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The Streets of Stavanger Self-Guided Walking Tour

• October 21, 2020
• Southern Norway , Stavanger , Walking Guides

I love Stavanger. It’s one of those places that I didn’t think much of at first, until I really got to walk around. It’s got such a fascinating history, from the Cathedral’s founding to the canning industry and now this oil wealth. When visitors come to Stavanger, they typically go straight to Gamle Stavanger. In my opinion, the city centre is just as charming with its wooden houses, architecture, and history. So, I made a Stavanger self-guided walking tour.

In this article...

Start: torget.

Welcome to Stavanger! Our walk starts at Torget, the main square and centre of Stavanger. Until the 11th century, it was nothing more than a bay in the middle of a sandy beach. It was filled in and extended by the locals, and over the centuries has become an important commerce and meeting place. 

Today Torget has a new fish market building and several restaurants. More houses stood here originally, but over the last century, they were removed. All the old warehouses are now restaurants and bars.

Kongsgård Royal Estate

Kongsgård is a historic royal residence. The property owned all this land you see around you now, including the lake. Until the Reformation, the building was used by the bishop and his staff. The bishop’s manor was looted, and houses were burned down during Pentecost 1539 by about 60 pirates. In 1607, the sheriff received permission to rebuilt, and he did. However, by the late 18th century Kongsgård was broke. 

Kongsgård became the Stavanger Cathedral School in 1824. Kongsgård is mentioned a lot in the writing of Alexander Kielland as he was a student here.

During World War II, the Germans used Kongsgård as a quarter for the Local German Commander. A fire on Easter Sunday 1942 destroyed large parts of the building. Initially, the Germans didn’t want to let the fire brigade put out the fire. As a result, the extend of the fire was greater than it should have been. 34 students lost their lives during the war. 10 lecturers from the school were sent to concentration camps. From 1945, Kongsgård became the school. The main building is from the Middle Ages and includes the bishops chapel and knights hall.

Until the 1960s, this was part of the Kongsgård property. The part closest to the cathedral used to be a cemetery. It’s believed there was a lavish garden and ponds as far back as 1299.

Stavanger Cathedral

Most importantly, we are at the town’s most famous landmark: the Stavanger Cathedral. This is the oldest cathedral in Norway; older than Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim . I know we’ve had a lot of history so far on this walk, but it’s all coming together!

Stavanger was founded as a city in 1125, around the same time the Cathedral was built. The royals in Norway needed to have some control over the pagans in the south. They introduced Christianity with force and built the Cathedral. Yet, it’s a bit of a chicken and egg situation. What came first – the town or the cathedral? I can’t imagine them building a cathedral in the middle of nowhere, but the town likely didn’t exist until the cathedral was built. Anyway.

Subsequently, a fire in 1272 destroyed the cathedral. Above all, it was rebuilt between 1276 and 1303, this time in stone, and it took on the Gothic feel we see today. 

The Ruins of St. Mary's Church

Yes, there’s no church here today. Most importantly, St. Mary’s Church stood here from the 12th century until the 19th century, when it was torn down. The church has a sad and complicated history. 

It is uncertain why St. Mary’s Church stood so close to Stavanger Cathedral. One theory is that is a replacement cathedral from the great fire of 1272. Above all, it took a long time to rebuild the cathedral, so it was necessary to have a temporary house of worship. Another theory is that it was a separate independent church. The church may be from the 12th century. Around that time churches called St. Mary’s went up in Nidaros, Bergen , Oslo and Tønsberg.

However, the church fell into disrepair after the Reformation in 1537. It became a hangout for the towns drunkards. In 1565, the town’s bourgeoisie took over the church and converted into a town hall and parliament. The city’s gallows stood outside. A prison was built in the church and developed a bad reputation for great suffering. 

Moreover, in 1865, the church became a fire station. Less than 20 years later, the fire brigade and prison moved out. A city engineer proposed that the building is antique and thus should be torn down. The city demolished the church in 1883.

Donkirkeplassen

Certainly, this is the name of the square next to the ruins of St. Mary’s Church. This is the site of the old Bishops Estate. It was the residence of the bishops of Stavanger and bordered the old St. Mary’s Church. For instance, the name of our next point of interest, Laugmannsgata, comes from two lawyers who lived in Bispegården. The building was demolished in 1957. The Norges Bank building is where the NOKAS robbery took place.

This is one of the city’s oldest streets, linking Domkirkeplassen to Arneageren. The name comes from two lawyers who lived at Bispegården in the 18th century. 

Arneageren is a public square. It is home to the culture house, which was built in 1987. The culture house has various galleries, cafes, kiosks, a cinema and an art school for kids.

The Film Theatre building is next to the culture house and a little older. Dating back to 1924, the building is neoclassical. It is regarded as one of the most important representatives of this style in Rogaland county. The Film Theatre was rebuilt in connection with the culture house in 1988. The square is well-known in Stavanger. Throughout the week, political and religious organisations distribute brochures. There is regular music from groups and street musicians.

Søregata runs along the border of the old Arnegård farm. While the street itself is old, the exact age is unknown. In the 19th century, this street was known for its eateries and bars. Many workers and sailors lived along this street and there was a liquor distillery at the end. The cafes would display the dish of the day in the window. It’s not like the Asian restaurants (if you’ve been to countries like Japan) that have plastic displays. No, these cafes used real food. By the end of the day, the food had attracted many flies. 

