Relaxed 9-Day Norway Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stavanger to Kristiansand
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 9-day road trip in Norway with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Norway at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Stavanger, Kristiansand, and Sandnes. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Stavanger and 4 nights in Kristiansand. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Norway.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Norway. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Stavanger, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Norway and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Norway with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Norway.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Norway. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Kristiansand Zoo And Amusement Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Gamle Stavanger.
Traveling leisurely through Norway means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Sverd I Fjell. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Norway's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Norway.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Norway. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Norway's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Norway.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Norway. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Norway. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Norway and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Norway today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Stavanger - arrival day
- Stavanger - Arrival day
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- Sverd i fjell
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Your relaxed road trip through Norway starts when you reach the incredible city of Stavanger, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Stavanger and begin your adventure in Norway.
Stavanger 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 Sverd I Fjell or 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 Stavanger. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Stavanger.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Eg & Du, a highly-rated dining destination in Stavanger. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mano Pizza, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Clarion Hotel Energy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Stavanger this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Stavanger’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Norway.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Broremann Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bøker Og Børst, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cirkus also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Norway. Enjoy your first taste of Stavanger as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Stavanger
- Stavanger
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Drive 60 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Stavanger City Bridge
- Stavanger Maritime Museum
- Gamle Stavanger
- Norwegian Canning Museum
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Norway means 24 hours of making the best memories in Stavanger. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Stavanger. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Stavanger!
Start by visiting Stavanger City Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Stavanger Maritime Museum, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming maritime museum renowned for its instagrammable features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Stavanger by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Gamle Stavanger. This history-steeped street is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Norwegian Canning Museum also adds charm to your journey.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Norway. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Norway and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Norway, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Stavanger.
Start your culinary exploration in Stavanger by securing a reservation at RE-NAA. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Sabi Omakase Stavanger, celebrated for its delectable sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Stavanger and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Bache stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Fri Bar - Fargegaten offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Hanekam is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Norway!
Day 3 – Stavanger
- Stavanger
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Drive 21 km, 2 hours 55 min
- Stavanger Botanical Garden
- Ullandhaugtårnet
- Sørmarka
- Stavanger Museum
- Museum of Archaeology, University of Stavanger
- Gamle Stavanger
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On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Norway, you’ll go deep into Stavanger, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Stavanger, and meet locals along the way!
Stavanger is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, an idyllic, an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, and a respected! Start at Stavanger Botanical Garden, a frequently visited botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Ullandhaugtårnet, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Sørmarka. This park is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Stavanger at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Stavanger Museum. After exploring the museum, head to the locally appreciated Museum Of Archaeology, University Of Stavanger. This museum will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Norway by joining a traveler-approved tour in Stavanger. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Stavanger that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Norway more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Stavanger to find the best options for you!
Exploring the food culture in Stavanger offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pasha Stavanger, a top-rated dining spot in Stavanger. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Irishman, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at På Kornet. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Stavanger.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Stavanger and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cardinal Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gnu Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Alexander Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Norway!
Day 4 – Stavanger and Kristiansand
- Stavanger
- Kristiansand
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Stavanger Cathedral
- TOU
- Norwegian Petroleum Museum
- Fargegaten
- Gamle Stavanger
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Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Norway gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Stavanger. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Kristiansand, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.
A blend of a visually striking, a heritage-rich, an inviting, a majestic, and an enchanting await you in Stavanger on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated church, Stavanger Cathedral. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Tou. A visit to this cultural center is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Stavanger’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Norwegian Petroleum Museum. This worthwhile museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Fargegaten, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Norway at Kristiansand. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Make sure to book a table at Bellini, a popular restaurant in Kristiansand. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kristiansand at Tollboden Burger & Bar, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le´s Kitchen. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Kristiansand tonight.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Kristiansand and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bakgården Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Norway!
Day 5 – Kristiansand
- Kristiansand
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Drive 2 km, 33 min
- SKMU Sørlandets Kunstmuseum
- Kristiansand Cathedral
- Archive Foundation
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Kristiansand, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Norway are extraordinary.
Today’s agenda in Kristiansand includes an art gallery, a church, and a museum. Skmu Sørlandets Kunstmuseum is must-visit art gallery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Kristiansand Cathedral, a beloved church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Archive Foundation, a historic museum, also available for your discovery today.
Norway makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Norway also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Foodie Kristiansand, a top-rated dining destination in Kristiansand. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider SkagenPub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Monsoon - Sushi & Asian. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kristiansand this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Kristiansand. The bars in Kristiansand make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Kristiansand can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Norway!
Day 6 – Kristiansand
- Kristiansand
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Drive 18 km, 31 min
- The inverted boat
- Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden, University of Agder
- Gimle Farm
- Kristiansand Museum
- Kristiansand Cathedral
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Norway means 24 hours of making the best memories in Kristiansand. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Kristiansand. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Kristiansand!
Prepare for a day full of an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a noteworthy, a picturesque, and a standout. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at The Inverted Boat. This frequently visited art installation is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Natural History Museum And Botanical Garden, University Of Agder, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Gimle Farm, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Kristiansand. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Kristiansand Museum. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this museum offers.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Norway more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Kristiansand offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Kristiansand has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Dine in style at Saigon Nam Nam, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Q42 boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Scandic Kristiansand Bystranda. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Kristiansand.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Kristiansand’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Norway.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Norway!
Day 7 – Kristiansand
- Kristiansand
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Drive 30 km, 45 min
- Odderøya fort
- Christiansholm Fortress
- Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park
- Kristiansand Cathedral
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On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Norway, you’ll go deep into Kristiansand, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Kristiansand, and meet locals along the way!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Kristiansand. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Odderøya Fort is the perfect place to start. This battlefield is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Kristiansand. Next, head to Christiansholm Fortress, an intriguing monument, known for its breathtaking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Kristiansand Zoo And Amusement Park. This instagrammable zoo offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Norway. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Norway and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Norway. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Kristiansand, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Spiren plantebasert mat og drikke, a top-rated dining destination in Kristiansand. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Midnight Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bønder i Byen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kristiansand this evening.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Kristiansand.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Kristiansand as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Norway with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Norway!
Day 8 – Kristiansand, Sandnes, and Stavanger
- Kristiansand
- Sandnes
- Stavanger
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Drive 253 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Rogaland Arboretum
- Dalsnuten
- Dalsnuten Hike
- Sandved Park
- Kristiansand Cathedral
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On day 8 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Norway. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Norway.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stavanger, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sandnes to Stavanger may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stavanger, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Rogaland Arboret, an underrated botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Dalsnuten and admire its instagrammable features. When you’re ready, continue to Dalsnuten Hike, an often recommended hiking area beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Sandved Park, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Stavanger. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Norway by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Norway, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Stavanger.
Make sure to reserve a table at Phileas Fogg, an iconic dining spot in Stavanger. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fisketorget Stavanger, a popular restaurant in Stavanger. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Italo AS, a hidden gem nestled in Stavanger. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Stavanger!
Day 9 – Stavanger - departure day
- Stavanger - Departure day
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- Godalen strand
- Gamle Stavanger
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Norway is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Stavanger.
Make the most of your final day in Norway by visiting Stavanger’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Norway.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Stavanger is the remarkable Godalen Strand. This beach and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 345 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Stavanger or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Sushi San, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Stavanger and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Norway is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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