Stavanger, situated on Norway’s southwestern coast, is a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and as a gateway to some of Norway’s most famous natural attractions. For those considering things to do in Stavanger, visiting the Stavanger Cathedral, the country’s oldest cathedral, and exploring the colorful streets of Gamle Stavanger (Old Stavanger), known for its well-preserved wooden houses, are top activities.
The city’s Norwegian Petroleum Museum offers an intriguing look into the oil industry’s impact on Norway’s economy and society. Nearby, the Lysefjord and the iconic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) provide breathtaking natural scenery and hiking opportunities.
Beyond its historical and natural attractions, Stavanger is a hub for culinary experiences, boasting a vibrant food scene with a focus on local produce. For those exploring the best places to visit in Norway, Stavanger’s blend of urban culture, historical depth, and access to stunning natural landscapes makes it a compelling destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Stavanger, Norway
1. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is one of Norway’s most famous tourist attractions, offering breathtaking views over the Lysefjord. The hike to Preikestolen is a challenging but rewarding experience.
Location: Lysefjord, approximately 25 km from Stavanger. Accessible by car and ferry, followed by a 4 km hike.
Scenic Spot: A dramatic cliff towering 604 meters above Lysefjord, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May-September) for safer hiking conditions and clearer views.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for active adults and teenagers. Not recommended for small children or individuals with mobility issues.
Price: Free to visit; parking costs approximately €10 per vehicle.
Travel Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds and ensure you have enough time to return before dark.
2. Old Stavanger
Old Stavanger, or Gamle Stavanger, is a well-preserved area of town, known for its charming white wooden houses, cobbled streets, and beautiful gardens. It’s like stepping back into a bygone era.
Location: Near Stavanger’s harbor, within walking distance from the city center.
Scenic Spot: A picturesque neighborhood with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century white wooden houses and cobblestone streets.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer when flowers bloom, and the area is most lively.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though cobblestone streets may be difficult for strollers or those with mobility issues.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Wander the area’s narrow streets at a leisurely pace and visit the Norwegian Canning Museum to learn about the city’s sardine canning history.
3. Norwegian Petroleum Museum
The Norwegian Petroleum Museum provides an interactive way to learn about Norway’s oil and gas industry, which has been pivotal in the nation’s development. The museum’s architecture is also noteworthy, resembling an oil platform.
Location: Kjeringholmen, Stavanger, by the waterfront.
Scenic Spot: A modern museum resembling an oil platform, offering stunning harbor views.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with interactive exhibits for children and adults.
Price: €15 for adults, €7.50 for children, free for kids under 4.
Travel Tip: Try the escape room or the interactive exhibits for a hands-on experience of the energy sector.
4. Stavanger Cathedral
Stavanger Cathedral, dating back to the early 12th century, is Norway’s oldest cathedral. It’s a beautiful example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
Location: City center, near Stavanger’s main square.
Scenic Spot: Norway’s oldest cathedral, featuring Romanesque and Gothic architecture, intricate wood carvings, and stained glass windows.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but best during concerts or services for an immersive experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: €5 for adults, free for children under 16.
Travel Tip: Check out the church’s schedule for concerts and events, which often take advantage of the cathedral’s excellent acoustics.
5. Sverd i Fjell (Swords in Rock)
Sverd i Fjell is a striking monument on the edge of Hafrsfjord. The three large swords commemorate the Battle of Hafrsfjord in the late 800s, which led to the unification of Norway.
Location: Hafrsfjord, about 6 km from Stavanger city center.
Scenic Spot: Three massive Viking swords embedded in the ground by the fjord, commemorating the unification of Norway.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the best photo opportunities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit at sunset for a spectacular view, with the swords silhouetted against the evening sky.
6. Flor & Fjære
Flor & Fjære is a unique attraction, a lush garden on an island in the fjords. Accessible by a short boat trip, the garden is a surprising display of colorful flora in an otherwise rugged landscape.
Location: On Sør-Hidle Island, a 20-minute boat ride from Stavanger.
Scenic Spot: A stunning private island garden with colorful tropical plants, palm trees, and a gourmet restaurant.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (May-September) when the gardens are in full bloom.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but reservations are required.
Price: €85-€120 per person (includes boat transport, guided tour, and meal).
Travel Tip: Book a tour that includes a boat trip and a meal, as the island’s restaurant offers delicious food in a stunning setting.
7. Stavanger Art Museum
Stavanger Art Museum has an extensive collection of Norwegian and international art, with a particular focus on the works of Lars Hertervig, a local 19th-century artist.
Location: Mosvatnet Lake, about 3 km from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Home to an impressive collection of Norwegian and international artworks, with a scenic lakeside setting.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though young children may find it less engaging.
Price: €10 for adults, €5 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the museum’s collection of contemporary Nordic art, which is one of the finest in Norway.
8. Lysefjord Cruise
A cruise along the Lysefjord offers stunning views of the fjord’s dramatic cliffs, including a view of Pulpit Rock from below.
Location: Departs from Stavanger harbor.
Scenic Spot: A breathtaking fjord with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and views of Pulpit Rock from below.
