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Kvinne på sykkel i Posebyen
Photo: Iselinn Andersen // Visit Sørlandet

10 tips for a solo-weekend in Kristiansand

Kristiansand ist the perfect destination for a  solo-weekend, whether you want peace and nature experiences or city life and new impulses. The city has a clear centrum, a friendly atmosphere and a cozy southern dialect that makes it easy to feel welcome. Here are 10 things you can do alone in Kristiansand:
Kvinne på sykkel foran Annemones blomster i Posebyen
Photo: Frida Neverdal // Visit Sørlandet

1. Explore Posebyen

Posebyen is one of the oldest parts in Kristiansand and consists of white painted wooden houses, small streets and a calm atmosphere. A stroll here offers a glimpse into the city's history, and you'll find small cafés, restaurants, and bars where you can sit down with a book or simply enjoy the peace and quiet.

We recommend: Flua Pizza, The Odd Bakery & Et annet sted coctailbar og kafè 

Fiskebrygga
Photo: Kvadraturforeningen

2. Enjoy seafood at Fiskebrygga

As a solo traveler, it's perfect to sit down at a restaurant on Fiskebrygga and enjoy fresh seafood while watching life unfold at the harbor. Hos Moi, you can enjoy fantastic seafood dishes with a great drink, or stop by Reinhartsen at Fiskebrygga and have lunch like the locals on the go – with a fish cake in hand!

ribtur
Photo: GoNorway

3.  Experience the archipelago

You simply can't visit the capital of Southern Norway without experiencing the archipelago! Kristiansand’s coastal gems are easy to reach, even if you're traveling solo.

Explore Norway’s most popular stretch of coastline on a RIB safari, hop on a local boat to one of the nearby islands, or treat yourself to a guided kayak tour! If you prefer to enjoy from land, we recommend a walk out to Odderøya - here you can take a refreshing dip and spend some time in the Blaud sauna.

kilden med rosa himmel
Photo: Frida Neverdal

4. Visit Kilden Theatre and Concert Hall

Kilden is Sørlandets cultural venue, offering concerts, theatre performances, and opera. The perfect place to enjoy a solo evening filled with quality entertainment. It’s also worth visiting for its unique architecture and stunning location by the water.

You'll also find restaurant Frihavn here, serving flavourful dishes made with seasonal ingredients from local producers. Here you can see an overview of Kilden's events.

Palmetrær på Bystranda i Kristiansand
Photo: Frida Neverdal

5. Relax at Bystranda

Bystranda is located centrally in the city and a perfect spot to enjoy the sun, read a book, or simply enjoy people watching. Even though it’s an urban beach, it offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Need a break from the beach but still want a sea view? Then we recommend to drop by the georgian wine bar Gvino, or pick up freshly baked goods from Fabriken Artisan Bakverk.

If you'd rather experience Bystranda and go swimming indoors, Aquarama is the place to be! Enjoy the outdoor pool, relax in the sauna, and treat yourself to a bit of extra wellness.

Kvinne ser på klær
Photo: Iselinn Andersen // Visit Sørlandet

6. Go shopping in Kvadraturen

Kristiansand’s main street, Markens gate, offers a great selection of shops and cafés, while the charming side streets are full of small, independent boutiques.

Shopping solo gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Read more about shopping in Kvadraturen.

utsikt fra Kunstsilo
Photo: Iselinn Andersen

7. Head for the Heights

Kristiansand is just as beautiful from above as it is at street level! At Panorama Bar, located on the 9th floor of Kunstsilo, you’ll get a stunning view of the city and its coastal approach.

Club21 Rooftop bar is located on top of Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel, and offers cool interior design and another fantastic city view.

Gatekunst i Kristiansand
Photo: Lisa Mari Bynes / Aptum

8. Go for a walk

There are plenty of beautiful walking areas in and around Kristiansand city centre! Discover the best nature experiences the city has to offer.

Kvinne drikker kaffe på kafè
Photo: Kvadraturen

9. Enjoy great food and drinks

Kristiansand offers a diverse and exciting selection of restaurants and cafés, perfect for solo travellers.

The city also has a welcoming and inclusive nightlife, with bars like Bakgården, Telfords Pub, and Vaktbua, all popular among both locals and visitors. It’s easy to start a conversation and meet new people. Check out more of our recommendations here.

Kunstsilo
Photo: Iselinn Andersen / Visit Sørlandet

10. See the world's largest collection of Nordic modernism

A true highlight is Kunstsilo, a new and spectacular art museum that houses the world’s largest collection of Nordic modernism, with a special focus on the renowned Tangen Collection.

The museum, housed in a former grain silo, combines industrial heritage with modern architecture, making it a unique experience for art and design enthusiasts. You can read more about the art and cultural scene in Kristiansand here.