowned for its delicious pastries.
Getting there
Moss is around 45 minutes’ drive from Oslo and just over an hour from Oslo Airport. Regular trains connect from the Norwegian capital to the Moss railway station while buses travel throughout the city and Jeløy. The centre of Moss can easily be explored on foot.