Skip to main content

10 things to do in Kristiansund

All year
Last updated: 11.12.2024
Have you tried Fishan?|© Einar Engdal Visit Nordvest

Uncover the hidden treasures of Norway's clipfish town. Kristiansund invites you to explore a world of unique experiences – from historic fishing villages to vibrant activities in the heart of town. Not sure where to start? Wander through its colourful streets, soak in the maritime heritage, and discover your own favourite spots along the way.

Sundbåten i Kristiansund
Sundbåten transports you between the towns four districts.|© Fredrik Hovdevik

1) Island hopping with Sundbåten

This journey is an absolute must! Since 1876, the Sundbåten has ferried passengers between Kristiansund’s four islands, making it the world’s oldest public transport system by sea. More than just a mode of transport, the Sundbåten is a treasured part of the town’s identity and history – and best of all, it’s completely free!

Hop on and off as you please to explore the town’s highlights. Visit the charming old town on Innlandet, see the impressive Nordlandet Church in Jugendstil design, explore the Norwegian Clipfish Museum on Gomalandet, and end your round trip in the town centre on Kirkelandet. Want to make your journey even more memorable? Book a guided tour with a storyteller and enjoy local food and snacks on board – a true taste of Kristiansund’s rich maritime heritage.

Sundbåten

Sundbåten - The harbour ferry

Sundbåten - The world's oldest public transport service in continuous use. Part of Kristiansund's cultural heritage and a great way to experience Kristiansund.

Bacalao fra Kristiansund
Taste clipfish – here served as bacalao.|© Eline Karlsdatter Fladseth / visitnorthwest.no

2) Taste clipfish at the town’s restaurants

Known as Norway’s "Clipfish Town," Kristiansund invites you to explore its rich culinary and cultural heritage. Here, you can savour clipfish in a variety of dishes at local restaurants, visit the Norwegian Clipfish Museum, and see the iconic statue of the Clipfish Woman at the pier – a tribute to the women who played a vital role in the clipfish production. For over 200 years, clipfish has shaped the town’s identity, bringing prosperity, connecting Kristiansund to the wider world, and building a strong sense of community on its four islands.

But clipfish isn't the only seafood story in town. Fish & chips – or “Fishan” as it’s called here – has its own unique place in Kristiansund’s history. The town was the first in Norway to serve this English classic in the 1950s, thanks to Mrs. Mo, who started selling it from a bike with a tray. To this day, it’s served the traditional way – with a splash of vinegar, just like in England. You can taste this beloved local speciality at street kitchens and restaurants around town, and experience a flavourful bite of Kristiansund’s history.

The fishing village of Grip is 40 minutes by boat from Kristiansund.
The fishing village of Grip is 40 minutes by boat from Kristiansund.|© Eline Karlsdatter Fladseth

3) The fishing village of Grip

Step into a world of coastal charm! From late May to late August, the Grip route takes you to the enchanting fishing village of Grip, just a 40-minute boat ride from Kristiansund. Back in the 1500s, this tiny island was the largest settlement in Nordmøre. Today, its colourful houses, historic stave church, and quaint café make it a true living time capsule.

Your ticket includes a scenic boat ride, a guided tour of the island, and entrance to the 14th-century Grip Stave Church, one of Norway’s smallest and most unique stave churches. Wander through the charming village, soak up the fresh sea air, and experience the wild beauty of the coastal landscape. This unforgettable island adventure is a must for anyone looking to explore Norway's rich maritime history.

Kringsjå park område
The Kringsjå/Vanndamman area offers many nice resting spots.|© Einar Engdal / visitnorthwest.no

4) The town’s green lung – right by the sea

Kringsjå and Vanndamman are a scenic area near the town center with gravel paths winding through the forest and out to the coast. Vanndamman is a collection of several water ponds and was previously a drinking water source. Now, the whole area is used as a hiking area. The park extends all the way to the sea, and if you want to walk on more challenging terrain, you can take the detour and hike the Coastal path "Havstien". Here, you can also grill in a shelter and enjoy the sunset over the open sea.

Kringsjå parkområde

Kringsjå/Vanndammene - hiking

Idyllic park area with beautiful surroundings. It is a unique botanic coastal garden, with an exceptionally rich and varied vegetation.

Watch the sun set into the sea from Kvernberget.
Watch the sun set into the sea from Kvernberget.|© Eline Karlsdatter Fladseth

5) Ascend the stone steps of Kvernberget

Kvernberget, Kristiansund’s city mountain, rewards hikers with breathtaking views from 205 meters above sea level. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic vista of mountains, fjords, and the city center. The newly built stone staircase adds both safety and charm to your ascent, while multiple trails offer varied options for your descent. Start your hike near the airport or take the Sundbåten to Nordlandet and enjoy a scenic walk to the trailhead.

