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 in Norway, you’ll start and end your day in Stavanger, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Stavanger, there’s no need to rush. Experience Stavanger to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Set aside time today to explore Vågen, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

To truly experience Stavanger, make sure to drop by Norwegian Petroleum Museum. This often recommended museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Gamle Stavanger, one of the city’s best highlights.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Preikestolen, an often recommended cliff that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Villa 22 Trattoria & Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tango restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Noodle Noodle. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Stavanger.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Bache after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Fri Bar - Fargegaten, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hanekam also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Norway!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Norway, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Stavanger, Kyrkje-Sola, and Sandnes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Sandnes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Sverd I Fjell is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing monument is a must-visit in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kyrkje-Sola. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Solastranden and explore the serene features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kyrkje-Sola and set your GPS to Sandnes. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Sandnes, 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 Sandved Park and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to The Science Factory, another highlight in Sandnes. When you’re done exploring the science center, continue to Dalsnuten Hike, an awe-inspiring hiking area.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Maki Bar, an iconic dining spot in Sandnes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Lura Turistheim AS, a popular restaurant in Sandnes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Moon House Sandnes, a hidden gem nestled in Sandnes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Melkebaren As, known for its lively atmosphere. Tribute is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Norway includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Kristiansand. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kristiansand, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kristiansand. This car ride takes around 3 hours 9 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Kristiansand Museum, a locally appreciated museum 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 The Inverted Boat and admire its breathtaking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Kristiansand Cathedral, an intriguing church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Skmu Sørlandets Kunstmuseum, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Kristiansand, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bellini, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tollboden Burger & Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le´s Kitchen. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kristiansand.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bakgården Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Kristiansand has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Kristiansand.

Enjoy all that Odderøya Fort has to offer. This is a locally appreciated battlefield you should not miss. Another must-see is Christiansholm Fortress, an increasingly popular monument in Kristiansand.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Aquarama Kristiansand. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kristiansand Zoo And Amusement Park, another of the city’s captivating attractions.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Foodie Kristiansand, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? SkagenPub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Monsoon - Sushi & Asian. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kristiansand.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Norway. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Hasseltangen and Arendal. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Arendal, where will spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Hasseltangen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kristiansand to Hasseltangen may take around 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Hasseltangen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Hasseltangen Park. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hasseltangen and set your GPS to Arendal. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Arendal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Sandviken Fort, a worthwhile 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 history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Parc Barbu, an intriguing 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.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Arendal. Arendal 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 Arendal. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Solsiden Tapas, a popular restaurant in Arendal. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Arendal at Gørr Go Mad, 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 Hong Kong Restaurant Arendal. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Arendal tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Barrique Beer And Wine Club, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Say good night to Arendal and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Norway!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Norway. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Verpe and Heddal. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Skien, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Verpe. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Verpe is Hogga Locks, a locally appreciated historical landmark that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

Set your GPS to Heddal and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heddal beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Heddal Stave Church, a worthwhile church that everyone visiting Heddal should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Norway!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Skien, where you have 1 night left to stay.

The Telemark Canal makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally appreciated fjord is a romantic place to see in Skien. Continue your discovery at Skien Church, a respected church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Skien, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Brekkeparken. This up-and-coming park offers a historic encounter with Skien. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Skien.

After soaking in Skien’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Porsgrunn. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Porsgrunn, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

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

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

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