Stavanger, Norway, is a picturesque coastal city nestled along the stunning southwestern coast of the country. It is located about 125 miles (200 kilometers) from Bergen and 350 miles (560 kilometers) from Oslo.
Known for its dramatic natural beauty, Stavanger boasts a captivating blend of fjords, rolling hills, and the rugged North Sea coastline.
The city is not only a gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of the nearby Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock, but it also harbors a rich cultural heritage. Its well-preserved historic quarter featuring charming, white-washed wooden houses.
People should visit Stavanger for its breathtaking natural surroundings. Stavanger is a gateway to fun outdoor adventures. You can explore the scenic Lysefjord, play at the charming beaches, and visit islands of the region.
Local Stavanger Expert – Lauren Krueger
Our local expert is Lauren Krueger. Her and her family moved to Stavanger in February of 2021 from the U.S. They moved for her husband, Marty’s, job. He is a geologist for ConocoPhillips. Lauren is the Director of Sales Operations for the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) and works remotely.
Lauren loves many aspects of life in Norway. The work-life balance is unbeatable. For example, the work day ends at 4 to 4:30. Everyone is home at a reasonable hour and that gives the family more time to spend together in the evenings. People working in Norway are required to take their vacation too, which is on average 25 working days a year.
Another part of Norway she loves is how children are valued members of society and how Norway puts the family first. It has been an incredible place to raise her 4 and 3 year old. Children are welcome in most places, and many restaurants and cafes have children’s corners too.
Lastly, the culture in Norway is another highlight. Being outdoors is an integral part of most people’s lives. Friluftsliv, which is a commitment to celebrate time outdoors, regardless of the season and weather, is a way of life in Norway. It’s not connected to any specific activity, but is about being part of the culture. Friluftsliv is an incorporated part of Norwegian national identity, and the love for the outdoors is reflected in all aspects of life.
Connect with Lauren
Lauren is a great resource if you are planning trips in Norway. Her blog, Krueger Family Travels, has amazing tips for traveling all around Norway. You can also follow her travel journey on instagram @kruegerfamilytravels.
Check out my favorite tools when booking your trip to Stavanger, Norway
✈️ Kiwi.com – For searching the best prices for flights
🚗 Skyscanner.com – For finding the best options for rental cars
🏨 Booking.com – For finding the most options for hotels at the best prices
🏔️ Viator.com – For looking up interesting and fun tours and activities
Some of the above links are affiliate links. When clicking on the links and booking travel, I receive a small commission with no extra costs for you. Please note, I only recommend brands I actually use and trust.
When To Visit Stavanger
Most people visit Stavanger as a jumping off point to the incredible hikes in the Rogaland region. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Kjeragbolten, Flørli 4444, are some of the examples of the famous hikes in the region. Stavanger is also a city stop for those headed north to hike Trolltunga in the Hardanger area.
If you want to trek those famous hikes, the best time to visit will be the summer months: June-August. Daylight averages are between 16-18 hours and it should be the best weather.
Norway is also beautiful in the winter time and langrenn (cross country skiing) is a popular activity during the winter months. There are many opportunities to either cross country ski or downhill ski. You may also get lucky and see the Northern Lights. The further north you visit in Norway, the more opportunities there will be.
Top 10 Stavanger Attractions
Like all my Local Travels Guides, I researched multiple blogs and found these top 10 Stavanger attractions listed. Here are Lauren’s thoughts and tips on each one.
Hike Pulpit Rock
One of the main attractions in Norway and definitely worth the hike. The kids can absolutely go on this one too.
Note: It can be a challenging hike for beginners. Also, there are no safety railings up top, so be sure kids stay away from the ledge.
Read Lauren’s blog post for some really helpful tips: The Mind-Blowing Hike to Pulpit Rock Norway (Preikestolen)
Gamle Stavanger
Get transported back to the 18th century while wandering the streets of Gamle Stavanger. This historic district of Stavanger is perfect for a short walk and a photo opportunity! If you are interested in learning more about the history, I would recommend joining a walking tour. Here are a couple of options:
Kjeragbolten Hike
This incredible hike in Norway is definitely worth the adventure if you are in shape. You will need to be prepared during this hike and go when the weather is cooperating. It isn’t a hike for younger children as it is a 6 mile hike (11km) that takes approximately 6 hours. Check out Visit Norway’s website for more information.
Fargegaten – Øvre Holmegate
A fun street to walk through and see the bright colors of the businesses that line the street. There are a ton of bars and cafes and is a popular place to go for a drink and to sit out on the patio when the weather is nice.
Flørli 4444 Stairs
Flørli is a hamlet located in the Lysefjord. It is popular for its 4444 steps right up the mountain. This stairway is the longest wooden stairway in the world. The town is also known for its hydropower history.
Note: Flørli is only accessible by ferry boat.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. I only recommend brands that I use and trust!
Stavanger Domkirke Cathedral
This gothic cathedral in Stavanger dates back to the first half of the 12th century and is the oldest standing cathedral in Norway. It is attractive and has a rich history making it interesting to visit.
Note: The cathedral has been under restoration and is set to re-open in 2025.
