Cruise Ship Passenger Port of Call Guide to Molde, Norway

Getting Around Molde Cruise Port

Molde’s cruise port features two central quays, located just 500 metres from the town centre. You can walk straight from your ship to the shops and restaurants in town.

Your transport options include:

• Public buses to major attractions, including the Atlantic Ocean Road
• Taxis from Reknes marina for local and long-distance trips
• Cruise line shore excursions for guided tours

The port area connects directly to local hiking trails. You’ll spot clear signs to popular routes, including the Varden viewpoint path.

Visit the tourist information centre in town to pick up maps and get local advice.

Distance at a glance:

• Port to town centre: 500 metres
• Walking time to shops: 5-10 minutes
• Taxi rank: At Reknes marina
• Tourist information: Town centre

Must-See Local Attractions

Start at Romsdalsmuseet Folk Museum, where you can discover historical buildings dating from 1600 to 1900.

The museum showcases traditional interiors that bring local history to life.

You’ll find the best views at Varden Viewpoint, located 407 metres above Molde.

The viewpoint offers clear views of 222 mountain peaks.

The hiking trail to the top is well-marked and takes about an hour.

You can stop along the way to capture amazing photos of the landscape.

Historic Romsdalsmuseet Folk Museum

The Romsdalsmuseet lets you experience Norway’s rich folk history in Molde since 1912.

The modern Krona building serves as the main hub, featuring permanent exhibitions, a café, and a shop for visitors.

You can explore 40 historic buildings at the Reknes Farm open-air site.

The museum network includes the WWII Ergan Coastal Fort in Bud, the 12th-century Old Veøy Church, and the Fishing Museum on Hjertøya Island.

Summer opening hours run from 11am to 3pm daily, with extended hours during cruise ship visits.

Your admission is free if you’re under 12.

You’ll find audio guides in English, Norwegian and German to enhance your visit.

Panoramic Varden Viewpoint Experience

You’ll discover an incredible viewpoint at Varden, sitting 407 metres above Molde. From here, you can spot 222 snow-capped peaks and watch the light play across the Romsdalfjord. The view takes in Molde town and its surrounding islands.

To reach Varden, follow the blue markers from the Scandic Hotel Alexandra. The hike covers 4.4km through the Green Corridor, taking you past Reknes Park and Romsdalsmuseet. You’ll walk on good-quality gravel and asphalt paths.

The journey takes about 1.5 hours up and 45 minutes down.

You can grab food at Vardestua restaurant if you visit between May and October.

Want a longer walk? Head to Skihytta and come back via the Vardevegen gravel road. This route connects to Moldemarka’s trail network.

Shore Excursions and Activities

Shore activities in Molde fall into three main types: scenic drives, hiking trips and village tours.

You can choose from quick local walks to full-day adventures. The Atlantic Ocean Road tour takes you on a 4-6 hour journey along Norway’s most stunning coastal route. You’ll stop at Bud, a charming fishing village, to explore local life.

Active visitors can trek up to Varden viewpoint, sitting 402 metres above Molde. From here, you’ll get clear views across the city and fjords.

For a bigger challenge, try the Midsund Steps climb to Rørsethornet peak.

Families will enjoy the Høyt & Lavt climbing park or Moldebadet water centre.

The Mardalsfossen waterfall tour through Eikesdalen valley offers you a perfect nature experience, with its dramatic landscapes and rushing waters.

Cultural Heritage and Events

Molde’s cultural scene lets you experience authentic Norwegian heritage up close. The Romsdal Museum sits just 10 minutes from the centre, showing you daily Norwegian life from the 1600s through 1900s. Its modern building, Krona, houses exhibitions and offers traditional Norwegian clothing displays plus a welcoming café.

Must-see cultural attractions:

• Molde Jazz Festival runs each July, bringing world-class musicians
• Molde Cathedral features a striking 50-metre copper-topped tower
• Old Veøy Church dates back to 1200 AD on Veøy island
• Møre og Romsdal Art Centre displays both local and global artwork
• Ergan Coastal Fort preserves WWII history in a restored German fortress

You can join guided tours at each venue, with audio guides available in several languages. The guides help you understand the rich stories behind each location.

