Kristiansand is a popular tourist destination in southern Norway. It is the largest city in the southern region and known for being the children’s city. When visiting the area, you will find plenty of things to do that the whole family will enjoy. The most visited family attraction is the Kristiansand Dyrepark, a zoo-cum-water park. You can take part in thrilling pirate adventures, see animals native to Norway and other parts of the globe, check out some of the shows, or just cool off on the water slides. You could also spend a day of fun in the sun at the City Beach. Cool off with a swim in the ocean, or check out the nearby water park, Aquarama, located at the beach. Alternatively, explore the area from the treetops at Hoyt & Lavt Climbing Park. You will receive expert training before hitting the rope courses suspended in the trees. They have eight color-coded courses, 122 obstacles and 23 ziplines for a day of fun and adventure. While in Kristiansand, be sure to stay at one of these top Airbnb vacation rentals.
1. Centrally located spacious apartment (from USD 161)
This large apartment located close to the city center and zoo makes for a pleasant retreat. You can spend time hiking on the nearby trails.
Regarding the amenities offered by the accommodation, you will find heating to keep you warm and a well-equipped kitchen where you can prepare your favorite recipes. There is also a free washer in the unit.
You can stay in touch with your loved ones with free WiFi access and entertain yourself by watching TV. Additionally, the property features a lovely garden for a breather. It also offers free onsite parking for your convenience.
Condo in Kristiansand · ★5.0 · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bathKristiansand, Agder, NorwaySuperhost
Accommodates: 4
2. Elegant waterfront apartment with a rooftop terrace (from USD 203)
Ideally situated in the heart of the city, this sweet apartment is conveniently close to several grocery shops, quality restaurants, and markets. You can stroll along the beach nearby or enjoy swimming in the sea.
The accommodation contains all you need to stay comfortably. You will find cleaning products, a washer, and even a baby travel cot. The space is heated to keep you toasty and there is a fully equipped kitchen for you to prepare culinary delights. The most pleasant aspect is the terrace where you can enjoy sipping wine while basking in the sunshine.
Rental unit in Kristiansand · ★4.84 · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bathKristiansand, Agder, NorwaySuperhost
Accommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice apartment with amazing rooftop terraceCleanliness:
anette´s place is great very clean and has everything you needsparkling clean place with a fantastic roof terrace in the heart of kristiansandHost:
anette is a nice host :)excellent place and anette is a great hostshe was also very helpful since the beginning available at all times whenever i had any questionslovely host and lovely apartment very nicely locatedannette was a great host and the communication was easy and quickRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and parking garage close bythe apartment is in a perfect location within walking distance of nice bars and restaurantsvery nice apartment with great location and everything one needs it was perfect for our familyi suggest a stay here for sure its located close to everything necessaryit has been a nice stay at a perfect location
3. Gorgeous apartment with free parking (from USD 177)
Have a pleasant family vacation in this beautifully furnished apartment located a short stroll away from numerous convenience stores. It features a balcony that makes a pleasant spot to enjoy your morning cup of tea.
The apartment has facilities including heating, WiFi, and a hair dryer. You don’t need to bring your entire wardrobe as there is a full laundry facility available here. Moreover, you can prepare gastronomic delights in the well-stocked kitchen. The gym is a worthwhile addition if you’re a fitness enthusiast.
Rental unit in Kristiansand · ★4.90 · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bathKristiansand, Vest-Agder, NorwaySuperhost
Accommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we stayed for 2 nights in erlands apartment and had a lovely stayvery quiet at night for an undisturbed comfortable sleepCleanliness:
clean and cozy good communication with host :)we had everything we needed very clean and really good servicethe apartment was spacious and clean and very close to several different shopsHost:
erland was a friendly host and replied fast to all our questionserlend was a great host and excellent communicatorerlend is a very pleasant host and very quick to respond in case any questionserlend is a helpful generous host and a great communicatorerlend is a very nice and pleasant host who we can highly recommendRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect apartment very nice locationgreat space and lovely locationvery spacious stylish and clean apartment in a great location in a residential area near to the town centrethe apartment is very close to a bus stop a gym and several super marketsthe apartment is great for a family and is within walking distance to your daily needs
4. Large apartment with a garden (from USD 191)
Whether you’re traveling for work or a family holiday, this spacious apartment is ideally suited to all. Not only is it kid-friendly but also pet-friendly, so you’re welcome to bring your furry friends here. It is in a fantastic location, close to hiking trails and playgrounds.