Mauritzengården

Mauritzengården is a house from 1905. It was commissioned by soap factory owner Svan Mauritzen.  The building is considered one of the city’s finest Art Nouveau brick buildings. It is built in red brick with a corner tower and a spire. 

Kirkegata is the first ever pedestrian street in Norway – announced in 1960. The name means ‘Church Street’, so the street leads to Stavanger Cathedral. If you turn left you’ll be at Stavanger Cathedral in two blocks. 

It’s believed that Kirkegata was a street from before the year 1100. It’s had different names throughout history, including Urgata and Holmengata. Urgata refers to a natural clock. One theory is that building materials for Stavanger Cathedral were stored here, and that a wrecked stone was tipped down and turned into a clock. Holmen refers to the flat edge near the water – today it’s the name fo the northern part of Stavanger inner city. After the fire of 1860, the street got the name Kirkegata.

Steinkargata

This is an old street that linked the two main streets Østervåg with Kirkegata. It previously had the name “The Street to Østervåg”, indicating its purpose. Today’s name refers to a stone vessel used to moor boats. A wharf called “Laksebrygga” (Salmon Wharf) used to be here. Until the 1850s, fishermen docked here. The 1860 fire destroyed both sides of the street, so everything was rebuilt after that. 

Sølvberggata

Sølvberggata is from around the 17th century. The name comes from a large rock that used to stand where Arneageren is today; it was blasted away just after World War II. Sølvberg means ‘Silver mountain’ and refers to a large rock that used to stand where Arneageren is today. 

We’ve made it to Østervåg! This is the city’s main street. The name roughly means ‘East Bay’ and refers to the stretch of sea nearby. Østervåg was the natural harbour for scheduled shipping traffic and the fishing fleet. The bay area used to have shipyards. 

Østervåg is one of the most important streets from the Middle Ages. The property Arnegård was here, and Østevåg ran through it. The street linked the bishop’s pier (Bispebrygga) to the Stavanger Cathedral. Østervåg is first mentioned in 1297 in relation to this pier. It’s believed that this was the medieval town centre. 

The area we are on is very narrow, but it gradually becomes wider. This marks where the 1860 fire spread. The narrower part of the street was untouched, whereas the wider part of the street had burned down and was regulated and levelled after the fire. The fire started at the corner of Østervåg and Breigata. 

Geoparken (built 2008) is a playground built with items used in the oil industry. The layout is designed to replicate the formation of the Troll Field in the North Sea. 

Norwegian Oil Museum

The Norwegian Oil Museum is an excellent place to learn about the Norwegian oil industry. The museum covers the entirety of Norway’s oil journey. It stars from early exploration to discovery, foreign help and current environmental concerns. The museum has a lot of information boards, photographs, footage, and objects used to help develop the oil platforms. Main Article: The Oil Museum

The Colour Street

Welcome to Norway’s most colourful street!

The concept of having a colourful street starts in 2005. Hairdresser Tom Kjørsvik wanted to create a vibrant atmosphere to draw more visitors to the area. Scottish artist Craig Flannagan designed the colours to have a Miami Vice theme. It’s not only the colours that make the street work. The houses have deliberate colour combinations. Each house as a series of colours for its facade, doors and window frames. Each colour scheme harmonises the house.

View their Facebook page for current events

Valberget Viewpoint is the site of the city’s old fortress. The date of the fortress is unknown. The land was likely given to Stavanger during the Nordic Seven Years’ War in 1567. The city likely needed defence for the sea after the Swedes were trying to take Bergen from the sea in 1564.

Above all, fires have destroyed the fortress many times. There’s not much of the original fortress remaining. Its current appearance is from the 19th century. They had 12 12-pound cannons circling the tower. In 1840, they discarded the cannons when four men went on trial for refusing to shoot with them. They were acquired because the cannons were proven to be life threatening. Today the cannons are decorations on the viewpoint.

The tower is not original – it was built in 1850 and is a lookout tower. 

Skagen is a street that runs parallel along the bay, Vågen, linking Torget to Holmen. It is one of the city’s liveliest streets with many shops and nightclubs. But it is also home to some of Stavanger’s oldest buildings. 

That is to say, the name Skagen is common all throughout Scandinavia and refers to a headland. It’s believed the street was here in the Middle Ages and is largely unchanged from the 13th century. Archaeological finds show that there were buildings here in the Middle Ages. 

We are in the upper part of Skagen, making our way down to the lower and older part.

The Clarion Hotel is where a cannery used to be. The cannery ran for three generations before being demolished in 1964 and replaced with the hotel. For example, Chr. Bjelland & Co, is one of Stavanger’s most famous canneries (see the history section). 

Certainly, as we walk along Skagen, you’ll notice many references to shipbuilding, merchants, and steamships (dampskip). It indicates what exactly this street was used for. 

Most importantly, Skagen 18 is one of the city’s oldest and most famous buildings. It is from after the 1684 fire, though a building stood here before then. The oldest known inhabitants are Sidsel Olsdatter Cruys and Albert Albertsen Libert. They aren’t famous Norwegians; just residents who have been remembered in history thanks to their house being the longest lasting. They lived here between 1687 and 1700. Moreover, inside the building are rosemaling decorations from before 1710. Merchant and shipowner Ole Smith Plow is the next owner; establishing his business in 1768. In 1787, the building got its Rococo facade.

