Haugesund travel guide

Photo of Risoy Island in Haugesund in Norway by Uta Scholl
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Introduction to Haugesund

With a unique historical background and an incredible variety of natural and architectural beauty, Haugesund is a highlight in Norway. This town in Rogaland, Norway is a travel destination with plenty to offer curious travelers.

Welcome to Guide to Europe’s comprehensive Haugesund travel guide.

Easily accessible from Haugesund , Karmøy airport, Haugesund is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Norway any time of the year.

Traveling to Haugesund is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

History of Haugesund

Haugesund, a captivating city in Norway, is steeped in fascinating history. Its origins can be traced back to the Viking Age, when it was a bustling hub of trade and shipbuilding.

In the 19th century, Haugesund blossomed as a herring fishing port, earning it the nickname 'The Herring Town'. This prosperous era saw the town's population grow rapidly and contributed to its urban development.

The city's rich heritage is showcased at the Nordvegen History Centre and the Avaldsnes Viking Settlement, where visitors can immerse themselves in the intriguing world of Viking culture.

Today, Haugesund is treasured for its blend of historical charm and modern amenities, perfect for travelers seeking a unique Norwegian experience. With a vibrant arts scene, the city also hosts the annual Norwegian International Film Festival and Sildajazz, an international jazz festival, attracting cultural enthusiasts from around the globe.

Top services in Haugesund

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Haugesund, Norway. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 297 airlines that fly to Norway. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Haugesund.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Haugesund, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Haugesund on your vacation in Norway.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Haugesund from our free 24/7 customer support.

Best time to visit Haugesund

The best time to explore Haugesund, Norway is during the summer months from June to August. During this period, the city offers mild weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, providing ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. The long daylight hours allow for extended sightseeing, ideal for the numerous historical and cultural attractions. The Sildajazz Festival in August is a major draw, featuring a week of jazz music and attracting international artists. The city's population swells during the festival, adding a lively atmosphere but also more crowds. For those who prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons of May and September still offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists. However, winter can offer a unique perspective of the city's beauty under a blanket of snow, although daylight hours are significantly reduced. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Haugesund offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that promises a rewarding experience.

Local tip for visiting Haugesund

An insider tip that locals often share is to fully experience the vibrant seafood culture of Haugesund. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly herring, which is often overlooked by tourists. Make sure to visit the local fish market, located near the city center, where you can not only buy freshly caught fish but also learn about the different varieties and their preparation methods from friendly local vendors. Furthermore, locals recommend attending the mid-August Herring Festival (Sildajazz), which combines the city’s seafood culture with lively jazz music. Not only will you enjoy an array of herring dishes, but you'll also get to witness the city come alive with music, enhancing your cultural immersion in this Norwegian city. This insider tip will help you delve deeper into the heart of Haugesund and enjoy a unique experience that typical guidebooks may not mention.

Learn more about Norway

There are many reasons to visit Haugesund, but a trip to Norway needs no explanation.

Exploring Norway, which spans 385,207 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Norway offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Norway.

What to see in Haugesund

Haugesund has something for everyone.

Top attractions in Haugesund

Haugesund is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Norway.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Norway, check out our list of top attractions in Haugesund below.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Haugesund.

Things to do in Haugesund

Enrich your travel experience in Haugesund by joining tours and activities. Haugesund offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking.

Discover the most popular experiences in Haugesund below.

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Discover the best things to do in Haugesund.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Haugesund. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Haugesund

Haugesund, a charming coastal city in Norway, offers a delightful culinary journey that is sure to captivate every food enthusiast. From thriving street food markets to high-end restaurants, the best places to eat in Haugesund present a plethora of dining options. The city's traditional dishes, predominantly featuring seafood, are a must-try. Indulge in the fresh catch of the day at the bustling fish market located at the city's heart, or dine at acclaimed restaurants like Lothes Mat & Vinhus and Brasserie Brakstad, known for their exquisite interpretations of local cuisine. Here, you can savor delicacies like Klippfisk (salted cod) and Rakfisk (fermented fish), paired with locally brewed craft beers or world-class wines. If you prefer a quick bite, the city center's food trucks serve everything from Norwegian hot dogs to Kebabnorsk, a local favorite. When in Haugesund, don't miss the opportunity to join a 'Seafood Safari', a unique culinary experience where you can catch, cook, and enjoy your seafood. With its rich culinary heritage and diverse food scene, Haugesund promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Nightlife in Haugesund

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Haugesund, Norway, a city that thrives after sundown. The city centre is the best area for bars in Haugesund, teeming with a variety of watering holes, from modern cocktail bars to traditional Norwegian pubs. A must-visit is Barrique Wine Bar, known for its extensive global wine list and cozy atmosphere. The city's unique night culture is highlighted by the locals' warm hospitality and the region's local craft beers.

