18 Best Things to Do in Stavanger 🇳🇴: Ultimate Guide to Attractions & Activities

Stavanger, Norway’s oil capital and cultural hub, stands as a perfect fusion of historic charm and modern energy. The city center showcases 173 immaculately preserved wooden buildings, while the Norwegian Petroleum Museum tells the compelling story of how this modest fishing town transformed into Northern Europe’s oil industry powerhouse. The vibrant streets come alive with the world-renowned Nuart Festival, where international artists create stunning murals across city walls.

🏠 Where to Stay in Stavanger

• ✨ 5-Star: Roaldspiren
• 🏨 4-Star: Scandic Stavanger Park
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Stavanger Housing
• 💸 Cheap: Park Inn Stavanger
• 🏢 Apartment: Stavanger Small Apartments Verven
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Radisson Blu Atlantic Stavanger
• 🏩 For Couples: Victoria Hotel

From conquering the breathtaking Pulpit Rock that towers over Lysefjord to exploring the winding alleys of Øvre Holmegate with its rainbow-colored houses, Stavanger unfolds like a storybook of experiences. The city’s culinary prowess shines through Michelin-starred restaurant RE-NAA, while historic treasures like Stavanger Cathedral stand as silent witnesses to centuries of maritime heritage. Whether taking a rib boat adventure through the dramatic fjords or wandering through the interactive exhibits of the city’s museums, every corner of Stavanger promises a new discovery.

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Langfoss Waterfall Tour from € 85 (⭐4.5/5)
• Rib Safari and Visits to the Island Communities from € 120 (⭐4.9/5)
• Stavanger Like a Local: Customized Private Tour from € 60 (⭐4.6/5)

Best Things to Do in Stavanger

1. 🏘️ Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger)

Historic District: Europe’s largest surviving wooden house settlement features 173 meticulously preserved buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. The narrow cobblestone streets and white-painted houses create a photographer’s paradise and offer glimpses into Stavanger’s maritime past.

Cultural Heritage: Each house tells a story of the city’s canning industry workers who once lived here, with many buildings now housing artisan shops, museums, and galleries. The district includes the Norwegian Canning Museum, offering insights into Stavanger’s industrial heritage.

Hidden Gem: Explore the longest wooden staircase in the world, connecting Old Stavanger to the modern city center, for unique photo opportunities.

⭐ Best Activities

Stavanger Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Stavanger like a local, with a fully customized itinerary based on your preferences. Whether you’re interested in the city’s 173 wooden buildings, vibrant street art in Øvre Holmegate, or hidden gems, your guide will tailor the experience to suit your interests.

2. 🏛️ Norwegian Petroleum Museum

Industrial Marvel: The museum’s striking architecture mirrors offshore platforms while offering panoramic harbor views. The interactive exhibits bring Norway’s oil story to life through cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences.

Educational Journey: Visitors can explore detailed models of offshore rigs and try their hand at drilling simulations. The museum stands as the country’s largest petroleum industry showcase, featuring comprehensive exhibits about sustainable energy futures.

Time Saver: Visit between 10-11 AM on weekdays to avoid cruise ship crowds and school groups, plus enjoy direct access to the popular oil platform simulation.

3. ⛪ Stavanger Cathedral

Historic Legacy: The cathedral’s weathered stones tell tales of Viking-age transitions and maritime prosperity spanning over 900 years. The unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture makes it Norway’s best-preserved medieval cathedral.

Architectural Treasure: Marvel at the intricate carved heads and the baroque pulpit that dates back centuries. The cathedral’s stained glass windows and acoustic properties make it a popular venue for classical concerts and cultural events.

Top Tip: Purchase cathedral tickets online and arrive at opening time (9 AM) for the best photo opportunities without crowds.

4. 🚢 Stavanger Maritime Museum

Maritime History: Situated along Vågen harbor, the Stavanger Maritime Museum offers a deep dive into the city’s rich maritime heritage. Housed in historic warehouses from the late 18th century, this museum showcases shipbuilding, trade, and fishing industries that shaped Stavanger’s development.

Interactive Exhibits: With over 48,000 historical photographs and 6,000 technical drawings of local shipyards, visitors can explore how ships were built and used in Norway’s maritime history. The museum also features models of ships and other maritime artifacts.

Time Saver: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds from cruise ships that dock nearby. The museum is within walking distance from other key attractions like the Norwegian Petroleum Museum and Stavanger Cathedral, making it easy to plan your day efficiently.

5. 🏛️ Norwegian Canning Museum

Industrial Heritage: Located in Old Stavanger, the Norwegian Canning Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s canning industry from 1880 to 1925. Visitors can explore the old factory, learn about the production of canned fish, and even try their hand at threading and laying sardines.

