Excursion Prison hotel & cultural walk tour at Arendal

Explore the history, culture, and charm of Arendal on-foot during this picturesque sightseeing excursion.

Arendal, Guided Walking Tour, Prison Hotel

Depart the pier for a guided walking tour of Arendal. Located on the coast of southern Norway, Arendal is renowned for its bustling city centre and idyllic archipelago. Your first stop is at the historic Prison Hotel. A former high-security prison-turned-boutique hotel built in 1862 according to the ‘Philadelphia Model’. This model was based on a theory that a combination of extremely harsh bodily punishment, isolation, and solitary confinement would make the prisoners reflect on their actions, which went against established societal norms and rules, and, in this way, be rehabilitated.

Guided Prison Tour

Upon arrival at this former prison-turned-boutique hotel, take a guided walking tour with a rehabilitated former inmate. Along the way, they offer fascinating insights into the stark realities about life behind bars and their journey to rehabilitation. Whilst walking through the corridors of the former prison, learn about its intriguing past, stories of former inmates who lived here, and escape attempts; one of Europe's largest mass escapes from a prison took place here in 1999.

Town Square, Glass Elevator, Photo Stop, Breath-Taking City Views, Batterkaia

Next, your adventure continues with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Arendal. Pass through the bustling town square, where locals gather and events unfold, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem. Along the way, take a ride up the Glass Elevator. Upon arrival at the top, enjoy breath-taking panoramic views and photo opportunities of the town and its picturesque surrounds from above. Your tour concludes with a short stroll along Batterkaia en route to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Arendal, Guided Walking Tour, Prison Hotel, Town Square, Glass Elevator, Photo Stop, Breath-Taking Views, Batterkaia

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.86 miles (about three kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with four-five steps at the entrance to, and stairways inside, the Prison Hotel. This tour is not suitable for guests who are sensitive to, or uncomfortable with, seeing and learning about the stark realities of prison life, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair; guests who suffer from vertigo may opt to skip the ride up the Glass Elevator. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a weatherproof jacket, umbrella, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.