Stavanger is a lively harbour city on the southwest coast of Norway. Its old town is full of white wooden houses. Moreover, it is the gateway to Lysefjord and the famous Preikestolen cliff. So, it combines city life with some of Norway’s most spectacular hikes.
This guide covers the hikes, the city, museums, the best season and practical tips.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
This flat cliff rises 604 metres above the Lysefjord. The trail is about 8 km return and takes 4 to 5 hours. However, it is rocky and steep in places, so wear good boots. In winter, meanwhile, only go with a guide.
Kjerag and the Lysefjord
Further along the fjord, the Kjerag hike leads to Kjeragbolten, a boulder wedged between two cliffs. In fact, it is a tougher hike than Preikestolen. Also, fjord cruises from the city pass waterfalls and steep rock walls.
Things to Do in Stavanger
Gamle Stavanger
The old town has about 170 white wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries. So, it is one of the best-preserved wooden settlements in Europe. Nearby, the Norwegian Canning Museum tells the story of the sardine industry.
Øvre Holmegate
This short street is painted in bright colours. Also, it is full of cafés and bars.
Stavanger Cathedral
Built around 1125, it is Norway’s oldest cathedral still largely in its original form. Its interior mixes Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Museums and Monuments
The Norwegian Petroleum Museum explains how North Sea oil changed the country. In addition, the “Swords in Rock” monument at Hafrsfjord recalls the unification of Norway in 872.
Beaches
Surprisingly, the region has long sandy beaches. For example, Sola beach is popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Best Time to Visit Stavanger
From June to September, the hikes are free of snow and days are long. However, the weather changes quickly, so pack rain gear. Note that the city is too far south to see the Northern Lights regularly. For those, head north to Tromsø.
Practical Tips
- Start hikes early: Trails get crowded by midday in summer.
- Use buses and ferries: Shuttle buses run to Preikestolen in season.
- Bring food and water: There are no shops on the trails.
Getting There
The airport has flights from Oslo and many European cities. Also, trains and coastal buses link the city with Bergen. For more ideas, see the official Fjord Norway website.
Final Thoughts on Stavanger
In short, the city combines charming streets with world-class fjord hikes. Afterwards, discover the Geirangerfjord or the Lofoten Islands. Discover all our Norway travel guides.
