The Ultimate 7-Day Fjord Road-trip in Norway
Here’s my itinerary for the perfect seven-day Norwegian fjord road-trip.
Kristiansund is a coastal town built over three islands – Kirkelandet, Innlandet and Nordlandet.
Latitude: 63 degrees north
Population: 24,000
Hottest Month: July
Coldest Month: February
Wettest Month: December
Windiest Month: January
Annual Precipitation: 654mm
Kristiansund Municipality
Here are some things that you must do and try in Kristiansund
Kristiansund is famous for its clipfish production which is the fish used in the popular dish bacalao.
This is probably one of the most filmed roads in Norway and is a must-drive!
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Kristiansund
The Clipfish Museum is located in an authentic clipfish pier from the 18th century.
Kvernes Stave Church is located just outside of Kristiansund and is one of Norway’s 28 remaining stave churches.
Located just outside of Kristiansund, Tingvoll Church is a historic stone church.
Kristiansund’s Old Town is located on the island Innlandet and has wooden buildings going back to the 17th century.
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are our recommendations!
Grip is a small island located off the coast of Kristiansund. It is only accessible by ferry but is well preserved and even has a stave church.
The world’s oldest continuous passenger boat service shuttles between the islands that make up Kristiansund. A must-do.
A short but rewarding hike offering panoramic views of the islands and ocean.
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Kristiansund
Follow the northernmost stretch of the E39 from Ålesund to Trondheim, passing by the coastal towns of Molde and Kristiansuns along the way.
Follow this famous tourist road across the bridges and along the Hustadvika coast.
Kristiansund is typically only visited by people driving on the Atlantic Road. Of course, the Atlantic Road is famous for a reason. However, if you’re looking to combine your road-trip with something a little more ‘off the beaten path’ but just as beautiful, I really recommend Highway 70. Highway 70 goes from Oppdal in Central Norway to Kristiansund on the west coast. It connects you to Trondheim and Røros, two places I always recommend visiting. You start at the top of the hills, and eventually wind your way down a steep valley, ending up surrounded by 1000m (3000ft) high mountains. Eventually you reach the fjords, which lead you all the way to the coast.
No self-guided walks are currently available for Kristiansund
Watch my YouTube videos featuring Kristiansund
This road goes from the E6 highway down through the mountains to the west coast.
The Atlantic Road is one of Norway’s most famous roads. Unfortunately I did it on a very wet day, which you’ll see in the video.
Kristiansund is built across four main islands and numerous islets, shaped by the Atlantic and centuries of fishing. The city became a major centre for klippfisk (salted, dried cod), exporting to Portugal, Spain and the Americas. This trade brought prosperity and an international outlook. Kristiansund was heavily bombed during WWII and rebuilt in modern architectural styles. Its mix of maritime heritage, island geography and strong ties to seafaring gives it a distinct identity on Norway’s northwest coast.
With around 25,000 residents, Kristiansund is a lively coastal town known for its music festivals, seafood culture, modern harbour and island hopping. The city’s layout across islands gives it a fresh, airy feel, with waterfront cafés, pedestrian streets and easy access to nature. It remains proud of its fishing tradition while embracing tourism, tech industries and maritime services.
Fly: Kristiansund Airport has direct flights to Bergen, Oslo, Trondheim and smaller towns.
Drive: Kristiansund is located just off the E39 between Ålesund and Trondheim and has a number of tunnels connecting it to the mainland.
Train: No train access
Ferry: Kristiansund is a port of call for the coastal ferry. There are also smaller ferries connecting Kristiansund to other villages.
Kristiansund is spread out across multiple islands, so it’s good to familiarise yourself with public transportation.
Cafes & Bakeries
Casual Eateries
Bryggekanten Brasserie – great mix of burgers, fish dishes and coastal-inspired meals.
Dødeladen Restaurant – artistic, quirky café/restaurant on the island of Innlandet.
Smia Fiskerestaurant – one of the best for casual seafood in a rustic, welcoming setting.
High End & Unique Eats
All my hotel recommendations are based on research and experience. I don’t recommend somewhere unless I think it is wonderful! The Hidden North focuses on accommodation that provides good quality for price or offer local or unique experiences.
Camping
Cabins & B&Bs
Chains & Mid-Range
Thon Hotel Kristiansund is located in the old town on Innlandet island and is a lovely hotel.
Click here to view rates & book
Scandic Kristiansund is located in the city centre.
High End & Unique Properties
Vikaneset Havhotell is located a little out of town but offers stunning views and high-end rooms
Sunrise: 9:45am
3:32pm
Average Temperature: 2.1C (36F)
Sunrise: 8:20am
Sunset: 5:06pm
Average Temperature: 1.6C (35F)
Sunrise: 6:48am
Sunset: 6:29pm
Average Temperature: 2.8C (37F)
Sunrise: 6:02am
Sunset: 8:57pm
Average Temperature: 5.6C (42F)
Sunrise: 4:26am
Sunset: 10:26pm
Average Temperature: 8.5C (47F)
Sunrise: 3:21am
Sunset: 11:38pm
Average Temperature: 11.4C (53F)
Sunrise: 3:56am
Sunset: 11:11pm
Average Temperature: 14.3C (58F)
Sunrise: 5:25am
Sunset: 9:39pm
Average Temperature: 14.2C (8F)
Sunrise: 6:52am
Sunset: 7:54pm
Average Temperature: 11.5C (53F)
Sunrise: 8:15am
Sunset: 6:13pm
Average Temperature: 7.2C (45F)
Sunrise: 8:47am
Sunset: 3:48pm
Average Temperature: 4.6C (40F)
Sunrise: 10:01am
Sunset: 2:46pm
Average Temperature: 2.3C (36F)
Here’s my itinerary for the perfect seven-day Norwegian fjord road-trip.
All you need to know about driving over the famous Atlantic Road between Kristiansund and Molde!
Kvernes Stave Church is the baby of the 28 remaining in Norway, even though its supporting beams make it look elderly! Here’s all you need to know before you go.
See historic stone churches, Norway’s highest waterfall, and pass famous hiking areas on this gorgeous highway from Oppdal to Kristiansund.
Everything you need to know about Kristiansund, including the ever-popular klippfisk production.
Tingvoll was an important meeting place in pre-Christian times, and the church was built here in the early years of Christianity. Here’s what you need to know about the church.