Things to Do in Haugesund From a Cruise Ship
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The Norwegian Fjords is a gorgeous destination for a cruise holiday, served by a variety of cruise lines including P&O, Celebrity and Princess. Haugesund is just one of many possible cruise stops, located in the North Sea in between Stavanger and Bergen.
The port here is large and able to accommodate a wide range of ships, including P&O’s Iona and Arvia, which are the largest British cruise ships to date.
One of the great things about Haugesund is that the port is located just a 15 minute walk from the town centre. This makes it ideal for cruise ship visitors, as most people won’t require a shuttle bus or taxi (although that is recommended if you struggle with your mobility). While it’s likely that your cruise line will offer a variety of excursions in this port, it’s also a great place to get out and about exploring independently.
After disembarking the ship, one of the first things you’ll notice is the distinctive Norwegian architecture. The traditional wooden houses here are charming, and you’ll see many more as you spend time exploring the town.
Take a Guided Tour
One popular way to see the town is by taking a red bus tour, which will drive you around the town’s main sights before dropping you back off at the cruise terminal.
You can book a bus tour in advance on the Get Your Guide website, or simply purchase your tickets in person once you disembark.
If you don’t fancy the bus, you can instead take the Haugesund City Train. You’ll find these at many of the cruise ports in Norway, and they provide an excellent way to see the sights.
Visit the National Monument Haraldshaugen
Located a 30 - 40 minute walk from the cruise terminal, the National Monument was erected in 1872 to commemorate the unification of Norway.
Standing at 17 meters tall, it’s very impressive and well worth seeing.
Above left: The National Monument, Above right, Haugesund Folkebibliotek
Book a RIBB boat tour to explore the coastal islands
Observe the local marine life and explore the coastal islands neighbouring Haugesund on an exciting RIBB boat tour with a local guide. There’s no better way to explore Norway than with the wind in your hair!
To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book this one in advance on the Get Your Guide website.
Use the free WiFi and grab a coffee at the Haugesund Library (Haugesund folkebibliotek)
You’ll find Haugesund’s beautiful public library just a short walk away from the cruise terminal. A must visit for any book lover, this library was built in 1967 and is now a listed building.
Even if you’re not a book lover, this is a great place to connect to the Internet while drinking a cup of coffee in their cafe, Hos Carlos. It’s particularly useful if you haven’t purchased an Internet package on your cruise and want to catch up with friends and family back home.
Visit the English Language bookshop Den Lille Bokbutikken
If you like to read then make sure you stop by Den Lille Bokbutikken (which translates as The Little Bookshop).
The shop’s interior is absolutely stunning and they sell a wide range of English language books.
Above left: Den Lille Bokbutikken, Above right: Totalen Bluebird coffee shop
Haraldsvang Park
For those with children, you might want to stop by the lovely Haraldsvang park. It’s a great spot for a walk or a picnic, and has a children’s play area ideal for expending some energy before returning to the ship.
Stop for coffee and cake at the Totalen Bluebird coffee shop
This spacious coffee shop is friendly and sells delicious cakes and pastries.
Explore the town’s Viking history at Viking Planet
This digital museum offers an introduction to Norway’s rich Viking history. Known as the Home of the Viking Kings, Haugesund was where Harald Fairhair lived when he united Norway into one kingdom.
Made up of four zones, this 60 minute experience is a great way to learn all about the local history.
This museum pairs well with a visit to the nearby Viking Farm for an immersive learning experience.
Head out on a hike
As with many other locations in Norway, Haugesund has a number of stunning hiking trails to choose from. Himakånå is known to be a challenging yet popular hike with stunning views and amazing photo opportunities.
Visit Skånevik village
For those who are looking to do something a bit different, you might enjoy exploring a quaint village away from the crowds in Haugesund.
Skånevik, which is also known as the pearl of Sunnhordland, has a total population of less than 600. It’s a beautiful spot to explore with wooden buildings, a bakery, and a small museum.
Excursions to Skånevik are bookable online.
Have a fabulous time exploring Haugesund, and let me know if you have any other tips for exploring the town!
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