KRISTIANSAND

The smiling capital of the south

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Posebyen in Kristiansand .
Photo: Adam Read / Visit Sørlandet

Feel the light from the sun rays reflect from the whitewashed walls of Posebyen old town, the very heart of Kristiansand, and a great place to start exploring Norway’s southernmost city.

These are the biggest collection of charming wooden houses that characterizes many of the villages of Southern Norway.

Today, they are filled with quirky little shops. Warning: you will not leave empty-handed!

Posebyen in Kristiansand .
Photo: Adam Read / Visit Sørlandet

Wait, what? Fine sand and palm trees in Norway?

Yes, the Bystranda urban beach gives you the feeling of being in more southern parts of Europe.

Very few places in Norway get more hours of sunlight a year than Kristiansand!

Cultural experiences, shopping, and good restaurants are just a stone's throw away. Markens is the main pedestrian street in the city centre and is usually bustling with life.

No wonder Kristiansand is sometimes compared to Barcelona!

Bystranda Kristiansand city beach .
Photo: Scandic Kristiansand Bystranda

Although the sea can become quite warm in the summer, you are guaranteed a comfortable 25 degrees Celsius all year round in Aquarama Waterpark’s outdoor pool, right by the city beach.

Aquarama in Kristiansand .
Photo: Anders Martisensen / Aquarama

The palm trees on the beach are the inspiration behind the name of the annual Palmesus festival that takes place on Bystranda.

With 60,000 attendees and an international line-up, it’s Norway’s biggest beach party.

Come join us next summer!

Palmesus music festival in Kristiansand .
Photo: Palmesus

You can also listen to great music of all kind in the new landmark Kilden Performing Arts Centre.

The striking building houses a theatre and a music hall with an exciting programme.

Kilden is located at Odderøya, a former naval base turned into a recreational area with an artsy vibe. Follow the sign-posted paths and have a coffee with a view or challenge yourself in the indoor climbing park Høyt & Lavt Odderøya.

Kilden in Kristiansand .
Photo: Hufton Crow

You can also explore the city's cool, urban vibe through its extensive street art.

Keep your eyes peeled for gigantic murals and more subtle pieces on the streets.

Street art in Kristiansand .
Photo: Visit Sørlandet / Erik Engenes

Life in Kristiansand is also about taking things slowly and to nyde (enjoy) life. The lively Fiskebrygga harbour with its stunning canal scenery is a favourite destination for locals, especially on a sunny day.

After a fine meal at one of the city's restaurants, whether you enjoyed seafood, Tex-Mex, Asian, or just a triple scoop of ice cream, ...

Fiskebrygga in Kristiansand, Southern Norway .
Photo: Visit Sørlandet

... you can sip a drink in the city's first rooftop bar, Club 21 on top of the Caledonien Hotel.

Champagne at the rooftop Caledonien .
Photo: Magnus Furset / Visitnorway.com

A short hike from the city centre takes you to a secluded gem - Ravnedalen Valley Nature Park.

Its beautiful nature provides the perfect backdrop for a delicious homemade burger at Generalen.

Summer nights at the café are magical, with live music and a cosy atmosphere.

Ravnedalen in Kristiansand .
Photo: Tor Erik Schrøder

Here, family entertainment is an art form and Kristiansand is known as "the children's city".

Dyreparken Zoo and Amusement Park – which also includes a big water park (in summer) - is a much desired destination by Norwegian children.

Kardemomme by in Kristiansand .
Photo: Dyreparken

Another attraction well worth visiting is the Kristiansand Cannon Museum at Møvik Fortress.

The fortress was built by the German Navy during WWII, and the museum offers fascinating insight into the history of the war.

Explore the drama of the past as you ride the old ammunition railway through tranquil and idyllic scenery with panoramic views over the archipelago in Kristiansand.

Kristiansand kanonmuseum .
Photo: Steinar Furu / Kristiansand Kanonmuseum

Kristiansand is all about the coast. It’s impossible to pick a favourite from the thousands of islands of the archipelago. But beautiful Bragdøya is easily accessible by ferry.

With a coastal centre, cosy cafés, a white beach, and picturesque trails, this island captures the essence of a summer dream.

Bragdøya in Kristiansand .
Photo: Adam Read / Visit Sørlandet