kristiansand cruise port things to do

Kristiansand Cruise Port Guide | 7 Best Things To Do In Port

Nestled along Norway’s southern coast, Kristiansand cruise port is a gateway to Kristiansand, the country’s fifth-largest city and a popular summer destination among Norwegians.

This cosmopolitan city is known for its favorable climate and is often called the “Coolest Riviera”. You can find everything in this beautiful city, from the rich history and stunning sceneries to a wide range of boutique stores, cozy cafes and restaurants. The city even has its sandy beach which gets pretty crowded in July and August!

Kristiansand’s coastline is lined with several picturesque islands and peninsulas, like Odderøya, known for its scenic hiking trails, beaches, and historic landmarks such as Odderøya Fort.

While the city center may be small, Kristiansand offers a wealth of attractions and activities to enjoy. In this article, we’ll dive into practical information about the Kristiansand cruise terminal and share the 7 best things to do in Kristiansand port .

Visit also our cruise port guides to Geirangerfjord , Haugesund , Tromso , Bergen , Stavanger , Olden , Oslo , Alesund

Kristiansand Cruise Port

Kristiansand cruise terminal is located just 1 km/0.6 miles (a 15-minute walk) from the city center, making it easily accessible on foot. The cruise ship terminal can accommodate one cruise ship at a time. Facilities such as restrooms, a tourist information center, and souvenir shops are available in the terminal area.

If the second ship is in port, which rarely happens, another dock located close by is normally used.

A bustling fish market (Fiskebrygga), shops, cafes and restaurants are within a short walk from the port. From the port, you can also easily access attractions like the Kilden Performing Arts Centre and the Art Museum that you’ll spot right from the ship.

Getting Around Kristiansand Port

• Kristiansand is also a major transportation hub and the city has an extensive bus system that quickly links you with major attractions outside of the city center. A local bus station is easily accessible near the port and you can buy a daily bus ticket at the tourist information office at the terminal. Both cards and cash are accepted.
• The currency in Norway is the Norwegian krone (NOK). 1 USD = 10,79 NOK; 1 EUR = 11,68 NOK; 1 GBP = 13,63 NOK. Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
• Kristiansand hop-on hop-off bus operates when cruise ships are in port, providing a convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings. The loop takes 60 minutes and includes stops at eight locations, including the iconic Kristiansand Open-Air Museum and Kristiansand Zoo. The buses run every 30 minutes.
• Alternatively, a tourist trolley train awaits at the pier and offers guided tours through the city center. It also serves as a shuttle service for a leisurely exploration of the city’s attractions.
• Taxis are available however they are very expensive.
• Explore Kristiansand tours and activities

7 Best Things To Do In Kristiansand Cruise Port

1. kristiansand museum.

Kristiansand Open-Air Museum (aka Kristiansand Museum) lies 6 km/3.7 miles (a 10-minute drive) northeast of the port of Kristiansand. Transporting visitors back in time, this charming museum showcases old houses and artifacts that provide a glimpse into Norway’s rich history and the everyday life of its inhabitants.

Wandering through its streets, you can admire the traditional architecture and the craftsmanship of centuries-old structures. You can learn about local customs, traditions, and everyday life through informative exhibits and interactive displays.

To get to the Kristiansand Museum from the cruise port, you can take a taxi or local bus, rent a car, or join one of the organized tours. The ride to the museum typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Hop on Hop off bus also stops here, so that might be an alternative option.

Explore Kristiansand Museum tours

2. Odderøya Island

Located just off the coast of Kristiansand within walking distance from the port, Odderøya is a picturesque island known for its recreational opportunities and beautiful nature.

The island was once a military outpost and history buffs can explore the remnants of the well-preserved Odderøya Fort , which stands as a testament to its strategic importance.

Odderøya Lighthouse is another scenic spot easily recognizable by its distinctive red and white tower. The place offers fantastic views of the surrounding coastline and nearby islands.

To get to Odderøya island from the port, take a scenic walk across the bridge connecting the island to the mainland. It takes only a few minutes to reach the island. If you want to visit the fort and the lighthouse, you will need about 30 minutes.

3. Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park

Just 14 km/8.7 miles (a 15-20 minute drive) northeast of Kristiansand cruise terminal, Kristiansand Zoo (Kristiansand Dyrepark) is an expansive wildlife park that is home to a wide range of animals from around the world, making it a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages.

Kristiansand Zoo is the largest zoo in Norway, spanning over 150 acres of lush greenery. It is home to lions, playful monkeys, giraffes, elephants and even polar bears.

Besides the animals, the park provides a variety of activities and attractions featuring thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and interactive exhibits. Educational programs on wildlife conservation and animal feeding sessions are also part of the experience.

To reach Kristiansand Zoo from the port, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public transportation. Hop on Hop off bus stops at the park.

4. Kristiansand City Sightseeing

Situated a stone’s throw from Kristiansand cruise port, the city center is a great place to explore and spend your day. Below is the list of the must-see landmarks and attractions:

4.1. Fiskebrygga (Fish Market)

Treat your taste buds to a delightful culinary experience at Fiskebrygga, Kristiansand’s vibrant fish market, located right across from the cruise terminal.

Here, you can indulge in a wide variety of local delicacies, from juicy shrimp to fresh salmon and cod, all sourced directly from the nearby waters. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast wanting to sample the freshest catches of the day or just looking to soak in the bustling ambiance of a traditional fish market, Fiskebrygga is a must-visit!

4.2. Kristiansand Cathedral

Also known as Kristiansand Domkirke, the cathedral was built in the late 19th century and boasts impressive neo-Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Norway known for its soaring spires and partially wooden interior.

The cathedral is located a 20-minute walk from the cruise terminal.

4.3. Posebyen (Old Town)

Posebyen is Kristiansand’s charming historic district known for beautifully preserved wooden houses dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. You can stroll through the cobblestone streets of this picturesque neighborhood and discover quaint shops, cozy cafes and boutiques.

Browse shops offering handmade crafts, artwork, and souvenirs, or take a cup of coffee at a local café and soak in the neighborhood’s atmosphere.

You can easily reach Posebyen within a 25-minute walk from the port.

4.4. Christiansholm Fortress

A small, round-shaped Christiansholm Fortress guards the entrance of Kristiansand’s harbor. It is a historic military stronghold with roots dating back to the 17th century, built to protect the city from naval attacks.

Today, you can explore the fortress and its well-preserved ramparts, cannons, and barracks, gaining insights into the city’s maritime history and military heritage. Guided tours are available in the summer.

The fort is located a 20-minute walk from the port.

5. Bystranda Beach (City Beach)

Kristiansand is one of the rare Norwegian cities that boasts a cute little beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing in the summer! Nestled next to the small harbour dominated by Christiansholm Fortress, Bystranda Beach offers a tranquil getaway from the bustling city center.

This small sandy beach is a great spot for relaxation and can get crowded in the summer (high season in June, July and August/September). It is awarded with a Blue flag and boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim.

More adventurous among you should try out thrilling water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or windsurfing, which are all accessible along the beachfront.

To get to Bystranda Beach from the port, take a stroll through the city center and follow the signs to the shore. In a 20-minute walk you will get there.

6. Cannon Museum

Discover Kristiansand’s rich military heritage at the Cannon Museum, located 10 km/6 miles (a 15-minute drive) south of the Kristiansand cruise port.

Explore the museum’s intriguing collection, which includes cannons, weaponry and artifacts from many centuries and provides insight into Kristiansand’s role in regional defense and warfare.

From antique weapons to modern artillery pieces, each display offers an insight into the city’s history and the important role of Kristiansand in Norwegian military history.

To reach the Cannon Museum from the port, you can take a taxi or public bus, or book a guided tour.

7. Mineralparken

If you are into geology and nature and want to have a fun day with your loved ones, head to Mineral Parken located a 1-hour drive from the port.

Explore the minerals from all over the world and enjoy numerous activities for the whole family, from jewelry workshops, stone figure carving and geodeck cracking to treasure hunts and interactive exhibitions.

You can go ziplining and climbing over the lake in the adventure park, or go kayaking and canoeing around the lake and its charming islands. This amazing destination has it all for visitors of all ages! You can read more on the official webpage https://mineralparken.no/

You can get here by public bus (a longer option that is not recommended for cruise passengers), taxi, car or on a guided tour.

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CRUISE PORT GUIDES

Kristiansand – Norway

Also visit the following cruise port guides:

Flam Geiranger Bergen Oslo

Cruise Port Guide Kristiansand – Norway: docked

When there is only 1 ship in town you will dock at the southern pier on the island of Odderoya. If there are 2 ships in town it could be that you are going to a slightly different dock, see map above for its locations.

From these docks it is about 1 km walk to get to the city centre. From both docks you will walk by the fish market to get to the city. The city centre is square shaped. All together it is only 1 square km. it is therefore easily explored by foot.

You also have several other options to get around town:

Local Transport

There is a perfect bus system in Kristiansand that can take you to all the mayor sights out of town. See the location of the local bus stop in the map above. From here you can catch the following busses:

To Kristiansand zoo: Take route 01 and M1 eastbound to Dyreparken/Quality hotel.

To Kristiansand cannon museum: Take route M1 westbound to Krooden.

To Kristiansand open-air museum: Take route 01, M1, M2, M3 eastboun to Bjorndalssletta.

Single tickets are sold on board buses. You pay the driver in cash Norwegian Kroner. 24 hour bus-cards are sold at the customer information centre at the central bus terminal. Pay with credit card or cash. Single tickets cost between 35 and 50 kroner and 24 hours tickets between 70 and 100 kroner.

Hop on hop off bus

There is a hop on hop off bus in Kristiansand that often operates when a cruise ship is in town. It departs from a spot near the ship and mainly has stops out of town.

Tourist train

At the pier there is also a tourist trolley train that offers tours through the city centre of Kristiansand and that doubles as a shuttle service.

Destination and distance:

Kristiansand Open-Air Museum – 6 km north east Cannon museum – 10 km south Kristiansand Zoo – 13 km north east Mineralen park – 60 km north

Travel information Norway

Official currency – Norwegian krone Accepts Euro / US dollars – sometimes in souvenir shops Creditcards – are widely accepted

Drives on the – right Timezone – UTC +1

About Norway

Inhabitants – 5,1 million Official language – Norwegian and Sami Capital city – Oslo

Kingdom of Norway Government – Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Norwegian language

Good day – God dag How are you? – Hvordan har du det? Thank you – Takk Cruise ship – Cruiseskip Port – Havn

Find your port of call:

• Mediterranean
• Norway – Cruise port guides
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This is the heart of the town. The main shopping street, the tourist information and the cathedral are all located on it. In summertime there is always something nice to do here, whether it is festival or market it is the social centre of town.