Best Time to Visit: May-September for the best weather and visibility.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: €50-€70 per person for a standard fjord cruise.
Travel Tip: For a unique perspective, take a ferry or sightseeing cruise that takes you close to the waterfalls and wildlife along the fjord.
9. Øvre Holmegate
Øvre Holmegate is a vibrant and colorful street in Stavanger, lined with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants. It’s known for its brightly painted houses, each in a different color.
Location: Stavanger city center, near the harbor.
Scenic Spot: A vibrant street with brightly painted buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafés.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for the best light and atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes.
Price: Free to explore.
Travel Tip: This street is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers great photo opportunities, especially on a sunny day.
10. Stavanger Maritime Museum
The Stavanger Maritime Museum offers insights into the region’s rich maritime history, including exhibits on shipbuilding, sailing, and trading.
Location: Stavanger harbor.
Scenic Spot: Housed in historic wooden buildings, showcasing Stavanger’s maritime history with interactive exhibits.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with hands-on activities for children.
Price: €10 for adults, €5 for students, free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: Check out the interactive exhibits, which are particularly engaging for children, making it an ideal visit for families.
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Stavanger, Norway: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Stavanger: 8/10 – Stavanger offers several kid-friendly activities, including the popular Norwegian Petroleum Museum with interactive exhibits, beautiful sandy beaches like Sola Beach, and family-friendly parks such as the Stavanger Botanical Garden. The city also hosts various family-oriented events throughout the year.
Nightlife in Stavanger: 7/10 – Stavanger has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The city center, particularly the area around Øvre Holmegate (known as the colorful street), is bustling with nightlife options, including live music venues and trendy cocktail bars.
Sport in Stavanger: 9/10 – Stavanger is a great destination for sports enthusiasts. The city offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking to the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), cycling, kayaking, and fishing. There are also several sports facilities and clubs for various sports, including football, handball, and ice hockey.
Culture and Attractions in Stavanger: 8/10 – Stavanger boasts a rich cultural scene with several museums, including the Stavanger Art Museum and the Norwegian Canning Museum. The city’s Old Town, with its well-preserved wooden houses, and the annual Stavanger Jazz Festival and Gladmat Food Festival add to the cultural appeal.
Gastronomy in Stavanger: 8/10 – The gastronomic scene in Stavanger is diverse and vibrant, featuring both traditional Norwegian cuisine and international dishes. The city is known for its seafood, with many restaurants offering fresh catches from the nearby waters. The annual Gladmat Food Festival showcases the best of local and international cuisine.
Shopping in Stavanger: 7/10 – Stavanger offers a good range of shopping options, from local boutiques and specialty shops to larger shopping centers like the Kvadrat Mall. The city’s pedestrian streets, such as Kirkegata and Øvre Holmegate, are lined with shops offering a variety of goods.
Prices in Stavanger: 5/10 – Stavanger is known for being one of the more expensive cities in Norway, with high costs for accommodation, dining, and other expenses.
Average price for a hotel night: 180 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 25 €
Price of a beer: 9 €
Price of a coffee: 4 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Stavanger, Norway
For those looking to explore beyond the oil capital of Norway, top day trips near Stavanger offer a gateway to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The dramatic cliffs of Preikestolen and the winding trails of Kjeragbolten provide thrilling adventures, while the tranquil beaches of Jæren offer peaceful relaxation.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Stavanger accommodations range from charming waterfront hotels to rustic countryside cottages, offering a blend of comfort and convenience for travelers seeking to experience the unique beauty of the Norwegian landscape.
FAQ About Things to Do in Stavanger, Norway
What are the top attractions to visit in Stavanger?
In Stavanger, don’t miss the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, Stavanger Cathedral, Old Stavanger with its historic wooden houses, and the beautiful beaches like Sola Strand.
Is there any natural scenery to explore near Stavanger?
Absolutely! The Lysefjord and the famous Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) are must-see natural wonders near Stavanger, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Can I learn about Viking history in Stavanger?
Yes, the Museum of Archaeology in Stavanger displays Viking artifacts and history. Additionally, a short trip to the Swords in Rock monument will offer a glimpse into Norway’s Viking past.
Are there guided tours available in Stavanger?
Stavanger offers a range of guided tours, including city walking tours, fjord cruises, and guided hikes to Pulpit Rock.
What are the best cultural experiences in Stavanger?
For cultural experiences, visit the Stavanger Art Museum, attend a concert at the Stavanger Concert Hall, and explore the local food scene at the Stavanger Fish Market.
Where can I find traditional Norwegian food in Stavanger?
Traditional Norwegian cuisine can be enjoyed in restaurants around the city center, offering dishes like fish soup, rakfisk, and kjøttkaker.
Is Stavanger a good place for outdoor activities?
Definitely. Stavanger is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and sailing, especially in areas around Lysefjord and the North Sea coastline.
Are there any shopping districts in Stavanger?
Yes, Stavanger offers several shopping areas, including the Østervåg and Klubbgata streets, and the Stavanger Sentrum with a variety of shops and boutiques.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stavanger
https://www.getyourguide.com/stavanger-l4561/
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