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The Top 5 Cruise Excursions in Haugesund, Norway

Writer's picture: George and DanGeorge and Dan

Haugesund is a hidden gem along Norway’s stunning western coastline. Known as the “Homeland of the Vikings,” this charming town is steeped in history and surrounded by jaw-dropping natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Haugesund offers a variety of activities to suit all tastes.


Statues of riders on horses in water, rocky shore in background. Text: Norway, Top 5 Haugesund Excursions. Calm, contemplative scene.

While P&O Cruises provide a selection of excursions in Haugesund, they can often be quite expensive. Booking independently not only saves you money but also gives you more flexibility to tailor your day. To help you plan your visit, we’ve rounded up the top 5 excursions that will make your stop in Haugesund unforgettable.



Avaldsnes Viking Village and History Centre


Step back in time at Avaldsnes Viking Village, Norway’s oldest royal seat and a must-visit for anyone fascinated by Viking history. Located just a short drive from Haugesund, this open-air museum offers a glimpse into Viking life with its reconstructed longhouses, interactive exhibits, and knowledgeable guides dressed in period costumes.


Explore the Nordvegen History Centre, where you’ll learn about Norway’s Viking kings and the country’s rich maritime history. This is an excellent excursion for families or anyone who loves history, and it’s easy to arrange independently for a more budget-friendly experience.




Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Haugesund


Visitors to the picturesque city of Haugesund can explore its charm with eco-friendly Hop-on Hop-off buses, offering the flexibility to disembark at various points of interest and experience the highlights of this 18th-century destination. Travellers can enjoy the tour at their own pace while an engaging audio guide, available in seven languages (English, German, Spanish, French, Dutch, and Norwegian), provides fascinating insights into the city’s rich history, making the journey both informative and enjoyable.


Aerial view of a town with colorful buildings, a prominent church spire, and lush green hills under a clear blue sky. Peaceful atmosphere.

For those opting to stay on board, the full Hop-On Hop-Off Haugesund sightseeing tour lasts approximately 40 minutes. Tickets, valid for unlimited rides over 24 hours, allow visitors ample opportunity to explore iconic attractions such as the Risøy Bridge, City Centre, City Hall, Haraldshaugen, Dokken Museum, and other notable landmarks. This convenient and sustainable tour offers an easy way to discover the best of Haugesund.




RIB Safari - Coastal Islands


This exhilarating RIB boat tour offers a deep dive into the rich coastal culture of Haugesund’s surrounding islands. Led by a knowledgeable local captain, the journey begins in the historic straits around Haugesund - an area of great significance, as it is where Norway earned its name, meaning “path to the North.” From the straits to the open ocean, the high-speed adventure provides breathtaking views of rugged islands, canals, and wildlife, including the possibility of spotting the majestic White-tailed eagle. Throughout the tour, captivating stories of the region’s history bring the stunning landscapes to life, creating a memorable experience that blends history, nature, and excitement.


The adventure begins at the cruise pier, where visitors are greeted by a representative who guides them to the RIB location, just a 5-minute walk away. Here, participants are equipped with all the necessary gear and given a comprehensive safety briefing by the experienced captain, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Warm layered clothing, sun protection, and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for this activity. It is not suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant individuals, or those with back problems. Children are welcome to join, provided they are at least 5 years old and meet the minimum height requirement of 120 cm.



Steinsfjellet Viewpoint


For panoramic views over Haugesund and the surrounding fjords, head to Steinsfjellet Viewpoint. This easily accessible lookout is just a short drive or hike from the town centre and offers breathtaking vistas of the coastline, mountains, and islands.


It’s a free activity that’s perfect for those looking to spend a relaxing hour in nature. Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and soak up the incredible scenery – it’s one of the best ways to experience Haugesund’s natural beauty without spending a penny.



Minibus Tour of Haugesund


Join a local guide for a relaxing minibus tour that highlights the very best of Haugesund. Starting at the Haugesund Cruise Pier, guests are welcomed by the guide before settling in to enjoy scenic views and fascinating stories about the city’s history and its people. The tour includes a visit to Haugesund’s impressive City Hall, renowned for its distinctive architecture and historical importance, offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage.


Two stone sculptures of figures on horses partially submerged in water. Rocky landscape in the background, reflecting a serene mood.

The journey continues to Steinsfjellet (Stone Mountain), a popular local viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands, followed by a trip to Kvalsvik to see Jason D. Taylor’s thought-provoking Rising Tide sculptures. These striking artworks blend horses with oil extraction machinery, exploring themes of environmental impact and technological dependence. The tour concludes at the National Monument dedicated to Harald Fairhair, the Viking king who unified Norway, bringing history and natural beauty together in an unforgettable experience.



 


Haugesund is a fantastic port of call that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. From Viking adventures to stunning waterfalls and charming villages, there’s no shortage of incredible things to see and do.


Remember, booking your excursions independently can often save you money and provide a more personalised experience. Whether you’re uncovering Viking history at Avaldsnes or marvelling at the views from Steinsfjellet, Haugesund is sure to leave a lasting impression.


Let us know your favourite Haugesund excursion in the comments or on our socials – we’d love to hear about your plans!


Happy exploring!


George & Dan 🚢


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