Hands-On Experience: The museum features over 35,000 can labels, providing an intriguing look at how branding evolved over time. You can also see the original machinery used in the production process and watch demonstrations of traditional canning techniques.

Top Tip: Visit during the summer season (May 15 – August 18) when the museum is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. Don’t miss the chance to taste freshly smoked sprats prepared in the museum’s old smoke oven.

6. 🖨️ IDDIS The Norwegian Printing Museum

Printing Legacy: Sharing space with the Norwegian Canning Museum, the IDDIS Norwegian Printing Museum highlights the city’s printing industry, which grew alongside its canning sector. The museum showcases old printing presses and offers hands-on activities where visitors can experience traditional printing techniques.

Cultural Significance: The term “IDDIS” refers to labels on cans, a key part of Stavanger’s industrial history. The museum delves into how these labels were printed and their role in marketing Norwegian canned goods worldwide.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit to both museums for a full day of exploring Stavanger’s industrial past. The museums are located just a short walk from Øvre Holmegate, so you can easily include a stroll through this colorful street.

7. 🌊 Åkrafjorden & Langfoss Waterfall

Scenic Fjord Experience: Åkrafjorden is one of Norway’s most stunning fjords, stretching for 32 kilometers with towering mountainsides plunging into its deep waters. Along its shores lies Langfoss Waterfall, one of Norway’s most beautiful waterfalls, cascading over 600 meters down into the fjord below.

Breathtaking Views: Visitors can experience Langfoss up close by driving along the E134 road or hiking a waymarked path that leads alongside the waterfall for panoramic views of both Åkrafjorden and Langfoss. For those seeking adventure, there are also fjord cruises available that offer unique perspectives of this natural wonder from the water.

Top Tip: Visit Langfoss in late spring (May-June) when snowmelt makes the waterfall especially powerful and vibrant. If you’re driving from Stavanger, plan your trip early in the day to avoid traffic on scenic routes like E134.

⭐ Best Activities

Langfoss Waterfall Tour: This Langfoss Waterfall Tour takes you on a scenic journey through the stunning Åkrafjorden, where you’ll witness one of Norway’s most beautiful waterfalls. The tour includes stops at Langfoss Waterfall and the Rigsmonumentet Haraldshaugen, offering breathtaking views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Things to Do in Stavanger with Kids

1. 🏖️ Sola Beach

Coastal Paradise: Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Stavanger, Sola Beach stretches for 2.3 kilometers with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions and is home to the historic Sola Strand Hotel.

Outdoor Activities: Visitors can enjoy surfing lessons, beach volleyball, and coastal walks along the North Sea Trail. The area features well-maintained facilities including changing rooms, cafes, and equipment rental shops.

Top Tip: Visit during sunset for spectacular photo opportunities and fewer crowds, especially from the elevated viewpoint near Sola Strand Hotel.

2. 🧒 Norwegian Children’s Museum

Playful Learning: The Norwegian Children’s Museum is perfect for younger visitors, offering a variety of play environments and activity exhibitions that showcase childhood history and culture. Children can explore toys from different eras and participate in interactive exhibits designed to spark their imagination.

Cultural Experience: The museum features collections from Per Inge Torkelsen’s personal toy collection, making it both nostalgic for parents and exciting for kids. From puppet shows to hands-on activities, there’s something for everyone.

Top Tip: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Fargegaten (Øvre Holmegate) or take a short walk to the Stavanger city centre for lunch at one of its many family-friendly restaurants.

3. 🎡 Kongeparken Amusement Park

Family Fun: Located just outside Stavanger, Kongeparken is Western Norway’s largest amusement park, featuring roller coasters, carousels, climbing parks, and even chocolate-making workshops. It’s an ideal day trip for families looking for adventure and excitement.

Attractions for All Ages: With over 60 attractions, including go-kart racing and train rides, Kongeparken offers fun for children of all ages. The park is especially popular during summer when it hosts special events like fireworks shows and concerts.

Money Saver: Purchase tickets online in advance to save up to 20% on admission fees. If you’re visiting during peak season (June-August), arrive early to avoid long lines at popular rides.

4. 🌊 Geopark & Ajaxparken

Outdoor Playgrounds: Located near the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, the Geopark is an oil-themed playground built with recycled elements from Norway’s oil industry. Kids can climb on structures made from old oil rigs while learning about geology through play.

City’s Newest Playground: Just a five-minute walk from Hotel Victoria, Ajaxparken features giant animal sculptures like sharks and giraffes that kids can climb on. Inspired by Noah’s Ark, this playground is perfect for younger children looking to burn off some energy.

Insider Tip: Both parks are free to enter and located within walking distance of many other attractions in the city center, making them convenient stops during your day out exploring Stavanger.

