It is the most southernmost town of Norway, and famous for its long-stretching beaches surrounding the town. Sjøsanden (The Sea Sand) is probably the most famous beach, as it stretches for almost a kilometre just outside the town centre. Mandal is a very popular holiday resort, with its mild and refreshing summer climate.
Of other sightseeings, is the church. Mandal kirke is the largest wooden church in Norway, with 1800 seats and a pulpit on the wall over the altar.
The famous sculptor Gustav Vigeland (1869-1943) was born in Mandal, and has a road named after him in his home town. Vigeland created Vigeland Sculpture Park (Vigelandsparken) in the country's capital Oslo. The most know sculpture there, is The Monolith (Monolitten), an over 14 meter high column with human bodies carved out of a single block of stone.
The painter Adolph Tiedemand (1814-1876) was also born in Mandal. His most famous painting is the national romantic image of a traditional wedding on the Hardanger fjord, which he made together with Hans Gude.