Kristiandsand’s main square

Radhus gate 10, Kristiansand

The open air museum in Kristiansand is where you can learn about the history of the area. Visit one of the many houses from different era’s to learn how the Norwegians have lived through the ages. Take the hop on hop off bus to the park or public bus route 01, M1, M2, M3 eastboun to Bjorndalssletta. Find the details in de description above.

Kristiansand open air museum

Vigeveien 22B, 4633 Kristiansand, Norway

The mineral parken is quite a ways out, but well worth to visit. The drive to it takes you through beautiful green landscapes. At the park you will find an unusual museum built into the rock displaying the largest collection of minerals in Northern Europe. The stones and minerals come from all over the world. From the port it is a 60 km or 1 hour drive to the Mineral Park. You can reach it by taxi or shore excursion.

Mineral parken in Hornnes

Mineralvegen 1, 4737 Hornnes, Norway

Right in the centre of Kristiansand you will find Northern Europe’s largest collection of low-rise, wall-to-wall wooden houses. These “kvadraturen” or grid line streets have been unchanged since the 17th century. Please find its location on the map above and add this one on the list of things to see and do.

46 Holbergs gate, Kristiansand

The island where your ship is docked is called Odderøya. Looking from the outside deck it doesn’t seem like much, but when you take the opportunity to hike around it you will get a whole new perspective on the place. There has been a lot of military activity on the island of Odderøya from the 17th to 20th century and there are many interesting traces to various periods. Did you know this was a quarantine station in the beginning 1800’s or that the batteries used during the great northern war still stand here? There are information signs on the island that tell you the history behind it, the tourist information also has hiking maps for you, but you might want to consider to even go with a guide.

Hiking island Odderøya

Odderoya, Kristiansand

This neogothic church is the 4th build on the spot as 3 previously build church burned down as many thing do in Norway. The present church was built in 1885. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Norway. The tower is even 70 meter high. Inside you’ll find a beautifull interior and sometimes during summertime there is a music performance that takes place inside. Find this church in the middle of the city centre.

Kristiansand domkirke

Gyldenløves gate 9, Kristiansand

The city was founded in 1641. Christiansholm fortress was build to protect the town from any invasions. Today it still stands on the shore lines of the city centre of Kristiansand as if it is still guarding it like it has been doing for the last 4 centuries. You can visit the inside to get a better feel for wartime of the 17th and 18th century and life during these times.

Christiansholm fortress

Østre Strandgate 52B, Kristiansand

Cruise ships dock at the Kristiansand cruise dock close to the city center. Read the full Kristiansand cruise port guide here.

Kristiansand cruise dock

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10 Amazing Things to Do in Kristiansand Norway

Posted on Published: August 26, 2019  - Last updated: January 31, 2021

Categories Blog , City Guides , Cruise , Europe , Nieuw Statendam 2019 , Norway , Travel Guides

Have you heard of Kristiansand Norway? It’s the fifth largest city in Norway, a popular tourist city, and a cruise port. Justin and I had the opportunity to explore the Kristiansand cruise port on our seven day Norway cruise aboard Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam. That voyage took us to Oslo , Kristiansand, Stavanger , and Flam where we explored picturesque towns and absorbed the magnificent scenery of the Norwegian fjords.

There are lots of things to do in Kristiansand, even if you have a short amount of time. Most of these options are also the best free things to do in Kristiansand. As Norway is such an expensive country to visit, having lots of free and inexpensive choices is always a plus.

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If you’re looking for the best things to do in Kristiansand, you’ve come to the right place. I’ll show you exactly how we spent our day in this adorable Norwegian town. With our stop in the port of Kristiansand, we only had about eight hours to explore and wander.

When you visit Kristiansand, a day in the city is enough time to go sightseeing and discover local attractions. I don’t think it’s necessary to spend more than a day in Kristiansand. However, more time is always better to absorb what it’s like to live in any place. Here are our choices for what to do in Kristiansand, Norway.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Kristiansand: Explore Posebyen

My number one choice on this list of things to do in Kristiansand is to explore Posebyen . What’s Posebyen? It’s Kristiansand’s Old Town, and it’s not what you’d typically expect of an “old town” in Europe. There aren’t the typical cobblestone streets and ancient buildings. Posebyen is a picturesque neighborhood of interconnected white houses. It’s one of northern Europe’s oldest collections of historic wooden homes.

After a huge fire ravaged Kristiansand in 1892, Posebyen was the only area left in tact. Posebyen spans 14 city blocks, so you can truly spend hours wandering around these streets. You can view the manicured front steps of these postcard perfect white houses where the owners take pride in owning such beautiful properties.

There’s also an old post office dating back to 1695, old churches and chapels, and preserved houses from the 1800s. As a former commercial area, many businesses have been converted into livable homes over the years, too.

For those seeking what to do in Kristiansand, the collection of charming white houses in Posebyen is not to be missed. It’s my top choice of all the Kristiansand attractions, especially for those who love to wander around cities and towns. The white homes, colorful front doors, and perfectly placed flower boxes add so much to the beauty of the town.

What to Do in Kristiansand: Discover Street Art

For a fairly small city in Norway, Kristiansand has a lot of interesting street art and outdoor murals to discover. One of my top things to do in Kristiansand (and any city, for that matter) is to find the best street art. I love public art displays that everyone can enjoy at any time of the day.

Thankfully, when you visit Kristiansand, you might stumble upon these colorful murals. These serve to brighten up the city, especially on a rainy and dreary day. Some works of art also come with powerful messages to invoke thought and conversation.

First, there’s street art right at the port of Kristiansand after you get off the cruise ship. There are stacked shipping containers that are painted with art: a moose on one side, and a devilish woman on the other side.

This Kristiansand street art is totally unique as it’s painted on a circular portion of the building on a street corner. It looks almost like part of a castle, although it’s painted blue with dreamy figures all over it. You’ll find this one on the corner of Holbergs gate and Kongens gate.

You’ll find these two murals one across from the other on Kristian IVs gate (near Vestre Strandgate). One depicts an elephant and a girl, chained to a blindfolded woman holding a paper that reads “Apartheid”. The other mural illustrates a girl (or mermaid?) under the sea.

One of the most interesting works of public art is right near the port of Kristiansand. You’ll find this one just before you enter the Fish Market region of town. It’s labeled as “Slow Bridge” and it’s on a pedestrian pathway beneath a bridge. It’s a place related artwork by the artist, Anna Berthelsen and a team of 5300 children from 0-16 years old. The Slow Bridge artwork has thousands of small, mirrored tiles, where the children have described their dreams.

Fiskebrygga at the Kristiansand Cruise Port

When you leave the Kristiansand port from your cruise ship, the first area to discover in town is Fiskebrygga (or the Fish Market). While I don’t eat fish, I loved walking around this area of town for its overall atmosphere. Located at a quiet pier, there are many boardwalks and bridges to navigate on foot.

There are many buildings painted vibrant shades of yellow and red. Even though it might be a busier area of town with cruise ship tourists, it’s still a relatively peaceful spot in town to discover. If you’re dining at one of the many seafood focused restaurants or merely passing through, a trip to Fiskebrygga is one of the best things to do in Kristiansand.

Kristiansand Shopping

For those seeking Kristiansand shopping, whether it’s for clothing or souvenirs, head directly to Markens gate. You’ll find tons of shops along this bustling city street. It’s a pedestrian only shopping street with loads of stores, restaurants, and cafes.

It’s likely one of the most frequently tourist spots in Kristiansand, but this is where you’ll find the best Norwegian souvenirs for your loved ones back home. Even if you’re not a shopaholic, a stroll down Markens gate makes my list of the top things to do in Kristiansand.

Discover Norway Coffee Culture

Coffee lovers rejoice! Kristiansand has a fabulous coffee culture along with the rest of Norway. Although you’ll find many coffee shops in Kristiansand, I savored a cup from Camillo Bastrup at the end of Markens gate.

The coffee shop is relatively small with an intriguing design. I ordered an oat milk latte at the counter as take away. There are several kinds of plant-based milk at Camillo Bastrup, as well as a variety of espresso beverages and smoothies. Drinking a cup of coffee is deserving of a place on my list of the best things to do in Kristiansand. I personally love to sample coffee everywhere I go. Is coffee your beverage of choice, too?

See the Kristiansand Cathedral

The Kristiansand Cathedral is a Neo-Gothic cathedral, dating back to 1885. It’s one of the largest cathedrals in Norway and it’s the fourth church (and third cathedral) to be constructed on this same site over the centuries. You can walk inside the cathedral for a free self-guided tour, and there are also free guided tours and organ concerts throughout the summer (and when the cruise ships are in port). It’s a beautiful building, both inside and out. You should definitely stop by for a visit as it’s one of the most captivating things to do in Kristiansand.

Take a Stroll Around Odderøya

If you have the time when you visit Kristiansand, take a walk around the island of Odderøya . Unfortunately, we didn’t have the chance to visit Odderoya because we took an excursion to Lillesand in the morning. However, this small island is a great recreational area with walking paths and ocean views.

Odderøya was once a military base in Kristiansand, but now it’s one of the top things to do in Kristiansand for tourists, visitors, and locals alike. You’ll be able to see the remnants of its military past, such as old ramparts. Nowadays, you can admire views of the harbor and even go for a swim at its small beaches. Visiting Odderoya is perfect for cruise ship passengers as it’s right near where the ship is docked.

Ravnedalen Valley Nature Park

The Ravnedalen Valley Nature Park is on our list of things to do in Kristiansand the next time we’re there. We didn’t have time to make it out on this trip, but it looks like such a gorgeous area to explore. It’s a giant green space and park in Kristiansand with ponds, gardens, and even festival productions in the summer. You could spend hours walking around the paths and gardens that weave around small lakes and ponds. It’s about a 30 minute walk away from the cruise port.

Kristiansand Boardwalk

Once you walk from the cruise ship and through the Fish Market, continue your journey to the Kristiansand boardwalk. It’s one of the best Kristiansand attractions because there are lots of interesting sights and it’s totally free. For instance, there are lots of interesting statues and sculptures along the Kristiansand boardwalk, especially the sand sculptures.

You’ll also spot Otterdalsparken (Otterdal Park) with a giant fountain by artist, Kjell Nupen. It’s the second largest fountain in Norway, after the one at Vigeland Sculpture Park in Norway. Other Kristiansand attractions by the boardwalk include the Christiansholm Fortress and Bystranda, a public beach.