Today it is a bakery.

M/S Rogaland

Rogaland was built by the local shipyard in 1929. She sailed in the Coastal Express Service between Oslo and Stavanger during the day. At night, she did the Night Service between Stavanger and Bergen.

In Bergen in April 1944, during the occupation, there was a large explosion on the harbour. That explosion killed one crew member of the Rogaland, injured five and seriously damaged the ship. The ship sank to the bottom of the bay. Declared a write-off, compensation went to the owner and the Stavangerske Company bought the wreckage. It was sealed in a shipyard in Bergen and then towed to a shipyard in Stavanger for repairs. Repairs finished in 1947. The ship resumed regular service at a limited passenger capacity. 

After sending service in 1965, a group of enthusiasts purchased the ship in the 1980s. After lots of restoration, it is operational and can carry up to 100 passengers. The ship features in the 2016 film Dunkirk as a painted white hospital ship. The ship may or may not be in the harbour. If you walk onto the other side of the bay, you’ll see an information board for the ship. 

We’ve made it back to Torget and are now at the end of our walk.

I hope you enjoyed this Stavanger self-guided walking tour.

2 Comments on The Streets of Stavanger Self-Guided Walking Tour

Hi, do you do a printed version of the stavanger self guided city walk and also the Haugesund one too? Thanks Ashleigh

Hey! I’ve been putting the finishing touches on a Stavanger self-guided walk, and it’ll be available on our online store within the next couple weeks. I’m still developing a Haugesund walk.

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THE 5 BEST Stavanger Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in stavanger.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Guided hike to Pulpit Rock Preikestolen

2. Stavanger: Waterfalls, Caves and Rock Tour By Sea

3. Boat Cruise to Lysefjorden and The Pulpit Rock, Fixed tour price

4. Guided hike to Florli 4,444 steps

5. An amazing guided private walking tour of Stavanger.

6. Stavanger City Island, Guided cruise tour

7. Swords in Rock monument and Stavanger highlights private tour

8. Experience the magnificent Lysefjord, Pulpit Rock. Join-in tour from Stavanger

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Haugesund Shore Excursion: Åkrafjorden & Langfoss waterfall

Rib safari Tour in Haugesund

Highlights of the Region Haugesund Guided Bus Tour

Guided EL-Bike tour in the city of Haugesund and Coastal path

The Viking Planet and Cruise to "The Viking Farm", Avaldsnes.

5-Hour Guided Hike Tour to Himakånå The Mini Trolltunga

Scenic tour to Steinsfjellet, locals at Kringsjå & Rising Tide

What travelers are saying.

• Stavanger: Waterfalls, Caves and Rock Tour By Sea
• Guided hike to Pulpit Rock Preikestolen
• Guided hike to Florli 4,444 steps
• Boat Cruise to Lysefjorden and The Pulpit Rock, Fixed tour price
• An amazing guided private walking tour of Stavanger.

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Race information

• Date: 29 May 2022
• Start time: 12:10
• Avg. speed winner: 42.889 km/h
• Race category: ME - Men Elite
• Distance: 149.3 km
• Points scale: 2.PRO.Stage
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• ProfileScore: 38
• Vert. meters: 1231
• Departure: Stavanger
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23 Things to Do in Stavanger, Norway – From a Local!

January 4, 2023 by Silvia Leave a Comment

To be perfectly honest I only recently realized what a wonderful city Stavanger is to visit. I had driven through Stavanger several times and never thought much of it, but I also had never spent the time to properly explore the city. But then my friend Vanessa moved to Stavanger and really opened my eyes to it, and now I even occasionally find myself suggesting that people visit Stavanger instead of Bergen !

I’ve visited Vanessa in Stavanger four times now (in January, July, and twice in December), but if you’ve read any of my other Norway travel guides you’ll know that I only like to write about places I know incredibly well, as I want to give you the most in depth and helpful information possible. So I enlisted Vanessa’s help to compile this Stavanger travel guide so that you can experience the best Stavanger has to offer, according to a local. Thanks, Vanessa! Here she shares some of the best things to do in Stavanger and best day trips from Stavanger, Norway. 

And if you want my most in depth travel advice, you can buy my Norway travel ebooks here . 

Table of Contents

Things To Do in Stavanger

Stavanger walking tour.

One of my favorite ways to get to know a new city is simply to wander around downtown. I especially enjoyed doing this with Vanessa because she could share lots of local history as we walked – it helps that she used to work as a tour guide! If you want that same local experience, I highly recommend booking a guided walking tour for your first morning in Stavanger. This private Stavanger walking tour is fully customizable, so you can tell your guide what you’re interested in seeing and learning about. 

Translating to “the color street”, Øvre Holmegate or simply “ Fargegaten ” as the locals call it, is located just up the hill from the downtown harbor area and attracts visitors and locals alike who’re looking to grab a coffee or drink. There are a dozen bars to choose from, some also functioning as cafes during the day. So whether you’re looking to simply enjoy a coffee, a cold beer, a fancy cocktail or some Turkish tea, chances are you’ll find what you’re looking for.  

The street actually used to be quite boring back in the day, until local entrepreneurs sat down to think how they could attract more people to their part of town. Their simple but brilliant idea was to paint each of the plain white buildings on the street a unique color, resulting in a beautiful rainbow of buildings. And the street really lives up to its new nickname – it’s super colorful!

