Drive it Yourself: The Atlantic Road
All you need to know about driving over the famous Atlantic Road between Kristiansund and Molde!
The Hidden North
North European travel guide
Population 24,000 / 63 degrees north
Kristiansund, Norway
Kristiansund is a coastal town built over three islands – Kirkelandet, Innlandet and Nordlandet.
Fun Facts About Kristiansund
Latitude: 63 degrees north
Population: 24,000
Hottest Month: July
Coldest Month: February
Wettest Month: December
Windiest Month: January
Annual Precipitation: 654mm
Kirkenes Municipality
In this Travel Guide...
Things to See & Do
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Kristiansund
Norwegian Clipfish Museum
The Clipfish Museum is located in an authentic clipfish pier from the 18th century.
Kvernes Stave Church
Kvernes Stave Church is located just outside of Kristiansund and is one of Norway’s 28 remaining stave churches.
Tingvoll Church
Located just outside of Kristiansund, Tingvoll Church is a historic stone church.
Hikes, Day Trips & Experiences
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are our recommendations!
Grip
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.
Kristiansund's Old Town
Kristiansund’s Old Town is located on the island Innlandet and has wooden buildings going back to the 17th century.
Road-Trips
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Kristiansund
The E39 from Ålesund to Trondheim
Follow the northernmost stretch of the E39 from Ålesund to Trondheim, passing by the coastal towns of Molde and Kristiansuns along the way.
The Atlantic Road (Fv64)
Follow this famous tourist road across the bridges and along the Hustadvika coast.
The Rv70 from Oppdal to Kristiansund
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.
Self-Guided Walks
No self-guided walks are currently available for Kristiansund
Kristiansund on YouTube
Watch my YouTube videos featuring Kristiansund
Oppdal to Kristiansund on Highway 70
This road goes from the E6 highway down through the mountains to the west coast.
The Atlantic Road
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.
Uniquely Kristiansund
Here are some things that you must do and try in Kristiansund
Clipfish
Kristiansund is famous for its clipfish production which is the fish used in the popular dish bacalao.
The Atlantic Road
This is probably one of the most filmed roads in Norway and is a must-drive!
History of Kristiansund
Kristiansund was established as a trading town in 1742 because of its good harbour conditions. Fishing has always been the main basis for Kristiansund.
Kristiansund Today
Today Kristiansund has a large selection of schools.
Industry is dominated by oil and gas. Shipbuilding, fishing and fish processing are still important to Kristiansund, and Clipfish production is what made the town famous so is still important.
Travel Information
Getting Here
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.
Getting Around
Kristiansund is spread out across multiple islands, so it’s good to familiarise yourself with public transportation.
Shops
Places to Eat
Cafes & Bakeries
Quick Bites
Reasonable Restaurants
High End & Unique Eats
Places to Stay
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/Sunset & Weather Averages
January
Sunrise: 9:45am
3:32pm
Average Temperature: 2.1C (36F)
February
Sunrise: 8:20am
Sunset: 5:06pm
Average Temperature: 1.6C (35F)
March
Sunrise: 6:48am
Sunset: 6:29pm
Average Temperature: 2.8C (37F)
April
Sunrise: 6:02am
Sunset: 8:57pm
Average Temperature: 5.6C (42F)
May
Sunrise: 4:26am
Sunset: 10:26pm
Average Temperature: 8.5C (47F)
June
Sunrise: 3:21am
Sunset: 11:38pm
Average Temperature: 11.4C (53F)
July
Sunrise: 3:56am
Sunset: 11:11pm
Average Temperature: 14.3C (58F)
August
Sunrise: 5:25am
Sunset: 9:39pm
Average Temperature: 14.2C (8F)
September
Sunrise: 6:52am
Sunset: 7:54pm
Average Temperature: 11.5C (53F)
October
Sunrise: 8:15am
Sunset: 6:13pm
Average Temperature: 7.2C (45F)
November
Sunrise: 8:47am
Sunset: 3:48pm
Average Temperature: 4.6C (40F)
December
Sunrise: 10:01am
Sunset: 2:46pm
Average Temperature: 2.3C (36F)
All Posts About Kristiansund
Why Kvernes Stave Church is Worth a Stop near the Atlantic Road
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.
Norway’s Highways: Highway 70 from Oppdal to Kristiansund
See historic stone churches, Norway’s highest waterfall, and pass famous hiking areas on this gorgeous highway from Oppdal to Kristiansund.
From the First People to Klippfisk: the History of Kristiansund
Everything you need to know about Kristiansund, including the ever-popular klippfisk production.
The Old Meeting Place & Stone Church of Tingvoll
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.
Kristiansund Photo Diary
How to Observe the Northern Lights: A Tour Leaders Perspective
October 20, 2024
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Here is my ‘no frills’ guide to observe the northern lights in Northern Europe, including apps, guides, and photography tips.
The Aboa Vetus Museum – Finland’s Only Archaeological Museum
October 20, 2024
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The Aboa Vetus Museum lets you explore the ruins of medieval Turku.
Where to Stay in Kirkenes From a Trip Leaders Perspective
October 19, 2024
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Here is my guide to all the places where you can stay in Kirkenes.
Drive it Yourself: Skaidi to Hammerfest on the Rv94
August 4, 2024
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Follow this short but scenic highway from Skaidi to Hammerfest on the Rv94.
Drive it Yourself: The Hemsedalsfjellet Mountains (Rv52)
August 4, 2024
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The Hemsedalsfjellet crossing is one of the ancient roads between east and west Norway.
Drive it Yourself: Telemarkveien (Rv41) from Kristiansand to Brunkeberg
August 4, 2024
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Visit the traditional region of Telemark on the Rv41 from Kristiansand to Brunkeberg.