Kristiansand Shore Excursions: Lillesand

If you’re traveling to Kristiansand aboard a cruise ship, there are numerous tours and excursions at your disposal through the cruise ship. There are many advantages to booking cruise ship tours: it’s easy as you don’t have to worry about any planning (all you have to do is show up!), and the ship will never leave without you if you’re on a cruise ship organized excursion. If you’re out on your own and you don’t make it back to the ship on time, the cruise will sail without you.

We spent the first half of our day in Kristiansand on a tour called “Lillesand: The Jewel of Sorlandet”. It’s a four hour tour that involves taking a bus ride to the nearby town of Lillesand, and then embarking on a boat trip along the coastline on the way back to Kristiansand.

Visiting Lillesand, Norway

The highlight of the excursion is the trip to the adorable town of Lillesand. The village itself is not that large, and you can easily see it within an hour. That’s about how long you’ll have to explore while you’re on the cruise ship shore excursion. Unfortunately, it was pouring rain throughout our entire trip to Lillesand. Definitely bring a waterproof rain jacket when you travel to Norway, and it might not be a bad idea to bring waterproof hiking shoes , too.

I’m sure this town looks so much better in the sunshine. However, we did spend our hour in Lillesand huddled beneath an umbrella, trying to avoid the puddles (and failing miserably), and ultimately taking cover in a coffee shop. There’s not much you can do when the weather doesn’t cooperate. You’ve just got to make the best of every situation. In our case, it meant getting soaked head to toe! Lillesand is a very beautiful place, even in the rain.

If you’d like to visit Lillesand independently of an excursion, you can travel there by bus. There are frequent bus trips between Kristiansand and Lillesand . If you’re traveling to Kristiansand on a cruise ship, I’d either take the ship excursion or plan your bus trip to Lillesand very early in the day. It’s not worth taking the chance of potentially missing the rest of your cruise due to a delayed bus. Reserving Kristiansand shore excursions ahead of time is the best way to ensure that the cruise ship doesn’t leave without you.

Cruise along the Coastline to Kristiansand

Now, I’m sure that this Kristiansand shore excursion is SO much better in the sunshine or even on an overcast day. It was pouring rain throughout our entire excursion, which meant that everything was soaked in water. We boarded a boat called the SS Christiansand, an 82 foot long schooner.

Unfortunately, it was a little bit too cold and wet to enjoy this trip around the small islands of the fjords. I tried my best to enjoy the sailing, but even in a waterproof rain jacket, it was a little too much rain for me. The schooner offers some protection from the elements on a rainy day, but water and rain still splashes onto the boat at times.

My advice? If the weather forecast calls for storms and downpours, stay in Kristiansand for the day. I’d look into walking tours through neighborhoods or Kristiansand attractions. On our cruise, Holland America Line offered trips to see Norway’s southernmost lighthouse, a walk through historical Kristiansand, or a trip to the open-air Vest Agder Museum. I’d look into those Kristansand shore excursions as rainy day activities. There’s also this Kristiansand City Highlights Tour that you can book while visiting the city.

Where to Stay in Kristiansand

I recommend staying right near the Kristiansand cruise port in town and the middle of the action. You’ll want to be close to all of the Kristiansand attractions, especially if you’re only spending one day there. It’s always great to be within walking distance of everywhere you want to be. Kristiansand is a very walkable town, too!

Although there are many hotels in Kristiansand (feel free to browse them all!), my top choice for a budget hotel near the city centre is the Yess! Hotel . This modern hotel is in a quiet area of town, features complimentary Wi-Fi, and it has great reviews . My top pick for a luxury hotel in Kristiansand is the Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel . It’s only a three minute walk from the Markens Gate pedestrian road, feature a fitness center and free Wi-Fi, and it has fabulous reviews .

Of course, there are all kinds of apartments, rooms, guest homes, and various types of accommodation listed on Airbnb . If you haven’t registered for Airbnb yet, you can save $50 on your booking when you sign up through my link !

Want to see more photos of Kristiansand?

You can see all of our travel photos in one place at our photography site. You can also buy prints, housewares and more by clicking the “buy” button by any picture.

There are lots of things to do in Kristiansand to fill an entire day with fun activities and sightseeing opportunities. It’s a wonderful place to spend the day, whether you’re planning a formal tour or simply wandering around on your own. I’m hoping you’ll be able to visit Kristiansand in the near future as it’s such a lovely town, and I thoroughly enjoyed my day there.

What’s your favorite place to visit in Norway (or one that’s on your bucket list)?

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Anthony McAuley

Tuesday 31st of December 2019

I'm going here in July 2020 as part of a Scandinavian cruise. Thanks for the tips! I've been to Norway before and know how expensive it is.

Ole Johnny Uldal

Sunday 13th of October 2019

If you want a special experience,then follow the boat “Øya”(Oeya) from Kristiansand to Lillesand. One of the most beautiful boat ride in Norway.

Kalyan Panja

Saturday 31st of August 2019

I’ve never been to Norway (it’s one of the few European countries that’s escaped me so far) – but I think a Norwegian adventure would be just the thing for me and I’ll be sure to re-read this post for all the tips and information if I should ever make it happen. What an idyllic setting in Kristiansand…and thanks for bringing it all to life in this post!

Sunday 1st of September 2019

You're very welcome! It was our first time to Norway this summer and we barely scraped the surface through the four cities/towns we visited. Can't wait to return someday, it's so gorgeous!

Thursday 29th of August 2019

I have been there . It's a beautiful city but really boring and expensive. People are not friendly at all . The places you mentioned have nothing special to spend much money for visiting them.

Friday 30th of August 2019

Sorry you didn't have the best experience there! I stopped there on my cruise and had a limited amount of time in the port, so I didn't really spend any money except for the price of my coffee. I mostly wandered around on my own, though we did find the tour leaders on our excursion to be very friendly and lovely, as well as the employees of the coffee shop!

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The brand new main dock is within walking distance of town (0.5 km). Or if you have mobility issues, you can take a little road-train to get there, an expensive 15 Euro per person. On the rare occasion when two ships are docked one will be located across the inlet.

Printable map to take along. The red dots represent a suggested walking tour.

Watch a destination video .

Cruise schedule for Kristiansand.

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Monthly Climate Averages for Kristiansand Norway

Sightseeing:

Every year thousands of tourists visit the local coastal area, enjoying its fjords and thousands of small islands. The Kristiansand area has more days of sunshine than any other location in Scandinavia, and the beaches and smooth rocks are ideal for sunbathing. The area is considered being the number one holiday area in Norway. By charter boats tourists can visit the unique scenery and the charming fishing villages with their traditional white wooden houses. Salmon fishing is popular at the river that runs through the city. At the Fisherman's wharf one can find an exciting fish market, lively restaurants, small boat traffic and sight-seeing boats.

Since the renaissance town was founded in 1641, Kristiansand has boasted one of the world largest fleets of sailing ships until the beginning of the last century. Often being the first Cruise Port for ships arriving from Europe. Today, the city serves as the primary hub for ferry, shipping, air, road and rail traffic in southern Norway.

Posebyen is what's left of Kristiansand's old town. It still occupies several blocks on the eastern part of the town center. Here you can still see small, white, single-storey, wooden houses occupy a whole block. Very peaceful just a few minutes' walk from the busy shopping streets.

Ravnedalen (Ravens' Valley) is a lovely park just outside the city center. It is surrounded with steep cliffs and presents the visitor with lush flower gardens and manicured laws perfect for picnics. If you forgot your picnic basket, there's also a café here. There are sometimes music performances in the summer.

The Odderøya peninsula (just to the right if you walk off the cruise pier) is a former military area that has been converted into a recreational park a few years ago. It makes for pleasant and quiet nature strolls, with views across town or across the sea.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

The town's center is quite compact, which means that everything is within walking distance.

A great way to see Kristiansand is on foot .

A nice and economical trip to take is to the charming waterside village of Lillesand by bus. The bus station is a 10 minute walk from the ship. Take the number 5 bus from bay 7 at the bus station. The service, in both directions, is half-hourly and buses leave the bus station at 15 and 45 minutes past the hour, and adherence to the published timetables is very good. The journey to Lillesand takes about 45 minutes, and you can ask the driver to let you know the best stop to get off, from where it is a 700 meter stroll downhill to the waterside, Seniors travel at half the standard fares, so Kristiansand to Lillesand for seniors is NOK 42 each way.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here

Nearby Places:

The Setesdalsbanen Vintage Railway - Narrowgauge (1067mm) railway powered by a steam engine from 1901. The track section covers 8km through tunnels, under avalanche shelters and across dams. The trip recreates the special atmosphere of a turn-of-century railway journey. A traditional light snack, lefse, can be offered in authentic historical surroundings. Please note the Setesdalsbanen Railway runs on Sundays only for independent visitors. For cruise passengers the railway is chartered by the ship and it is not possible to do independently.

Dyrepark , It is a zoo with huge open exhibits for the animals. The park itself is very large and is like a very nice hike in the woods. Simply walk into town and take the M1 or 01 bus to Dyrepark Quality Inn stop - it's a 30 minute bus ride and costs 38 NOK each way. The service runs every 15 minutes.

Shopping and Food

Fiskebrygga (Fish market) is found at the southwestern part of the town center Kvadraturen. There is still a fish market here, but there are also several, mostly maritime, restaurants around the central waterfront. During summer, locals arrive in their boats and anchor up here. For those docking at the main terminal (Silokaia) it is recommend walking under the first bridge and across the second to get to the fish marker. This route is a bit more scenic than walking over the first bridge (and consequently behind all the restaurants..)

Markens gate is the main shopping street in the town center. Most of the street is pedestrianized. Most of the shops are now chain stores, but it is still a busy and nice main shopping street. A few independent stores are still here. It's a central gathering place for most locals, and thus more than a shopping street.

In addition to Markens gate is also Skippergata which has more smaller, independent shops and boutiques.

The Norwegian currency is the Norwegian crown (norske krone), abbreviated kr. A 1/100th krone is called øre. 1.00 EUR = about 8 NOK

ATMs in Norway are called Minibank. In Norway Chip&PIN is the norm now, so needing some form of picture ID when paying by card is rarely required.

Nearly all stores accept major credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa (Bring your passport/driver's license, as you are required to identify yourself when using a credit card).

Currency Converter

Communication:

Norwegian is the official language of Norway. The language is very close and mutually intelligible with the two other Scandinavian languages, English widely spoken.

The port is also offering free WiFi to guests and crew.

