Drive it Yourself: Oslo to Kristiansand on the E18
This drive goes from Oslo to Kristiansand in the south of Norway, following the E18.
Kragerø is a well-known holiday destination for Norwegians. Located at the end of a peninsula between the Kilsfjorden and Hellefjorden, the town grew as an important harbour from the 16th century onwards. Timber was shipped from the forests Telemark out of Kragerø and onwards to Europe. The town’s business was characterised by timber exports, shipping and shipbuilding from then until the First World War, and at one point Kragerø was one of Norway’s largest shipping towns.
Latitude: 58.5 degrees north
Population: 10,350
Hottest Month: July
Coldest Month: February
Wettest Month: January
Windiest Month: November
Kragerø Municipality
Here are some things that you must do and try in Kragerø
Kragerø has been inspiring artists for hundreds of years, and was a big inspiration for Edvard Munch. The unique light inspired Munch, and it’s possible to follow a self-guided walk in Munch’s footsteps through the streets that inspired him.
Theodor Kittelsen is a major Norwegian artist and was born in Kragerø. He became famous for drawing mythical creatures and felt that Kragerø had “fairy tales in every corner”. His childhood home in the town centre is now a museum.
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Kragerø
Kragerø is the perfect place to wander. The narrow alleys and pretty wooden houses make for a great place to explore.
Exhibitions covering local history, Edvard Munch connections, fishing life and regional heritage.
Dedicated to Theodor Kittelsen, one of Norway’s most beloved illustrators (day trip via ferry).
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are our recommendations!
The offshore island of Jomfruland is Kragerø’s most popular attraction. On the island you can go horseback riding or birdwatching, or visit a charming lighthouse.
For a great view over the town, climb from Kragerø Stadium to the lookout point on Steinmann hill.
M/S Kragerø, the same boat that runs ferry services to Jomfruland, offers a seal watching package where you get return boat rides to Jomfruland, wildlife fact sheets and a pair of take home binoculars. Seals are spotted on around 50% of the crossings.
A relatively short climb rewarding you with panoramic views over the town and archipelago.
Follow our road-trip guides for scenic trips around Kragerø
The E18 is the main highway from Oslo down south to Kristiansand. Along the way are several important towns and villages that feature in Norway’s early history.
The traditional region of Telemark is known for its remote villages, large forests, and huge ski culture. In old times, Telemark was a rough and lawless place, but now it has transformed into a popular place for people to come for outdoor activities. Telemark is home to the iconic Telemark Canal, was the birthplace of skiing, saw one of the greatest acts of resistance during the war, and has some of Norway’s tall peaks. This drive on two highways – the Fv37 and Fv38 – will take you past the major highlights of the region.
Watch our YouTube videos featuring Kragerø
Kragerø is located at the end of a peninsula surrounded by islands that provide shelter for the town. By the beginning of the 16th century, the area was an important harbour for exporting timber from the forests of Telemark. Kragerø received town privileges in 1666 and developed as an important place for timber export, shipping and shipbuilding.
The town had to be rebuilt after a large city fire in 1711. The houses are characteristically close to each other as space here is limited and before there was public transportation, everyone wanted to live close to the harbour area.
Today Kragerø is one of the most popular summer destinations for Norwegians. The town is characterised by fishing and tourism and has a large number of vacation rentals.
Fly: No airport
Drive: Kragerø is located a short drive from the E18, the main highway going from Oslo to Kristiansand. Kragerø is just under three hours from Oslo by car.
Train: Trains from Oslo or Kristiansand on the Sørlandsbanen stop at Neslandsvatn, where you can then take a bus to Kragerø.
Ferry: No ferry
It is easy to get around Kragerø on foot.
Cafes & Bakeries
Skaarups is a handmade ice cream place – highly recommended! You can view their website here.
Kragerø Kaffebrenneri – excellent coffee and friendly staff.
November Cafe – charming cafe located by the harbour.
Stavelin Kragerø – Local bakery
Casual Eateries
Tollboden is a casual dining restaurant with lots of different options.
Kragerø Sushi – local sushi place down by the harbour.
High End & Unique Eats
Nordraak Kragerø- neighbourhood restaurant that serves cosy lunch dishes.
Camping & Hostels
Kragerø Sportell Apartments is a former youth hostel but is now a simple hotel for those on a budget.
Lovisenberg Family Camping – camping area located out of town by the water.
Cabins & B&Bs
Chains & Mid-Range
Kragerø Hotell – mid-range hotel located in the heart of the city.
Tollboden Hotell – Beautiful hotel located right down at the harbour.
High End & Unique Properties
Victoria Hotel is the town’s historic hotel with unique rooms with kitchonettes and balconies.
Sunrise: 9:02am
Sunset: 4:01pm
Average Temperature: 0C (32F)
Sunrise: 7:57am
Sunset: 5:15pm
Average Temperature: 0C (32F)
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Sunset: 6:25pm
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Sunset: 8:37pm
Average Temperature: 7C (44F)
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Sunset: 9:47pm
Average Temperature: 11C (52F)
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Sunset: 10:35pm
Average Temperature: 15C (59F)
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Sunset: 10:18pm
Average Temperature: 18C (64F)
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Sunset: 9:09pm
Average Temperature: 17C (62F)
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Sunset: 7:41pm
Average Temperature: 14C (57F)
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Sunset: 6:14pm
Average Temperature: 9C (48F)
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Sunset: 3:58pm
Average Temperature: 5C (41F)
Sunrise: 9:09am
Sunset: 3:25pm
Average Temperature: 1C (38F)
This drive goes from Oslo to Kristiansand in the south of Norway, following the E18.