Make sure to read on for where to grab a drink in Fargegaten.

Stavanger has the discovery of large quantities of oil in the North Sea to thank for its current reputation as a vibrant and international city. It used to be a sleepy fishing and farming town, but by the 1980s, the city was suddenly filled with Texans working in the oil industry and American schools and neighborhoods started popping up. The city remains very international and has quite a large expat population, while still also maintaing its charm from the old days as a Norwegian fishery town.  

Exactly how the city developed and how Norway became one of the wealthiest countries in the world is something you can learn all about in the Norwegian Petroleum Museum downtown. Rather than just glorifying the past, the museum does a really good job of presenting both the positive and negative aspects of the industry and its impact not only on Stavanger and Norway, but on the world in general. The museum even has a separate exhibition on climate change and carbon footprints.  

You don’t need to be particularly fussed or even interested in the oil industry itself to enjoy a few hours at this very interactive and exciting museum!

Gamle Stavanger & IDDIS

If the modern multicultural side of Norway doesn’t really appeal to you and you’d rather experience a more traditional side of the country, the old town of Stavanger (also known as Gamle Stavanger) is the place to be.

With its 173 old wooden buildings from the 18 th and 19 th centuries, the old town really is the most charming neighborhood in the city. Go for a stroll in the little alleyways, greet the cats that live there, visit one of the many arts and handicrafts shops around, or head to IDDIS – the Norwegian Printing and Canning Museum.  

Wonder what printing and canning might possibly have in common? Back in the day when Stavanger still used to be a fishery town and heavily dependent on herring, said fish would be canned and sold all over the world. To market the canned herring, the most colorful and original labels would be used, and you can still find 35,000 can labels at the museum today! 

Pro tip: Head here on a Tuesday or Thursday in summer when you can try smoked sprats fresh out the oven!

Sverd i fjell

About a 10 minute ride outside of the city center you’ll find Sverd i fjell. This is a monument consisting of three swords in a rock, symbolizing the unification of Norway into one kingdom by the famous Viking Harald Fairhair. The monument was erected in the 1980s and is made of bronze and situated right by Harfsfjord, where the famous battle of Harfsfjord that lead to Harald becoming the first king of a united Norway supposedly took place.  

Pro tip: If you visit in June, you might be able to experience the local Viking festival Harfsfjordkaupangen that takes place in the bay by the swords each year!

Lysefjord cruise

I’m putting this in the middle of the list of things to do in Stavanger for a reason! While many people only pass through Stavanger or just stay a day here to see Lysefjord and hike Pulpit Rock, the city actually has a lot more to offer than this. But it’s true that Lysefjord really is a majestic fjord to experience, no matter the weather. So while I do think you should stay in Stavanger long enough to see a bit of the city, you certainly don’t want to visit without seeing the famous Lysefjord as well. 

If you really want to feel the grandeur of this fjord, I recommend taking a RIB safari cruise from Stavanger. These boat rides are so fun (and fast!) and being so low on the water is a much more special experience than sitting inside a ferry. This RIB cruise departs from Stavanger and takes you through Lysefjord, with the opportunity of spotting seals, eagles, caves, and waterfalls along the way. 

But if you want something a bit more comfortable, this Lysefjord boat cruise also looks wonderful, and includes majestic views of Norway’s famous Pulpit Rock and an opportunity to drink water straight from Hengjane Waterfall. 

Kayaking through Lysefjord

If you’re even more adventurous, this guided kayaking trip along Lysefjord looks so special, and I particularly love that the guide will take photos of you! 

Pulpit Rock

The top of Pulpit Rock is one of Norway’s most iconic views – in fact Pulpit Rock ( Preikestolen in Norwegian) might actually be the most famous hike in all of Norway. So you know it’s well worth visiting. However, be aware that as Norway’s most famous hike, Pulpit Rock is incredibly popular and you’ll likely have to share the hike with hundreds of other tourists, especially if you’re visiting in July. 

If you’re up for the hike, be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail can be super slippery when wet, try to start early (before 8 am) if you want to beat the crowds, and last but certainly not least, don’t underestimate it! The hike is about 8 km long in total and it takes on average two hours to get up and two hours to get down again. There’s a total elevation gain of 500 meters, so you will feel your legs and feet at the end of it.

Make sure to go on a clear day – there are often low-hanging clouds and/or fog in the fjord, and you can quickly risk not seeing anything at all on the top if you go on a rainy day! This is another good reason to spend several days in Stavanger. If you keep your schedule flexible, you can choose to hike Pulpit Rock on the day with the best weather. 

You can either drive to the start of the Pulpit Rock, which takes about 45 minutes from Stavanger, or take a boat. 

If you would prefer to go with a guide, this guided Pulpit Rock hike starts with a ferry ride from Stavanger. While you can certainly do this hike in the summer without a guide, I would recommend a guide if you want to hike Pulpit Rock during the rest of the year, as conditions can make the hike more tricky, and you have to be very careful of daylight when the sun sets early.  This snowshoe hike to Pulpit Rock is perfect for the winter and early spring. 

Another nice hike and an easy alternative for those who aren’t up for Pulpit Rock is the hike to Dalsnuten in Stavanger’s neighboring town Sandnes. The hike only takes 1 ½ hours in total with an elevation gain of only about 200 meters and a total length of about 4 km. This is one of those low effort, high reward hikes, as you’ll be rewarded with a view of Stavanger and the surrounding area from above!  

