Things to do in Stavanger
Stavanger, Norway, offers a rich blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the best activities and attractions you can enjoy in this dynamic city.
Explore old Stavanger
Start your visit by exploring Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger), a charming area known for its well-preserved wooden buildings from the 18th century. This part of the city is one of Europe’s best-preserved wooden house settlements, offering picturesque streets and an authentic feel of historical Norway.
Visit the Norwegian petroleum museum
The Norwegian Petroleum Museum provides an intriguing look into the oil and gas industry, which has been a major part of Stavanger’s development. Interactive exhibits explain drilling, production, and what life is like working on an offshore drilling platform.
Hike to Pulpit Rock
No trip to Stavanger would be complete without a hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), one of Norway’s most famous natural attractions. The four-hour round trip hike offers spectacular views over Lysefjord and the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy the culinary scene
Stavanger is known for its vibrant food scene, including the Gladmat Food Festival, Scandinavia’s largest food festival held every July. The city also boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants and plenty of spots offering fresh, local ingredients in inventive dishes.
Tour the Stavanger cathedral
Visit Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Norway that has been continuously used since its completion in the early 12th century. The cathedral features a mixture of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic, reflecting various historical periods.
Relax at Sola beach
Just a short drive from Stavanger, Sola Beach is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or enjoying water sports. The beach is known for its golden sands and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Discover street art
Stavanger is a hotspot for street art, largely due to the Nuart Festival, which attracts artists from around the world. Wander around the city to spot murals and installations that transform the urban landscape into a vibrant art gallery.
Visit the canning museum
The Norwegian Canning Museum in Stavanger sheds light on one of the city’s most important historical industries. The museum is located in a former canning factory and includes original equipment and detailed exhibits on the canning process, particularly for sardines.
Take a fjord cruise
Embark on a fjord cruise from Stavanger to see the dramatic cliffs and serene waters of the Lysefjord. These cruises offer close views of natural wonders like Pulpit Rock and the Kjerag Boulder from a different perspective.
Explore the flor & fjære gardens
A visit to Flor & Fjære, a set of beautifully landscaped gardens on an island in the Stavanger archipelago, is a must for nature lovers. Accessible by a short boat trip, the gardens are known for their exotic plants and peaceful setting.