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Environmental Port Innovations

Molde’s port uses innovative green technologies to make cruise tourism sustainable. You can see shore power systems that let ships connect to land electricity while docked, cutting harbour emissions significantly.

The city centre sits next to the port, so you can walk straight into town without needing transport.

The port rewards eco-friendly ships through its fee system. You’ll find well-organised waste collection points throughout the facility.

The port supports the Sea Zero initiative to achieve zero emissions by 2030. Ships now stay longer in port and sail at reduced speeds, which helps the environment and gives you extra time to explore Molde.

Weather and Travel Tips

Visit Molde’s Best Times and Tips

You’ll find the best conditions in Molde from June to August, when temperatures reach 17°C with long, bright evenings. Rain occurs regularly, peaking at 204mm in December, so pack your waterproof gear.

Your Essential Tips:

1. Pack Smart
   • Take layered clothing, even in summer
   • The subarctic weather changes quickly
   • Waterproof jacket and shoes are must-haves
2. Time Your Visits
   • Head to Varden viewpoint in early morning
   • You’ll see 222 mountain peaks clearly
   • Morning visits mean fewer tourists
3. Manage Weather Changes
   • Use rainy spells to explore Romsdal Museum
   • Keep indoor backup plans ready
   • Check daily forecasts
4. Plan Your Timing
   • Book summer activities ahead
   • Watch for July’s Jazz Festival dates
   • May and September offer quieter experiences
5. Save Money and Time
   • Visit in shoulder seasons
   • You’ll find better attraction availability
   • Accommodation costs less outside peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can Cruise Passengers Find ATMS and Currency Exchange Services?

ATMs and currency exchange services await you in two key locations:

1. At the cruise terminal:
   • Select ATMs near arrival areas
   • Currency exchange desks at information points
2. In the city centre:
   • Banks with ATM facilities
   • Dedicated exchange bureaus
   • Shopping centres with cash points

You can easily walk from your cruise ship to access these services. Most Norwegian banks accept international cards and offer English-language options on their ATMs. Your best exchange rates typically come from ATMs rather than exchange bureaus.

Remember to notify your bank before travelling to ensure your cards work in Norway.

Are There Public Restroom Facilities Near the Cruise Terminal?

Public restrooms are available near the cruise terminal in several locations:

You can access facilities at:

• The tourist information centre
• Nearby hotels
• Local restaurants

All restroom facilities feature:

• Wheelchair accessibility
• Regular cleaning
• Clear direction signs

You’ll spot these facilities easily along main walkways and public areas. Most venues welcome visitors to use their facilities during opening hours.

What Local Norwegian Dishes Should Visitors Try in Molde?

When visiting Molde, try these local Norwegian specialities:

• Kjøttkaker: Tender Norwegian meatballs served in rich brown gravy
• Fresh salmon: Locally caught and grilled to perfection
• Fårikål: A hearty stew made with mutton and cabbage, Norway’s national dish
• Brunost: A sweet-savoury brown cheese that you’ll find at breakfast tables

You can find these dishes in most local restaurants and cafés throughout Molde. Each dish gives you a true taste of Norwegian home cooking.

Is There a Baggage Storage Facility for Passengers at the Port?

You won’t find baggage storage facilities at Molde’s cruise port. Several alternatives are available to store your luggage:

• Local hotels (with prior arrangement)
• City centre storage lockers
• Tourist information centres

Contact these locations directly to check availability and rates before your arrival.

Which Shops Offer Authentic Norwegian Souvenirs and Local Handicrafts?

You can find genuine Norwegian gifts at LilleVik Boutique by the harbour. The harbourfront shops stock traditional items including:

• Norwegian wool sweaters
• Local silver jewellery
• Handmade wooden crafts
• Regional food specialities

Look for the small craft galleries and artisan boutiques along the waterfront for the best authentic souvenirs.