At the Tourist Information office in Kristiansand there is free WiFi. The closest WiFi to the main cruise harbor is at Kilden, the performing arts center. Passengers are encouraged to buy a coffee / beer / etc and then they can use the WiFi.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Opening hours in Norway are better than they used to be, but many smaller stores still close early on Saturday (1 PM or 3 PM is typical) and nearly everything is closed on Sundays. You'll often see opening hours written as "9-21 (9-18)" on doors, meaning 9 AM to 9 PM weekdays, 9 AM to 6 PM Saturday.

For public holidays click here .

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Port Guide: Kristiansand, Norway

Currency: Norwegian krone NOK

Language: Norwegian

Visas: You can travel in the Norway for up to 90 days as part of the Schengen area rules.

Money: Credit cards are widely accepted with ATMs also available.

Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) +1

Kristiansand is a city located in the southern part of Norway. It is the fifth-largest city in the country and serves as the administrative center of Vest-Agder County and is situated on the southern coast of Norway, overlooking the Skagerrak Strait, which connects the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The city's proximity to the sea has historically made it an important port and trading hub.

Kristiansand was founded in 1641 by King Christian IV of Denmark and Norway, giving the city its name. It played a crucial role in maritime trade due to its strategic location along trade routes. The city has retained some of its historical architecture and charm.

The city offers a mix of cultural and recreational activities. It is home to several museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural events. The Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park (Dyreparken) is a popular family attraction in the area. The Setesdalsbanen Railway, a historic narrow-gauge railway, is also a notable tourist site.

The coastal setting of Kristiansand provides access to beautiful beaches, islands, and fjords. The city's surroundings are popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, sailing, and fishing.

The weather in Kristiansand, like much of coastal Norway, is influenced by its proximity to the sea and the North Atlantic Current. The city experiences a temperate maritime climate with relatively mild temperatures compared to other parts of Norway, thanks to the warming effects of the ocean currents. 

Winter (December - February) in Kristiansand are relatively mild compared to other parts of Norway, with average temperatures ranging from around -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F). Snowfall is possible but usually not heavy, and the city may experience periods of rain or sleet.

Spring (March - May) brings increasing daylight hours and rising temperatures. Average temperatures in spring range from around 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F). Rainfall is common during this period as well.

Summer (June - August) in Kristiansand are quite pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). July tends to be the warmest month. Summers are the sunniest and driest time of the year, making it a popular time for outdoor activities and tourism.

Autumn (September - November) sees decreasing temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Average temperatures range from around 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F). Rainfall increases again during this season.

Kristiansand experiences significant variations in daylight hours throughout the year due to its northern latitude. Summers have long daylight hours, with the phenomenon known as the 'midnight sun' occurring in more northern parts of Norway.

Cruise port

Google Maps port location: https://goo.gl/maps/UjkXtQUErYi6VR527 

Cruise Terminal website: https://www.portofkristiansand.no/maritimt-og-trafikk/cruise/en 

Things to do

Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park , commonly known as "Dyreparken" in Norwegian, is one of Norway's most popular and well-known family attractions. Located in Kristiansand, it offers a unique blend of a zoo featuring a wide range of animals and an amusement park with exciting rides and entertainment. 

The zoo section of Dyreparken is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. You can see everything from tigers and lions to giraffes, elephants, penguins, and more. The zoo aims to create natural habitats for the animals to ensure their well-being and provide an educational experience for visitors.

The amusement park area offers a variety of rides and attractions suitable for different age groups. From thrilling roller coasters to gentle rides for young children, there's something for everyone. Some of the rides are themed around the animals in the zoo, creating a cohesive and fun experience.

Summer Show: During the summer season, Dyreparken hosts a popular theater show that combines live performances with animatronics and special effects. These shows often have themes related to animals and wildlife.

Kristiansand Cathedral, also known as Kristiansand Domkirke in Norwegian, is the main cathedral of the city of Kristiansand, located in southern Norway. It is a significant religious and architectural landmark in the region.

The cathedral is built in a neo-Gothic architectural style, characterised by its pointed arches, intricate ornamentation, and tall spires. The design draws inspiration from medieval Gothic cathedrals, showcasing elaborate detailing on both the interior and exterior.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1884 and was completed in 1885. The architect responsible for the design was Henrik Thrap-Meyer. The cathedral's construction materials include red bricks, giving it a distinct appearance.

The interior of Kristiansand Cathedral is characterized by its grandeur and attention to detail. The nave is spacious and features tall columns and ribbed vaults, typical of the Gothic style. Stained glass windows allow colored light to filter into the interior, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Explore the charming Kristiansand Old Town (Posebyen) with its well-preserved wooden houses. It's a great place to stroll, admire the architecture, and perhaps enjoy a meal at a local café.

Bystranda Beach is Kristiansand's main beach, offering a relaxing spot to sunbathe and swim during the warmer months. There are also volleyball courts, a skate park, and other recreational facilities.

Prices correct at time of publishing this blog. 

This blog may contain affiliate links, this means that if you book a cruise via one of the links we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Kristiansand Cruise Reviews

1 - 10 of 67 kristiansand cruise reviews.

Sail Date: September 2019

Review for a Baltic Sea Cruise on Marella Explorer

Just visited town on foot ... Read More

Sail Date: July 2019

Review for a Transatlantic Cruise on Regal Princess

Seemed like a bizarre choice for a stop. Nice little village, and very walkable, but not remarkable. ... Read More

Sail Date: September 2018

Lots to see ... Read More

Review for a Baltic Sea Cruise on Nautica

Casual stroll to soak in sun and Norwegian laid back lifestyle. Walk along the dock and ocean towards the centre. There is a park with good view of the city that is recommended. ... Read More

Sail Date: August 2018

Review for a Baltic Sea Cruise on Disney Magic

First port, first day, and even after looking at the maps 4 months later, I still struggle to identify what there is to do there. Nice small city walk around and shop for stuff. Yarn, farmer's market, usual stuff. Not especially interesting. ... Read More

Review for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise on Koningsdam

Nothing very much to see. Our guide was rather disappointing. He didn't give much explanation. ... Read More

Sail Date: July 2018

Review for a Baltic Sea Cruise on Koningsdam

We had a wonderful day without taking a ship excursion. There is a handy little tourist tram right at dockside and we enjoyed exploring the city center and park area up on the hill above town. ... Read More

Sail Date: June 2018

For 15 euros round trip, we took a little train/trolley past the fish market and into the city center where we walked around, visited the old church and enjoyed the local scenery. ... Read More

Review for a Baltic Sea Cruise on Zhao Shang Yi Dun (Viking Sun)

We took the free excursion to an old church and cemetery. It was beautiful and worth it. ... Read More

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Kristiansand

A modern city with charming small-town feel

Picturesque Southern coast. Photo: Marianne Pedersen

Why Kristiansand?

Kristiansand is a picturesque bustling city at the edge of the Skagerrak Sea. Founded in 1641, at the order of King Christian IV of Denmark, it was strategically placed, fortified and inhabited characteristic of the Renaissance style. Once a garrison seaport, Kristiansand is renowned for its unique history of seafaring, shipbuilding, timber and fish export. Throwbacks to The Age of Sail are present in historic buildings and its particular architecture. The oldest human discovered in Norway occurred here and Kristiansand is at the forefront of preservation and innovative research. The city is an international cultural destination with parks and public spaces dedicated to artistic expressions. It will soon be the home of one of Europe’s largest single collections of Modern Art. The stunning archipelago, the scenic inlands and a mild climate make Kristiansand one of the most visited cities in Norway.

What to see & do in Kristiansand

Kristiansand offers a unique possibility to immerse oneself in nature and experience the Norwegian favourite pastime of hiking outdoors. Hiking tours are available at the very heart of the city or as part of a shore excursion to nearby town and villages. Charming wooden houses line the coast like a string of pearls and can be admired up close either by land or by sea. Visit an apple orchard, a museum dockyard, a wildlife park or why not experience the Norwegian hospitality at the home of a local family? Sign up for a cooking class, or simply stroll down the vibrant shopping street. Ride along the spectacular North Sea Road or travel on a historic steamboat or vintage train. Combine a sea and shore excursion for a fun an unforgettable scenic visit to Kristiansand and the surrounding area.

Who is this destination suitable for?

Kristiansand is an all-year-round destination and an inclusive city for all ages. The streets and a myriad of forest and seafront pathways are accessible for all. Adventure parks, museums and galleries are family friendly and wheelchair accessible. In the mood for a relaxed outdoor view of the city? Hop on the city train! For the active visitor, Segway tours, SUP boards, rowing boats and bike rentals are available within walking distance. Foodies can indulge in seafood and other local delicacies, and for those with a passion for history, the numerous historic sites are waiting to be explored. The adventure seeker can choose from several RIB excursions, white water rafting and rock climbing options. Why not bring your swimming gear and go for a refreshing dip at the city beach? Welcome to Kristiansand and the southern tip of Norway!

Home » Travel Guides » Norway » 15 Best Things to Do in Kristiansand (Norway)

15 Best Things to Do in Kristiansand (Norway)

The capital of Southern Norway, Kristianstad is a summer getaway that has family attractions and untouched nature on land and water. Behind Kristiansand’s allure is a pretty historical quarter, a green seaside promenade and the adorable wooden wharfs where fishermen once sold their catch.

The east and west harbours are both screened from the Skagerrak currents by an archipelago of granite islands and skerries. Between the two harbours is the craggy Odderøya island, covered with coniferous forest and with traces of a naval base and fortress dating back to the 17th century. And that’s all without mentioning the Dyrepark zoo and theme park, the most visited attraction in Norway.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Kristiansand :

1. Dyrepark (Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park)

Norway’s favourite visitor attraction is 10 kilometres east of Kristiansand.

Among more than 100 species at the zoo are tigers, wolves, zebras , cheetahs, lions and lynxes.

The animals are kept in humane, well thought-out enclosures allowing as much room to move as possible.

Take the Africa exhibition, in which you walk through rainforest on a raised walkway, with small monkey species climbing freely on the branches overhead.

For the last 20 years there has also been a theme park here, based on the popular Norwegian Captain Sabertooth books and TV show and laid out like a pirate village.

Some attractions here include a haunted house, daily stunt shows and memorabilia from the television series and films.

Badelandet meanwhile is a recently opened waterpark, and KuToppen, a favourite for smaller children, is a farm with cows, goats, sheep, pigs and horses that can be fed and petted.

2. Ravnedalen

City parks don’t get more scenic than Ravnedalen, just to the north of the city centre in Kristiansand.

The park was landscaped using military labour under the command of the future Major General Joseph Frantz Oscar Wergeland from 1874-1878. Ravnedalen is in the Romantic style, where fresh lawns, mature trees and an outdoor stage for 5,000 spectators sit against imposing granite cliffs and waterfalls.

