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Holiday ideas

Engaging activities in and around Haugesund!

Last updated: 13.10.2025
Rib tur i Haugesund.
© Visit Haugesund
© Visit Haugesund

Here are tips for activities in Haugesund the Haugesund region that will create great memories.

Norways Birthplace

Based on its rich Viking history, the region is referred to as the Birthplace of Norway. It was here that Harald Fairhair had his royal farm and princes and kings controlled the ships travelling along the Norðrvegr, the northern route, which gave Norway its name. Today, this strait is known as Karmsundet. You can visit the History Centre and Viking Farm at Avaldsnes, or the digital museum Viking Planet in downtown Haugesund. Did you know that Haugesund is home to Norway's only national monument? This impressive monument from 1872 is located along the coastal path within walking distance from Haugesund.

In the footsteps of the Vikings

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in Haugesund.

The Viking Planet Haugesund

The Viking Planet Haugesund

The Viking Planet is a digital museum in the centre of Haugesund that tells the local Viking history. Suitable for both children and adults.

Nordvegen History Centre

Nordvegen History Centre

Avaldsnes is home to the Nordvegen History Centre, St. Olav’s Church and the Viking Farm. Explore the cultural landscape on your own or join a guided tour.

Norway's national monument Haraldshaugen

Norway's national monument Haraldshaugen

Haraldshaugen was erected to commemorate the unification of Norway by Harald Fairhair. The monument is located at Gard, 2 km north of Haugesund.

A guided experience of Haugesund

Viking Adventure offers several exciting activities from downtown Haugesund. Join a city walking tour and experience Haugesund on foot, book a guided e-bike tour, or see Haugesund and its surroundings from the coast with an exhilarating RIB safari. Perhaps end the day with a refreshing swim followed by a steaming sauna? The options are many - and can easily be adapted to your schedule.

Activities from the centre of Haugesund

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in Haugesund.

Guided e-bike tour in Haugesund - Viking Adventure

Guided e-bike tour in Haugesund - Viking Adventure

Guided electric bike tour to Norway's national monument Haraldshaugen and The Rising tide. The tour is with a local guide and lasts approximately 2 hours.

Guided city walk in Haugesund - Viking Adventure

Guided city walk in Haugesund - Viking Adventure

Join a guided city walk through Haugesund, a city that combines exciting history, architecture and vibrant coastal culture.

RIB safari in Haugesund - Viking Adventure

RIB safari in Haugesund - Viking Adventure

Join a fun Rib tour in Haugesund with Viking Adventure. Experience Haugesund's beautiful coastline and discover hidden gems. Duration approx. 2 hours.

A Small Bag of 'Happiness'

In the heart of Haugesund, you'll discover numerous unique local niche shops in addition to small and large chain stores. Thee are lovely places where you might find a little something for yourself or a lovely gift to take home. Here's a suggested shopping route in the centre of Haugesund.

Activities in Haugesund

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in Haugesund.

Den Lille Bokbutikken (the little bookshop) in Haugesund

Den Lille Bokbutikken (the little bookshop) in Haugesund

Charming independent bookshop in the centre of Haugesund. Here you will find a good selection of English books, and a magical universe of Harry Potter products.

Discover the Unique Glass Creations of Formbar Glassverksted in Haugesund

Discover the Unique Glass Creations of Formbar Glassverksted in Haugesund

Formbar is a glass studio with a gallery and outlet in Haugesund city. Here you can experience glassblowing up close and buy local handmade glass and art.

Lie 1899 Haugesund

Lie 1899 Haugesund

Lie 1899 is a clothing store in the centre of Haugesund that carries well-known brands such as Mulberry, Tiger, Sand, Polo Ralph Lauren and By Timo.

Enjoy the Norwegian nature

With proximity to the sea, mountains, and beautiful fjords, the possibilities for great walks or hikes are practically unlimited. Everything from trails near the city center to longer hikes can be found within a short distance, almost no matter where you are in the region. An evening walk along the coastal path is just as enjoyable in the evening breeze as in a strong wind, and the stroll from Åkrasanden to Ferkingstad is soothing for both body and soul.

Walks and hikes in the region

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in Haugesund.

Kyststien (coastal path)

Kyststien (coastal path)

The coastal path, north of Haugesund, is popular for walks. Experience Norway’s only national monument, Kvalen Lighthouse and The Rising Tide sculptures.

Round trip Ryvarden Lighthouse in Sveio

Round trip Ryvarden Lighthouse in Sveio

A round trip on the peaceful village roads to Ryvarden Lighthouse.

Hike to Himakånå in Nedstrand

Hike to Himakånå in Nedstrand

Himakånå, often called Trolltunga’s little sister, is a great hike that suits most people. The hike to the summit takes around one hour.

High and low in Åkrafjorden

In Åkrafjorden, you can climb Via Ferrata Kyrkjeveggen, try canyoning, or go on a Fjord Cruise and experience the magical waterfall Langfoss. There are many experiences in this area - whether you prefer to get an adrenaline rush or just enjoy nature and tranquility.

Activities in Åkrafjorden

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in Haugesund.

Via Ferrata Kyrkjeveggen

Via Ferrata Kyrkjeveggen

Via Ferrata Kyrkjeveggen is perhaps one of Norway's toughest? The route is about 900 metres long, and you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the Åkrafjord on the climb.

Canyon in Åkrafjorden

Canyon in Åkrafjorden

Åkrafjorden Nature offers canyoning in beautiful Åkrafjorden. Canyoning is a combination of hiking, climbing, abseiling and wading - perfect for those who want to feel the adrenaline rush.

Fjordcruise for groups in Åkrafjorden

Fjordcruise for groups in Åkrafjorden

Åkrafjorden Oppleving offers fjordcruise in Åkrafjorden for groups. Book your next adventure and enjoy the fjord experience and all its contrasts.

Visit island communities!

Røvær is an island community, just a 25-minute boat ride from the city center of Haugesund. The island is car-free and has around 80 inhabitants. Here you can visit Røvær Havbrukssenter and learn more about Norway as a maritime nation. Utsira is located 70 minutes by boat from Haugesund. The island offers world-class street art, and it is recommended to enjoy a good meal with local ingredients at Dahmsgård restaurant. Boat tickets are purchased here.

Activities in Haugesund

Read more about these highlighted places and attractions in Haugesund.

Røvær Havbrukssenter

Røvær Havbrukssenter

Røvær Havbrukssenter is located 25 minutes by boat from Haugesund city centre, on the island of Røvær. It's free to visit the centre, which gives you an insight into Norway as an ocean nation.

Utsira Lighthouse

Utsira Lighthouse

Utsira lighthouse is the highest-placed lighthouse in Norway, and the most visited attraction at Utsira.

The island community of Utsira

The island community of Utsira

West of Haugesund, right out in open ocean, is one of Norway's smallest municipalities in terms of population size: Utsira. The island may be small, but the hospitality is enormous and the experiences many: delicious seafood, street art and Utsira lighthouse are just some of the things you can experience on Utsira.

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