Welcome to Stavanger

Stavanger, a charming coastal city in southwestern Norway, is known for its breathtaking fjords, historic old town, and vibrant culinary scene. As one of Norway’s most picturesque cruise destinations, Stavanger offers a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the cobbled streets of Gamle Stavanger, embark on a scenic fjord cruise, or hike to the iconic Pulpit Rock. With 6-10 hours to explore, cruise passengers can experience Stavanger’s natural beauty and rich Viking heritage.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Stavanger, located in the heart of the city. The terminal is within walking distance of major attractions, shops, and restaurants, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. Stavanger is a popular cruise stop, particularly during the summer months, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. Taxis, buses, and guided excursions are available at the terminal for those wishing to explore further afield.

Port information by Cruise with Amber

Stavanger, Norway, is a popular stop on many Northern European and Norwegian Fjords cruise itineraries. In this guide I’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan and make the most of your time in Stavanger on a cruise.

Welcome to my Stavanger cruise port guide. In this guide, I’ll give you an overview of best things to do in Stavanger and must-see things in Stavanger for first-time visitors.  If you have visited Stavanger a few times already on a cruise, I’ve also included a few activities or interesting places to visit you may have missed your previous visits or not known they existed.

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Transportation Options

Stavanger is easy to navigate, with several transportation options available:

• Walking: Many attractions, including Gamle Stavanger and the Stavanger Cathedral, are within walking distance of the port.
• Taxis: Readily available at the port; fares are metered, and rates should be confirmed before departure.
• Public Buses: Kolumbus buses connect Stavanger to nearby towns and attractions, including the starting point for the Pulpit Rock hike.
• Ferries: Regular ferries run to Lysefjord and other scenic destinations in the region.
• Car Rentals & Private Tours: Ideal for visitors wanting to explore beyond Stavanger at their own pace.

Top Attractions and Nearby Destinations

Stavanger offers a combination of cultural landmarks, stunning fjord landscapes, and historic sites. Here are the must-visit attractions:

• Gamle Stavanger: The city's Old Town, featuring well-preserved white wooden houses and cobbled streets.
• Stavanger Cathedral: Norway’s oldest cathedral, dating back to the 12th century.
• Norwegian Petroleum Museum: A fascinating museum showcasing Norway’s offshore oil industry.
• Valberg Tower: A historic watchtower offering panoramic views of Stavanger.
• Flor og Fjære (Boat Trip): A tropical garden paradise on a nearby island.
• Lysefjord (Ferry Excursion): One of Norway’s most beautiful fjords, featuring dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
• Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) (40 km/25 miles): A world-famous hiking destination offering breathtaking views over Lysefjord.
• Swords in Rock (Sverd i fjell) (6 km/4 miles): A monument commemorating a Viking battle, located on a scenic fjord.
• Ullandhaug Tower (5 km/3 miles): A viewpoint offering panoramic sights of Stavanger and the surrounding fjords.
• Kjerag (90 km/56 miles): Another famous hiking destination known for the Kjeragbolten boulder.

Local Foods

Stavanger is known for its fresh seafood and Nordic cuisine. Be sure to try:

• Klipfisk (Dried Cod): A traditional Norwegian dish made from salted and dried cod.
• Rakfisk: A fermented fish dish, typically served with flatbread and sour cream.
• Fiskesuppe: A creamy Norwegian fish soup made with fresh seafood.
• Pølse med Lompe: A Norwegian-style hot dog wrapped in potato flatbread.
• Brunost: A caramelized brown cheese with a slightly sweet flavor.

Interesting Facts

Stavanger has a rich Viking heritage and fascinating modern history. Here are some interesting facts:

• Stavanger is often called Norway’s "Oil Capital" due to its role in the country’s petroleum industry.
• The city is home to some of Norway’s best-preserved wooden houses, dating back to the 18th century.
• Pulpit Rock, located near Stavanger, is one of the most photographed natural landmarks in Norway.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Stavanger is located in southwestern Norway, on the shores of the North Sea. The city enjoys a mild maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters. Surrounded by fjords, islands, and rugged mountains, Stavanger offers breathtaking landscapes that make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Local Customs and Culture

Norwegians value nature, personal space, and a relaxed lifestyle. Locals appreciate polite greetings such as "Hei" (Hello) and "Takk" (Thank you). Outdoor activities like hiking and boating are integral to life in Stavanger. Tipping is not mandatory in Norway, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated.

Family-Friendly Activities

Stavanger is a great destination for families, offering activities for children of all ages:

• Children up to 6 years old: Visit the Stavanger Maritime Museum or play at the city’s scenic parks.
• Children 7-12 years old: Take a fjord cruise or visit the Norwegian Children's Museum.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Go hiking at Pulpit Rock or explore the Viking House interactive museum.

Google Maps

Stavanger

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.*