Southern Norway

Coastal charm and cultural treasures

Small towns with traditional white wooden houses, coastal charm, and world-class art. No wonder Southern Norway is a favourite escape for many Norwegians.

Just steps from charming harbours and scenic beaches, you’ll find some of Europe’s most exciting cultural experiences, including the brand-new Kunstsilo art museum and culture centre in Kristiansand.

With its mild climate and scenic coastline, Southern Norway is a must-visit.

This charming region offers unique experiences all year round, from picturesque towns home to traditional white wooden houses and idyllic islands to world-class art and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

In the middle of it all, Kristiansand is a go-to city for art lovers, home to the spectacular Kunstsilo, one of the world’s finest art museums.

With convenient ferry connections to Denmark and attractions including the popular Dyreparken Zoo and Amusement Park, Kristiansand makes the perfect starting point for your journey to Southern Norway.

Get inspired and plan your trip below:

A woman cycling through Posebyen in Kristiansand on a transport bike full of flowers. Southern Norway.

Kunstsilo - The art silo at Odderøya island in Kristiansand, Southern Norway

Blonde boy driving red toy car around a roundabout at an amusement park.

A cheetah in Kristiansand Dyrepark in Southern Norway

The main city and port of the region is Kristiansand, one of the most popular cities in Norway in the summer.

Top insider tips on Kristiansand

Here, art is making waves! The new Kunstsilo museum, recently named one of the world’s most beautiful museums, is drawing international attention.

And just a short stroll away, the Kilden Performing Arts Centre rises from the harbour like a sculptural wave. This striking building hosts theatre, opera, and concerts and is a place where Norway’s southern soul meets international stage magic.

For plenty of fun for the whole family, head to Dyreparken zoo and amusement park just outside the city.

Here, kids can even earn their very own driver’s license on the popular mini car track!

But that’s not all. Dyreparken is also home to exotic wildlife from the Nordic region and beyond, including majestic tigers and cheetahs!

Explore Norway’s most complete family park with thrilling attractions, a water park, and magical themed worlds.

Top things to do in Kristiansand

Don't miss these highlights.

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People sitting in front of white house in Risør, Southern Norway

It’s not hard to understand why Norwegians dream of owning a little traditional wooden summerhouse in Southern Norway.

Luckily there are many holiday homes for rent in this beautiful archipelago with thousands of islands and small fishing villages, including Ny-Hellesund, just outside Kristiansand.

The traditional white, wooden houses are a typical feature of the towns stretching along the coastline from Kragerø to Egersund.

Full guide to the wooden house towns

Traditional wooden house towns in Southern Norway

Experience the charm of Norway's most traditional traditional architecture, from Kragerø to Kristiansand.

Woman and two children walking up a small hill with their bikes

The white and red Lindesnes lighthouse in sunshine, on the coast of Lindesnes in Southern Norway

In Mandal, Norway’s southernmost town, you can unwind on Sjøsanden beach, a one-kilometre stretch of soft white sand.

Not far from here is Lindesnes, home to Norway's southernmost lighthouse. Stop by the visitor centre, where you can explore the history and raw beauty of the coast.

This iconic lighthouse has guided ships through the dark for centuries and gives you a refreshing close-up with the forces of nature, just as fascinating on a stormy winter day as in the heat of summer.

Top things to do in Lindesnes and Mandal

Don't miss these highlights.

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Inside the underwater restaurant Under in Lindesnes, Southern Norway

Another totally unforgettable bucket list experience nearby is the seasonal set menu at Michelin-starred Under, the first underwater restaurant in Northern Europe.

Seated at 5.5 metres below sea level, you can enjoy the wonders of the sea through its already iconic window (no, it’s not an aquarium) and on your plate. Book well in advance!

Food and drink

Taste delicious local food and book a table at a fine restaurant.

Find more restaurants

Closeup of the backlights of a black, classic American car at the American festival in Farsund, Southern Norway.

