How to get to Haugesund

Haugesund is an atmospheric port city on the picturesque southwest coast of Norway, known as the historic cradle of Viking kings. If you are looking for information on how to get to Haugesund, you will be pleased to know that the region offers excellent transport accessibility: you can travel here comfortably by plane, bus, private car, or combine your route with a train journey. The decision to visit Haugesund will open the gateway to majestic fjords and the rich cultural heritage of Scandinavia.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by flying into Haugesund Airport (HAU). It is located on the island of Karmøy, just a 15–20 minute drive from the city centre. The airport handles regular domestic flights from Oslo, as well as direct connections from Gdańsk, London, and select other European cities, making Haugesund easily accessible for tourists.

If suitable tickets for a direct flight are unavailable, travellers often choose routes via neighbouring major aviation hubs. Popular alternatives include Stavanger Airport (SVG), located to the south, and Bergen Airport (BGO) to the north. Excellent bus services are established from both cities, allowing you to reach your destination comfortably while enjoying views of the coast of Norway.

Trains do not run directly to Haugesund, as the city does not have a railway station. Nevertheless, many travellers choose the railway to reach the nearest major transport hubs — Stavanger or Bergen. A journey along these routes is rightfully considered one of the most scenic, offering views of the rugged mountains and valleys of Norway.

Upon arrival at the station, it is convenient to continue the route on an express bus running along the coast. Such a transfer is hassle-free, and the road from neighbouring cities takes a few hours, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of the fjords from your window. This is an excellent way to combine the comfort of a modern train with the flexibility of bus travel.

Bus travel along the west coast is a wonderful way to reach the city while admiring views of the fjords and rocky shores. Regular express buses connect Haugesund with Bergen: the trip lasts about three and a half hours and often includes a picturesque ferry crossing. The journey from southern Stavanger takes even less time — approximately two hours to cover the 80 kilometres.

There is also a convenient connection with the island of Stord, from where the bus reaches the destination in just an hour. Intercity transport cabins in Norway are usually equipped with Wi-Fi and comfortable seats, making the trip along the winding northern roads not tiring, but an inspiring part of your itinerary.

Driving along the E39 highway offers the opportunity to enjoy the dramatic landscapes of the west coast. The drive from Stavanger takes about two hours (80 km) and includes a scenic ferry crossing, while the 140-kilometre route from Bergen requires approximately 3.5 hours. Both routes offer the driver and passengers unforgettable views of fjords and rocky islands.

The quickest transfer awaits those departing from the town of Stord: the distance of 60 kilometres can be covered in less than an hour, passing through impressive subsea tunnels. Given the high taxi fares in Norway, where an intercity trip can cost several thousand kroner, renting a car often becomes the most reasonable choice for flexible route planning.

A trip to Haugesund promises to be unforgettable if you consider the climate and local lifestyle in advance. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable and worry-free as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations for guests of this cosy coastal city.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather on the west coast of Norway is changeable and can shift several times a day. Even in summer, be sure to bring a windproof jacket, a raincoat, and comfortable waterproof shoes for walking, as the sea breeze can be cool.
2. Transport: The city centre is quite compact and is most pleasant to explore on foot. For trips to attractions in the surrounding areas (for example, the Haraldshaugen monument), it is convenient to use local buses; schedules and tickets are available in the Kolumbus mobile app.
3. Finances: The country has almost completely transitioned to cashless payments. Bank cards are accepted everywhere: on buses, in museums, cafes, and even in small kiosks. The local currency is the Norwegian Krone, but you will likely not need to exchange cash.
4. Health and Safety: Haugesund is a very calm and safe city where families can walk without concern at any time of day. The tap water here is of excellent quality and safe to drink, so feel free to refill your reusable bottle from the tap.
5. Communication: Almost all locals, from bus drivers to shop assistants, speak fluent English. However, if you learn a couple of words in Norwegian, such as "takk" (thank you), it will be received with great warmth.
6. Local Etiquette: Norwegians value personal space and modesty. When boarding transport, it is customary to let passengers exit first, and loud conversations in public places are considered impolite.
7. Shopping Restrictions: Be aware that the sale of restricted beverages is strictly limited by time. These items are not available in supermarkets late in the evening or on Sundays. Stronger beverages are sold exclusively in specialized state stores called Vinmonopolet, which have early closing hours.
8. Additional Advice: If your trip falls in August, book accommodation in advance. During this time, the city becomes a festival capital (hosting a film festival and the Sildajazz jazz festival), and available hotel rooms run out very quickly.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor organizational inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of the fjords and the rich history of the homeland of Viking kings.