13-Day Norway Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Haugesund to Stavanger, Sandnes, Kristiansand, Arendal, Skien, and Rjukan

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Stavanger, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Stavanger.

Don’t miss Vågen today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Norwegian Petroleum Museum is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This historic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Gamle Stavanger, another must-visit landmark and beloved street renowned for its enchanting features.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Preikestolen, a beloved cliff that everyone visiting Stavanger should see.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Stavanger.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Stavanger. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Villa 22 Trattoria & Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tango restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Noodle Noodle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Stavanger tonight.

Keep the evening going at Bar Bache, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Fri Bar - Fargegaten, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hanekam, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Norway!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Norway. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Stavanger, Kyrkje-Sola, and Sandnes. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sandnes, where you'll spend 1 night.

Sverd I Fjell makes a great addition to your morning plans. This beloved monument is a culturally significant place to see in Stavanger.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Stavanger.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stavanger and set your GPS to Kyrkje-Sola. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 14 min. Upon reaching Kyrkje-Sola, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Solastranden, a beloved beach that everyone visiting Kyrkje-Sola should see.

Sandnes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kyrkje-Sola behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Sandnes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Sandved Park, an up-and-coming park that everyone visiting Sandnes should see. Next, head to The Science Factory. This picture-perfect science center is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Dalsnuten Hike, a visually striking hiking area popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sandnes. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sandnes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Maki Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Lura Turistheim AS boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Moon House Sandnes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sandnes.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Melkebaren As, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tribute offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Norway!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Norway. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Kristiansand. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kristiansand, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sandnes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kristiansand. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Kristiansand Museum, an underrated museum that everyone visiting Kristiansand should see. Next, head to The Inverted Boat. This detailed art installation is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Kristiansand Cathedral, a grand church popular among locals as well as travelers. Skmu Sørlandets Kunstmuseum is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this intriguing art gallery before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Kristiansand. Kristiansand offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Kristiansand. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bellini, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tollboden Burger & Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le´s Kitchen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kristiansand.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bakgården Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Norway!

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Haugesund. You’ll stay in Kristiansand for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Odderøya Fort and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Christiansholm Fortress, a picture-perfect monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Aquarama Kristiansand, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Kristiansand Zoo And Amusement Park.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Norway. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kristiansand. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Foodie Kristiansand, a popular restaurant in Kristiansand. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kristiansand at SkagenPub, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Monsoon - Sushi & Asian. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kristiansand tonight.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your road trip in Norway, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Hasseltangen and Arendal are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Arendal, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Hasseltangen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Hasseltangen beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Hasseltangen is Hasseltangen Park, a beloved park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

After soaking in Hasseltangen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arendal. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Arendal, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Sandviken Fort, an intriguing historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Kuben, Aust-agder Museum Og Arkiv and admire its standout features.

When you’re ready, continue to Parc Barbu, an increasingly popular park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Glassheisen Til Fløyheia, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Arendal, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Arendal's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Solsiden Tapas, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Gørr Go Mad? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hong Kong Restaurant Arendal as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Arendal.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Barrique Beer And Wine Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Norway!

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Norway includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Verpe and Heddal. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Skien, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arendal and set your GPS to Verpe. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 52 min. Upon reaching Verpe, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Hogga Locks and explore the historic features.

Heddal’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Verpe behind. This drive usually takes around 56 min. Heddal welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Heddal Stave Church, an often recommended church that draws visitors from near and far.

Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum is an increasingly popular museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Skien. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Skien is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Skien.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Norway!

Wake up to day 9 of your road trip in Norway. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Skien and Porsgrunn. With 1 night to stay in Skien, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you decide to explore Skien on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Catch The Telemark Canal before the crowds roll in. This romantic fjord is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Skien Church, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Brekkeparken, an increasingly popular park.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Porsgrunn. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Porsgrunds Porselænsfabrik As, a curiosity-inducing museum that everyone visiting Porsgrunn should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Skien and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Skien's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Norway.