Kjeragbolten hike

If you’re looking for something even more adventurous than Pulpit Rock, the Kjeragbolten hike might be for you! You’ve probably seen photos of Kjerag’s iconic boulder suspended between the highest peaks in Ryfylke. This is a demanding hike and certainly not for anyone with a strong fear of heights, which is why I’ve never done it.

The hike takes about 10 hours round trip, with an ascent of 800 meters. You can only attempt this hike between May and October, and if you want added safety I would recommend going with a guide. This guided Kjeragbolten hike starts with a ferry ride from Stavanger. 

Flor & Fjære

One thing besides Pulpit Rock that you can’t find anywhere else in Norway but Stavanger is the exotic palm island paradise at Flor & Fjære. Situated just 20 minutes from Stavanger by boat on the island of Sør-Hidle, this very colorful and exotic botanical garden originally started as a hobby for a local gardener with a holiday house on the island.

As the island is sheltered from the wind it has a micro-climate where even in winter it’s usually 5 degrees warmer here than in Stavanger. This milder climate helped the garden to grow and grow, and the owner got more and more experimental with it.  

Today, you can find 50,000 flowers here that are planted from scratch every spring, with a restaurant located in a greenhouse that serves delicious local and seasonal produce. The season runs from May to September, and you can’t get here by public transport. Instead you have to buy an entry ticket to the garden, which includes a boat shuttle from the city center in Stavanger. The ticket also includes a guided tour of the garden and, most importantly, a three-course meal in the restaurant.

A visit here truly is such a special experience and one that you can’t get anywhere else in Norway, so don’t miss out!

Tungenes fyr

Can’t get enough of the ocean? Head out to the neighbouring small town of Randaberg and take a walk around the lighthouse Tungenes fyr. One of many at the North Sea coast, and especially the Jæren coast surrounding Stavanger, Tungenes was fully functioning up until the 1980s and today serves as a museum. The inside is left as it was back when the last lighthouse keeper was still living there in the 1930s. There’s also a café inside which is open every day during the summer and every Sunday during off-season.

Pro-tip: Take a walk along the coast from Tungenes lighthouse to the beach Sandestranden.  

The sandy beaches of the Jæren coast

Stavanger is near two of Norway’s famous Scenic Routes , one of which is Jæren. You might feel like you’re actually in Denmark when you stand in the rolling sand dunes of Jæren looking out on the turquoise blue water, but yes, this is in fact still Norway.

If you’re dependent on public transport, you can easily take the bus to the airport and then walk to Sola beach from there. Otherwise, there are plenty of beaches to visit by car. The longest and least crowded one of them is Orrestranden. But beware: since the beach isn’t the most crowded one, it’s gotten popular amongst nudists and people wanting to have a good old romantic time in the sand dunes – much to the dismay of the locals. So, you might want to watch out – or rather, look away?

Drive along the Ryfylke Scenic Route

While Vanessa loves the Jæren Scenic Route, I’m actually not much of a beach person, so I find the long, flat drive kind of boring. I much prefer the mountainous Ryfylke Scenic Route .

If you’re also more of a mountain than beach person, you’ll definitely want to take the time to drive at least part of this route, which starts 45 minutes outside of Stavanger in Oanes. The landscape is rocky and jagged in places, but it also has plenty of soft rolling hills dotted with the cutest little Norwegian farms. 

If you want to know more about renting a car and driving in Norway, read my complete guide to planning a Norwegian road trip here . 

And if you do take this route, I can highly recommend spending a night at Hoiland Gård , which is about 1 hour 45 minutes from Stavanger, along the Ryfylke Scenic Route.

I spent a night in their glamping tent and it was one of the highlights of my most recent trip to Stavanger. The views here are incredible, and while here you can also check out the Fairytale Forest, or Eventyrskogen in Norwegian, which is just a short walk from the farm.  Check current rates and availability at Hoiland Gård here. 

Where to eat and drink in Stavanger

Pedersgata  .

A visit to Pedersgata is a must, not just to grab a bite to eat, but also to get more acquainted with Stavanger in general. Back in the day, Pedersgata used to be the shady side of town. It was here where the harbor and fishery workers lived – oftentimes in tight quarters and quite poor environments.

In recent times, however, the street has made a massive development and went from the side of town you’d rather avoid to the side of town where you can now find some of the best and hippest restaurants. Whether you’re up for Pakistani, Mexican, Vietnamese or Italian – Pedersgata truly offers something for everyone.  

Make sure to try Korean bao buns at YIPS , sourdough pizza at Panzanella , square pizza at Mano , authentic Pakistani food at Zouq , authentic Mexican tacos at Casa Salsitas , or head to Sabi Sushi for some of the best sushi in town.

For dessert, try Siddis Gelato for ice-cream, Sandi for heavenly cakes, or Bønnespiren for vegan treats. And last, but not least, for drinks head to Matros for a pint in a super cosy maritime atmosphere, or Lapin for some wine tasting.  

Lervig Local

Stavanger’s local micro-brewery and hippest hang-out, Lervig Local just up the hill from the city center is certainly the place to be. Come here for a pint in the garden on a sunny day, quiz night on Wednesdays, a bite to eat for lunch, or simply just a coffee. The highlight of Lervig Local, however, is the selection of locally produced beers on tap. Make sure to try some of the less obvious ones – you might be in for a treat!

