Arendal is a coastal town in southern Norway, set on the Skagerrak coast of Europe. Its well-preserved white wooden houses climb in rows toward the hills above a busy harbour, and that combination of timber, water and hillside gives the town its character. The local nickname, the 'Venice of Scandinavia', refers to the way the town meets the sea.
What the visit is like
Arendal suits a relaxed stay built around the water. Walking the streets of old wooden houses and then looking back over the harbour is the simplest way to see why the town is admired. The harbour is busy, and boats are a central part of daily life here.
- Sailing is a strong draw, with the coast offering good conditions for those who bring a boat or book time on the water.
- Beaches along the coast make a natural counterpoint to the town's harbour life.
- The town's cultural scene is most lively during the summer months, when visitors find more events and activity in the streets.
Planning a trip
Summer is the season that best matches the town's reputation for sailing, beaches and cultural life, so it is the time to plan around. Outside those months the harbour and the old houses remain worth seeing, though the pace is quieter. Arendal works well as a base for a few days, with the sea, the town centre and the surrounding coast all within easy reach of one another.