Arendal, Norway cruise port guide

Twin beams shine out from a pair of scenic lighthouses – welcoming you to Arendal’s coastal charm. Life moves a little slower in this tree-sprinkled Norwegian town of fresh sea air and scattered skerries. As you arrive, you’ll sail between the picturesque island fragments all around Arendal, before your ship comes to rest below the welcoming gaze of the the town’s pea-green church spire. View less The call to explore the area’s natural treasures is never far away, and whether it’s jumping on ferries to flit between the surrounding islands, or wandering across pebble-strewn beaches to soak in sweeping views out towards Denmark and Sweden, there are limitless possibilities. Take a boat out to Merdo island where, free from cars, you can enjoy beachfront strolls past burgundy-roofed houses, and crunch coarse sand underfoot as you walk. The harbour area - known as Pollen - is the social hub of Arendal, and the perfect spot for an evening drink, following a wander through the gorgeous Tyholmen district’s pretty lemon and maroon shaded timber houses. The narrow spire of Trinity Church rockets up behind it, to complete a beautifully curated waterfront scene. You’ll often hear music on the breeze as the nights grow longer and warmer, and Canal Street swings into life. The summer’s Jazz Festival is a much loved event, held as the town’s population begins to swell in size with an influx of visitors arriving to enjoy the summer shows, warmer weather, and opportunities to get out and explore some of Norway’s most beautiful coastal scenery.