Free Things to Do in Stavanger

1. 🌈 Øvre Holmegate

Color Street Magic: Known as Stavanger’s most vibrant street, Øvre Holmegate dazzles visitors with its rainbow-colored houses and unique architectural charm. The street transformed from a quiet residential area into a bustling cultural hub thanks to a local paint shop owner’s creative vision in 2005.

Cultural Hub: Today, the street houses some of Stavanger’s trendiest cafes, vintage boutiques, and art galleries. The area comes alive during weekends with street musicians and outdoor dining, creating a bohemian atmosphere unique to this part of Norway.

Time Saver: Visit early morning for the best photos without crowds, or come during golden hour when the colorful facades are particularly stunning.

2. 🎨 Art Museum

Artistic Heritage: As one of the country’s largest art institutions, Stavanger Art Museum houses an impressive collection of Norwegian and international art spanning from the 1800s to contemporary pieces. The museum’s Norwegian landscape paintings showcase the country’s dramatic natural beauty.

Cultural Experience: Regular exhibitions feature works from both established and emerging artists, with special focus on Western Norway’s artistic contributions. The museum’s sculpture park offers a peaceful retreat with impressive outdoor installations.

Money Saver: Free admission on the first Wednesday of each month.

3. 🍽️ RE-NAA Restaurant

Culinary Excellence: As Stavanger’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, RE-NAA showcases the finest Norwegian ingredients through innovative Nordic cuisine. Chef Sven Erik Renaa creates seasonal menus that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Dining Experience: The intimate 20-seat restaurant offers a theatrical dining experience with an open kitchen concept. Each course tells a story of local ingredients and traditional techniques reimagined through modern gastronomy.

Top Tip: Book at least two months in advance and request the chef’s counter seats for the ultimate dining experience.

4. 🌿 Tropical Garden

Exotic Oasis: Hidden within the city, Stavanger’s tropical garden houses rare plant species from around the world. The climate-controlled environment creates a year-round tropical paradise in the heart of Norway.

Botanical Wonder: Visitors can explore various themed sections, including a butterfly house and exotic fruit garden. The garden’s educational programs offer insights into biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Hidden Gem: Visit during winter months when the warm, humid environment provides a perfect escape from Nordic weather.

Seasonal Activities

🌸 Spring (March – May)

Nuart Festival (April): Spring in Stavanger bursts with creativity as the Nuart Festival kicks off in April. International artists flock to the city to transform its walls into vibrant canvases, making Stavanger a global hub for stencil art and urban creativity. The festival is a must-see for art lovers and those who enjoy exploring the city’s streets.

Cultural Awakening: As the flowers bloom, so does Stavanger’s cultural scene. The city’s historic 173 wooden buildings in the center of Stavanger become even more charming during springtime, while the colorful Øvre Holmegate shines under the soft spring sunlight, creating a perfect backdrop for photos.

Top Tip: For the best street art experience, download the Nuart Street Art App to discover hidden murals and avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning.

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Gladmat Food Festival (July): Held annually in July, the Gladmat Food Festival is Northern Europe’s largest food festival. The streets of the Stavanger city centre fill with food stalls offering local Norwegian dishes and international cuisine. It’s a celebration of flavors, drawing foodies from all over the world to taste creations from Michelin-star chefs and local vendors alike.

Outdoor Adventures: Summer is prime time for outdoor activities like hiking to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) or taking a fjord cruise from Stavanger through the stunning Lysefjord. With long daylight hours, visitors can fully enjoy Norway’s natural beauty.

Money Saver: Book your rib boat tour or fjord cruises from Stavanger in advance to take advantage of early-bird discounts and avoid peak season price hikes.

🍂 Autumn (September – November)

Stavanger Marathon (September): Every September, runners gather for the annual Stavanger Marathon, which offers various distances from 5K to full marathons. Participants get to enjoy scenic routes through Stavanger’s historic streets and along its beautiful coastline.

Nuart Festival (September): The second wave of the Nuart Festival continues into September, with new murals being added across Stavanger. This part of the festival focuses on workshops, guided tours, and artist talks, offering deeper insights into urban street art.

Time Saver: If you’re visiting for either event, stay at centrally located hotels like Hotel Victoria, which is within walking distance of major attractions like the Norwegian Petroleum Museum and Stavanger Cathedral.

❄️ Winter (December – February)

Christmas Markets (November-December): Winter transforms Stavanger into a festive wonderland with its annual Christmas markets. From late November through December, stalls fill the city center selling handmade crafts, local delicacies, and festive decorations. The market is perfect for finding unique gifts while enjoying traditional Norwegian Christmas treats.

Northern Lights Viewing: While rare this far south, winter offers occasional opportunities to witness the Northern Lights. Head to nearby Sola Beach or take a short drive out of town for a chance to see this natural phenomenon on clear nights.

