A coastal mountain in Kristiansand, Norway
NORWAY'S SOUTHERN BELL

Cruise to Kristiansand, Norway

Kristiansand, named after its founding king, is the lively capital of Southern Norway. Stroll through the old town of Posebyen, known for its neat grid design with wooden white and pastel-colored houses. Explore the area around the quayside and fish market, and relax in an outdoor cafe. In summer, the Bystranda Beach is filled with cheerful Norwegians catching a spot of sunshine. Take a boat trip to visit the quaint fishing villages nearby. Cruise to Kristiansand and bring your little ones to the large Dyrepark, which includes a zoo, a fantasy village, and a water park.
National Language Norwegian
Currency Accepted Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Things To Do in Kristiansand

Coastal buildings and a lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

Idyllic Wooden Houses

Coastal buildings and a lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

Coastal buildings and a lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

Idyllic Wooden Houses

Take a stroll through Posebyen, the old part of town, admiring the collection of wooden buildings, painted in white and pastel colors. A big city fire in 1892 destroyed most of Kristiansand but left this neighborhood intact.

The Odderoya Lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

Redefine Island Fun

The Odderoya Lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

The Odderoya Lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

Redefine Island Fun

Cross the bridge south of the center to the island of Odderoya. Walk the pleasant seaside walking paths, admire the endless views and sandy beaches, have a look inside the cool galleries, and relax in the laid-back cafes. In summer, the island hosts several festivals and large outdoor concerts with both national and international artists.

A vintage cannon overlooking the ocean in Kristiansand, Norway
A vintage cannon overlooking the ocean in Kristiansand, Norway

Protect Against Pirates

Visit the photogenic Christiansholm Fortress, on the seaside promenade in the city center. Built between 1662 and 1672 by Fredrik III to keep watch over the strategic Skagerrak Straits, which were often assailed by pirates. The fortress features five-meter-thick walls — perfect for soldiers to hold up in a bunker.

Five scallops on a black plate with garnish
Five scallops on a black plate with garnish

Local Cuisine

For breakfast, head to the charming coffee shops in Skippergada street to have some quality coffee and a "horn," a savory crescent roll often filled with cheese and ham. Follow the locals to the Fiskebrygga (fish market) and buy a some fish cakes and a basket of strawberries during your Kristiansand cruise. You can enjoy them sitting at the quayside. For dinner, try distinctive dishes like local scallops served with trout roe and radishes at one of the city's upscale, modern restaurants.

Assorted wool hats in Norway
Assorted wool hats in Norway

Shopping

Shop for local products at the Posebyen Market, including traditional wool hats and sweaters, as well as antique homegoods and decorations. For trendy fashions and modern Scandinavian home designs, head to Kristiansand's main street, Markens. Here, you'll find the large shopping center Slotts Quartalet. For charming boutiques, head to Skippergata — there are small shops specializing in everything from upscale fashions to leather goods.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 Kristiansand is flat, so it's an ideal place to explore on foot or by bicycle.
2 The Norwegian Krone (NOK) is the official currency of Norway. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards.

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