Haugesund

Welcome to Haugesund and Haugalandet, the viking destination of Fjord Norway, and a region full of contrasts. Åkrafjord, Langfoss waterfall, coastal culture, the unique Viking history at Avaldsnes, idyllic island communities such as Utsira and Røvær and charming small town life are a few of the highlights.

Norway

Haugesund, waterfront

In the footsteps of the Vikings

This exciting Haugesund region extends from the open sea in the west to the fjord and mountain landscape in the east. A host of nature-based adventures await visitors who want to experience the contrasts in the fantastic scenery of Western Norway. You can walk in the Vikings’ footsteps, visit the islands of Røvær and Utsira and see perpendicular mountains and cascading waterfalls in the beautiful Åkrafjord.

Festivals in Haugesund and Haugalandet

Haugesund, which is the regional centre for more than 100,000 people, has everything you need for a blast of urban life; culture, shopping, restaurants and charming cafés. Festivals and cultural events are organised all year round for people of all ages. The two biggest festivals, Sildajazz jazz festival and the Norwegian International Film Festival Haugesund are held every August.

We have passion for the ocean

The ocean has a magical way of capturing our attention and Fjord Norway’s coast is no exception. Experience our sandy beaches, go surfing, try kayaking among a myriad of islands and reefs or just be present in the moment. Meet welcoming locals, taste fantastic seafood and share our passion for the ocean!

Find out more

Be inspired

We have gathered some articles together here written by people who know the Haugesund region well. Browse through the pages for inspiration and put together the perfect trip to Haugesund for you. Maybe you’ll even discover some hidden gems?

Your guide to Haugesund!

Experience Haugesund on foot, and see historical monuments, learn about industrial history and enjoy a rich cultural and café scene.

Nine good reasons to visit Haugesund & Haugalandet

Haugesund & Haugalandet is a region full of contrasts that extends from the ocean in the west to the Åkrafjord in the east! Here are nine good reasons to visit the region!

Accommodation MUSTS!

Weekend, holiday or simply a mid-week time-out – there are lots of exciting accommodation options in Haugalandet.

With nature as your playground

Experience the beautiful landscape around Haugesund. Its proximity to the sea, mountains and fjords means Haugalandet offers experiences for the adventurous and those looking for peace and quiet.

Activities in Haugesund & Haugalandet

What to do in Haugesund? Fill your stay with exciting experiences, everything from action-packed activities, relaxation in beautiful scenery or interesting cultural events.

Via Ferrata Kyrkjeveggen

Want to climb one of Norway's toughest Via Ferrata routes? Try Via Ferrata Kyrkjeveggen. The 900-metre-long route rewards you with beautiful views of the Åkrafjord.

Høyt & Lavt climbing park

"Høyt og Lavt" (high and low) in Nedstrand is an exciting and diverse climbing/zipline- park in beautiful surroundings.

Heit Åkrafjorden Sauna

Unique Sauna with a spectacular location and view of Åkrafjorden.

See all activities in Haugesund

Recommended places to visit

Check out the highlights of the Haugesund region, from Viking history to idyllic island communities.

Skudeneshavn

Skudeneshavn is a small town (with town status) in Karmøy municipality, around 40 minutes by car from Haugesund. Parts of the town are designated a listed cultural environment, and have been awarded the St. Olav’s Rose for the preservation of Norwegian cultural heritage.

Utsira

Utsira is an island west of Haugesund, and it is Norway’s smallest municipality in terms of population. The island is known for its rich birdlife and world-class street art.

Åkrafjorden

The Åkrafjord is a fjord in Etne municipality, around an hour and a half by car from the centre of Haugesund.

See all attractions in Haugesund

What’s on in Haugesund?

A complete overview of what’s on in Haugesund region!

The Norwegian international Film Festival

Haugesund again welcomes more than a thousand people to a 7-day-long film festival. In addition to watching films our visitors can attend concerts, art exhibitions and the Amanda Award Show.

From August 19, 2023

Vikingfestivalen - Karmøy

The Viking Festival, Avaldsnes has become the biggest Viking Festival at the West Coast of Norway. The Viking Farm will be populated by more than 200 Vikings from all over Europe, living in their tents.

From June 8, 2023

Sildajazz

Sildajazz in Haugesund has become one of the two biggest jazz festivals in the country. The Tradjazz profile is clear, but most other styles are also presented in a festival that most people enjoy.

From August 9, 2023

See all events in Haugesund

Plan your visit to Haugesund & Haugalandet

You can find an overview of restaurants, cafés and accommodation and transport here.

Åkrafjorden Glamping

Unique experiences on natures premises.

Skaarnesheimen Raw Ocean Lodge

In a quiet setting surrounded by the North Sea you will find Skaarnesheimen Raw Ocean Lodge - a community-oriented eco lodge with focus on curated adventure, amazing local food and cultural experiences. Spend the night in a surf bungalow right by the sea! Feel the fresh air, the natural silence and have a north sea experience.

Quality Hotel Maritim

Quality Hotel Maritim is situated in the centre of Haugesund and offers magnificent views of the Smedasundet strait. With 311 rooms, including 7 suites, it is the largest hotel in Haugesund and a well-known venue for courses, meetings, conferences, shows and events.

See all services in Haugesund

Try our travel planner!

Find activities and accommodation and put together your itinerary. Use the map to navigate, find activities that match your interests, and view the route in the map. Download our app and carry your itinerary in your pocket, and find experiences along the way.

Would you prefer it on paper? Print out your itinerary, and you’ll have it handy at all times!

#visithaugesund

Facebook
Instagram
YouTube