Culture and history
Skudeneshavn
Skudeneshavn is a small town (with town status) in Karmøy municipality, around 40 minutes by car from Haugesund. Parts of the town are designated a listed cultural environment, and have been awarded the St. Olav’s Rose for the preservation of Norwegian cultural heritage.
Architecture inspired by the whole world
Skudeneshavn is an old fishing village that grew into a sailing ship town during the successful herring fisheries of the 19th century. The old town, situated in and around Søragadå street, comprises well preserved buildings and warehouses from the mid-19th century. Shipping is still important to Skudeneshavn, and the town is home to a shipyard industry and shipping companies.
Listed old town
This part of Skudeneshavn was listed by the Directorate for Cultural Heritage in 2018.
Experience Skudeneshavn
When you visit Skudeneshavn today, you will see a well preserved and maintained charming old town. The locals take pride in preserving the town’s lovely atmosphere. You can wander around the narrow, crooked streets and admire the beautiful architecture and meet friendly people. There are still signs of impulses from across the world that seafarers brought home after their travels during the Golden Age of Skudeneshavn. Skudeneshavn also has charming cafés, galleries and a museum that illustrates the history of the town.
Travel inspiration for Skudeneshavn
How to get here
Would you like advice or tips on how to get to Haugesund and Haugalandet, or see how easy it is to get around Haugalandet using public transport? Here we have gathered information about transport to and around Haugesund.
How to get to HaugesundPlan your visit to Karmøy and Skudeneshavn
Accommodation
Nornes Holiday House
Skudeneshavn
Norneshuset is a cosy bed and breakfast located in Old Skudeneshavn, which is said to be one of the most well-kept old towns in Europe.
Food and drink
Smiå Bistro & Pianobar Skudeneshavn
Skudeneshavn
In the heart of Skudeneshavn, enjoy a delightful dining experience with a great atmosphere. Choose from delicious fish and meat dishes on the menu.
Accommodation
Havn Hotell in Skudeneshavn
Skudeneshavn
Stay at Havn Hotell in the heart of Skudeneshavn. The old and the new come together in perfect harmony to create a pleasant atmosphere. Welcome!
Discover more cultural history sites in Fjord Norway
Avaldsnes
Avaldsnes is a village of great historical importance, on the island of Karmøy just off Haugesund. Avaldsnes may be best known as the main seat of the Viking and first King of Norway, Harald Fairhair. However, kings and chieftains lived at Avaldsnes for thousands of years, all the way back to the early Bronze Age and throughout the Viking Age.
Sogndalstrand
Sogndalstrand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rogaland. The village has pedestrian streets and small shops and galleries and a salmon river is floating through the village.