Fargegaten  

THE place to head for a drink! Try Pjolter & Punsj for delicious cocktails, Efendi for Turkish tea and cocktails, Frøken Pil for a drink and board games with friends in a super cosy atmosphere, Bøker & Borst for a slice of cake and some coffee in what appears to be a book shop but is, in fact, a lot more than that, and last but not least Bacchus for some afternoon snacks in a side alley off the hustle and bustle of town.  

Noodle Noodle  

Try the chicken katzu curry in this Asian fusion restaurant right at the edge of Fargegaten. The portion size is massive, so maybe ask for a doggy bag. I can also recommend the Thai red curry! Or maybe ramen instead?  

If you fancy some Italian and want to dine out on a sunny day, Olivia is where you should head. Their pizza selection is divine and with their location right by the harbor of Stavanger, it’s the perfect place for people watching too. Just beware of the seagulls who might try to get their share!

Fisketorget

You might want to try some Norwegian cuisine while you’re here and what better way to do so than to try some traditional fish soup? Fisketorget at the harbor is by far the most popular place in Stavanger for this – they even have a counter running of how many liters of fish soup they’ve served that day and month! 

Kanelsnurren

Norway does produce some delicious pastry! Definitely head to Kanelsnurren to try one of their cinnamon rolls – the café is named after them, so you can only expect them to be yummy. They also serve delicious sunshine rolls ( solskinnboller ), and with their location on the market square, you can easily spend an hour here just watching the world go by.  

Sirkus Renaa

From the owners of one of Stavanger’s three Michelin star restaurants, Sirkus Renaa is a more affordable place to grab a bite that still doesn’t compromise on the quality of the food. They have two cafés in the city and both locations tend to be jam-packed by locals, which is always a good sign!

Their sourdough pizza is equally as delicious as their croissants, and they serve organic drinks alongside their food. They also have amazing gelato, so make sure to leave some space for that as well!

This is for all the vegans out there! Bellies is a 100% vegan restaurant in Stavanger’s hip East where you’ll be served a full 7 course menu completely based on seasonal, local and plant-based ingredients – all the wine served is vegan too. A full course lasts around 2,5 hours, but you can also head here for lunch if you fancy something simpler.  

How to get to Stavanger

Stavanger has direct routes to/from Oslo, Bergen and Kristiansand (SAS, Norwegian and Widerøe respectively), as well as Trondheim (SAS). And with Stavanger being the oil capital of Norway, there’s also a decent selection of direct flight routes from abroad, including:

– Amsterdam (KLM) – Copenhagen (SAS, Norwegian) – London (Norwegian, SAS, Wizz Air) – Frankfurt (Lufthansa) – Barcelona (Norwegian) – Stockholm (SAS)

A cheaper way of getting to Stavanger is taking the ferry – either from Bergen if you’re on a mission to explore all of Western Norway, or from Hirtshals if you’re driving up from Denmark/mainland Europe. The ferry between Bergen and Stavanger takes approximately 5 hours and tickets can be found starting at 250 NOK (excluding a car), while the ride across the North Sea from Denmark takes 11 ½ hours.  

By train/bus

If you’re already travelling around Norway and want to make Stavanger one stop on your journey, you could also take the train/bus from Oslo or Kristiansand, or the bus from Bergen. While the ferry from Bergen is a cheaper and more comfortable way of travelling, you might want to see more of the coastline of the country, in which case the Kystbussen bus could be a good alternative. It also has the advantage of taking you right to the city center of Stavanger, while the ferry only stops in neighbouring Tananger and you have to take an additional 30 minute bus ride from there into town.  

Coming from Eastern/Southern Norway, you can take the train from Oslo or Kristiansand. The journey from Kristiansand takes a mere 3 hours while the journey from Oslo takes 8 hours. Train tickets are most affordable when bought about 3 months in advance.  

There’s also a bus service running from Oslo/Kristiansand to Stavanger, but journey times and prices are roughly the same, so I’d opt for the train, as it’s more comfortable.

Where to stay in Stavanger

You’re going to want to plan your accommodation well in advance when visiting Stavanger, as it’s not uncommon for the city’s hotels to all fully book out. Don’t worry, I’m including tips for where to look if the city center is fully booked, but if you want your first choice of hotels definitely book your Stavanger hotels early. Like right now! 

Hotel Victoria

Fancy a stay at a hotel that first opened its doors in 1900? Hotel Victoria has been completely refurbished since that time, but the charm of the old days remains. With its location right by the harbor of Stavanger and an exquisite afternoon tea that oftentimes is booked out months in advance, you can be sure that a stay at this hotel is money well spent.   Check current rates and availability here.

Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge

A slightly more affordable option just down the road, so equally central, is Hotel Skagen Brygge. Located in traditional fisherman buildings and with a stunning view of the harbor, a room here comes with breakfast, afternoon tea and even a simple dinner!  Check current rates and availability here.

Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel

Stavanger’s fanciest modern hotel is worth the splurge. Situated just down the road of the train station, the hotel comes with a sauna, a barbecue restaurant, a fantastic view over the small lake Breiavatnet, and an excellent selection of cocktails at the hotel bar.   Check current rates and availability here.

Scandic Stavanger City

If you’re looking for something slightly more affordable but with an amazing breakfast buffet and a location in the center of the city, Scandic Stavanger City is a great choice. Pro tip: You can rent their bikes for free, and that way explore even more of the city.  Check current rates and availability here. 

