Stavanger

Norway, Europe

Stavanger, Norway, is a charming coastal city known for its striking fjords, vibrant cultural scene, and historic architecture. Home to the breathtaking Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and the picturesque old wooden houses in Gamle Stavanger, this delightful destination offers outdoor adventures and rich history. Visitors can enjoy the lively food scene, including the famous seafood markets, alongside numerous art galleries and festivals, making Stavanger a must-visit for both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Stavanger Sola

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Stavanger

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to Preikestolen

Climb to the iconic cliff for breathtaking views.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Old Town (Gamle Stavanger)

Wander through charming wooden houses and art galleries.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum

Learn about Norway's oil history and its impact.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a Fjord Cruise

Sail through stunning fjords and witness nature's beauty.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Stavanger Cathedral

Explore Norway's oldest cathedral, dating back to 1125.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Check out the Stavanger Art Museum

Discover contemporary art and local exhibitions.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at the beaches of Jæren

Enjoy sunbathing and surfing at beautiful beaches.

No booking required
8

Est. 4.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience the Lysefjord

Marvel at stunning cliffs, including Kjeragbolten.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Canning Museum

Learn about Stavanger's historical canning industry.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll along the waterfront promenade

Enjoy a scenic walk with views of the harbor.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Gladmat Food Festival

Taste local delicacies at Norway's largest food festival.

No booking required
12

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a bike tour around Stavanger

Explore the city on two wheels with a guided tour.

Booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Iron Age Farm

Experience Viking history at a reconstructed farm.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-20%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

10 (#8 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Norwegian Krone

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Norwegian

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Fårikål

Lamb and cabbage stew, hearty dish. (National dish)

Smalahove

Smoked sheep's head, traditional dish.

Lutefisk

Dried fish soaked in lye, unique flavor.

Rakfisk

Fermented fish, served with sides.

Kjøttkaker

Meatballs served with gravy and potatoes.

Phrases to learn

English

Norwegian

Hello

Hallo

(Ha-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nei

(Yah / Nay)

Thank you

Takk

(Tack)

Excuse me

Unnskyld

(Oon-shild)

How much?

Hvor mye?

(Vor mee-yeh)