The place offers a homey stay with a laundry facility and a fully functional kitchen. It provides radiant heating along with a wood-burning indoor fireplace to keep you cozy. For indoor entertainment, you can play video games or watch your favorite shows on the 55-inch HDTV. One of the most appealing features is the garden, where you can grill food and enjoy a meal by the firepit.
Condo in Kristiansand · ★4.85 · 3 bedrooms · 4 beds · 1 bathKristiansand, Vest-Agder, NorwaySuperhost
Accommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
true airbnb treasure in kristiansand cozy and clean very well equippedvery clean and close to sentrum and dyraparkenHost:
you are really a super hostthank you for hosting uswe realy had a wonderful time in his apartment thanks host we will come backRead more reviewsLocation:
nice apartment with perfect location nearby city centrecomfortable well equipped and good location loved the solariumit was quiet and easy access to everythingdefinitely a place to go back tonice place and host good location
5. Contemporary basement apartment in a century-old house (from USD 84)
An ideal accommodation for a solo traveler or a couple, this cozy accommodation provides a pleasant stay for guests. You will find excellent dining options, shops, and swimming areas within a short distance. You can save money and eat healthily by whipping up something delicious in the well-appointed kitchen.
Enjoy alfresco dining in the backyard or barbecue smoky, juicy meats on the gas grill. You can stream movies and stay up-to-date with free internet access. With satellite TV available in the unit, you can keep up with the latest news.
Rental unit in Kristiansand · ★4.64 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bathKristiansand, Vest-Agder, NorwayAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the sofa bed is also pretty comfortablespacious bathroom and comfortable sofa bedthe couch/bed combi wasnt great but its a nice apartment apart from thatwe had a lovely stay at the apartmentthe bathroom is the highlight of the apartment it's very big and cozyCleanliness:
it was very clean and well equiptedclean place and everything you need is availableclean and nice apartment with separate entrance in the basementthe place is clean and quiet close to the centrethe appartment was clean and has good internet connectionHost:
nina is very nice helpful and quick to respondnina is really good host the rent is well and confortablefriendly and clear communicationRead more reviewsLocation:
nice apartment close to portnice located in a quiet neighborhoodgreat stay and close to the city centerthe place is neat and located at walking distance to the city centergood location near to good scenic spots and near city
6. Light and airy loft with a private backyard (from USD 139)
With large attic windows keeping it bright and breezy, you can enjoy a pleasant escape in this Nordic-style apartment. As it’s situated in a quiet neighborhood, you’ll have a good night’s sleep, whilst also being conveniently close to the city center. You can take advantage of the added perk of free onsite parking. Free WiFi access allows you to stream web series and keep up with social media. Additionally, you can enjoy a dedicated workspace that’s designed for digital nomads.
Loft in Kristiansand · ★4.89 · 2 bedrooms · 2 beds · 1 bathKristiansand, Agder, NorwaySuperhost
Accommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
pernille is such a kind and attentive host and her apartment is sparkling clean and fun to stay inRead more reviewsLocation:
very nice decorated cosy appartment 10 miniute walk to the city center
7. Apartment on London, walking distance to everything.
This private room in the host’s apartment includes private bathroom with access to the common areas of the unit. The room has two double beds so this vacation rental is suitable for up to four guests. The apartment is centrally located and within walking distance of the city center and all of its attractions. The beach and Aquarama, the water park, are only a 10 minute walk away. You are also within walking distance of restaurants, bars and the shopping district.
40 kvm leilighet på Lund, gangavstand til alt.Accommodates: 4
8. Cozy cottage right by the river. (from USD 96)
This three-bedroom cottage is located 30 minutes from Kristiansand in Iveland. The cottage is ideal for families who want to stay in the country but be close to the action. It features a living area, a full kitchen stocked with cooking utensils, three bedrooms and a bathroom. Outside is a nice deck with beautiful views and a gas BBQ. There is row boat available that you can use to spend a day on the water fishing or relaxing. No fishing license is required so enjoy catching your dinner and grilling it on the deck. Nearby are some lovely hiking trails to explore.
Cabin in Iveland · ★4.91 · 3 bedrooms · 1 bed · 1 bathIveland, Aust-Agder, NorwaySuperhost
Accommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the apartment is perfectly located with great views over the fjord and the grounds of the main homeCleanliness:
very clean and pretty placethe place was very clean and comfortablethe hytter is beautiful and cleanthe cabin was amazing it was all clean and cozyvery comfortable and cleanHost:
friendly and accomdative hostline was a wonderful hostline is a great hostline is a great hostline is excellent hostRead more reviewsLocation:
very nice location and housethe location is so lovely and cutean amazing location by a lake with a campfireit is located at the edge her property at a beautiful locationbeautiful location guest house and lake
9. Attractive loft apartment by the Bystranda (from USD 55)
This stylish apartment is located by the newest and largest hotel, the Bystranda. The renovated unit includes a living room, a full kitchen, two bedrooms plus another bedroom-cum-office in the loft, and a bathroom. You have full access to the communal amenities including use of the rooftop terrace. Located by City Beach, you are within walking distance to Markensgate, Nupen Park, shops, restaurants, cafes and a fitness center.
Rental unit in Kristiansand · 3 bedrooms · 3 beds · 1 bathKristiansand, Vest-Agder, NorwayAccommodates: 4
10. Kristiansand — Hånes
This private room in the host’s apartment is ideal for solo travelers. You get a private room with a shared bathroom, plus free access to the living room, kitchen and terrace. The apartment is a great base for exploring the city as the bus stop is just a short walk away. Also within walking distance are some great hiking trails, a Kiwi shop, park and a beach.
Kristiansand - Hånes
11. Mettis house, modern apartment with two rooms to rent
Two private bedrooms with a shared bathroom are located in the host’s apartment. You have free access to the living room, kitchen and the washer if you need to. There is a bus stop right outside the front door to take you to the city center. You will find plenty of attractions within walking distance — the city center is about a 15-minute walk and the City Beach is only 20 minutes away. Nearby the home is a grocery store and Ravnedalen Park that offers some lovely scenic paths for strolling.
Mettis home, big room, big bedKristiansand, Vest-Agder, Norway
12. Lovely studio apartment, centrally located.
This studio apartment sleeps up to seven guests comfortably. The apartment includes a loft area with a bed for two, one large bed and another bed for two that can be pulled out from the sofa. The studio also has a small kitchenette and a bathroom. The apartment is located outside of Kristiansand in the seaside town of Søgne. Within walking distance is the ocean, shops, butcher and a bus stop for getting to the attractions of the big city.
Nydelig studioleilighet, sentralt.Søgne , Vest-Agder, NorwayTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great tv for movie night however the wifi needs a little upgradeperfect stopover plenty of beds in a well organised small spacecozy apartment with nice interiorCleanliness:
the flat is small but perfectly arranged very clean and cozythe beds were comfortable and the shower was clean and nicevery cosy and clean appartment in quiet areait was clean and the neighbourhood was really nicethe appartment was very clean and modernHost:
good host and descent placejohn is a very helpful hostthe host was very friendly and accommodating to us at short noticejohn is very reactive and helpfullovely friendly host house perfectly suited our needsRead more reviewsLocation:
good location for our travel from oslo to jørpenlandgreat place great location and good value for moneywe would recommend this place to anyone wishing to stay near kristiansandfantastic place about 15 min outside of kristiansandgood price and clean close to highway
13. Your home away from home in Kristiansand
This studio apartment is located in the city center and can accommodate two guests, making it ideal for couples. The apartment features a living room with a pull-out sofa bed, a kitchen and a bathroom. Guests have access to a shared laundry room on the first floor and the rooftop terrace. Being in the city center places you within walking distance of everything, including restaurants, clubs, shops and the City Beach.
Supersentral ettroms i KristiansandKvadraturen, Vest-Agder, NorwayTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
*sleeper-sofa — i'm sure there are more comfortable pieces of furniture out theregood kitchen utensils for basic cookingCleanliness:
clean convenient and in the best part of the city centergreat hosts clean and pleasant apartment centrally located as advertisedappartment is tiny but clean and equipped with everythingHost:
nice hosts :-)the host is super friendly and the service is greatsupport from host is available when neededthe hosts were very responsive and friendlyi would like to thank the host super attentiveRead more reviewsLocation:
super central and so easy to findclose to most of the attractions of the citygreat little studio in great location to explore the towna very nice small apartment on a wonderful locationgreat small place in the middle of city everything went smooth from the first meeting
14. Between the university and the city
This private room in the host’s home is ideal for couples. Besides the private room, you have access to two shared bathrooms, the kitchen, the garden, and the balcony. The home is centrally located between the university and the city center. There is a bus stop nearby but walking to the city center only takes about 5 minutes. Also within walking distance is a river, some shops and the City Beach is about 10-minute walk away.
