Quick Answer
The Flybussen airport express bus is the best overall way to travel from Haugesund Karmøy Airport (HAU) to Haugesund city center, taking about 25-30 minutes and costing around 100-120 NOK. For the fastest door-to-door service, a taxi takes 15-20 minutes but costs 300-450 NOK. There is no train service from the airport.
Flybussen Airport Express Bus: The Best Public Transport
The Flybussen is the dedicated airport shuttle connecting Haugesund Karmøy Airport (HAU) directly with Haugesund city center. It's reliable, affordable, and timed to meet flight arrivals and departures.
Key Details & How to Use It
- Journey Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Frequency: Coincides with flight schedules. Typically departs 20-30 minutes after each flight arrival. Check the official Flybussen timetable for exact times.
- Pick-up Point at Airport: Directly outside the main terminal arrivals hall. Look for clearly marked bus stops.
- Main Drop-off in Haugesund: The primary and most convenient stop is at the Haugesund Cruise Terminal (Havnterminalen). This is the heart of downtown, within walking distance of most hotels, restaurants, and the tourist information office.
- Other Stops: It may also stop at the Haugesund Bus Station (Rutebilstasjon), useful for connecting to regional buses.
- Ticketing:
- Onboard: Pay the driver by card (Visa/MasterCard). Cash is rarely accepted.
- Online/App (Recommended & Cheaper): Purchase in advance via the Flybussen website or app. Mobile tickets are often discounted and guarantee you a seat.
- Luggage: Ample storage for suitcases in the under-bus compartments.
- WiFi: Free WiFi is available on board.
Pro Tip: If your flight is delayed, the bus will typically wait. Buying a mobile ticket in advance saves money and stress.
Taxi & Private Transfers: Fast & Door-to-Door
Taxis are readily available at the rank outside the arrivals hall. This is the most convenient and fastest option, especially if you have heavy luggage, are traveling in a group, or arrive late at night.
What to Expect & Costs
- Travel Time: 15-20 minutes to downtown Haugesund, depending on traffic.
- Fare: Fixed price zone fares apply from the airport. Expect to pay between 300 NOK and 450 NOK for a ride to the city center. Always confirm the approximate fare with the driver before departing.
- Providers: Official airport taxis are operated by companies like Haugesund Taxi. They are metered and regulated.
- Pre-Booking: For guaranteed service, especially during peak hours or for late-night flights, you can pre-book a taxi via the Haugesund Taxi website.
- Ride-Hailing: Uber and Bolt are not consistently available in Haugesund. Traditional taxis are your most reliable bet.
Best For: Families, travelers with lots of luggage, business travelers, or arrivals after the last Flybussen has departed.
Rental Car: For Exploring the Region
If your plan is to explore the stunning Haugalandet regionâincluding the nearby islands, the Langfoss waterfall, or the North Sea coastal roadârenting a car directly at the airport is an excellent choice.
Rental Process & Advice
- Location: Rental car desks (Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, etc.) are located in the arrivals hall of the terminal.
- Booking: Always book in advance online for the best rates and to ensure vehicle availability. Comparison sites like RentalCars.com can be useful.
- Drive to City Center: The drive is simple and takes 15-20 minutes via the Rv47 highway. Follow signs for "Haugesund Sentrum".
- Parking in Haugesund: Be aware that central Haugesund has paid parking zones. Many hotels have limited or paid parking facilities. Check with your accommodation beforehand.
- Pros: Ultimate freedom to visit remote coastal areas, fjords, and villages at your own pace.
- Cons: Higher cost (rental, fuel, parking), and navigating/parking in the compact city center can be a hassle if you're just staying in town.
Walking: A Reality Check
While theoretically possible, walking from Haugesund Karmøy Airport to Haugesund city center is not recommended for almost all travelers.
- Distance: Approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles).
- Time: At least 1.5 hours of non-stop walking.
