Road Trip Guide: Groningen to Stavanger via E39

This 850-kilometer route begins on the flat Dutch plains of Groningen, crosses into Germany via the A7, then cuts through Denmark on the E45 before taking the E39 ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand and driving north to Stavanger. The entire journey, including two ferry crossings, typically takes 12–14 hours of driving and sailing time.

One notable fact: the section from Hirtshals to Kristiansand is one of Europe's shortest international ferry routes (only 3 hours and 15 minutes), yet it bridges two distinct geological worlds—the glacial till of Jutland and the dramatic fjord-scoured terrain of southwestern Norway. The A7/E45 corridor through Germany's Schleswig-Holstein region was originally a trade route for Hanseatic merchants.

The route transitions from pancake-flat farmlands (Groningen) to rolling Danish hills, then to Norway's fjord landscape. In Denmark, the Wadden Sea (UNESCO) is visible if you detour southwest, but the main route passes near the UNESCO-listed Jelling Runic Stones (off E45 near Vejle).

Norwegian scenery is dominated by the Lyngdal Fjord, the Sørlands coast, and finally the Stavanger region with Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen). For a deep dive on how to find hidden stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

• Natural attractions: Wadden Sea, Jelling, Lyngdal Fjord, Preikestolen.
• Local commerce: farmers' markets in Ribe (Denmark), seafood stalls in Kristiansand fish market, and wool sweaters in Stavanger.

The journey uses well-maintained highways: the A7 in the Netherlands and Germany, the E45 in Denmark, and the E39 in Norway. Tolls apply on the Danish Storebælt Bridge (approximately 300 DKK one-way) and on Norwegian toll roads (pay by Autopass or invoice).

• Fuel stations are abundant along the A7/E45, but in Norway they become sparse north of Kristiansand. Plan to fill up in larger towns like Lyngdal or Flekkefjord.
• Diesel prices vary: in Germany around €1.50/L, Denmark €1.70/L, and Norway about 20 NOK/L (€1.70). Consider filling up before the Norwegian border.

The Hirtshals–Kristiansand ferry is operated by Color Line and Fjord Line. Book in advance summer. Drive-on ferries run multiple times daily. Check-in closes 30 minutes before departure.

• Travel time: 3h15 on standard ferry.
• Prices for a car+driver start around €80 off-peak.

Roads are generally excellent: Dutch and German autobahns have no speed limit in places, but Denmark and Norway enforce strict limits (130 km/h and 80–100 km/h respectively). Norwegian roads can be narrow with tunnels—drive with headlights on at all times.

Recommended rest stops include the Danish rest area 'Tinglev' (has playground, toilets, 24/7 service) and the Norwegian 'Hægebostad' rest stop with panoramic views. For fatigue management, take a break every 2 hours or 200 km.

• Child-friendly: Legoland Billund (Denmark) is a 40-minute detour off E45. In Norway, the Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park is right on the route.
• Pet-friendly: Norway requires dogs to be on leash in nature; many ferries allow pets in kennels or designated areas.