Kristiansand - Attractions

1. The Setesdalsbanen Vintage Railway
Narrow gauge (1067 mm) railway powered by a steam engine from 1901. The track section covers 7 km through tunnels, under avalanche shelters and across dams. The trip recreates the special atmosphere of a turn-of-the-century railway journey.

2. Vest-Agder Museum, Kristiansand
One of Norway's largest museums, featuring the culture and history of Kristiansand and the county of Vest-Agder. Old town street with authentic houses, all with interiors from the second half of the 19th century. Well-preserved farmyard houses, the oldest buildings dating back to the mid-17th century.

3. Kristiansand Wildlife Park Norway's most frequently visited attraction, covering an area of 150 acres of wild Nordic terrain. Nordic and other exotic animals may be experienced in their natural environment, including lynxes, wolves and Siberian tigers. Numerous activities, theme parks and entertainment.

4. The Mineral Park
A unique private collection of shaped crystals, colorful minerals and precious stones from around the world. More than 1000 exceptional minerals are exhibited in underground tunnels. Situated approx. one hour's drive from Kristiansand town.

5. Kristiansand Cannon Museum
A historical defense museum that features a heavy German coastal defense battery from 1940-45 and the world's largest land-based cannon (337 tons). Plenty of other material from WWII.

6. Agder Natural History Museum & Botanical Garden
Southern Norway's natural history from the ice age to the present, and from the coast to the mountains. Geology, flora and fauna. Colorful mineral exhibition. Historical rose garden dating from 1850, as well as modern rose varieties.

7. The Archipelago
Explore the magic waterways off the Kristiansand coastline with mile upon mile of tiny rocky islands and picturesque white-painted houses in sheltered inlets. The waterway is a passage protected from the open sea by an elongated archipelago of skerries. Enjoy a boat journey through one of the well-preserved old outports or to the historic coastal town of Lillesand - characterized by narrow streets, white houses, picket fences and rose gardens.

8. Posebyen - the old town of Kristiansand
Northern Europe's largest collection of low-rise, wall-to-wall wooden houses. This district, originally inhabited by working class people and artisans, was unaffected by the 1892 fire that ravaged much of the town. Today it is the most characteristic residential area in Kristiansand, and the picturesque white-painted wooden houses are synonymous with towns on the southern coast of Norway.

9. The Fish Market
The fish quay, Kristiansand's most vigorous and inviting area, is much more than a fish market. Lively restaurants, canals and small boat traffic, and of course excellent fresh fish, prawns and other shellfish, make it a favorite location for both locals and visitors.

10. Ravnedalen Valley and Baneheia Nature Park
Vigorous and "mystical" nature park established in 1876 beneath the precipitous Ravneheia. The heath, lake and nesting pair of swans are distinctive features, and there is a wealth of plants and trees. Extending into Baneheia recreational area, situated within walking distance from downtown Kristiansand. Enjoy rambling paths, culture trails, swimming and fishing spots, lookout points, and a thriving bird and animal life.