Stavanger
What you need to know before you go
Stavanger is one of the largest cities in Norway, and one with a relatively mild climate by Norwegian standards. It’s a place that combines contrasting attractions, offering both a lively city and easy access to unspoilt nature with mountains and sandy beaches, as well as ancient history and modernity. It even manages to retain its small-town feel, despite being one of the most populous cities in the country. That’s thanks to its historic city centre and its many suburbs spread across the surrounding valleys, plains and islands.
While Stavanger has earned the nickname of “the Oil Capital of Norway” thanks to its current main industry, it’s a place with a long history. This is especially evident in Gamle Stavanger, among the delightful 18th- and 19th-century wooden houses. It has also left behind the beautiful Stavanger Cathedral and populated a wide range of museums. The beaches and beautiful surroundings remain a major draw, though, filling the harbour with cruise ships every summer.
What to see & do in Stavanger
Featured stories & fun stuffThings to do in Stavanger, located along the southwestern coast of Norway, include taking in gorgeous ocean views, ancient architecture, museums, shopping, dining, nightlife and thriving arts and culture scenes. The Stavanger Cathedral is as old as the city, dating back to the 12th century. You can visit the Stavanger Museum and Norwegian Petroleum Museum to learn all about the history of the city and the role oil has performed... Read more
10 Best Road Trips near Stavenger
Exploring Stavanger's surrounding area is easy with a rental car, public transport or taxi. If you do venture out, you'll get to enjoy some great experiences in a landscape that gives you far more in return than you need to...10 Most Instagrammable Places in Stavanger
A visit to Stavanger is not complete without you being able to capture some of the city's great views on...10 Off the Beaten Track Things to Do in Stavanger
Norway's fourth largest city, Stavanger, is bursting with fun and exciting things to do. Whatever your interests, there are plenty...10 Romantic Ideas for a Honeymoon in Stavanger
Stavanger, the city that bears the brunt of the North Sea's weather, may not strike you as the most obvious...10 Things to Do in Stavanger on a Small Budget
As the fourth biggest city in Norway, Stavanger has plenty of exciting activities and attractions to offer. Not everything suits...10 Best Things to Do in Stavanger
Stavanger is just big enough for you to see the entire city in one day. Despite its small-town feel...10 Best Family Things to Do in Stavanger
A visit to Stavanger is so much more fun if you let the kids be themselves in an environment that...10 Best Things to Do in Stavanger in Winter
Stavanger is a beautiful city in Western Norway that offers a varied natural landscape and plenty of great experiences, summer...10 Best Things to Do in Stavanger in Summer
Stavanger is one of the country's biggest cities and its history goes right back to the Middle Ages. Its coastal...
Where & what to eat in Stavanger
10 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Stavanger
Stavanger is an affluent international city with a high demand for first class dining. The city's restaurant business has renewed itself in line with growth and internationalisation, so whatever you fancy to eat, you're guaranteed to find somewhere to satisfy your hunger and your senses. Geographically, restaurants range from Asian to African to American, but with local food from the...
Where to shop & what to buy in Stavanger
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Stavanger
Stavanger's compact centre is pleasant to walk around, and unless you're shopping for something in particular, it's nice to just take the time to look around the streets. This also gives you a chance to browse the unique independent shops. For a more targeted shopping experience, it's best to head for the shopping malls. You will find several in the...
Where to go & what to do at night in Stavanger
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Stavanger
With the new concert hall, Stavanger has gained a formidable venue for classical music and major artists. But the city also offers plenty of venues for other music genres and lesser known artists. The heart of the Vågen district is considered the most popular and has the widest appeal. The hip and colourful Øvre Holmegate has become a good alternative...
Useful information
Stavanger Travel Essentials
Our Stavanger Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help you plan your trip to one of the most popular destinations in Norway. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from Stavanger Airport, Sola to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do...