Travel packages in Norway

Road trips in Norway

5-Day Norway Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Kristiansand traveling north to Rjukan

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Photo of motorboats navigate on a canal in the Fiskebrygga district in Kristiansand, Norway.

Picture of the beautiful colour houses, Kristiansand, Norway.

5-Day Norway Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Kristiansand traveling north to Rjukan

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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 5-day road trip in Norway! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Kristiansand, Grimstad, Arendal, Rjukan, Heddal, and Notodden.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Norway. You will spend 2 nights in Kristiansand and 2 nights in Rjukan. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Norway. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Kristiansand, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Norway on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Norway. Heddal Stave Church and Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Kristiansand, Grimstad, Arendal, Rjukan, Heddal, and Notodden, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Norway. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Norway.

Throughout your road trip in Norway, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Norway.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Norway fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Norway today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65

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Day1

Day 1

Kristiansand - Arrival day
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Markens gate
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Welcome to Kristiansand, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Norway! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Kristiansand before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Kristiansand is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Kristiansand. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Norway. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bellini, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tollboden Burger & Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le´s Kitchen. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kristiansand tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bakgården Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Norway!

Day2

Day 2

Kristiansand
Grimstad
Arendal
Rjukan
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Drive 317 km, 4 hours 55 min

Fjære Church
Glassheisen til Fløyheia
Gaustatoppen
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Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Norway includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Grimstad and Arendal. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rjukan, where you'll spend 2 nights.

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

After soaking in Kristiansand’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Grimstad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Grimstad, it's time to take a break from the road.

Fjære Church is a locally appreciated church we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Grimstad, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arendal. This drive usually takes around 18 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Arendal is Glassheisen Til Fløyheia, an often recommended observation deck that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Gaustatoppen and explore the romantic features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Huset Rjukan AS, a highly-rated dining destination in Rjukan. If you're eager to try something different, consider Torgcaféen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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

Day3

Day 3

Rjukan
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Drive 117 km, 2 hours 16 min

Holtardalen
Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum
Gausta Skisenter
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rjukan, where you have 1 night left to stay.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Holtardalen, a curiosity-inducing ski resort that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Norwegian Industrial Workers 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.

Rjukan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kvitåvatn behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Rjukan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kvitåvatn is Gausta Skisenter, a worthwhile ski resort that draws attention for its stunning features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Rjukan Hytteby, a top-rated dining spot in Rjukan.

Head back to your accommodation in Rjukan and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Norway.

Day4

Day 4

Rjukan
Heddal
Notodden
Kristiansand
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Drive 333 km, 4 hours 45 min

Heddal stave church
Heddal Open-Air Museum
Telemark Art Museum
Vrangfoss Locks
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Norway. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Heddal, Notodden, and Eie. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kristiansand, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Rjukan, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Heddal. Your travel time is around 1 hour.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Heddal Stave Church, a worthwhile church in Heddal. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Heddal Open-air Museum. This often recommended museum is a top recommendation in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Notodden. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Telemarksgalleriet is a curiosity-inducing art gallery we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Eie 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. Eie beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Vrangfoss Locks, 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.

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.

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

Dine in style at Foodie Kristiansand, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, SkagenPub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Monsoon - Sushi & Asian. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kristiansand.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Norway!

Day5

Day 5

Kristiansand - Departure day
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Christiansholm Fortress
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Day 5 of your road trip in Norway is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Kristiansand before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Christiansholm Fortress, a respected monument before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Kristiansand’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in Norway, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Kristiansand.

You’ll then say farewell to Kristiansand. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Norway!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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