These rock faces are climbing heaven and Ravnedalen has about 70 climbing routes, many of which are bolted or partly bolted.

The park has a pond and exotic plants like magnolia and rhododendron, while the spruce trees planted here in the 1870s have become some of the largest in Norway.

There’s also a delightful pond-side cafe in the former gardener’s house.

3. Posebyen

On a grid one block in from the right bank of the Otra River, Posebyen is a photogenic neighbourhood of one and two-storey wooden houses with tiled roofs.

Just a brief walk from Kristiansand’s busier shopping streets, Posebyen is a tranquil residential area, where whitewashed houses have little gardens on their doorsteps and some doors and window frames are painted in bold matching colours.

A lot of these buildings survived the great city fire in 1892, providing space for domestic animals and doubling as workshops for artisans.

The houses by the river on Elvegata would have been home to workers at Kristiansand’s shipyards.

4. Kristiansand Cannon Museum

Møvik fort, as it came to be known after the war, is a German coastal defence with four immense gun positions, a casemate and a narrow gauge railway to transport ammunition.

The fort was built to protect the Skagerrak strait’s shipping lanes, but was never finished and only one of the gun positions is armed.

This is more than enough, as the 38cm Krupp artillery gun is the second largest in the world to be mounted on land.

Its barrel weighs 110 tons and is almost 20 metres long.

The newly restored ammunition train is open for rides on its 1.8-kilometre track, and you can explore two bunkers and follow hiking trails up to scenic lookouts to contemplate Skagerrak and Flekkerøy island.

5. Kristiansand Museum

At Kongsgård on Kristiansand’s eastern outskirts is the largest historical museum in the south of Norway.

Set outdoors and with 40 historic buildings, Kristiansand Museum dates back to 1903 and has three main areas, Setesdaltunet, Vest-Agdertunet and Bygaden.

Each of these is named for the original location of its buildings (Setesdal valley, Vest-Ager County and the old centre of Kristiansand). You can potter around homes, a sauna, barns, workshops, a schoolhouse and a general store, all from the 16th to the 19th century.

One unassuming structure, the Refugees Cabin, has a compelling story, as it was used by Resistance members evading the Gestapo, while Miniby, is a high-detail scale model of Kristiansand as it would have looked in the 1890s.

In summer kids can take part in workshops, play old-time games and listen to fairytales as part of the “Fun at the Museum” programme.

6. Strandpromenaden (Kristiansand Boardwalk)

At Kristiansand’s waterfront you could set off on a scenic and leisurely walk, stopping to enjoy the views of the marina and islands like Odderøya to the south.

The Strandpromenaden won the Nordic Green Space Award in 2013 as it threads through several waterside parks, so you’ll never be far from greenery on your stroll.

One park, Otterdalsparken has the second largest fountain in Norway, and the Tresse hosts the preserved Christiansholm Fortress from the 17th century.

There’s also a Blue Flag beach here, Bystranda, which is 270 metres long and has calm waters, shielded by a breakwater for the marina and a peninsula on its east side.

You can continue your stroll, around this peninsula packed with stylish new apartment buildings and carry on up the right bank of the Otra River.

7. Odderøya

From the Standpromenaden you can cross a bridge to begin a hike or bike ride on the island of Odderøya.

Rugged and shrouded in forest, the island is mostly undeveloped as throughout the 19th century it was Northern Europe’s largest quarantine station.

There’s still a cemetery from this time at Kjerregårdsbukta.

Odderøya was also the site of a fort and naval base from 1667 to 1999, and here and there are historic vestiges like ramparts, gun mounts on majestic outlooks, a hospital and gunpowder magazine.

Set a course for the island’s southern tip, where the old garrison engineer’s house has a cafe open on Sundays and with a wonderful perspective of the Oksøy and Grønningen lighthouses.

8. Fiskebrygga

On the canal between the east and west harbours are the redeveloped wooden wharfs where the daily catch used to be brought ashore.

It was all spruced up in the 1990s, when the wharfside houses were returned to their original design and painted in ochre and red.

In the 21st century Fiskebrygga is a pedestrian area, with boutiques, cafes and fish and seafood restaurants, and putting on outdoor concerts on Thursday nights in summer.

Take a seat on the wooden steps and watch the busty water traffic with an ice cream in hand.

And even if it’s been gentrified Fiskebrygga still has a fish market where you can buy live shellfish like oysters, shrimp, mussels and scallops.

9. Kilden Performing Arts Centre

At the northern end of Odderøya is an acclaimed concert hall and theatre that opened in 2012. This striking building faces the west harbour and has an undulating oak facade reflecting the ripples on the water.

The venue packs in more than 200,000 spectators a year at its 708-seat theatre and opera hall, and a 1,185-capacity concert hall, home of the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra.

Facing west, the building’s oak and glass catch the light a couple of hours before sunset for amazing photographs.

Keep an eye on the programme if you’re hankering for some live entertainment, be it an Ibsen play, opera, symphony or international musical like the Book of Mormon (premiering in April 2018).

10. Kristiansand Cathedral

The Neo-Gothic cathedral is the fourth church to be built on the city square (Torvet) since the 17th century.

Two of its predecessors burnt down, the most recent in 1880 and this brick-built monument was consecrated in 1885. Something unusual about the cathedral is that in order to integrate the surviving walls from the previous building, the altar is oriented to the west rather than the east like almost every other church.

From May to August there are guided tours of the building, which is 70 metres high, has space for 1,500 worshippers and is composed of 700,000 bricks.

The organ in the eastern gallery was updated in 2013, and it’s worth finding out if there’s a free concert when you’re in town.

11. Agder Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden

The only natural history museum in Southern Norway, this attraction has a long past having been founded back in 1828. Since 1990 the museum has been found at the former Gimle estate, with galleries in the farmhouse and the botanical garden planted in the estate’s park.

Exhibitions cover topics like minerals and rocks, the development of life at “From the Ice Age to the Present” and different ecosystems at “From the Sea to the Mountains”. The botanical garden is set both outside indoors, with Norway’s largest assortment of succulents inside, and rhododendrons, a rose garden, a herb garden, nectar garden an arboretum, a pond and rock garden awaiting outside.

12. Gimle Gård

On the same estate, the Gimle Gård manor house is an enchanting property from the turn of the 19th century.

The house, standing out for its long porch with slender columns, was in the same family from its construction up to 1982 when its last owner, Othilie Louise Arenfeldt Omdal passed away, and was turned into a museum in 1985. As the manor was in the same family for five generations it stands as a timeline of changing tastes and customs, boasting a ballroom and wood-burning oven, but also a 20th-century fridge and TV. You can also browse the family collections of period furniture, ceramics and painting.

13. Baneheia Outdoor Area

Ravnedalen leads onto the larger Baneheia, a beloved recreation spot that was gifted to the people of Kristiansand by Christian IV of Denmark when the city was founded in 1641. For more than 200 years Banehaia was used for grazing and as a source of timber, until Joseph Frantz Oscar Wergeland planted new trees and plotted stairways and walking trails through the woodland.

This system of trails leads to exhilarating scenic lookouts and has been enlarged to include illuminated trails, nature trails, running tracks and specially designed paths for the disabled.

Enclosed by forest, but close to the city is 3. Stampe, a lake with a sandy beach and a mild water temperature in summer.

14. Aquarama Bad Waterpark

Right behind Bystranda beach is a sports and leisure attraction for all comers.

Aquarama has six different bathing areas, with five different water temperatures, and designed for everyone from families with toddlers to serious swimmers at the Olympic-sized pool.

For something a little different you could test your footwork on the Flowrider Surfing wave, with qualified instructors on hand to assist you.

On hot days you can bask in the outdoor pool, just a few metres from the beachfront.

Aquarama also features a cutting-edge fitness centre 1,300 square metres in size, and if you’re in need of pampering the spa has a menu of restorative treatments calling on the sea for inspiration.

15. Kristiansand Skjærgården (Archipelago)

At the West Harbour you can embark on a summer cruise around the granite archipelago off Kristiansand’s shore.

You’ll encounter historic outports and secluded coves walled by granite cliffs.

The company M/S Maarten schedules round trips to Lillesand, passing by hundreds of little skerries and gorgeous harbour villages like Ulvøysund and Brekkestø.

The town of Lillesand to the east is also very picturesque and abounds with the whitewashed wooden houses that are typical of Southern Norway.

You could also go in for a closer look at the Oksøy and Grønningen lighthouses, while further west off Søgne you can investigate the Second World War coastal fort in Ny-Hellesund, built into granite cliffs.

15 Best Things to Do in Kristiansand (Norway):

• Dyrepark (Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park)
• Kristiansand Cannon Museum
• Kristiansand Museum
• Strandpromenaden (Kristiansand Boardwalk)
• Fiskebrygga
• Kilden Performing Arts Centre
• Kristiansand Cathedral
• Agder Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden
• Baneheia Outdoor Area
• Aquarama Bad Waterpark
• Kristiansand Skjærgården (Archipelago)

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Nicknamed Summer City, Kristiansand is one of Norway’s most popular vacation destinations—and it’s easy to see why. This waterfront town has everything you could ever want while visiting on a Norway cruise , including sandy beaches near the city center, world-class shopping, and an exciting cultural scene. 

On your cruise to Kristiansand, spend an afternoon swimming in the calm waters of Bystranda Beach. Stroll around the quaint streets of the old town of Posebyen, or enjoy a fun-filled day at the famous Kristiansand Dyreparken and Zoo. In this heavenly port of call, you’ll enjoy the best that Norway has to offer.

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Top sights and attractions for cruises to kristiansand.

Wander around Posebyen, a picturesque town with one of the largest collections of old white wooden houses in Northern Europe. Aside from being a charming destination and the perfect location to take photos, Posebyen is also the only sector of the city that survived the massive fire of 1892. Walk past 17th-century buildings, like the old post office, and enjoy the al-fresco market that pops up in town every Saturday. 

Kilden Performing Arts Centre

Admire the undulating curves and geometric shapes of the Kilden Performing Arts Centre’s striking facade. As the home of the city’s theater group, symphony orchestra, and opera company, the Kilden Centre is considered one of the best concert halls in all of Scandinavia. Try and catch one of the many shows in their daily program.

Fiskebrygga

If you’re in the mood for some seafood, head to Fiskebrygga, the city’s scenic fishing wharf. Try the local catch of the day and sample other delicacies like shrimp and mussels while admiring the red and burnt orange wooden buildings lining the harbor. If you’re craving something different, the fishing pier also has a number of cafes and restaurants that offer everything from Mexican-inspired meals to sweet ice cream cones to satisfy all kinds of cravings.  