Clarion Hotel Energy

Situated a 10-minute bus journey from the city center but within walking distance to the Swords in Rock monument, Clarion Hotel Energy usually has availability when all the hotels in the city center have been long booked out, and the hotel comes with decent sized rooms and a great breakfast buffet for an affordable rate. Check current rates and availability here. 

Smarthotel Forus

If you don’t mind staying in Stavanger’s neighbouring city Sandnes and want to save money, Smarthotel Forus is a good option. With a 30-minute bus journey to Stavanger, you do have to travel a fair bit to see it all, but at least you can save quite a bit of money for more Norway adventures. More advantages of staying here: Smarthotel Forus is Norway’s first and only street art hotel with street art that can be found both, on the outside and inside of the hotel, and parking here is free! Check current rates and availability here. 

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Stavanger Cruise Port Guide | 8 Best Things To Do In Stavanger

Welcome to Stavanger cruise port, nestled on the southwest coast of Norway known for its picturesque town center, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage. Stavanger proudly claims to be the Viking birthplace, where history and myth come together.

As you go east, the scenery changes to spectacular Norwegian fjords and towering mountains, among which stands out the stunning Lysefjord, home to the legendary Preikestolen, or “the Pulpit Rock”. To the south is Jaeren, an area with flat, open landscapes and extensive sandy beaches. In this post, read about:

• Stavanger cruise port (Stavanger cruise terminal, getting around)
• 8 best things to do in Stavanger port , including the shore excursions

Visit also our cruise port guides to Alesund , Tromso , Oslo , Bergen , Olden , Stockholm , Copenhagen

Stavanger Cruise Port

Stavanger cruise terminal is conveniently located near the historic Old Town (also known as Gamle Stavanger) and within walking distance of various attractions. Cruise ships primarily dock at the Strandkaien Quay , which can accommodate up to two cruise vessels, depending on the size.

If more ships are in port Stavanger, which rarely happens, cruise ships may dock in Mekjarvik, a commercial port located about 10 km/6 miles (a 15-minute drive) northwest of Stavanger, or they may tender.

There are no facilities at Strandkaien Quay, except for a Tourist Information Center where you can get city maps and useful information from friendly English-speaking staff. Taxis and parking for buses are available on the pier. Shops, restaurants, cafes and landmarks are located within a short walk from the terminal. There may be a Hop on Hop off bus service, however, get the latest updates at the Tourist Information Center.

Getting Around & Local Transportation

• Stavanger is a compact and walkable city, making it easy for cruise passengers to explore its attractions on foot .
• The city has an efficient public transportation network, which includes buses, trains and ferries, operated by Kolumbus company. You can pay for the ticket by cash, card or using a prepaid Kolumbus card. Stavanger’s train station and the adjacent main bus terminal are located in the city center, around 900 m (a 12-minute walk) southeast of the port of Stavanger. However, due to the ship’s limited time in port, using public transportation may not be the best idea for cruise passengers.
• Ferries are a popular way of getting around, as they connect the city center with the nearby islands. Stavanger Ferry Terminal is located around 1 km/0.60 miles (less than a 15-minute walk) southeast of the cruise port. Stavanger is also a bike-friendly city and you can rent e-bikes at or near the bus stations. For both ferries and bikes, check the timetables and get more information at Kolumbus’ official website .
• Stavanger has an excellent road infrastructure and plenty of parking facilities in and around the city. Before renting a car , make sure you inquire about the driving regulations in Norway. Check out Stavanger rent-a-car deals
• Exploring Stavanger’s spectacular fjords, including the majestic Lysefjord, is definitely best on a guided shore excursion , with your cruise line, or in your arrangement. Explore Stavanger tours and activities
• The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone, also known as the kroner (NOK). US dollars are not accepted. You can use credit/debit cards almost everywhere.
• Some of the major cruise lines sailing to Stavanger include Royal Caribbean International, P&O Cruises, Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Princess Cruises, Silversea, MSC Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and TUI Cruises .

8 Best Things to Do in Stavanger Cruise Port

From the charming Old Town (Gamle Stavanger), historic Stavanger Cathedral and the city’s museums, to the iconic natural landmarks like Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten in the nearby Lysefjord, this city has something for everyone’s taste!

1. Stavanger Old Town (Gamle Stavanger)

Just a short walk from the port of Stavanger, you’ll reach Stavanger Old Town, also known as Gamle Stavanger. This historic, well-preserved neighborhood features cobblestone streets and white-washed wooden houses dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Located on the west side of Vågen in the city center, the Old Town consists of 173 wooden buildings that will transport you to the past.

The area offers a charming atmosphere for visitors to stroll through and explore boutique shops, galleries, and cafes, providing a glimpse into Stavanger’s rich maritime and cultural heritage. Housed in one of these historic houses, the Stavanger Maritime Museum showcases ship models and artifacts related to the city’s maritime history.

Explore Stavanger Old Town tours and activities

2. Stavanger Cathedral

Stavanger Cathedral, located only a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal along the waterfront, is the oldest cathedral in Norway, dating back to the 12th century. Set in the heart of Stavanger, this medieval church is a striking example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The cathedral has undergone various renovations throughout its history and features intricate details, stained glass windows, and a beautiful interior.

