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Haugesund

Explore the Haugesund region – the Viking destination in Fjord Norway. Between Bergen and Stavanger, you’ll find coastal heritage, fjord experiences and historic attractions all within easy reach. Åkrafjorden, Langfoss, Avaldsnes, Skudeneshavn, Røvær and Utsira are among the region’s most popular highlights.

The rising tide i Kvalsvik.
The rising Tide |© Moxy/Aldente
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Be inspired

Here you’ll find stories and tips from people who know the Haugesund region well. Browse through articles full of ideas and shape your ideal holiday in Norway. You might even uncover a few hidden gems along the way.

Kaffe Hos Carlos

Your guide to Haugesund!

Haugesund is a perfect city to explore on foot. Between the streets of the city centre and the Smedasundet strait, you’ll find history, architecture, culture and a surprisingly lively café and shopping scene – all within easy walking distance.

Haugesund cruise guide – Practical information for cruise passengers

Haugesund cruise guide – Practical information for cruise passengers

A practical guide for cruise visitors to Haugesund: where ships dock, how to get into town, and practical tips for your day in Haugesund, Norway.

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Accommodation in Haugesund

Choose from hotels, cabins, camping and unique places to stay in and around Haugesund. Stay close to the coast, the fjords and many of the region’s standout experiences.

Panoramahyttene - Karmøy

Panoramahyttene - Karmøy

The Panoramahyttene cabins at Sandhåland offer accommodation with spectacular views of the sky, sea and elements. They can sleep up to four adults.

Quality Hotel Maritim

Quality Hotel Maritim

Quality Hotel Maritim is located by Smedasundet in the centre of Haugesund. With 311 rooms, restaurants and well-known venue for conferences and events.

Fivelandsneset Fjordhytter in Åkrafjorden

Fivelandsneset Fjordhytter in Åkrafjorden

Fivelandsneset Fjordhytter offers accommodation with fantastic views of the Åkrafjord. Here are two micro cabins that let you get close to nature.

All accommodations in Haugesund
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Discover great places to stay

Here you’ll find stories and tips about hotels, cabins and unique places to stay in the Haugesund region.

Unique places to stay in the Haugesund region

Unique places to stay in the Haugesund region

Planning a weekend or a longer holiday? The Haugesund region offers a variety of places to stay - from fjordside accommodation, historic houses and cabins by the sea.

Utsikt fra Risøy broen i Haugesund.

Make the most of your visit to Haugesund

Are you planning a trip Haugesund and Haugalandet, and wondering what there is to do? We have put together a number of tools with suggestions for events, day trips and other things to do. Have fun planning your stay and making your holiday unforgettable!

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Things to do in Haugesund

Discover everything from fjord and outdoor activities to culture, food experiences and guided tours. Here you’ll find things to do for families, couples and curious explorers.

The Rising Tide by Jason DeCaires Taylor

The Rising Tide by Jason DeCaires Taylor

The Rising Tide by Jason DeCaires Taylor is located in Kvalsvik just north of Haugesund. The Rising Tide was originally set in the Thames in London.

Snowshoeing with a local guide in Åkrafjorden

Snowshoeing with a local guide in Åkrafjorden

Explore Åkrafjorden on a guided snowshoe tour. The tours are with a local guide from Åkrafjorden Nature, and are suitable for those in good physical shape.

Heit Haugesund Sauna – Viking Adventure

Heit Haugesund Sauna – Viking Adventure

Heit Haugesund Sauna is beautifully located by Smedasundet in the centre of Haugesund. Here you get a real wood-fired sauna, and the opportunity to jump into the sea every day of the week.

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Activities in Haugesund

In the articles below, you’ll find local tips and insights that offer great ideas for what to do in the Haugesund region throughout the year.

Barn koser seg på Sildemuseet i Dokken.

Fun activities for families in Haugesund

Holiday with kids? Here’s an overview of family-friendly activities in the Haugesund region.

Vikinger på Vikingfestivalen Avaldsnes

Viking History in Haugesund

Discover Viking history in Haugesund, Norway – from Avaldsnes and Haraldshaugen to runes, daily life and the Viking Festival. Explore Norway’s oldest royal throne.

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Attractions and places to visit in the Haugesund region

Explore well-known sights and local favourites – from Åkrafjorden and Avaldsnes to Skudeneshavn, Røvær and Utsira. These are some of the must-see highlights of the Haugesund region.

Haugesund

Haugesund

Haugesund, located between Bergen and Stavanger, offers spectacular scenery, rich history and exciting experiences. Plan your visit to Haugesund here.

