Stavanger

Oil rigs and fjords: Norway's unexpected combo

A coastal Norwegian city with fjords and mountains nearby. Home to a major oil port and a population of 130,000. Known for hiking trails and a thriving cultural scene.

4
out of 5

Stavanger, Norway's fourth-largest city, sits on the country's southwestern coast. This former Viking power center has evolved into a hub for Norway's oil industry while maintaining its historic character. In Old Stavanger, you'll find streets lined with 18th and 19th-century wooden houses. The city serves as a gateway to natural wonders like Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock. Stavanger offers attractions such as the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, Stavanger Cathedral, and the colorful Øvre Holmegate street. The city is also known for its street art, beaches, and food scene, including Michelin-starred restaurants.

Wandering Through Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger)

Old Stavanger, known locally as Gamle Stavanger, is a historic district with around 200 well-preserved wooden houses. These white-painted buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, forming the largest surviving wooden house settlement in Northern Europe. As you walk through the narrow cobblestone streets, you'll find shops, cafes, and restaurants. The area has earned Stavanger several awards for its preservation efforts and allows you to experience the city's architectural past.

Exploring Norway's Oldest Cathedral

Stavanger Cathedral, dating back to 1125, is Norway's oldest cathedral. The building combines Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, with heavy arches and dog-tooth decorations. Inside, you'll see intricate details and historical artifacts. The cathedral has been central to Stavanger's history for nearly 900 years and remains an important landmark in the city center.

Discovering Street Art and Øvre Holmegate

Stavanger is recognized for its street art scene. The city hosts the annual Nuart Festival, which brings international artists to create murals and installations throughout the urban landscape. For a concentrated dose of color, visit Øvre Holmegate, known locally as Fargegaten (Color Street). This street stands out with its brightly painted buildings, housing a mix of cafes, boutiques, and galleries.

Learning at the Norwegian Petroleum Museum

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum educates visitors about Norway's oil and gas industry, which has significantly shaped Stavanger's modern identity. Interactive exhibits explain the technological aspects of offshore drilling, the economic impact of oil on Norway, and the industry's environmental challenges. The museum's architecture, resembling an offshore platform, makes it a distinctive sight on the harbor front.

Venturing to Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock

Lysefjord, located just outside Stavanger, is characterized by steep cliffs and clear waters. You can explore the fjord on a boat tour, which typically takes about three hours and departs from central Stavanger. For a more challenging experience, hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), a flat cliff plateau that rises 604 meters above the fjord. The hike takes about 2-4 hours each way and offers views of the surrounding landscape.

Relaxing on Stavanger's Beaches

Stavanger has several beaches despite its northern latitude. Solastranden, a short drive from the city center, is a 2.3-kilometer stretch of white sand that has received international recognition. The beach is suitable for swimming, surfing, and kiteboarding during the summer months. Keep in mind that even in summer, water temperatures can be quite cool.

Experiencing Stavanger's Food Scene

Stavanger has established itself as a culinary destination in Norway. The city is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including RE-NAA, which has earned two Michelin stars. For fresh seafood, head to the Fisketorget (Fish Market) where you can try local specialties. In July, the annual Gladmat food festival, one of Scandinavia's leading food events, highlights the region's culinary offerings.

Navigating to and Around Stavanger

Stavanger Airport, Sola, about 14 kilometers from the city center, handles both domestic and international flights. You can reach the city from the airport by bus or taxi. Within Stavanger, you can walk to many attractions in the city center. For longer distances, use the city's bus network. If you plan to explore the surrounding region, consider renting a car for more flexibility.

Average temperatures during the day in Stavanger.
November
8°
Dec
6°
Jan
4°
Feb
4°
Mar
7°
Apr
11°
May
16°
Jun
18°
Jul
20°
Aug
19°
Sep
16°
Oct
12°

What people say about Stavanger

4
People
4
Food
4
Spaces
4
Value
4
Safety
5

Places nearby Stavanger

Best places to visit in🇳🇴Norway

Articles about Norway

Image of National parks in Norway, iconic fjords
Image of National parks in Norway, iconic fjords

National parks in Norway, iconic fjords

March 2024,
Norway's national parks are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Each park offers a unique slice of Norway's natural beauty,
Image of Bucket list-worthy places in the Nordics
Image of Bucket list-worthy places in the Nordics

Bucket list-worthy places in the Nordics

December 2023,
The Nordics is a beautiful region in Northern Europe consisting of Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Iceland. These five countries are some of the world's safest, most peaceful, and most prosperou
Image of The 20 happiest cities in the world
Image of The 20 happiest cities in the world

The 20 happiest cities in the world

November 2024,
This is a list of the top 20 happiest cities in the world according the World Happiness Report which is based on data from 160+ countries. The Nordics and Oceania are heavily over-represented, but the
Image of The most beautiful national parks in the world
Image of The most beautiful national parks in the world

The most beautiful national parks in the world

November 2024,
National parks are unique in several ways, about 15% of all land and 8% of all water in the world is protected. National parks are protected pockets of nature that offers a unique opportunity for bot
Image of Where to see the Northern Lights: The ultimate guide
Image of Where to see the Northern Lights: The ultimate guide

Where to see the Northern Lights: The ultimate guide

October 2023,
Humbling experience Traveling to see the Northern Lights is worth every mile, every hour on the road or in the air. Imagine standing under the dark sky, surrounded by silence, when suddenly the black
Image of The 20 most bike-friendly cities in the world
Image of The 20 most bike-friendly cities in the world

The 20 most bike-friendly cities in the world

January 2023,
To find the best cities for cycling, we looked at the Copenhagenize Index, a comprehensive ranking of the world’s most bicycle-friendly cities based on ambition, culture, and city design. Below you wi
Image of The best lesser-known places to visit in Europe
Image of The best lesser-known places to visit in Europe

The best lesser-known places to visit in Europe

December 2023,
In the midst of European explorations, some cities remain less frequented by the throng of tourists yet hold an abundance of cultural wealth, natural beauty, and a compelling history. This guide aims
Image of The best places to visit in January
Image of The best places to visit in January

The best places to visit in January

April 2024,
Many travelers eagerly anticipate the arrival of January. While some are looking for the beauty of the Northern Lights, or enjoying the best time for skiing, others aim to participate in vibrant cultu
Popular on Humbo right now
Humboâ„¢AboutVisitedBucket listSustainable travelPrivacyTerms