At a Glance
Quick OverviewPerched on Norway’s southwestern coast, Stavanger seamlessly merges rich history with contemporary prosperity. As Norway’s oil capital since the transformative 1969 offshore discovery, this fourth-largest Norwegian city buzzes with international energy whilst preserving one of Northern Europe’s finest historic quarters. But for most visitors, Stavanger serves as the gateway to Norway’s most iconic natural wonder—Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)—where a flat-topped cliff juts 604 metres above the dramatic Lysefjord below.
According to Lonely Planet, Stavanger offers visitors “a delightful old quarter and a pretty harbourside setting near the spectacular Lysefjord,” making it an essential stop on any Norwegian itinerary.
Understanding Stavanger
History and Character
Stavanger’s story spans centuries of transformation:
| Era | Character |
|---|---|
| Medieval | Coastal market town |
| Pre-1969 | Fishing port |
| Post-1969 | Oil capital of Norway |
| Today | International energy hub |
| Population | ~120,000 (4th largest) |
Location
- Southwestern Norwegian coast
- Rogaland county
- Gateway to Lysefjord
- 7 hours drive from Oslo
- Quick flights from European cities
Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)
The Iconic Hike
Pulpit Rock is Norway’s most famous natural viewpoint—a flat cliff platform jutting 604 metres above Lysefjord. Featured in Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018), it draws hikers from around the world.
Trail details:
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles) round trip
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Elevation gain: 350 metres
- Difficulty: Moderate (rocky terrain)
- Season: May-September best; winter possible with gear/guide
Hiking Tips
Before you go:
- Start early (7 AM) to avoid crowds
- Book parking or take organised tour
- Check weather forecast
- Wear proper hiking boots
- Bring water, snacks, and layers
- Pack rain gear (weather changes fast)
Safety:
- No barriers at cliff edge
- Stay well back from the edge
- Watch children carefully
- Deaths occur—respect the danger
- Don’t take risks for photos
Winter hiking:
- Requires winter gear and experience
- Ice and dangerous conditions common
- Local guide strongly recommended
- Chains may be needed
For detailed hiking information, see our Preikestolen Pulpit Rock Guide.
Book Pulpit Rock ToursLysefjord
Fjord Cruises
One of Norway’s most spectacular fjords, Lysefjord features dramatic 1,000-metre cliffs rising from the water.
What you’ll see:
- Pulpit Rock from below
- Cascading waterfalls
- Mountain goats on cliffs
- Quaint fjord villages
- Stunning cliff scenery
Cruise options:
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Departures: Multiple daily from Stavanger
- Best season: May-September
- Travel time: ~1 hour to reach fjord
Kjeragbolten
For experienced hikers seeking more challenge:
The destination:
- Boulder wedged between rock walls
- 984 metres above Lysefjord
- Iconic photo standing on boulder
- Not for the fainthearted
The hike:
- 6-10 hours round trip
- Significantly harder than Pulpit Rock
- Steep ascents with chain assistance
- Requires good fitness and conditions
- June-September season
Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger)
Northern Europe’s Best-Preserved Wooden Houses
What makes it special:
- 173 white wooden houses
- 18th-19th century architecture
- Cobblestone lanes
- Colourful doors and flower boxes
- Free to explore
The experience:
- Wander narrow streets
- Discover galleries and boutiques
- Cosy cafés in historic homes
- Photography paradise
- Living neighbourhood (residents live here)
Location: West of harbour, walkable from city centre
Top Attractions
Stavanger Cathedral
Norway’s oldest cathedral:
- Built 1125 (nearly 900 years old)
- Romanesque and Gothic elements
- Active church
- Small entry fee (~50-60 NOK)
- Free during services
Norwegian Petroleum Museum
Understanding Norway’s oil wealth:
- How oil transformed Norway
- Interactive exhibits
- Offshore platform simulation
- Children’s activities
- Entry: ~180 NOK adults
Why visit:
- Explains Norway’s modern prosperity
- Unique industrial heritage
- Well-designed exhibits
- Located on waterfront
Sverd i Fjell (Swords in Rock)
Historic monument:
- Three bronze swords, 10 metres tall
- Commemorates 872 Battle of Hafrsfjord
- King Harald Fairhair unified Norway here
- 8-minute drive from downtown
- Free to visit, parking available
Stavanger Art Museum
Cultural highlight:
- Norwegian art collection
- Rotating exhibitions
- Beautiful setting
- Combined tickets with other museums
Flor & Fjære
Unique garden island:
- Tropical gardens on island near Stavanger
- Boat trip included
- Restaurant with local cuisine
- Summer activity
- Book in advance
Food and Drink
Culinary Scene
Stavanger has a strong food culture with international influence from oil industry workers:
Local specialities:
- Fresh seafood
- Lamb from local farms
- Craft beer scene
- New Nordic cuisine influences
Dining Areas
Øvre Holmegate (Colour Street):
- Brightly painted buildings
- Cafés and bars
- Artistic atmosphere
- Popular evening destination
Harbour area:
- Waterfront restaurants
- Fish market
- Tourist-friendly options
- Harbour views
Recommended Venues
Fine dining:
- Sabi Omakase (Japanese)
- Re-Naa (Michelin starred)
- Tango (local ingredients)
Casual:
- Fish Market restaurants
- Øvre Holmegate cafés
- Harbour area eateries
Getting to Stavanger
By Air
Stavanger Airport Sola:
- 15 km from city centre
- Direct flights from London, Amsterdam, other European cities
- Domestic connections from Oslo, Bergen
- Airport bus and taxi to city
By Car
Driving from Oslo:
- ~7 hours via E39
- Scenic coastal route
- Ferries included in route
- Hire car useful for Pulpit Rock
By Train/Bus
From Oslo:
- Train to Kristiansand, bus connection
- Direct buses available
- 7-8 hours total
By Ferry
From Denmark:
- Color Line ferries from Hirtshals
- Overnight crossing
- Brings your car
Getting Around
City Transport
Walking:
- Compact city centre
- Old Stavanger to harbour walkable
- Most attractions accessible on foot
Buses:
- Kolumbus operates local buses
- App cheaper than onboard tickets
- Cash only for onboard purchases
Getting to Pulpit Rock
Options:
- Hire car (most flexibility)
- Organised bus tours
- Public bus (limited service)
- Combined cruise and bus tours
Where to Stay
Central Stavanger
Luxury:
- Clarion Hotel Stavanger
- Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel
Mid-range:
- Scandic Stavanger City
- Victoria Hotel
- Thon Hotel Maritim
Budget:
- Stavanger Bed & