ARENDAL

Seaside bliss

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View over Arendal .
Photo: Gjermund Glesnes

The traditions of the past meet the modern trends of today in Arendal, located an hour east of Kristiansand in Southern Norway.

From the lighthouses that have survived over decades to underwater safaris and a science centre – you will leave truly inspired.

The charming old town Tyholmen …

The old town Tyholmen in Arendal .
Photo: Peder Austrud

… and the buzzing inner harbour Pollen make Arendal a varied and exciting seaside town with adventures for both old and young.

Pollen harbour in Arendal .
Photo: Foap / Visitnorway.com

How about visiting Arendal in another season? The Pollen harbour also looks beautiful in its winter clothes!

Pollen, Arendal .
Photo: Jarle Kvam

To cool down on a hot day, jump in the ocean or enjoy the floating pool by the marina. You can even rent an electric boat here.

Arendal harbour .
Photo: Arendal kommune

Arendal Harbour .
Photo: Arendal kommune

And if you have a future scientist in the family, the Science centre is the place to go for fun experiments.

The science center in Arendal .
Photo: Vitensenteret Sørlandet

Or perhaps you want to taste the result of other people’s brilliant ideas?

Like the homemade chocolate at Heimdal Chokolade, Norway’s smallest chocolate factory.

Heimdal chokolade in Arendal .
Photo: Innoventi AS

After indulging in treats, it’s time to take in some culture.

Visit Southern Norway’s largest location of contemporary art, Bomuldsfabriken Kunsthall with the Torbjørnsbu mines.

The centre for cultural history, KUBEN, has exhibitions and a large reading area – literally!

Kuben in Arendal .
Photo: KUBEN

When the sun is out, bring a good book to the beach for a relaxing day by the sea.

There are also a lot of family friendly bathing spots, like for example the wonderful Løkholmen beach!

Løkholmen beach in Arendal .
Photo: Gjermund Glesnes

The town and its idyllic archipelago are located in the marine national park Raet …

Raet national park in Arendal .
Photo: Raet Nasjonalpark Hove

… and the iconic lighthouses Lille and Store Torungen (pictured) mark the entrance to Arendal if you arrive by boat.

Imagine waking up in one of those white houses. It is possible – they are for rent.

The Arendal archipelago is great for stand up paddleboarding (SUP), boat trips, underwater safaris and swimming. Check out Canvas Hove for more!

Stand up paddleboarding around Torungen lighthouse in Arendal .
Photo: Canvas Hove

At their popular glamping hotel, you can sleep in this fancy cocoon or a Mongolian yurt, rent an outdoor kitchen, and bike on the trails in the woods.

Glamping at Canvas Hove in Arendal .
Photo: Canvas Hove

Or take the ferry to Merdø, the car-free island outside of Arendal.

With its charming café, museum and beach, the island has everything you need for a lovely day trip.

Merdø in Arendal .
Photo: Gjermund Glesnes

Tempted?

Plan your trip to Arendal.

Wooden houses in Arendal .
Photo: Gjermund Glesnes

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ARENDAL

Seaside bliss

Discover more

Take advantage of top offers

Accommodation

Getting Here & Around

Tours & Round trips

Offers

ARENDAL

Seaside bliss

Discover more

The Norwegians’ summer island paradise

Places to go

Kayaking and canoeing in Norway

Lighthouses

Glamping all year round

Take advantage of top offers