Port Guide | Norway | Worth a Wander
Arendal
Michael States | Editor
Published on 2025-06-20
Welcome to Arendal, Norway-a sun-drenched (well, sometimes) pearl nestled along Scandinavia's southern coast, delightfully resistant to the delusions of grandeur afflicting bigger Norwegian cousins. Before you put on your Viking helmet and storm the nearest souvenir shop, you might want to know that Arendal was once known as the "Venice of Scandinavia"-an optimistic title for a town short on canals but long on charm. Today, the place is famed less for gondolas and more for its postcard-perfect wooden houses painted in shades you'll swear only exist at boutique stationery stores. You're here for just a handful of days, so sidestep the usual maritime museums you've seen a hundred times and plunge straight into local delights: kayak your way around the blissfully uncrowded Sorlandet archipelago, hike up to a viewpoint to pretend you're master of all you survey, or simply drink in the atmosphere at a waterside cafe-ideally with Aquavit, the regional firewater that helps Norwegians face both chilly weather and steep bills with cheerful stoicism. Skal, adventurers-Arendal awaits!
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Notes from the Editor
Arendal is known for its charming wooden houses, beautiful coastline, and as a gateway to the stunning archipelago of Sorlandet. There are various options for shore excursions such as hiking, kayaking, and exploring local historical sites.
Where do cruise ships dock in Arendal?
Port Name Arendal
Country Norway
Region Scandinavia
Ship Terminal Arendal Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The terminal is located approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the city center, accessible by foot or a short taxi ride.
What's the weather like in Arendal?
Best Season to Visit Summer (May to September)
Climate Temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes Rain is common in early summer, with occasional drizzle. Long daylight hours are typical in July.
Temperature Range 55F to 75F (13C to 24C)
High Temp 75F
Low Temp 30F
Average Temp 55F
What do I need to know about Arendal?
Language Norwegian
Currency Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 43,000
Timezone Central European Time (CET)
How do I get around Arendal?
Local buses and taxis are available; cycling is also an option due to bike-friendly paths in the area.
What are The Best Things to do in Arendal?
Discover what you should do while you're in Arendal.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Merdo Island Exploration
Merdo Island, Arendal
Explore this historic car-free island known for picturesque views, preserved houses, and the Merdogaard Museum.
Distance from Terminal: 4.7 miles
Fishing Experience in Norway's Fjords
Pollen Harbour, Arendal
Authentic Scandinavian fishing experience in spectacular fjord settings.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Relaxation Sauna Ritual
Floating Sauna, Pollen Harbor
Traditional Scandinavian floating sauna experience near the harbor, ideal after swimming.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Local Seafood Culinary Tour
Various restaurants in Tyholmen, Arendal
Discover Scandinavian seafood dishes unique to Arendal's seaside cuisine.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Scandinavian Wild Berry Picking
Forests around Arendal
Guided berry picking excursion through Norwegian forests, a true Scandinavian tradition.
Distance from Terminal: 6.2 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Vitensenteret Sorlandet Science Center
Kystveien 2, 4841 Arendal
Interactive science exhibits for all ages emphasizing maritime themes unique to the Norwegian coastline.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Arendal Market Day
Torvet, 4836 Arendal
Explore local produce, handicrafts, and traditional Scandinavian goods in an authentic Norwegian market.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Tyholmen Historic District Walk
Tyholmen, Arendal
Explore this charming old town center of Arendal, showcasing late-medieval architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Norwegian Wooden Boat Festival
Pollen Marina, Arendal
Summer festival celebrating traditional Scandinavian wooden boats.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Boat Tour Among Skerries
Pollen Harbor, 4836 Arendal
Enjoy a boat tour around the islands, exploring quiet coves, typical Scandinavian skerries, and breathtaking scenery.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Channel Rappelling on Tromoy
Tromoy Island, Arendal
Enjoy rappelling on Tromoy's cliffs overlooking the ocean, uniquely Scandinavian thrill.
Distance from Terminal: 3.1 miles
Arendal Kayak Tour
Tyholmen Marina, Arendal
Guided kayak tour through Arendal's scenic archipelago.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Raet National Park Nature Walk
Raet National Park, Tromoy
Explore one of Norway's coastal national parks with unique biodiversity and coastal formations.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Mountain Biking at Hove
Hove Camp, Tromoy
Mountain bike trails uniquely shaped by Norwegian coastal terrain.
Distance from Terminal: 4.2 miles
A Little Extra
Hove Botanic Garden
Hove Leirsenter, Tromoy
Discover native Norwegian flora in this serene Scandinavian botanical garden.
Distance from Terminal: 3.9 miles
Nogne O Brewery Tour
Gamle Rygene Kraftstasjon, Grimstad
Tour of award-winning craft brewery uniquely Scandinavian in style and flavors.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Visit Pollen Marina Cafes
Pollen Marina, Arendal
Savor coffee and Scandinavian pastries overlooking picturesque marina.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Overnight Trips
Overnight Lighthouse Stay
Store Torungen Lighthouse, Arendal
Stay overnight in a historic Norwegian lighthouse with panoramic sea views.
Distance from Terminal: 4.3 miles
Norway Regional Tip
Respecting Personal Space Norwegians often prefer a comfortable physical distance, even on public transport or in social gatherings, refraining from sitting directly beside strangers when alternative seating is available.