Learn More About Europe Shore Excursions

Top things to do in kristiansand, lounge on the beach.

Kristiansand has long been a favorite vacation destination with locals in Norway because of its white sand beaches. One of the best places to cool off during the hot summer months is Bystranda Beach, a small beach located close to the city center. Swim in its calm waters, unwind under the shade of a palm tree, or simply enjoy burying your toes in the soft and pristine sand of this centric oasis.  

Go on a Hike at Ravnedalen

Take in the scenery at Ravnedalen, a beautiful nature park found just outside of the city full of blooming magnolia and rhododendron flowers. Stroll past the picturesque lake or arrange a picnic under the shadow of one of its towering spruce trees. Embark on a gentle hike up to a 300-foot lookout and admire the view from above. During the summer, you can also enjoy outdoor concerts on certain days of the week.  

Have Fun at Kristiansand Dyreparken

One of the most-visited attractions in Norway is Kristiansand Dyreparken, an all-in-one amusement park that includes a zoo, fair, and water park to explore. Take the family there for a fun-filled day, where you can board a pirate-ship ride, race down a bobsled track, explore a fantastical village inspired by a popular children’s story, and spot all kinds of exotic animals at its wonderful zoo including wolves, monkeys, pandas, and crocodiles. 

Top Food and Drink Spots Near Kristiansand Cruise Port

During your port visit on a cruise to Kristiansand, sample some staples of Norway’s inventive cuisine, such as the country’s national dish, lamb stew (or fårikål), fresh seafood, and other meat dishes like moose and reindeer. Freshly baked goods are also a must in Kristiansand, and you’ll find irresistible breads and pastries tempting you in bakeries all over the city. Make sure to order some bolle , which are soft, hot buns sprinkled with cardamom, and the kanelboller and kanelsnurrer , spiraled and knotted pastries made with butter, sugar, and cinnamon. 

Culture & History of Kristiansand Cruise Port

Kristiansand is named after King Christian IV of Denmark and Norway, who founded the town in 1641. During the 18th century, the town rose to prominence as a hub for shipbuilding. Today, it’s the most important transportation center in Southern Norway and provides freight services to countries around Europe and the United States. The city is also known for its varied cultural scene, as it is the home of a cutting-edge performing arts center, modern art museum, symphony orchestra, and first-rate zoo.

Kristiansand Port Facilities & Location

The Kristiansand cruise port is located within walking distance of the town’s downtown area. There’s also a small train that will take you to the city’s center, too. Near the port, you’ll be able to walk to a number of attractions in the area, including Fiskebrygga Wharf; SKMU, the modern art museum; the old town of Posebyen; and Bystranda Beach.

Transportation in Kristiansand

Most of the sightseeing you’ll want to do in Kristiansand is within walking distance of the port. However, if you prefer to explore the city in other ways, there are also taxis and a public bus system available. 

Shopping Near the Kristiansand Cruise Port

Near the Kristiansand cruise port, you can walk to Markens Gate, a busy street in the city center full of stores and shops. If you’re looking for something other than mainstream stores, stroll down Skippergata, a side street near Markens Gate, or head to the old town of Posebyen, where you’ll find a variety of small boutiques and shops selling local goods and unique gifts to bring back home.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The local currency in Kristiansand is the Norwegian krone. Credit cards are widely accepted in the majority of stores and restaurants, although keep in mind that you’ll have to present a valid ID when using a credit card. Tipping is not typical, but if you’d like to leave a little extra, you can always round up when paying the bill. 

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Kristiansand (Norway)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia

Local Time 2024-04-25 16:43

Port Kristiansand cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Kristiansand, Norway. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Kristiansand is a major port city in Norway, located on the country's southern coast). By population (around 90,000, metro over 155,000), the city is ranked Norway's 5th largest - following Oslo , Bergen , Stavanger and Trondheim . Port Kristiansand is very often mistaken with  Kristiansund  (a Hurtigruten  ferry port located on Norway's western coast).

Two Norwegian passenger shipping companies -  FJORD LINE and  COLOR LINE - offer direct connections from Kristiansand to Denmark ( Hirtshals ). FJORD LINE schedules 3 daily crossings (travel time 2 hours 15 min), while COLOR LINE schedules 14 weekly crossings (3 hours 15 min). Since April 2022, Kristiansand is ferry-linked with Eemshaven Holland (crossing time ~18 hours).

Kristiansand faces Skagerrak Strait, at the entrance to Baltic Sea. This 17th-century town features wide streets, lively fishing harbor, market, boat / yacht marinas, restaurants and shops, traditional wooden houses. It was named after Christian IV of Denmark (1577-1648), who founded it in 1641. Until 1877, the town's name was written "Christianssand" and "Christiansand".

The city is connected with 4 main roads - E18 (from the capital Oslo), E39 (from Stavanger), National Road 9 (from Evje) and National Road 41 (from Telemark). National Road 41 also connects with the international Kristiansand Airport (located approx 16 km / 10 mi by road). The large Varodd Bridge (part of E18) stretches over Topdalsfjorden (fjord's length is 12 km / 8 mi).

Tourism is important for the local economy, the summer season being the most popular. Among the city's best tourist attractions are its Zoo and Amusement Park (Norway's largest zoo, visited by over 900,000 people annually). Other popular destinations are Kristiansand Cathedral (Norway's 3rd largest church), Markens Street (downtown's main street), Bystranda (sand beach in Kvadraturen), Hamresanden (city's longest beach, between Hanesand the airport), Hamresanden Camping (family campsite), Somstranda (nudist beach). In the summer, once per week here is hosted a free musical concert. Outside the city is located Norway's largest mall - Sorlandssenteret.

The list of largest local businesses includes:

• Christianssands Bryggeri (1859-founded brewery producing beer and soft drinks - all made with spring water)
• Sorlandschips (Norwegian crisps brand, one of the country's most popular potato chip brands)
• Dampbageriet (1862-founded large bakery chain with 4 stores in the city)
• Hennig-Olsen Iskremfabrikk (Norwegian ice-cream company)
• Kristiansand Dyrepark (zoo selling most giraffe in Europe)
• Sorlandsparken (industrial shopping park outside the city, covering an area of approx 0,7 km2 (0,3 mi)
• Sparebanken Sor (1824-founded savings bank, one of the first opened in Norway)
• shipbuilding companies -  Kristiansands Mekaniske Verksted, P. Hpivolds Mekaniske Verksted.

In 2014, the cruise port handled 76 ship calls, in 2017 - 51.

In 2018, Regal Princess ( Princess Cruises ) became the first-ever ship to receive shoreside power connection here. During booking, vessels fitted with shore-power connectivity receive berth priority.

For season 2019, the port had scheduled 56 cruise ship calls (berth bookings) with ~100,000 passengers.

Kristiansand cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Kristiansand dock at a dedicated pier. The facility is located within easy walking distance from downtown, and also near a premium yacht marina complex with shops and restaurants. There is a  scenic road train (trucking vehicle) that transports cruise ship tourists from the terminal and around the city.

In May 2017 was officially opened a new pier (second) that allows handling even world's biggesr passenger ships of Royal Caribbean 's Oasis-Class (LOA length 362 m, 228000 GT tons). Aslo in 2017, the port started offering free WiFi to cruise ship tourists (passengers and crew) and black water discharging for the vessels.

The 1660-built circular fortress with 15 ft / 4,5 m thick walls is a short walk along the waterfront promenade, passing through a nature park. Further on, passing the sand beach, Otra River Park has a nature trail alongside the river bank.

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Kristiansand - user reviews and comments

THE 10 BEST Kristiansand Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in kristiansand.

• Water Sports
• Boat Rentals
• Speed Boats Tours
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. AnglerPilot

2. Blått Senter

3. Go Norway

4. Havrafting Soer

5. Skjaergårdsopplevelser Sør

6. M/B Oeya

7. M/S Maarten

8. Odderøya Museumshavn

9. Nord Destination Management Company

10. AGDER VANNSCOOTER UTLEIE

11. a windsurfers life.

12. Kristiansand Tours

13. Windsurfing Kristiansand

14. sør vannscooter utleie, what travelers are saying.

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• Havrafting Soer

Kristiansand, Norway

What to do in kristiansand, norway cruise port.

Fishing is another popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Kristiansand, Norway. The area is home to a variety of fish, including cod, mackerel, and herring. Anglers can rent boats and equipment from local shops, or join a guided fishing tour to explore the area's many rivers, lakes, and fjords. Fishing is a great way to relax and take in the beauty of the Norwegian countryside.

Sightseeing

Sightseeing is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Kristiansand, Norway. The city is home to many historical sites, including the Kristiansand Cathedral, the Old Town, and the Kristiansand Zoo. Visitors can also explore the nearby beaches, take a boat tour of the fjords, or visit the nearby islands. Sightseeing is a great way to learn about the history and culture of the area, and take in the stunning views of the Norwegian countryside.

Hiking is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Kristiansand, Norway. The area is home to many trails, ranging from easy to difficult, that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Hikers can explore the nearby mountains, forests, and fjords, and take in the beauty of the Norwegian countryside. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, with a variety of birds, deer, and other animals living in the area.

Shopping near Kristiansand, Norway Cruise Port

Kvadraturen Shopping Centre

Kvadraturen Shopping Centre is a great place to find souvenirs near the Kristiansand cruise port. It has a wide variety of shops, including clothing stores, gift shops, and specialty stores. The centre also has a food court and a cinema, making it a great place to spend the day. It's conveniently located in the city centre, so it's easy to get to from the port.

Kilden Shopping Centre

Kilden Shopping Centre is another great option for souvenirs near the Kristiansand cruise port. It's a large shopping mall with a variety of stores, including clothing stores, gift shops, and specialty stores. It also has a food court and a cinema, making it a great place to spend the day. It's conveniently located in the city centre, so it's easy to get to from the port.

Kjøpesenteret Bystranda

Kjøpesenteret Bystranda is a great place to find souvenirs near the Kristiansand cruise port. It's a large shopping mall with a variety of stores, including clothing stores, gift shops, and specialty stores. It also has a food court and a cinema, making it a great place to spend the day. It's conveniently located near the beach, so it's easy to get to from the port.

Beaches in Kristiansand, Norway

Hamresanden Beach

Hamresanden Beach is a popular beach located near the Kristiansand cruise port. It is a long stretch of white sand beach with plenty of amenities, including a playground, a restaurant, and a beach volleyball court. The beach is well-maintained and has crystal clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It also has a stunning view of the nearby islands and is a great spot for a romantic stroll.