Lysefjord Cruise
A cruise is a great way to see the main fjord in Stavanger from the water. The ship is a hybrid boat that is relatively quiet and smooth. You pass right by Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), getting a view of it from a different perspective. There is food and drinks for sale on board too!
Sver I Fjell
This monument commemorates the battle in Hafrsfjord when Harald Fairhair gathered Norway into one kingdom in 872. Nobody knows exactly where the battle took place; however, the fjord is widest in Stavanger and the Vikings placed their boats side by side when they were fighting. It is a wonderful place to take pictures with the monument and walk around the Hafrsfjord area to get your friluftsliv on.
Jæren coast
There are a ton of beautiful beaches in Norway along the Jæren coast. Many people don’t picture white sand beaches when they think of Norway, but they are there! You can take surf lessons, do other water activities such as SUP, diving, kiting, or just spend the day at the beach. Beware the water is cold!
Norwegian Petroleum Museum
Worth a visit if you are interested in learning about the history of oil found in Norway and how it is drilled and extracted. Otherwise, there’s not much else to do. There is an industrial park out front that the kids could play on.
Family-Friendly Stavanger Activities
Here are some family-friendly activities barely mentioned in other blogs and great for everyone in the family.
Valbergparken Lekeplass & Valberg Tower
Park alert! Situated on top of the Utsiktspunkt, is a wonderful little park that is great for kids to burn off some energy!
Valberg Tower is next door and is a great place to catch a beautiful view of Stavanger for a small fee.
Norwegian Children’s Museum
This engaging and interactive learning environment is great for young visitors. They can explore various exhibits that foster curiosity and creativity through hands-on activities.
Book a Private Boat Charter
A fantastic way to see Lysefjorden is to privately charter a boat for the day. It is also possible to take a multi-day trip north towards Bergen. Private Cruise is one option in the area.
RIB Boat Safari tour of Lysefjorden
Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) tours offer an exhilarating ride through the fjord and offer more access to remote and picturesque locations that may be inaccessible by larger vessels. These boats are another adventurous option to enjoy Lysefjord by boat.
Note: Contact the company about minimum age requirements as very young kids aren’t allowed on RIB boat safari tours.
Unique Stavanger Recommendations
Bonus attractions rarely mentioned in other blogs and recommended by Lauren.
Visit Byrkjedalstunet
Photos Credit: Lauren Krueger
Byrkjedalstunet is a worthwhile day trip and a fun place in the mountains. It is about 1 hour from Stavanger and you can enjoy traditional Norwegian food and shop for trinkets including candles, Christmas decor and outdoor clothing. You can even make your own candles at their candle factory which is fun for the kids.
Just 5 minutes away you can also find Gloppedalsura, which is a UNESCO global geopark. This park is one of the largest landslides in Europe and is a unique place to see boulders the size of houses.
Explore Stavanger Sentrum
This area of Stavanger is a wonderful spot to walk around and see the city. This area includes the aforementioned colorful Fargegaten street. Wander the promenade around the harbor for a relaxing stroll, go shopping, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many cozy cafes.
Fjøløy Fort and Lighthouse
Photo Credit: Lauren Krueger
Located about a 30 minute drive north from Stavanger, Fjøløy is a fortress built by the Germans during WWII. You can walk through the bunkers and tunnels of the military installations and learn about the past. There is also an audio tour you can listen to using your cell phone as you explore.
Iron Age Farm at Ullandhaug
Step back in time and explore this meticulously reconstructed Viking longhouse from 350-550 AD. Here you can observe daily life and agricultural practices of this ancient period in Norway.
Stavanger Archaeology Museum
Speaking of history, another great museum to visit is the Stavanger Archaeology Museum. Here you can learn about the history of the Rogaland region and view the many archaeological finds from the area.
Note: The museum is currently closed for renovations and plans to open Spring of 2024.
Stavanger Restaurant Recommendations
Below are some yummy options to fill your belly that have been recommended by Lauren.
Restaurants with a Remarkable View
Any restaurant lining Stavanger harbor.
- Try Fisketorget Stavanger for delicious seafood – Lauren recommends the fish soup!
Delicious Local Cuisine
Top Breakfast Joints
- Sirkus Renaa
- Kannelsnurren also great for a coffee or pastry stop
Best Lunch
Notable Dinner
- SÖL – a set menu in a cozy atmosphere
- Matbaren Bistro by Renaa – Farm to Table
- Casa Gio – Delicious Italian
- Tango – Fine dining with a “Mad Men” vibe.
- Sabi Omakase – Michelin Star sushi restaurant
Good cheap food
Nothing is cheap in Norway, but for “cheaper” check out:
- Lervig Local – local brewery and their food is good, too!
- Moo Goo Ice Cream or Siddis Gelato for incredible ice cream
Stavanger Hotel Recommendations
Stavanger and Norway in general, is incredibly safe. Staying in and near Sentrum is best for being near the majority of the local attractions.
- Hotel Victoria– in the heart of Stavanger and oozing with charm
- Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge – Right on the waterfront and the evening meal is included
- Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel, Stavanger – Near Central Station and offers beautiful views of the lake, fjord, mountains and Stavanger.
- Thon Hotel Maritim – another centrally located hotel with wonderful views of the lake
- Vander Hotel Apartments – Apartment style stays with various locations around Stavanger
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