Experience Risør in Two Days

Welcome to Risør, the white wooden town by the coast. Here you can fill your days with coastal life, culture and great flavours, while still having time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. This itinerary gives you suggestions for two days with new impressions and memorable experiences in Risør.

Day 1

The first day in Risør begins with culture and historical impressions, followed by art, coastal life and local food experiences. The day ends with a peaceful overnight stay close to nature, perfect for recharging before the next day.

Guided Tour of Risør Church

Start your day with a visit to the Church of the Holy Spirit, one of Risør’s most distinctive buildings from the seventeenth century. The church is known for its cross-shaped timber construction, its characteristic tower and a rich interior with historical details such as the altarpiece, carvings and Baroque elements.

You can also join a guided tour with Thomas Juell, who has been guiding here for many years and shares the church’s history in an engaging and knowledgeable way. A calm and insightful start to the day that provides a deeper understanding of the town’s culture and architecture.

Art and Culture in Risør

After the church visit, explore Risør’s vibrant art scene. Start at Galleri Villvin, known for Norwegian glass art and high-quality craftsmanship created by professional artists. Here you will find rotating exhibitions and insights into the town’s strong glassmaking tradition.

Continue to Risør Kunstpark, a creative hub featuring exhibitions, studios and various art projects throughout the year. This is a place to meet local artists and experience the more experimental side of Risør’s cultural life.

Two inspiring stops that offer a good introduction to the town’s artistic expression.

Culinary Experience at Tollboden 1865

Round off the late morning with a meal at Tollboden 1865, an elegant and atmospheric restaurant located in the town’s historic old Customs House. The seasonal menu focuses on quality, clean flavours and local ingredients that reflect the coastal surroundings. A calm and refined dining experience in the heart of Risør.

Overnight Stay in the Peace of the Forest

End the day in one of the treetop cabins in Gjerstad, where modern comfort meets a quiet, nature-based atmosphere. The cabins are tucked away in peaceful surroundings and offer an exclusive and comfortable setting, perfect for a refined end to your first day in Risør.

Day 2

The second day in Risør is spent at Sandnesfjorden, with great opportunities for activities and time on the water. Here you can enjoy peaceful surroundings, fresh air and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. The day ends with a quiet moment in Aurora Sauna.

Sørlandet Feriesenter

The second day takes place at Sørlandet Feriesenter by Sandnesfjorden, a comfortable location with a high standard and immediate access to the sea. Here you can stay in a cabin or at the campsite and enjoy easy access to boats, fishing, kayaking and scenic hiking areas. The centre also has heated pools, dining options and good facilities, making it a convenient base for an active coastal day.

Fishing at Sørlandet Feriesenter

Sørlandet Feriesenter offers excellent fishing opportunities both in Sandnesfjorden and out on the Skagerrak. You can catch cod, saithe, mackerel and sea trout, whether you prefer staying inside the calm fjord or trying your luck out on the open sea.

The centre offers sturdy rental boats in various sizes, and a modern cleaning room with a freezer makes it easy to process and store your catch. An ideal base for a proper coastal fishing experience.

Aurora Sauna

End the day in Aurora Sauna, located right next to the holiday centre and directly on the Sandnesfjord. Here you can enjoy a modern sauna experience with views of the water and a relaxing atmosphere. Perfect for winding down after an active day of fishing or exploring the sea.