Porsgrunn is known for the city of Porcelain and proud industrial history. The town is idyllically situated, divided in two by the river. The centre stretches along the east side of the river bank with a mix of modern new buildings and old, charming wooden houses. South of the municipality is the ice cream town of Brevik which oozes old history with narrow alleys and fine galleries. Brevik is also known for shipping history.