Traveling from Stavanger to Arendal covers a distance of 183 miles (294 km). The quickest route is by car or private transfer, with a travel time of around five hours. 

Taking the train is also a great option offering incredible views as you pass by many lakes and rivers, all from the comfort of the train carriage.  

You may want to consider this Stavanger-Lysefjord Adventure 4-day tour where you’ll visit the second biggest Viking cemetery in Norway and have an opportunity to hike Pulpit Rock. 

By Car or Private Transfer

Duration: 4.5 to 5 hours

The most direct route takes 4.5 hours without stops so make sure you budget time for pit stops for photos, bathroom breaks and for food. Leaving Stavanger, you’ll begin on the E39 and then transfer to the FV42. On this route, you’ll pass by several lakes, including Edlandsvatnet and Ytra Kydlandsvatnet.

Halfway on your journey, you’ll pass by the small town of Fjotland with beautiful views of Fjotland Lake, which is a nice place to stop and take some photos.

You’ll want to have your camera ready throughout your drive to capture the beauty of the landscapes, lakes, and rivers. 

There are alternative routes you can take but keep in mind most have tolls, like most roads in Norway.

By Train

Duration: 4.5 hours-9 hours

Taking the train is an efficient and easy way to reach Arendal from Stavanger. The journey takes anywhere from 4.5 hours to 6 hours with several departures early in the morning until the evening. There is also an overnight train option during the week that takes 9 hours. We recommend that you book a sleeper car with a bed to ensure a good night's rest. On weekends, there are fewer trains to choose from so make sure to plan accordingly. Train tickets often sell out so make sure to book in advance. 

You can bring your own food or buy snacks or a light meal from various vending machines on board, with a selection of hot beverages, drinks, snacks, and sandwiches. On this train route, there are power outlets next to all seats, allowing you to easily keep all your electrical gadgets charged. Wi-fi is also free and available.

You’ll want to have your camera accessible as you pass through lakes, rivers, and farmland.

By Bus

Duration: 7 hours 35 minutes

Riding the bus is a possibility, although the journey takes a lot longer with a travel time of 7 hours and 35 minutes. Buses depart each day at noon from the Arendal bus station, except on Saturdays when there isn’t any bus service. On Fridays and Sundays, there are two departures per day-one at 10 am and one at noon- with a shorter journey time of 7 hours.

You can purchase tickets on the bus. However, if you buy online they offer a discount and you ensure you’ll have a guaranteed seat.

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