- Route: The walk involves sections along main roads (Rv47) with limited or no pedestrian sidewalks, which can be unsafe, especially in poor weather or low light.
- Luggage: Impractical with any wheeled suitcase or backpack.
Verdict: Only consider this if you are an ultra-light backpacker with no time constraint, on a clear summer day, and are prepared for an industrial/road-side hike. For everyone else, take the Flybussen.
Cost & Time Comparison: At a Glance
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Best For | Convenience Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flybussen Airport Bus | 25-30 min | 100 - 120 NOK | Most travelers, solo visitors, budget-conscious | High (Direct, scheduled) |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 15-20 min | 300 - 450 NOK | Groups, families, late arrivals, lots of luggage | Very High (Door-to-door) |
| Rental Car | 15-20 min (drive) | 500 - 1200 NOK/day + fuel & parking | Exploring the wider region | Medium (Requires booking, parking) |
| Walking | 90+ min | Free | Extremely budget travelers (not recommended) | Very Low |
Summary: For pure value and efficiency, the Flybussen is the clear winner. The taxi is your premium, time-saving alternative.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
1. Airport Size & Efficiency
Haugesund Karmøy Airport is small and efficient. You'll be out at arrivals and at the bus stop/taxi rank within 5-10 minutes of disembarking your flight, making transfers very quick.
2. Currency & Cards
Norway is largely cashless. You can use Visa/MasterCard for everything, including buying your Flybussen ticket from the driver. It's unnecessary to get Norwegian Kroner (NOK) cash just for the transfer.
3. City Center Layout
Haugesund's downtown core around the cruise terminal is very compact and walkable. Once you're dropped off by the Flybussen, you can easily reach most hotels, shops, and the picturesque waterfront (Smedasundet) on foot.
4. Connecting to Ferries & Further Travel
The Flybussen stop at the cruise terminal is perfect if you're connecting to a ferry to nearby islands (e.g., Karmøy, Røvær). For long-distance buses to cities like Bergen or Stavanger, you'll likely depart from the Haugesund Bus Station, which is also a Flybussen stop.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
What is the cheapest way to get from Haugesund Airport to the city center?
The Flybussen airport express bus is by far the cheapest public transport option, costing around 100-120 NOK for a one-way ticket. Walking is free but not practical for most travelers due to the 7km distance.
Is there a direct train from Haugesund Karmøy Airport to Haugesund?
No, there is no direct train service from Haugesund Karmøy Airport (HAU). The airport does not have a train station. You must take the Flybussen bus or a taxi to reach Haugesund city center or other transport hubs.
How long is the taxi ride from Haugesund Airport to downtown?
A taxi ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact destination in Haugesund city center. It is the fastest door-to-door option.
Where does the Flybussen stop in Haugesund city center?
The main and most convenient stop in Haugesund is at the Haugesund Cruise Terminal (Havnterminalen), right in the heart of the downtown area, close to hotels, the tourist information office, and the ferry terminal.
What should I do if my flight arrives very late at night?
Flybussen schedules are coordinated with flight arrivals, but for very late flights (past ~11:30 PM), services may be limited. Pre-booking a taxi is highly recommended for late-night arrivals to ensure a transfer. You can book via the Haugesund Taxi website.
Is it easy to rent a car at Haugesund Karmøy Airport?
Yes. The airport has rental car desks from major companies like Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz located in the arrivals hall. It's ideal for exploring the Haugalandet region, including sights like Langfoss waterfall. Book in advance for better rates.
Can I use a credit card on the Flybussen airport bus?
Yes. You can purchase tickets from the driver using major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard). You can also buy mobile tickets in advance via the Flybussen app or website, which is often cheaper and guarantees a seat.
How do I get from Haugesund to nearby islands or Stavanger?
From Haugesund city center, you can catch ferries to islands like Karmøy and Røvær. For Stavanger, take the Flybussen back to Haugesund Airport (HAU) for a short flight, or use long-distance buses from the Haugesund bus station. There is no direct train to Stavanger.