Utsikt fra Kvernberget mot Kristiansund

Kvernberget in Kristiansund

Kvernberget (205 m.a.s.l) is a small mountain, really close to the city center of Kristiansund. The hike is easy, a little hilly and you will easily find the path from the parking place. Good view on the top. About 20 min walk one way.

Fargerike hus i Kristiansund
Kristiansund, the polychrome town.|© Oddgeir Visnes

6) Explore the reconstruction town and Kirkelandet church

No other city in Norway underwent as much transformation as Kristiansund after the war. Rebuilt following the devastation of World War II, the city stands as a remarkable example of 1940s architecture. Architect and professor Sverre Pedersen seized the opportunity to plan the reconstruction from the ground up, creating a vibrant and unique urban landscape. Stroll through the streets, particularly in Kirkelandet, where you'll find colourful houses and intricately designed entrances – features that became defining elements of the reconstructed homes.

Kirkelandet Church, also known as the Atlantic Cathedral, was built in 1964 and has become a symbol of the city’s reconstruction. The church is known for its special and modern architecture. Take a stroll in Kirkelandet and experience how the city combines modern and historic elements in its cityscape.

Kirkelandet kirke sett fra baksiden

Kirkelandet Church in Kristiansund

Kirkelandet Church or the Atlantic cathedral, is considered the first truly modern church building in Norway. The church marked innovation in Norwegian church buildings in many ways and has a distinctive position in post-war architecture.

The charming tower, Varden.
The charming tower, Varden.|© Fredrik Ahlsen/Visit Norway

7) Visit the Varden viewpoint

Varden is the town’s best viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of Kristiansund and the surrounding sea. Perched at 78 metres above sea level, the charming tower provides 360-degree views, and on clear days, you can even spot the fishing village of Grip on the horizon. Located in the Vanndamman park area, Varden is accessible via a gravel path with a gentle incline from the main road. Open daily with free access, the tower also features binoculars at the top for an even closer look at the stunning scenery.

Varden i Kristiansund

Varden viewpoint in Kristiansund

Varden, a former lookout post 78m above sea level, offers stunning views across Kristiansund, the fishing village Grip, and Smøla on the horizon.

Vågen i Kristiansund
Vågen|© Eline Karlsdatter Fladseth

8) Explore Vågen and Mellemværftet

Step back in time at Vågen, just a short walk from the town centre of Kristiansund. Home to Norway’s only museum shipyard, founded in 1856, this area offers a unique glimpse into maritime history. Watch skilled craftsmen at work restoring boats, and during the summer, join one of the daily guided tours for an in-depth experience.

At the end of Vågen, you’ll find the historic Patrick Volckmar Museum Café, which features a coffee roastery over 100 years old – perfect for a refreshing break. The area also boasts a modern skate park, a guest marina, the cultural venue Kulturfabrikken, and Smia Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious homemade food in cosy surroundings.

Mellemverftet i Kristiansund

Mellemværftet - Historic Shipyard museum

Norway's only «living» shipbuilding museum – founded in 1856 and situated in the heart of the city of Kristiansund.

omvisning på klippfiskmuseet
Get a tour at the Norwegian Clipfish Museum.|© Fredrik Ahlsen/Visit Norway

9) Norwegian Clipfish Museum

Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Sundbåten pier on Gomalandet, the Norwegian Clipfish Museum offers a fascinating insight into Kristiansund’s rich clipfish heritage. Step into an authentic wharf from the 1700s, where you can explore the traditional methods of clipfish production that shaped the town’s history. Finish your visit with a taste of bacalao, the iconic dish that celebrates this vital export. Open during the summer months, the museum provides a unique and flavourful journey into the story of Kristiansund’s most important industry.

Klippfiskmuseet

Norwegian Clipfish Museum

The Norwegian Clipfish Museum is situated on the island of Gomalandet in Kristiansund in a large and well preserved wharf dating back to 1749.

Atlanterhavsvegen
The National Scenic Route Atlantic Road is an experience in both storm and sunshine.|© Steinar Melby - Visitnorthwest.no

10) Experience the Atlantic road

Just 30 minutes from Kristiansund, the iconic Atlantic Road is celebrated as one of the world’s most stunning stretches of road. Perfect for a half- or full-day trip, this breathtaking drive takes you through Norway’s wild and rugged coastal landscapes. Along the way, stop to cast a line at the designated fishing bridges, visit the historic Håholmen, admire the beautiful Kvernes Stave Church, or venture underground to the awe-inspiring marble mines at Bergtatt. The Atlantic Road is more than a drive – it’s an unforgettable journey through some of Norway’s most dramatic scenery.

Alanterhavsveien solnedgang

Norwegian Scenic Routes - The Atlantic road

A unique stretch of road which takes you right out to the ocean's edge, and is known to be the world's most beautiful drive.

Looking for more suggestions for activities and day trips in Kristiansund?
visitkristiansund.com

Discover more

Let yourself be inspired to explore clipfish town!