Top Tip: Dress warmly and bring a thermos of hot chocolate while waiting for the Northern Lights. For those wanting a more comfortable winter experience, book a stay at Sola Strand Hotel, known for its cozy ambiance and proximity to Sola Beach.

Day Trips from Stavanger

1. 🏃 Hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)

Natural Wonder: Standing 604 meters above Lysefjord, Pulpit Rock is Norway’s most famous natural attraction. The flat plateau offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains, making it one of the most photographed locations in Norway.

Adventure Experience: Hiking to Pulpit Rock takes approximately 2-3 hours each way, covering a distance of about 4 kilometers with an elevation gain of 350 meters. The trail is well-marked and maintained, featuring wooden walkways and stone steps in steeper sections.

Time Saver: Start the hike early morning (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and secure parking at the trailhead.

⭐ Best Activities

Guided Hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen): Embark on a guided hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), one of Norway’s most iconic natural landmarks. Standing 604 meters above the stunning Lysefjord, this hike offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable adventure.

2. ⛴️ Lysefjord Cruises

Scenic Journey: The majestic Lysefjord stretches 42 kilometers inland, flanked by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Rib boat tours offer an exhilarating way to experience the fjord’s dramatic landscape while spotting seals and viewing Pulpit Rock from below.

Maritime Adventure: The cruise provides unique perspectives of impossible wall climbs and hidden waterfalls, including the famous Hengjane waterfall. Modern boats are equipped with comfortable seating and expert guides who share local legends and geological information.

Money Saver: Book combination tickets for both the fjord cruise and Pulpit Rock hike to save up to 20% on individual ticket prices.

⭐ Best Activities

Lysefjord Sightseeing: Embark on a Lysefjord Sightseeing Tour and experience the stunning natural beauty of Norway’s Lysefjord. This tour takes you through the fjord’s majestic cliffs, with highlights including the famous Pulpit Rock and the breathtaking Hengjanefossen Waterfall.

3. 🏞️ Kjerag Hike

Natural Wonder: Kjerag is one of Norway’s most thrilling hikes, located at an elevation of 1,084 meters above Lysefjord, making it the highest peak in the area. The hike is famous for its iconic boulder, Kjeragbolten, a round rock wedged between two cliffs that brave hikers can stand on for an unforgettable photo opportunity.

Challenging Adventure: This demanding hike spans approximately 11 kilometers round trip with an elevation gain of 800 meters. It takes between 6-10 hours to complete, depending on fitness levels and weather conditions. The trail includes steep climbs where hikers rely on chains for support, making it suitable for experienced hikers.

Top Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds at Kjeragbolten and take advantage of cooler temperatures. If you’re not an experienced hiker, consider joining a guided tour for added safety and local insights.

⭐ Best Activities

Guided Hike to Kjerag and Kjeragbolten: Join this guided hike to Kjerag and Kjeragbolten, one of Norway’s most iconic and thrilling hikes. Standing at 1,084 meters above Lysefjord, Kjerag offers breathtaking views, while the famous Kjeragbolten boulder wedged between two cliffs provides a unique photo opportunity.

❓ FAQ

What are the must-see attractions in Stavanger?

Stavanger offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Don’t miss the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, which provides an interactive look at Norway’s oil industry and features a recreated oil platform. For history lovers, the Stavanger Cathedral is a must-visit, being Norway’s oldest cathedral located in the center of Stavanger. Outdoor enthusiasts should definitely hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), which stands 604 meters above the Lysefjord.

What are the best free things to do in Stavanger?

Exploring Øvre Holmegate, also known as “Color Street,” is a great free activity where you can enjoy vibrant street art and colorful buildings. Walking through Old Stavanger, home to 173 well-preserved wooden buildings, is another free activity that gives you a glimpse into the city’s past. Additionally, you can take a stroll along the waterfront and watch the cruise ships dock in the Stavanger city centre.

Can I take a cruise from Stavanger?

Yes, there are several options for taking a fjord cruise from Stavanger. You can book a rib boat tour or opt for a more leisurely boat trip through the stunning Lysefjord, which includes views of famous landmarks like Preikestolen and the Hengjane waterfall. Many cruises also offer commentary on local history and geology.

What family-friendly activities are available in Stavanger?

Families will enjoy visiting the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, which has many interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids. Another great option is exploring the city’s parks or taking a short trip to Sola Beach, where children can play on the sand while parents relax by the sea. The city’s museums, like the Stavanger Museum, also offer educational exhibits that engage visitors of all ages.

When is the best time for visiting Stavanger?

The best time to visit depends on your interests. For outdoor activities like hiking to Preikestolen or taking a boat tour, summer (June-August) offers long daylight hours and pleasant weather. If you’re interested in cultural experiences, plan your trip around events like the Nuart Festival in April or September, where international artists create stunning murals throughout the city.