Car hire Kristiansand

Introduction

Kristiansand was named after King Christian IV who founded the city in 1641. The city's Dyrepark is one of Norway's nicest zoos and a popular day attraction, also because it's linked with an entertainment park. Christian also had a fortress built which is prominently located on the Strandepromenaden.

Population

The city has approximately 85,000 inhabitants.

Location

Kristiansand is located in the far south of Norway near the estuary of the Otra River. The river discharges into the Skagerrak, the strait that separates the country from Denmark. There are dense forests in the hilly surroundings. A lot of snow can fall in winter months, but because of its coastal location it generally doesn't settle long.

Economy

Ship building and repair form an important pillar of local economy. Part of the oil installations in the Norwegian part of the North Sea are maintained and supplied from Kristiansand. The city is also an educational center. There's a university, and a BI Norwegian Business School and the Gimlekollen School of Journalism and Communication are also based in Kristiansand.

Airports

Kristiansand Airport, Kjevik Airport, is situated 10 kilometers in a straight line (15 kilometers by road) northeast of the city center. It's easily reachable by rental car via freeway E18 and the Rv41. The way and exit to the airport are clearly signposted.

Public Transport

Kristiansand has excellent public bus transport. The main lines run both during the day and in the evening; night buses run during the weekend (Fridays and Saturdays). There are also ferry connections from the harbor with Hirtshals and Hanstholm in Denmark.

Traffic and Parking

Toll is levied on all main roads to the center. Finding a free parking place in the street in Kristiansand's center can be a problem. Fortunately you can park your car in several parking garages in and around the center.

Hotels

Kristiansand has several hotels, but as almost everywhere in Norway room prices are rather high. Alternatively you can rent an apartment. In the city's vicinity, cabins and farms are also put up for rent. Much nicer than a hotel, but you'll need a rental car.

External Sources

For more information about Kristiansand, we recommend Google and the following sources:

• Wikipedia, Kristiansand
• Official website Kristiansand
• Tourist Information Kristiansand