Kjevik Beach

Kjevik Beach is a popular beach located near the Kristiansand cruise port. It is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters and a stunning view of the nearby islands. The beach is well-maintained and has plenty of amenities, including a playground, a restaurant, and a beach volleyball court. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Vestre Stranden Beach

Vestre Stranden Beach is a popular beach located near the Kristiansand cruise port. It is a long stretch of white sand beach with plenty of amenities, including a playground, a restaurant, and a beach volleyball court. The beach is well-maintained and has crystal clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It also has a stunning view of the nearby islands.

Attractions in Kristiansand, Norway

Best cruise excursions in kristiansand, norway.

Kristiansand, Norway cruise port map

Kristiansand, Norway Cruise Port Terminals

Kristiansand Cruise Port

Kristiansand Cruise Port is the main cruise port in Kristiansand, Norway. It is located in the city center, right on the waterfront. The port offers a variety of services, including check-in, baggage handling, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It is also the starting point for many of the city's sightseeing tours.

Kristiansand Ferry Terminal

Kristiansand Ferry Terminal is located in the city center, right on the waterfront. It is the main port for ferries to and from Denmark, Sweden, and Germany. The terminal offers a variety of services, including check-in, baggage handling, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It is also the starting point for many of the city's sightseeing tours.

Kristiansand Cruise Terminal

Kristiansand Cruise Terminal is the main cruise port in Kristiansand, Norway. It is located in the city center, right on the waterfront. The terminal offers a variety of services, including check-in, baggage handling, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It is also the starting point for many of the city's sightseeing tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Kristiansand, Norway is a popular cruise port. It is located on the southern coast of Norway and is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. The city is also home to a variety of museums, galleries, and other attractions.

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Kristiansand, Norway

This european city is appropriately named for its sandy shores and founder, king christian iv of denmark., destination details, things to see and do, port adventures, travel information.

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Cruise to Kristiansand, Norway

Kristiansand shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in kristiansand.

Idyllic Wooden Houses

Coastal buildings and a lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

Take a stroll through Posebyen, the old part of town, admiring the collection of wooden buildings, painted in white and pastel colors. A big city fire in 1892 destroyed most of Kristiansand but left this neighborhood intact.

Redefine Island Fun

The Odderoya Lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway

Cross the bridge south of the center to the island of Odderoya. Walk the pleasant seaside walking paths, admire the endless views and sandy beaches, have a look inside the cool galleries, and relax in the laid-back cafes. In summer, the island hosts several festivals and large outdoor concerts with both national and international artists.

Protect Against Pirates

Visit the photogenic Christiansholm Fortress, on the seaside promenade in the city center. Built between 1662 and 1672 by Fredrik III to keep watch over the strategic Skagerrak Straits, which were often assailed by pirates. The fortress features five-meter-thick walls — perfect for soldiers to hold up in a bunker.

Local Cuisine

For breakfast, head to the charming coffee shops in Skippergada street to have some quality coffee and a "horn," a savory crescent roll often filled with cheese and ham. Follow the locals to the Fiskebrygga (fish market) and buy a some fish cakes and a basket of strawberries during your Kristiansand cruise. You can enjoy them sitting at the quayside. For dinner, try distinctive dishes like local scallops served with trout roe and radishes at one of the city's upscale, modern restaurants.

Shop for local products at the Posebyen Market, including traditional wool hats and sweaters, as well as antique homegoods and decorations. For trendy fashions and modern Scandinavian home designs, head to Kristiansand's main street, Markens. Here, you'll find the large shopping center Slotts Quartalet. For charming boutiques, head to Skippergata — there are small shops specializing in everything from upscale fashions to leather goods.

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My Personas

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I worked on cruises for 3 years. Here are 6 things I'd never do on board.

• I used to work on cruises. After many days at sea, there are things I'd never do on a cruise .
• I never wear my room key around my neck and try to avoid misnaming the ship.
• I never buy the drink package or pay for meal upgrades in the main dining room.

I've sailed around the world as a cruise-ship employee , and now I enjoy cruising as a passenger.

I love the salty sea air, waking up in a new country, and lazy days by the pool, but a week at sea could get more complicated this year with cruises predicted to be in high demand .

While fighting a little harder to secure a prime seat on the pool deck, you may as well also avoid some rookie mistakes.

Here are six things I'd never do on a cruise after working on them for three years.

Pay for upgrades in the main dining room

Typically, main dining room meals are included in the cost of a cruise. But in recent years, it's become common for cruise lines to charge guests extra if they want to upgrade to "supplementary" items like lobster or certain steaks.

I know $12 may not seem like much for a steak or lobster tail at dinner, but the cost of the cruise is supposed to include your food.

So, even though I enjoy lobster, I stick with the items without the upcharges.

Buy the drink package

I enjoy a piña colada by the pool or a Manhattan while listening to a jazz set after dinner. Even so, it doesn't make sense for me to pay in advance for 12 to 15 cocktails a day.

I've done the math on typical unlimited drink packages , and the cost simply isn't worth it for me.

This is especially true with a port-heavy itinerary. If I've gone ashore to explore all day, that means I'm not sidled up to the bar slurping down alcoholic slushies.

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I prefer to buy as I go and take advantage of happy hour and other drink specials that are available on certain cruise lines. I also check the beverage policy in advance and bring on my own wine, if allowed.

Touch shared contact surfaces with my fingers

Fellow guests will never see me touching the elevator buttons with my fingertips. Knuckles and elbows do the trick.

Some cruise lines are better than others at wiping down commonly touched surfaces, but I don't take any chances. I avoid touching things others frequently touch, and I wash my hands frequently.

This strategy has worked for me, as I have never contracted norovirus, even when it was running rampant on a ship I was on. It's quite contagious and can linger on your fingertips even after using hand sanitizer . I'd definitely rather be safe than sorry.

Wear my room key around my neck

I never walk around the ship with my room key around my neck, and I especially never do this when on land.

There are two reasons for this. First, I see many passengers using the room keys dangling from their necks to flaunt their cruise loyalty status . It just looks pretentious.

The sophisticated cruisers with the highest status, with the most days at sea, never show off their fancy room keys.

That's because they know the more important reason — safety. In port, that room key bouncing off your chest looks like an invitation to be robbed. It screams, "I have money! Come and take it from me."

Misname the ship

English is a funny language that has its quirks. Naming conventions make that even more complicated.

Ships have proper names, and so do not require a definite article. For example, "Tomorrow I am embarking on Discovery Princess," or "I enjoyed scenic cruising on MS Westerdam."

If you want to look like a savvy sailor, learn to drop the "the!"

Plan my port-day itinerary so tight that I may not make it back to the ship on time

Oh, the recurring nightmares I've had about not making it back to the ship on time during a port day.

I've never missed a sail away, but I have cut it too close at times and have had to run down a pier or two. Just recently, as a passenger, my taxi driver got lost returning our group to the port at night.

When I realized how late we were going to be, I forked over $8 per minute to be connected with the ship. I pleaded with them to wait for us. It was a sprint through the port to get back on and we received quite a scolding from the first officer.

That time, we got lucky. In the future, I'll be giving myself more time than I think I need to make it back.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Kristiansand

Things to do in kristiansand, explore popular experiences, airport & hotel transfers.

Top Attractions in Kristiansand

Other Top Attractions around Kristiansand

What travellers are saying

• Ravnedalen Naturpark
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Barbados Cruise Port Guide & Best Things to Do

A re you looking for the ultimate caribbean vacation hop on a cruise ship and head to barbados to uncover its beautiful beaches, clear waters, white sand, and picturesque palm trees..

Barbados is situated in the eastern part of the Caribbean and is home to turquoise waters, some of the best beaches, a rich history, and outstanding scenery. 

As a travel blogger and cruise specialist, I know that Barbados is a Caribbean island that simply can’t be missed. If you are looking for a memorable cruise, Barbados is the perfect place.

Continue reading below as I dive into the Barbados Cruise Port and everything you need to know.

Where is Barbados Cruise Port Located?

The Barbados Cruise Port, also referred to as Deep Water Harbour, is situated on the southwestern side of the island and is about 1.49 miles (2.4 km) from the heart of Bridgetown. 

How to get to the city of Bridgetown from the Cruise Port

There are many ways to get to the heart to of the city of Bridgetown from the Cruise Port including by shuttle bus, taxi, and even walking. 

Custom Excursion Planning

Are there free shuttles from barbados cruise port.

Many cruise lines offer free shuttles from the cruise ship port. I recommend checking with your cruise line directly for your best options. 

Can you walk into Bridgetown from your cruise ship?

You can walk into Bridgetown from your cruise ship. It’s a little less than 1.5 miles making it a short journey to get to the main shopping, dining, and popular tourist attractions. 

Are there taxis available from Barbados Cruise Port?

There are taxis available from the Barbados Cruise Port if you would rather skip the shuttle bus services. 

Getting from Grantley Adams International Airport to the Barbados Cruise Port

The main airport in Barbados is the Grantley Adams International Airport which is located about 30 minutes southeast of the Barbados Cruise Port.

There are several options you can pick between to get from the airport to the cruise port which include taxi, private transfer, or bus. 

The cheapest way to get to the cruise port is to take the bus. You will need to hop on Line 27. 

➡️ If you would rather have something waiting for you upon your arrival, book your private transfer here!

Best Shore Excursions from the Barbados Cruise Port

There are a handful of different shore excursions to embark on around the island. Explore some of the top options provided below!

Adventure To The Best Caves On The Island

There are countless  caves scattered across the island  and each one has something unique about it.

If you are looking to uncover some of the islands raw beauty, make your way to one (or multiple) caves for an unforgettable adventure. 

Take In The Scenery At Hunte’s Gardens

Barbados is known for having some truly spectacular botanical gardens and Hunte’s Gardens is one of the best on the island and also one of the most popular attractions to visit in Barbados.

If you wish to stroll along beautiful flowers, and plants, and take in the scenery of natural beauty, look no further. 

Visit The St. Nicholas Abbey And Steam Railway Museum

The St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway Museum is rich in history.

This popular tourist attraction consists of a plantation house, rum distillery, and museum. This is the perfect place to visit to get to know more about some of the island’s history.

Stroll Around The Andromeda Botanic Gardens

Another excellent spot for cruise passengers to roam around is the Andromeda Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is 8 acres and was created by an award-winning horticulturalist, Iris Bannochie.

Spend Time With The Locals At Oistins Fish Market

Oistins Fish Market is a phenomenal place to visit on Friday nights.

