What to do in Stavanger

Stavanger, Norway: Coastal Culture and a Gateway to Fjord Adventures

Fishing boats bob gently in the harbour as gulls wheel overhead. Cobbled lanes wind between white wooden houses, leading to lively cafés and waterfront galleries. Beyond the city, fjords slice through mountains, and some of Norway’s most iconic hikes await. This is Stavanger — a perfect blend of urban charm and untamed nature.

Located on Norway’s southwest coast, Stavanger is a vibrant, walkable city with a deep maritime history and a laid-back, outdoorsy feel. Once a fishing and canning town, it's now known for its street art, cultural festivals, and role as a hub for exploring the region’s spectacular natural beauty — especially the Lysefjord and the legendary Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen).

Whether you’re strolling through historic Gamle Stavanger, cruising beneath towering cliffs, or hiking to high-altitude views, Stavanger is the ideal base for discovering the outdoor side of Southern Norway.

Outdoor Activities in and Around Stavanger

Hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)

One of the top things to do in Stavanger, this unforgettable cliff hike is just an hour away. The 8-kilometre round trip takes around 4 hours and leads to a dramatic plateau perched 604 metres above Lysefjord. It’s moderately challenging and fully rewarding — especially if you go early in the day or in the shoulder season.

Fjord Cruises and Kayaking on Lysefjord

Explore Lysefjord from the water on a scenic boat tour departing from Stavanger harbour. Cruises pass beneath Preikestolen and by waterfalls like Hengjanefossen, with the chance to spot wildlife along the way. For a more active experience, join a guided sea kayaking tour — a peaceful way to glide between cliffs and coves.

Bike Tours and Coastal Rides

Rent a bike and explore Stavanger’s coastline on two wheels. The North Sea Cycle Route passes through the city, offering scenic paths by the sea, through farmland, and into fishing villages like Tananger and Ølberg.

Local Tips

• Weather-smart: Stavanger has a maritime climate, meaning frequent showers. Waterproof clothing and layers are a must, even in summer.
• Crowd-free hours: Visit Pulpit Rock early or late in the day to avoid peak times. In summer, daylight lasts well into the evening.
• Public transport: Ferries, buses, and even electric scooters make it easy to get around Stavanger and nearby fjord destinations without a car.
• Sustainability: Many fjord cruises use electric or hybrid boats, and the city promotes low-impact travel. Bring a reusable bottle and respect the local environment.

Best Time to Visit Stavanger

• Summer (June–August): The most popular season, with long daylight hours and full access to hiking trails, cruises, and beaches.
• Spring (April–May): Blooming parks, fewer crowds, and a fresh, green landscape. Great for city walks and early-season hiking.
• Autumn (September–October): Crisp air, colourful foliage, and quieter trails. Ideal for photography and slower-paced exploration.
• Winter (November–March): While some fjord activities pause, Stavanger stays open and cosy, with festive lights and winter walks. Mild compared to inland areas, but wet and windy.

How to Get to Stavanger

Stavanger is well-connected and easy to reach:

• By air: Stavanger Airport (SVG) has frequent flights from Oslo, Bergen, and several European cities. The airport is 20 minutes from the city centre.
• By train: The Sørlandet Line links Stavanger with Kristiansand and Oslo, offering scenic views along the way.
• By ferry: Boats connect Stavanger with local islands and fjord communities, as well as long-distance coastal routes.
• By car: Drive from Bergen (about 5–6 hours) or Oslo (7–8 hours), with scenic stops along the way.

Nearby Places to Discover

Stavanger is a fantastic launchpad for exploring southwestern Norway:

• Lysefjord and Kjerag: Continue beyond Pulpit Rock to this epic cliff and boulder suspended over a 1,000-metre drop.
• Flørli: Home to the world’s longest wooden staircase — 4,444 steps up the fjord wall.
• Sandnes and Dalsnuten: A quieter mountain viewpoint near the city, perfect for a shorter hike.
• Rogaland’s island coast: Places like Rennesøy and Finnøy offer fishing villages, quiet walking trails, and coastal culture.

With its coastal charm, cultural warmth, and quick access to some of Norway’s most iconic outdoor experiences, Stavanger is where city life meets wild nature. Whether you're hiking above fjords, paddling between cliffs, or exploring beaches and forests, you'll find that adventure begins just beyond the harbour.