Check out Stavanger Cathedral tours and activities

3. Norwegian Petroleum Museum

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum is situated 900 m from Stavanger cruise port, right next to the ferry terminal. This modern museum provides an immersive experience with interactive displays offering a unique insight into Norway’s oil and gas industry. Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits, models, and multimedia displays that detail the nation’s development into becoming a major player in the petroleum sector. From drilling platforms to seismic surveys, each exhibit provides a hands-on experience, allowing you to understand the complexity and significance of Norway’s contributions to the global energy scene.

Explore Norwegian Petroleum Museum tours and activities

4. Lysefjord

Immerse yourself in the stunning views of Lysefjord, a 40-kilometer-long fjord located near Stavanger, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and iconic landmarks. Known as the “Light Fjord” because of its light-colored granite cliffs, Lusefjord is a breathtaking gem located in the southwestern region of Norway’s Rogaland area.

One of Lysefjord’s well-known landmarks is the iconic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) , a massive cliff soaring 604 meters above the fjord, offering spectacular panoramic views of the fjord and its surrounding landscapes. Also, don’t forget to visit Kjerag, a daring cliff that showcases Kjeragbolten —a massive rock trapped between two cliffs. Just standing on this hanging rock is an adrenaline-packed experience by itself, providing a unique and exciting view of the fjord.

When exploring Lysefjord, consider taking a guided tour. These tours often include transportation (by boat or bus), allowing you to unwind and enjoy the drive as a knowledgeable guide provides fascinating facts about the fjord and its surroundings. For those seeking a more independent adventure, renting a car is an excellent choice. The attractions mentioned above are easily accessed via hiking trails and to reach them, follow signs or use navigation apps to guide you to specific parking areas.

Explore Lysefjord tours and activities

5. Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)

Daring and adventurous, this one’s for you! Take a scenic tour of Pulpit Rock, a breathtaking rock that soars 604 meters above the Lysefjord. This natural marvel provides an exciting experience and rewards adventurous travelers with breathtaking panoramic views of this beautiful Norwegian fjord.

The journey to Pulpit Rock begins with a stroll through magnificent scenery, winding between rugged terrain and lush surroundings. Once you reach the top, a visual feast of nature’s beauty awaits with the towering cliffs dropping dramatically into the fjord below, offering an overwhelming feeling of thrill. While the hike to Pulpit Rock is not for the faint-hearted, the memories made and the breathtaking beauty you’ll witness make it an absolute must for anyone wanting an adrenaline rush and a connection with the raw beauty of Norway’s natural marvels.

The best way to visit Pulpit Rock is on a guided tour, but you can also rent a car and drive there. A ride also includes a ferry portion from Stavanger to the town of Tau, from where you continue to Lysefjord. Ferries run frequently but the crossing takes about 40 minutes so be mindful of that when planning your day. Overall time you need to reach Pulpit Rock by car is about 1 hour and a half.

Explore Pulpit Rock tours and activities

6. Fjord Cruises

Take your Stavanger experience to the next level by joining a fjord cruise, which takes you on an immersive trip through cascading waterfalls and spectacular landscapes of Norway’s natural wonders. This is perfect for those of you who want to experience Lysefjord from the water and see the majestic waterfalls and local wildlife.

One of the cruise’s highlights is passing beneath the famed Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), which allows you to see this towering natural monument from a whole different perspective. Some fjord cruises may also pass by the Kjerag mountain, known for the daring Kjeragbolten, a massive boulder wedged between two cliffs.

As you navigate through the fjords, you may encounter small islands and coastal villages, providing a glimpse into local life and traditional Norwegian architecture. Also, keep an eye out for the local wildlife that calls the fjords home! Seals, porpoises, and a variety of seabirds are frequently seen on the cruise. The knowledgeable guides on board can give intriguing insights into the diverse ecosystems that flourish in these waters.

Explore Fjord cruises and boat trips

Jæren is a coastal region in southwestern Norway, known for its expansive beaches, flat landscapes, and agricultural areas. This region is conveniently located approximately 15 to 20 km southwest of Stavanger, making it easily accessible for a day trip. You can explore Jaeren’s vast sandy beaches, surrounded by dunes and lapped by the North Sea, among which Solastranden and Orrestranden are popular for recreational activities and walks.

Renowned for its historic lighthouses, the region offers outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching amidst its diverse birdlife. Jæren has a rich cultural history, and there are historical sites and landmarks to explore, including Old farms, burial mounds, and remnants of ancient settlements. The most flexible way to reach Jaeren is by car and the journey takes around 30 minutes. You can also book a guided tour.

Check out Jaeren tours and activities

8. Seafood Delights

Savor the flavors of Stavanger’s culinary scene, which is known for its exceptional seafood options with dishes featuring fresh catches like salmon, cod, and shellfish. The city’s proximity to the abundant North Sea guarantees a seafood experience unlike any other. Local restaurants, with a focus on quality and authenticity, serve up dishes that represent the region’s maritime heritage.

For an authentic taste of Stavanger, don’t miss the opportunity to try classic dishes such as Gravlaks (cured salmon), Skjell (scallops), or Pannestekt Torsk (pan-fried cod). Pair your culinary delights with local beverages, and let the cozy atmosphere of Stavanger’s restaurants elevate your dining experience.

Explore Stavanger food tours

Visit also our cruise port guides to Amsterdam , Le Havre , Liverpool , Belfast , Reykjavik , Akureyri , Isafjordur

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