This charming market is full of food stalls, has amazing live music, and is even a great place to pick up some souvenirs to commemorate your time in Barbados.

Enjoy The Pristine Beaches

With more than 80 beaches across the island, Barbados is an excellent place to visit for relaxation by the shore so grab your beach chairs and get ready to soak in your time on the island.

Some of the most popular beaches include Brighton Beach, Rockley Beach, Crane Beach, and Pebbles Beach.

Walk Down The Richard Haynes Boardwalk

The Richard Haynes Boardwalk is a little less than a mile in length and a great place to go for a quick stroll.

There are many popular restaurants along the boardwalk, making it a great place to walk around and hit several different establishments for food, drinks, and even some local beer along the way.

Explore The Capital Of Barbados

Exploring the capital of Barbados is an incredible way to get to know the island’s culture, and heritage, and spend time with the locals.

I recommend checking out the Parliament Buildings while in the area for their beautiful architecture and unique history.

Embark On A Snorkeling Tour

If you are a cruise traveler looking to spend some time exploring the tropical fish around the island, you must embark on a snorkeling tour.

This is the perfect opportunity to appreciate the islands crystal-clear blue waters and marvel at the various marine life in the Caribbean. 

One of the best tours around the island is the Barbados Catamaran Turtle and Shipwreck Snorkeling Cruise. This is the perfect excursion to spend time with sea turtles and other aquatic animals in the region.

➡️ Book your snorkeling tour here!

Make A Trip To Mount Gay Rum Distillery

If you’re a rum fan, make your way tot Mount Gay Rum Distillery to taste the local flavors and learn more about the rum making process and history.

Soak In The Caribbean Sun At The Boatyard Beach Club

One of the best places to venture to for the ultimate beach day is the Boatyard Beach Club.

This area is known for its abundance of beach chairs and umbrellas and a great place to unwind. It’s also a great destination for water sports like snorkeling and swimming.

Places to Stay Near Barbados Cruise Port

Barbados offers a wide range of hotel options to choose from. Consider the following incredible choices near the Barbados Cruise Port for a comfortable and convenient stay either before or after your cruise to the island. 

Hilton Barbados Resort  is a fabulous hotel near the Barbados Cruise Port. It’s a quick 15-minute drive to the port and is in a great location near Brownes Beach and Needhams Point.

This hotel is famous for being close to the Needhams Point Light House and known for its excellent service, incredible fitness center, and awesome property.

Another excellent hotel is the  Sugar Bay Barbados . This place is a 13 minute drive from the cruise port and is right near Drill Hall Beach. The hotel itself is known for its friendly staff, delicious cocktails, scrumptious breakfast, and beautiful property. 

Fairmont Royal Pavilion  is a 20 minute drive to the cruise port and another fantastic option for hotels in the area. It’s known for its tasty restaurants, seaside views, and helpful staff. 

Best Time To Visit Barbados

The best time to visit Barbados is during its dry season which occurs between December and April. 

Cruise Liners That Visit Barbados Cruise Port

• There are many major cruise lines that visit the island of Barbados including:
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line

Barbados Quick Facts

🪙 The official currency of Barbados is the Barbadian Dollar.

🚢 The language spoken in Barbados is English.

🛟 Cricket is the national sport of Barbados.

⚓ Harrison’s Cave is one of the most popular attractions in the country. 

⛵ The capital of Barbados is Bridgetown, known for its colonial buildings. 

Barbados Cruise Port FAQs

Can you walk to a beach from the cruise port in barbados.

You can walk to a beach from the cruise port in Barbados. One of the closest beaches is Brandons Beach which is about 1.4 miles (2.3 km) and takes about a 30 minute stroll.

Another nearby beach is Brownes Beach which is 2.5 miles (4.1 km) and takes about 50 minutes to walk to. 

Where do the cruise ships dock in Barbados?

Cruise ships dock at the Barbados Cruise Port, also referred to as the Bridgetown Cruise Port or the Deep Water Harbour. 

Is there a shuttle from Royal Caribbean to Barbados airport?

Royal Caribbean does offer transportation between the airport and the cruise port, make sure you contact their reservations line to set this up in advance. 

What days do the cruise ships come to Barbados?

Barbados welcomes cruise ships on any day of the week, with the arrival and departure days contingent upon the particular cruise line’s schedule.

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise to Barbados?

Yes, you do need a passport to go on a cruise to the island of Barbados. 

Final Thoughts On The Barbados Cruise Port

The Barbados Cruise Port stands out as one of the premier destinations in the Caribbean, due to its convenient location near the capital of Bridgetown, endless exceptional shore excursions, and breathtaking scenery. 

With my expertise in Caribbean cruise travel, I can guarantee that your visit to Barbados will be memorable, making it a standout destination on any cruise itinerary. 

Cruise Resources

These are my tried and true, favorite cruise-planning helpers:

➡️ Cruise Critic – for reviews, deck plans, and cabin choices

➡️ Parking – for saving on your long-term parking

➡️ Travel Insurance Master – Because, yes, you do need insurance

➡️ Trip Advisor –

For Reviewing Tours and Excursions

➡️ Viator – For Shore Excursions

➡️ Shore Excursions Group – More choices for small group excursions

➡️ Resort for a day Passes in Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas

➡️ Atlantis Day Pass

➡️Cruise Packing List for Caribbean , Mediterranean or Alaska

➡️ Cruise Tips

➡️Also, if you don’t want the hassle and stress of booking your own cruise, I can do it for you at no additional cost! You can read more about

These products are services I have used myself and trust. Purchasing through the links above, helps me continue my blog at no additional cost to you, and I appreciate it so much!

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What to do before or after your cruise from port tampa bay.

By Janet K. Keeler

Planning things to do before or after cruising from Port Tampa Bay is as fun to think about as the much-anticipated tropical cruise itself. The Tampa cruise port is conveniently located in a bustling area of Tampa, full of shops, attractions and restaurants, so the choices are plentiful.

The Tampa cruise port is one of the anchors of the Channelside District which puts cruisers within walking distance of a variety of things to do. And by variety, we mean good eats, too. The district is loaded with food options including Michelin-honored restaurants including Predalina and The Pearl . 

Just a few blocks away from where you will embark at the Tampa cruise port is Sparkman Wharf , a tangle of restaurants and bars with outdoor seating and live music. Yeah, we know the cruise ships offer an endless buffet, but you’ll get some local flavors—charred octopus Greek salad at Swigamajig —at Sparkman plus the chance to blow off some calories on the Splitsville bowling lanes.

Amalie Arena , the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team, is within walking distance, too, and you might be able to sync your cruise with a game or even a concert. Madonna, Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, Billy Joel and Megan Thee Stallion are just some of the acts that have played the venue recently.

For those who want to explore farther afield there are the beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches on the other side of Tampa Bay. Wide beaches with white sand are the hallmark from Clearwater south to Fort De Soto Park.

There’s plenty more beyond eating, drinking and sunning to discover before or after your cruise out of Port Tampa.

Explore the Underwater World

In the shadow of the big cruise ships at the Tampa cruise port is the Florida Aquarium which offers as much intergenerational fun as can be found aboard any cruise ship. The aquarium is one of those educational places that masquerades as a good time. Who wouldn’t want to peer through the glass wall at what baby alligators do underwater? They hardly look like the giant prehistoric reptiles that they will become. The exhibits cover Florida’s wetlands, beaches and coral reef exhibits. Just the right place to get cruisers in the mood for their tropical sea adventure.

Experience Latin Culture

A few miles from the Port Tampa Bay cruise port is the lively Tampa neighborhood, Ybor City and a street car from the cruise port area will get you there. In the early 1900s, Ybor was the country’s center of cigar production and the city’s Cuban immigrant heart. The cigar factories have dwindled to just one— J.C. Newman Cigar Co .— and visitors can watch the action and take a one-hour guided tour of the facility. There are a few storefronts along Ybor’s Seventh Avenue where you can watch cigar rollers. A self-guided GPS-based tour can tell you more and there are even guided night ghost walks. Stop in Florida’s oldest restaurant, the Columbia , for Cuban coffee and a 1905 salad, named after the year the doors opened.

Ride a Roller Coaster

Tampa’s popular theme park, Busch Gardens , is less than 10 miles from the cruise port and is a great place to take the kids if you’ve got an extra day. There are 10(!) roller coasters for thrillseekers ranging from Iron Gwazi, the world’s fastest and highest hybrid coaster, to Cheetah Hunt, the park’s longest coaster.  Five of them turn riders upside down. There are other rides too, like the Serengeti Flyer which soars over one of the animal encampments. The Serengeti Express train ride covers similar ground but keeps you on the ground. Besides rides and attractions, there are animals, animals, animals. More than 200 species of animals including penguins, hippos, rhinos, giraffes and more. Lots of opportunities for interaction and education. Busch means beer and there’s a taproom too.

Ride the Pirate Water Taxi

Tampa is steeped in pirate culture thanks to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers football team and the annual Gasparilla Pirate Fest in the weeks leading up to Easter. Think New Orleans Mardi Gras on the water with a pirate ship invasion and plenty of costumed rogues of the sea throwing beads in multiple parades. The Pirate Water Taxi takes its lead from the theme and plies the Hillsborough River and nearby channels much like a hop-on, hop-off tour bus. It makes 16 stops and No. 1 is at the Florida Aquarium, a quick walk from the Tampa Bay cruise port and parking. At stop #9, you can hop off and get a close up view of the docked Jose Gasparilla II pirate ship that leads the pirate fest invasion. Get off at  #12 and amble along the Tampa RiverWalk until you get to the Armature Works food hall to get locally brewed coffee or a bite to eat from one of the many vendors. Armature is stop No. 16 where you can board the water taxi again for the ride back to the cruise port.

Get Artsy across the Bay

Across Tampa Bay from Tampa, downtown St. Petersburg boasts five museums and a number of galleries, including one that houses the work of famed glass artist Dale Chiluly . It’s just across the street from the Morean Art Center which has rotating exhibits and a fine gift shop. The museums include the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg and its collection spanning 4,000 years; the Dali Museum which has an impressive collection of the Spanish surrealist’s master works; the James Museum of Western Art and its rotating and permanent collection of art that celebrates the American West; the Florida Holocaust Museum dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and promoting tolerance, and the Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement and its impressive collection of furniture and decorative arts. There are parking facilities downtown, and an Uber or Lyft ride is one way to cross the bay. The Cross Bay Ferry to downtown St. Petersburg is another alternative and the pick up spot in Tampa is about a mile from the cruise port.

Places to Remember

Bradenton Beach

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