Fiskebrygga

Fiskebrygga occupies the Gravane canal at the eastern edge of Kristiansand's grid, an area that was industrial and run-down until it was redeveloped in the 1990s into a quarter of restaurants, a fish shop and stalls, and moorings for guest boats. The fish market sells shellfish, shrimp and the day's catch, and the restaurants along the quay specialise in seafood, with terraces over the water that fill through the summer. In July, when southern Norway takes its holidays, the quay is one of the busiest places in the region and boats moor three deep. It sits beside the Kilden performing arts centre, a striking building of 2012 with a wave-form oak wall facing the water.

What you actually see

• The quay restaurants - seafood terraces along the canal.
• The fish market - shellfish and fresh catch sold from stalls.
• The guest harbour - boats mooring through the summer season.
• Kilden - the 2012 arts centre with its curved oak facade alongside.

When to go

June to August, when the quay is at its liveliest and the terraces open; July is the peak and can be uncomfortably crowded. Outside summer the restaurants stay open but the quarter is quiet.

Honest expectations

Prices are aimed at holidaymakers and are high, particularly for shellfish. In July the terraces are packed and service slows. Outside the summer season the area has little atmosphere.

Nearby

Posebyen and the Kristiansand grid are alongside; Dyreparken lies ten minutes east.