Mons to Kristiansand Road Trip: Ultimate Guide

Did you know that the E39 highway in Norway includes several ferry crossings, making the final leg of this road trip a unique maritime experience? Starting in Mons, Belgium, and ending in Kristiansand, Norway, this route spans approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) and typically takes 14-16 hours of pure driving time, excluding stops and ferries. You'll traverse Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Norway, crossing the iconic Great Belt Bridge and taking a ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand.

This guide answers key questions: how long to drive Mons to Kristiansand, is it worth driving Mons to Kristiansand, and what are the best stops Mons to Kristiansand. For more tips, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road quality is excellent throughout, with well-maintained highways in all countries. However, watch for sudden speed changes in Germany after construction zones. In Denmark, wind gusts on bridges can be strong. Norway has narrow two-lane roads; use passing lanes.

• For families: Legoland Billund (Denmark) is a major attraction. The Universeum science center in Gothenburg (Sweden) is a alternative if you detour. Many Danish rest stops have clean baby-changing facilities.
• Pet-friendly framework: Most hotels along the route accept pets, but the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand allows dogs in kennels or certain cabins. The Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park has designated areas for dogs on leash.
• Fatigue management: Plan stops every 2 hours. The Raststätte Schuby (Germany) has a gym and shower. In Denmark, the Skærup rest area offers a free coffee with receipt at the affiliated gas station.

Hidden off-route spots: In Belgium, the medieval town of Leuven is 30 minutes from A2. In Germany, the Wadden Sea National Park (UNESCO) is near the Danish border. In Denmark, the island of Fanø can be reached by a short ferry from Esbjerg, offering a quiet beach escape.

For more detailed suggestions, refer to how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The primary highways are the A2/E40 in Belgium, A67/E34 in the Netherlands, A1/E45 in Germany, and E39 in Denmark and Norway. Toll roads include the Storebæltsbroen (Great Belt Bridge) in Denmark, costing around €45 for a standard car. In Norway, tolls are automated via the AutoPASS system; rent a transponder or pay online within 3 days.

• Fuel costs: As of 2025, gasoline averages €1.80/L in Belgium, €1.75/L in Germany, and €2.20/L in Norway. Diesel is slightly cheaper.
• Currency: Eurozone in Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark; Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Norway.
• Driving etiquette: Keep right except to pass. Speed limits: 120-130 km/h on highways, except Norway (100 km/h).
• Key rest areas: Raststätte Dammer Berge (Germany) offers a family-friendly stop with playgrounds. In Denmark, Froslev Kro has a large parking area and restaurant.

The route transitions from the industrial heartlands of Belgium to the serene fjords of Norway. In Germany, the Lüneburg Heath offers a brief escape with heathland blooms in late summer. The Danish landscape is flat, with wind farms and coastal views. After the ferry, Norway's rugged coastline and pine forests emerge.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Kronborg Castle in Helsingør, Denmark, and the Hanseatic City of Lübeck, Germany, are accessible with a short detour.
• Natural attractions: From Mons, the High Fens nature reserve is a hidden gem. In Kristiansand, the Baneheia park offers hiking.
• Local commerce: Visit the farmers' market in Odense, Denmark, for local cheeses. In Germany, stop at a Raststätte to buy Haribo gummy bears at a good price.

Climatic conditions affect your experience. Summer (June-August) offers long days and mild weather, but Norway's ferries can be delayed by fog. Winter brings snow and ice; ensure winter tires are used in Norway from November to April. The route aesthetics peak in autumn when forests turn golden.