Kristiansand is known as the most summery of all summer towns in Norway, but there are things to do and see there all year round, not just the zoo and the city beach.
Kristiansand is the largest and perhaps the liveliest city in Southern Norway, and attracts throngs of tourists every year. A holiday in Kristiansand is exciting for the family, not least because it is home to Norway's biggest zoo. The city is a great travel destination for a weekend trip or holiday—for families, friends, and couples alike.
Start off your holiday in Kristiansand with a trip to the zoo, Dyreparken, which is worth a visit even if you’re travelling without kids. In the summer, Kaptein Sabeltann's (Captain Sabertooth) show is extremely popular, and the same is true of Kardemommeby town. Stay the night and say hello to the main characters: Kasper, Jesper and Jonatan. Kutoppen farm and Hakkebakkeskogen (Hakkebakke Forest) are especially popular with the little ones. Come and see tigers, giraffes, camels and lemurs in the zoo—there's something for the whole family! In Dyreparken, there is also a waterpark, where you can cool down or enjoy the slides.
Kristiansand is also bustling with lovely cafés, restaurants and many fashionable clothing shops. Set aside time to walk around the centre and Markens, the charming pedestrian street in Kvadraturen. Eat an ice cream or have a beer in one of the many bars and restaurants, and finish your day with a great dinner.
Kristiansand is one of the few cities in Norway with its own city beach. It's a great place to sunbathe and play in the summer, but is also good for walking in the winter or picnicking in autumn. There are also smaller beaches where you can hide away. The city field in Baneheia is a wonderful place for recreational activities.
Take a trip to the old part of town, called Posebyen. It's a lovely place where you can enjoy the old wooden houses. Also make sure to go to a concert or exhibition in the city's new pride and joy, Kulturhuset Kilden (Kilden Culture House), which is a great piece of architecture. Art lovers shouldn’t miss miss Sørlandets Kunstmuseum (Southern Norway Art Museum) and Kristiansand Kunsthall (Kristiansand Art Gallery). Or what about a trip to the canon museum, Kanonmuseet?
Kristiansand is a city with speed and excitement, sun and summer, but also shopping, cultural experiences and a beautiful coastal landscape. In other words, there is more than enough to do!