There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Kristiansand into a quick city adventure. From KRS, the Flybussen (Airport Express Bus) can get you into town in around 70 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave KRS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Norway. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Kristiansand takes about 70 minutes by Flybussen (Airport Express Bus). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is NOK. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting from KRS to Kristiansand
From KRS, the Flybussen (Airport Express Bus) gets you to Kristiansand in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Flybussen (Airport Express Bus) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Kristiansand:
Start with Fiskebrygga (Fish Market). The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything. Then, if time allows, make your way to Posebyen Old Town. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KRS, you can spend time at Travel Value Tax-Free Shop or try Relax and Recharge Zone. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Kristiansand: BakgÃ¥rden Bar & Spiseri and Sjøhuset Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Point Kiosk (Hot Dishes & Meals) or Point Kiosk (Coffee & Bakery). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Kristiansand:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $19 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $39 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at KRS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kristiansand itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at KRS, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kristiansand itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Norway that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Need a Nap? Options at KRS
Long overnight layover? Your options at KRS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Norway also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Kristiansand count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave KRS. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.