A man in a swim shorts walking on a white sandy beach in Lista, Southern Norway.

Next up is Farsund and Lista. Don’t be surprised if classic American cars pass you on the road. This area is a little piece of America in Norway, and many locals drive around in shiny Buicks, Cadillacs, and Pontiacs.

Ever since the major wave of emigration in the 19th century, when more than 80,000 people left Southern Norway for the US, the area has had a strong connection to American culture. This is celebrated in the annual American festival.

200th anniversary of the emigration to America

This is also the place to be if you long to hear someone yell: “Surf’s up!”

The white beaches of Lista are just some of the many beautiful beaches along the southern coast.

Beautiful beaches

Surf's up!

Flowers in Hollenderbyen, Flekkefjord, Norway

Kids rail biking on the Flekkefjord Line

A group of people rafting in Evje in Southern Norway

You should also stop by Flekkefjord, where colourful street art adds a contrast to the traditional white wooden houses.

While you’re there, try rail biking on the old Flekkefjord Line – a 17 km ride through tunnels, forests and striking railway architecture. Fun for all ages!

And if you’re up for even more adventure, head inland to Evje – Southern Norway’s action capital. Here, you can go rafting, climbing, or just enjoy a full day of outdoor fun in wild and beautiful surroundings.

Fun activities

Looking for a little thrill? Southern Norway offers fun and action-packed experiences for all ages.

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Two women standing on the terrace of Gjøkeredet tree house in Gjerstad, Southern Norway.

A person cross-country skiing beneath another swimming in the outdoor infinity pool at Hovden Fjellbad Spa

For more quirky holiday memories (and to get back to that heavenly lazy mood), spend a night in the tree houses in the inland forests of Gjerstad (pictured) or Fiddan.

Come explore Southern Norway in winter, too!

From snow-guaranteed alpine slopes in Hovden to urban exploration and the milder coastal climate of Kristiansand, there's something for everyone.

Where to stay

Book comfy hotels or cosy cabins. Find your home away from home.

More accommodation alternatives

Events in Southern Norway

From festivals and concerts to shows and exhibitions. See what’s on!

Check out our event calendar

Getting here and around

Get in-depth travel information on Southern Norway’s official website.
Plan your trip to Southern Norway with Entur.

By plane
The closest airports to Southern Norway are Kristiansand Airport and Torp Sandefjord Airport, which have regular flights from many domestic and international destinations.
You can also fly to Oslo Airport or Stavanger Airport and continue your journey to Southern Norway by bus or a combination of train and bus.
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By car
If you’re driving to Southern Norway, follow the E18 from Oslo or the E39 from Stavanger. If you have time, you may want to follow the scenic old coastal roads.
To Setesdal, driving is the most convenient option. Rv9 between Bergen and Kristiansand is often called the Setesdal Road and crosses the valley from Evje in the south to Hovden in the north.
Plan your route, check traffic alerts, ferry information and more at the Norwegian Roads Administration website.
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By boat
You can travel by ferry to Kristiansand from Hirtshals in Denmark or to Sandefjord from Strömstad in Sweden. Both places have bus connections to the other destinations in Southern Norway.
From April 2022, you can also sail between Kristansand and Eemshaven in the Netherlands with Holland Norway Lines.
By bus
Several daily buses from Stavanger and Oslo stop in Southern Norway. Most of the bus routes follow the coastline.
Setesdal is covered by express buses with connections from Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Kristiansand, and other Norwegian towns.
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By train
The Sørland Line between Oslo and Stavanger stops at several stations in Southern Norway. You can choose between several daily services. From some stations, you need to take a local bus, train, or taxi to get to the coast.
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Get the best offers from our partners Radisson Hotels, Scandic Hotels, Strawberry, Thon Hotels and Citybox.

Explore top destinations in the region

Kristiansand

A person taking a dip in the river at Brokkestøylen in Southern Norway

Southern Norway uncovered: Insta-worthy all year

Take advantage of top offers

See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
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StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.