For those who enjoy clubbing, Haugesund's night scene will not disappoint. Clubs like Dickens and Gnu Bar offer an eclectic mix of music, from EDM to live performances by local bands. A unique aspect of Haugesund's nightlife is the frequent concerts and cultural events held in venues like Høvleriet, providing a brilliant blend of entertainment and culture. Remember, most establishments in Haugesund operate until late into the night, especially on weekends. So, dress warmly, be prepared to make new friends and immerse yourself in the city's vivacious nightlife.

Best free things to do in Haugesund

Experience the charm of Norway without breaking the bank with the best free things to do in Haugesund. Start your journey at Haraldshaugen, a national monument marking the unification of Norway. The majestic stone cross and 29 smaller stones representing the historical Norwegian counties offer a journey through Norway's rich history. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Djupadalen or 'Deep Valley'. The tranquil oasis of lush greenery and sparkling lakes is perfect for picnics or leisurely strolls. A visit to Haugesund won't be complete without exploring the city's public art installations. Discover the bronze statue of Marilyn Monroe at the city center, honoring her Norwegian roots. For film enthusiasts, the annual Norwegian International Film Festival hosts a selection of free screenings, providing a taste of Norway's vibrant film scene. Lastly, don't miss out on the bustling local markets. They're a great place to interact with locals, sample traditional Norwegian foods, and learn more about the city's culture and lifestyle.

Vacation packages in Haugesund

The best and easiest way to visit Haugesund is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Norway.

Booking a vacation package to Haugesund means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Haugesund to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Haugesund is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Haugesund, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Find vacation packages in Haugesund

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Haugesund get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Norway. Your customized holiday package to Haugesund is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Haugesund

International travelers can fly to Haugesund by booking flights with any of the 10 airlines that offer direct flights to Haugesund , Karmøy airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Haugesund , Karmøy airport are Ryanair, Air China, United Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Wizz Air. Go to this page to compare all flights to Haugesund.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Haugesund, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Haugesund , Karmøy airport and Haugesund below.

Find cheap flights to Haugesund

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Haugesund, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Norway. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Haugesund, Norway, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Haugesund costs around 16 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air. The flight leaves on June 24 at 2 and departs from Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa airport in Gdańsk, Poland.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Haugesund cost approximately 24 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 13 and the return flight is scheduled on June 20. The flight time is around 15 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Sandefjord Airport, Torp.

Where to stay in Haugesund

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation.

The best place to stay in Haugesund usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Haugesund offers a ton of benefits.

Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Haugesund planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Norway can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Haugesund.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Haugesund in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Haugesund

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Haugesund provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Haugesund. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

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Car rental in Haugesund

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Haugesund. Haugesund has 2 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Haugesund start from 39.14 EUR per day or 273.96 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Toyota Corolla Aut.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Haugesund, starting from 36.19 EUR per day or 253.31 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Haugesund, Norway, below.

Search for car rental in Haugesund

Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Haugesund, Norway, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Haugesund

Navigating through Haugesund, Norway is quite convenient due to its well-developed transportation system. The city is serviced by Haugesund Airport, Karmøy, which provides both domestic and international flights, making the city easily accessible.

Public transportation is primarily managed by Kolumbus, offering extensive bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas. The buses are reliable and run frequently, providing an easy and affordable way to get around.

Taxis are also readily available in Haugesund, providing a convenient option for direct travel. Several reputable companies operate in the city, with cars generally available at taxi ranks, or by booking in advance.

For those preferring to drive, a range of car rental services are available at the airport and within the city. This can be a great option if you plan to explore beyond the city limits.

A unique local experience is the bicycle rental system, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. The city's landscape is generally flat, making biking an enjoyable and eco-friendly alternative.

Popular destinations to visit after Haugesund

So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Norway has it all.

Norway is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! The most popular travel destinations in Norway are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Norway

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Norway. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Haugesund

A taste of Norway through a visit to Haugesund can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Haugesund to another remarkable destination in Norway.

Popular domestic flights from Haugesund

Travelers in Norway can catch flights to domestic airports in Ålesund, Narvik, Bodø, Bergen, and Alta. Domestic flights in Norway are operated by 4 airlines: Norwegian, Wizz Air, Widerøe, and SAS. There are around 13 scheduled flight routes operating to Haugesund on a weekly basis.

From Haugesund, travelers can book scheduled flights to 11 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Haugesund depart to many top-rated destinations in Norway and are offered by Norwegian, Wizz Air, and Widerøe.

Search domestic flights from Haugesund

Traveling to another city or region in Norway? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Haugesund to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Norway on the selected dates.

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