Avaldsnes

Avaldsnes

Avaldsnes is a village of great historical importance, on the island of Karmøy just off Haugesund. Avaldsnes may be best known as the main seat of the Viking and first King of Norway, Harald Fairhair. However, kings and chieftains lived at Avaldsnes for thousands of years, all the way back to the early Bronze Age and throughout the Viking Age.

Åkrafjorden and Langfoss

Åkrafjorden and Langfoss

Åkrafjorden is a hidden gem in Western Norway, perfect for fjord adventures. Just 1.5 hours from Haugesund and under 2 hours from Stord, nature, activities, and unforgettable experiences await!

Utsira

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.

Skudeneshavn

Skudeneshavn

Skudeneshavn - a coastal town with wooden houses and an idyllic atmosphere about 50 minutes by car from Haugesund. Perfect for both day trips and longer stays!

Røvær

Røvær

Røvær is a group of islands 25 minutes by boat from the centre of Haugesund. The island has no cars and a population of around 80.

Ryvarden

Ryvarden

Ryvarden lighthouse is situated in Sveio municipality, 25 minutes by car from Haugesund and 40 minutes from Stord. The lighthouse itself is a half-hour walk from the car park, on a headland facing the piece of water known as Sletta in the North Sea.

Åkrasanden and Åkrehamn

Åkrasanden and Åkrehamn

Åkrasanden is an area of beaches on the west coast of Karmøy, just off Haugesund. It has been voted the most beautiful beach in Norway several times.

Karmøy

Karmøy

Karmøy is a municipality and an island in Rogaland county. The island is home to three small towns: Kopervik, Åkrehamn and Skudeneshavn.

Etne

Etne

Etne Municipality is in the south of Vestland county and is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. Experience Langfoss waterfall, Åkrafjorden and endless hiking possibilities in the Etne mountains!

Sveio

Sveio

In Sveio, the conditions are perfect for an active holiday. Experience Ryvarden Lighthouse and Cultural Centre, Flokehyttene cabins and one of Norway’s most beautiful 18-hole golf courses!

Tysvær

Tysvær

Tysvær is known for its many fjords, mountain tops and idyllic rural communities. Experience Himakånå mountain, the Arquebus War History Museum and visit the Tysværtunet Cultural Centre!

Bokn

Bokn

The Bokn archipelago consists of three inhabited islands and many small uninhabited islands. Three bridges connect the three main islands to the mainland in the north, and is reminiscent of Haugalandet's very own Atlantic Road.

Vindafjord

Vindafjord

Vindafjord is a municipality in Haugalandet consisting of 9 lively villages. Vindafjord has countless areas to hike, most notably the area around Olalia Fjellstove mountain lodge, which attracts many visitors all year round!

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Places you won’t want to miss

Here you’ll find articles about well-known attractions and route suggestions that guide you through some of the Haugesund region’s highlights.

Langfoss sett fra båt på Åkrafjorden, mann og dame på tur.

Top 9 attractions in the Haugesund region

The Haugesund region offers coastal landscapes, fjords, island life and history. Here are 9 highlights worth exploring during your visit.

I vannkanten på Utsira

From Skudeneshavn to the Åkrafjord – a journey from coast to fjord

Haugesund and Haugalandet is a region of contrasts. Travel from coast to fjord and enjoy some of the very best the region has to offer!

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Events in Haugesund

Catch festivals, concerts, sporting events and other cultural highlights throughout the year. Here’s your guide to what’s happening in the Haugesund region.

Karmøygeddon Metal Festival 2026

Karmøygeddon Metal Festival 2026

Karmøygeddon Metal Festival is an annual festival that takes place in Kopervik on Karmøy.

The Norwegian international Film Festival

The Norwegian international Film Festival

The Norwegian Film Festival in Haugesund is a showcase for national and international film, and is held every year in August.

Sildajazz in Haugesund

Sildajazz in Haugesund

Sildajazz is an annual music festival organised in Haugesund in August. 5 eventful days are filled with music from national and international artists.

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Cultural events all year round

Explore articles covering festivals, concerts and cultural experiences in the Haugesund region, enriched with insights and tips from locals.

Glade mennesker på festival i skogen

Festival summer in Haugesund and Haugalandet

In the Haugesund region, a wide range of festivals take place throughout May, June, July and August. We can’t promise sunshine, but great atmosphere and memorable experiences – that we can guarantee!

Your guide to vintage shops in the Haugesund Region!

Your guide to vintage shops in the Haugesund Region!

Here you will find an overview of vintage shops in the Haugesund region. Let the treasure hunt begin!

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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!

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