Unmissable Activities in Stavanger, Norway (Discover These 8 Gems!)
After backpacking my way through the West Coast of Norway this summer. One of my favorite cities to spend time in was Stavanger. Here is my curated list of unmissable activities for an amazing experience in Stavanger.
Looking to do something off the beaten path? Check out my blog on visiting Klosteroy Island to learn more!
A quick guide to Stavanger: Must-Do list
- Hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) – bucket list item for many hikers
- Explore Old Stavanger – historic part of town
- Eat at a Michelin Star Restaurant – Nine restaurants to pick from in Stavanger!
8 Things to do in Stavanger
There are many things to do in Stavanger; from strolling through city streets to visiting museums it will be easy to fill a day with activities.
1. Explore Old Stavanger
One of the most visited streets in the country! The wooden buildings date back to the 18th century.
Shan’s Tip: Go early in the morning (before 7 AM) to beat the crowds, especially when cruise ships are in town.
2. Visit the Canning and Printing Museum
Located in the same neighborhood as Old Stavanger, the Canning and Printing Museum is a must-see! Tickets to enter the Museum are 140 NOK ($14 USD).
3. Walk around Fargegaten
Easily the most photographed part of town, Fargegaten is the most colorful street in Stavanger. The street was envisioned in the early 2000’s and is now a favorite amongst locals and tourist
4. Take your photo at Kjerag
For the adventure seekers, this is an iconic hike in Norway. I recommend going on a guided hike to Kjerag to avoid crowds.
5. Visit the Maritime Museum
Located right in the harbor, great if you’re visiting from a cruise. The Museum was renovated in 2022 and has great activities for kids including building your own boat.
6. Stavanger Cathedral (closed until 2025)
Stavanger Cathedral is closed for renovations until 2025 (Stavanger’s 900th birthday!). You can still walk around the exterior. St. Petri Church is a fantastic alternative open to the public until 3 PM.
7. Hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Preikestolen is one of the most popular hikes to do in Norway. If you are short on time or don’t want to rent a car, you can do a guided day trip directly from Stavanger’s city center.
Shan’s Tip: If you don’t want to do a guided trip, you can take a public bus (see options below) that leaves directly from Stavanger city and drop you off at the trailhead of Pulpit Rock. Pulpit Rock Tours or Go Fjords. You should still plan ahead and book your bus tickets ASAP especially in the summer months.
8. Eat at a Michelin Star Restaurant
Norway is home to 20 restaurants with the coveted Michelin Star rating. Both RE-NAA and Sabi Omaske are a must visit if you are a foodie! Here are all of the Michelin Star Restaurants in Stavanger.
✨ Planning a trip to Norway? Don’t miss my new guidebook: Journey Along the Coastal Pilgrim Trail.
Stavanger FAQs
Keep reading below as I answer a few of the most commonly asked questions about visiting Stavanger.
Stavanger is the third largest city in Norway. It’s known for the incredible art and food culture as well as being near amazing nature experiences.
Is Stavanger worth visiting?
Yes! It’s a common stop for folks looking to get a taste of both the amazing food Norway has to offer with some of Norway’s most popular hikes nearby. Like most cities in Norway, be prepared for large crowds in the summer months due to the high volume of cruise ships.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Stavanger?
The likelihood is low considering how populated the city is. I recommend going further north in Norway to cities such as Svolvaer or Tromsø.
How do you spend two days in Stavanger?
Spend one full day exploring the city; including Old Town and Fargegaten as well as the Canning and Printing Museum.
The next day, explore the outdoors with a hike to Pulpit Rock or enjoy a boat ride through Lysefjord.
What are the things Stavanger is famous for?
Stavanger is home to the oldest Cathedral in Norway, built in 1125. It also has the largest number of wooden houses in Northern Europe with over 8,000.
Where to Stay in Stavanger
There are plenty of hotel options within the city centre. I prefer to stay a little bit away from the harbor especially when multiple cruise ships are in town.
✔️ Stavanger Bed and Breakfast
Final Thoughts
Stavanger is a dream for foodies and artistic folks! Summer of course, is the best time to enjoy all Stavanger has to offer. Visiting Stavanger, gives you a glimpse into the history of Norway and its vibrant future.
Now it’s time to start planning your own adventure, Cheers!
