5-Day Norway Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Kristiansand traveling north to Rjukan
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Norway as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Kristiansand, Grimstad, Arendal, Rjukan, Heddal, and Notodden.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Norway takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Kristiansand and 2 nights in Rjukan. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Norway. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Kristiansand, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Norway on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Norway. Heddal Stave Church and Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Gaustatoppen, learn more about the unique Gausta Skisenter, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Christiansholm Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Kristiansand, Grimstad, Arendal, Rjukan, Heddal, and Notodden, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Norway. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Norway.
Throughout your road trip in Norway, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Norway.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Norway fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Norway today!
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Day 1
- Kristiansand - Arrival day
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- Markens gate
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Your road trip adventure in Norway begins as soon as you reach Kristiansand and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Kristiansand for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Kristiansand is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Markens gate, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Kristiansand. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Norway. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Kristiansand, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Bellini, a top-rated dining destination in Kristiansand. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tollboden Burger & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le´s Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kristiansand this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bakgården Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Norway!
Day 2
- Kristiansand
- Rjukan
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Drive 317 km, 4 hours 55 min
- Fjære Church
- Glassheisen til Fløyheia
- Gaustatoppen
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Norway, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Grimstad and Arendal. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rjukan, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Kristiansand, including a church, an observation deck, and a mountain range. Start your adventure at Fjære Church. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Glassheisen Til Fløyheia located in Kristiansand for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Gaustatoppen. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rjukan. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rjukan. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Huset Rjukan AS, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Torgcaféen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Norway!
Day 3
- Rjukan
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Drive 117 km, 2 hours 16 min
- Holtardalen
- Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum
- Gausta Skisenter
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rjukan, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Kvitåvatn. You still have 1 night left in Rjukan.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rjukan, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at Holtardalen, an intriguing ski resort in the hamlet. Then, head to Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum and soak in the ambiance of this historic museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Rjukan, and when you are ready for more, go to Gausta Skisenter. This is one of the hamlet’s most increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Rjukan.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rjukan. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Rjukan Hytteby, a top pick for dinner tonight.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Norway!
Day 4
- Rjukan
- Kristiansand
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Drive 333 km, 4 hours 45 min
- Heddal stave church
- Heddal Open-Air Museum
- Telemark Art Museum
- Vrangfoss Locks
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Norway. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heddal, Notodden, and Eie. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kristiansand, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Heddal Stave Church. This locally appreciated church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Heddal Open-air Museum, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Telemarksgalleriet, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Rjukan. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Vrangfoss Locks. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this historical landmark offers.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kristiansand. Kristiansand offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Kristiansand's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Foodie Kristiansand, a highly-rated dining destination in Kristiansand. If you're eager to try something different, consider SkagenPub, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Monsoon - Sushi & Asian. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kristiansand this evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Kristiansand and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Norway!
Day 5
- Kristiansand - Departure day
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- Christiansholm Fortress
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Day 5 of your road trip in Norway is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Kristiansand before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Christiansholm Fortress. This curiosity-inducing monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Norway, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Kristiansand.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Saigon Nam Nam, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Q42 is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Kristiansand. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Norway!
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