Between the university and the cityKristiansand, Vest-Agder, NorwayTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i was really satisfied with the included breakfastHost:
good hospitality and friendly environmentreally lovely place lise is very nice host :-)lise mette is a great hosti like that the host was so welcomelise is a wonderful host who made me feel right at homeRead more reviewsLocation:
very nice house ideally situated: very close to the university and close to the city centrea really nice place in close proximity to the citythis house seems to be even a nicer place in summerapartment was nice bed was tralle comy and the location is typical southern town always nicei would definitely recommend her if you go to kristiandsand in norway and need a place to stay
15. Charming seaside cabin
This cabin by the sea sleeps up to eight guests, making it a great rental for families or friends travelling together. The cabin has three rooms in total — two bedrooms and a combined living room and kitchen, with an outhouse bathroom. There is an outdoor shower with hot and cold running water. The cabin has a large deck with seating that offers amazing views of the ocean. A boat is available for your use along with a pier where you can swim or fish.
Laksevika (PHONE NUMBER HIDDEN) 4625 FlekkerøyFlekkerøy, Vest-Agder, NorwayAccommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the place itself is charming has a kitchen and has a great view on the bay of kristiansandnot luxurious in terms of facilities but first class view and simple easy lifethe check-in was uncomplicated and the apartment lovelywe had everything we needed in the cabin and the kitchen was niceCleanliness:
the cabin is clean and cosy and the neighbourhood is very quietjarles cabin is such a lovely place it is so nice established warm and cleanthe cabin itself is very cosy well-equipped and cleanHost:
jarle has been a really kind host (thanks again )jarle was a perfect host and made the check-in really easyjarle is a perfect host and he thought about everythingjarle is a very friendly and reliable host he welcomed us kindlyabove all jarle is a very friendly host and we felt very welcomeRead more reviewsLocation:
we really wish we could have stayed one more night or even a week in this wonderful placethe location is spectacular and so easy to findi can recommend him and the house to anyone who wants to stay at a unique locationthe location of this cabin is peacefully beautiful and serene (especially at your own private deck)
16. Well-appointed chalet with its own entrance
This small studio apartment is located in the basement of the host’s home. It is ideal for couples or solo travelers and features a small living room, a bedroom, a kitchenette, and a private bathroom. You do have your own private entrance, too. The apartment is located in a quiet neighborhood about a 15-minute walk from the city center. There is a grocery store right down the road if you want to cook your own meals. The host is happy to answer any questions you may have about the city.
Velutstyrt hybel med egen inngang.Kristiansand, Vest-Agder, NorwayAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very nice apartment with all necessary amenitiesit was everything there you needed with a good bed and a nice gardenCleanliness:
everything was spotless cleaneverything was very cleannice clean and cozy apartmentvery nice and clean studiothe studio in the cellar was very clean neat and cozyHost:
friendly and service minded hostsjannicke was a great hostjannicke is a great hostjannicke is a great hostshe was willing to help and attentive to her guestsRead more reviewsLocation:
an easy walk to the city centre with grocery stores very close bygreat location within walking distance to a lot of stuffthe location is great everything is walking distance and we really enjoyed our stayit’s a fine place in a great quiet locationsuburban and safe neighborhood and close to the city center
Kristiansand, the children's city
When planning a family vacation to Norway, Kristiansand is the place to go. Not only will you find plenty of family-friendly attractions, but many of the restaurants are geared towards pleasing the kids too. The Scandic Sørlandet, located in the Scandic hotel by the zoo, has a pirate-style cuisine and a princess themed buffet. If you are visiting the City Beach, stop by the Bystranda and enjoy a kid-friendly lunch or dinner. You will find that your vacation may not be long enough to enjoy everything the children’s city has to offer.
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Facebook Log in with Twitter Log in with Google ×