Stavanger
Stavanger - Vacation Briefing
Stavanger, Norway is a picturesque coastal city located in southwestern Norway. With its charming old town and stunning natural beauty, it offers a unique blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city's restaurants and cafes. Explore the breathtaking Lysefjord with its towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, or hike to the iconic Pulpit Rock for a panoramic view of the fjord. Stavanger is also known for its rich history in the oil industry, which can be explored at the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. With its vibrant arts scene and diverse range of outdoor activities, Stavanger has something to offer for everyone.
Popular Sights in Stavanger
Things to do during your Stavanger vacation
Stavanger is a vibrant city located in southwest Norway. It is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and exciting activities. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's historic sites, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Stavanger has something for everyone.
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) Hike: Embark on a challenging hike to the iconic Preikestolen cliff and enjoy breathtaking views of the Lysefjord.
- Stavanger Cathedral: Visit Stavanger Cathedral, built in the 12th century, and marvel at its beautiful Gothic architecture.
- Norwegian Petroleum Museum: Explore the interactive exhibits at the Norwegian Petroleum Museum and learn about Norway's offshore oil industry.
- Old Stavanger: Take a stroll through Old Stavanger, a charming neighborhood with well-preserved wooden houses dating back to the 18th century.
- Sola Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Sola Beach, located just outside of Stavanger, and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
- Stavanger Art Museum: Discover a collection of Norwegian and international art at the Stavanger Art Museum, including works by Edvard Munch.
- Lysefjord Cruise: Cruise along the picturesque Lysefjord and witness impressive waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and dramatic landscapes.
- Tou Scene: Visit Tou Scene, a former brewery turned contemporary arts center, and experience innovative exhibitions, concerts, and performances.
- Local Food Market: Indulge in the flavors of Stavanger at a local food market, where you can sample fresh seafood, traditional Norwegian dishes, and locally produced delicacies.
- Museum of Archaeology: Immerse yourself in the region's history at the Museum of Archaeology, which showcases artifacts and exhibits from the Viking Age.
- Stavanger Botanic Garden: Take a leisurely stroll through the Stavanger Botanic Garden and admire its diverse collection of plants, flowers, and sculptures.
Why you should visit Stavanger
Stavanger, Norway is a highly desirable destination with many attractions and activities.
Stavanger has a relatively low crime rate and is politically stable. However, it's important to be mindful of natural hazards like avalanches and storms in certain seasons.
Stavanger boasts a rich cultural heritage with its museums, historical sites, and cultural events. Visitors can also explore the diverse local cuisine.
Stavanger offers a decent nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues, but it may not be as vibrant as some other major cities.
While Stavanger offers some adventurous activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports, it may not have as many extreme adventure options compared to certain destinations.
Stavanger is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, including beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and serene lakes, making it a great destination for relaxation.
Best time to visit Stavanger
Stavanger's best time to visit is between June and August when you can enjoy mild temperatures, long days, and vibrant outdoor activities.
A guide To your first day of Stavanger vacation
morning
- Visit the charming Old Stavanger with its beautiful wooden houses.
- Explore the Stavanger Cathedral, a historic and stunning piece of architecture.
afternoon
- Take a boat tour to see the stunning Lysefjord and its famous Preikestolen cliff.
- Visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to learn about the oil industry in Stavanger.
evening
- Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
- Take a stroll along the picturesque harbor and enjoy the sunset views.
night
- Experience the lively nightlife at one of the cozy pubs or bars in the city center.
- Attend a concert or cultural event at the Stavanger Concert Hall or the Stavanger Cathedral.
How to get to Stavanger
By Plane
Stavanger Airport Sola (SVG) is the main international gateway to Stavanger. It offers frequent flights to major European cities like London, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam. The airport is located just a short distance from the city center, making it convenient for quick transfers or longer stays. Pro tip: Pre-book your transportation from the airport to your accommodation to save time and hassle upon arrival.
By other means
Stavanger is well-connected by public transport, especially trains and buses. The Stavanger train station is a hub for regional and national services, with frequent trains from Oslo and Bergen. Buses offer convenient connections to neighboring towns and attractions. Don't miss the chance to experience the scenic train journey from Oslo to Stavanger, offering breathtaking views of Norway's picturesque landscapes.
Tips for Booking Your Trip
Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.
Flights: How to Score the Best Deal
First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.
Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot
For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.
Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!
Flights
Accommodation
Best for travelers who are ...
Nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a charming coastal destination
How long to stay in Stavanger?
A minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to explore the main attractions and enjoy outdoor activities. However, for a more in-depth experience, a week-long stay allows for additional exploration and day trips to nearby scenic areas.
Nearby
If you're already in Stavanger, Norway you might want to consider visiting these nearby destinations: