Haugesund's downtown area is quite walkable with a compact layout, which is ideal for travelers looking to access shops, cafes, and other amenities on foot. The pedestrian-friendly streets, especially around Haraldsgata, facilitate easy movement within the city center. However, due to the city's smaller size, some amenities are scattered and require longer walks or other transportation methods to access, which limits the overall walkability.

Haugesund's public transportation primarily relies on a bus system, which efficiently connects the city center with surrounding areas and the airport. This accessibility is beneficial for travelers who wish to explore beyond the central area. While the bus system is practical and includes good design elements, there is no metro or tram system, making buses or ferries the main options for public transit.

Biking in Haugesund can be an enjoyable experience thanks to its relatively flat terrain and routes like the National bike route 1. This, combined with the ability to transport bikes on boats to nearby islands, offers good options for cycling. However, the limited dedicated bike infrastructure and varying weather conditions might pose challenges, especially for longer commutes or those unfamiliar with sharing roads with vehicular traffic.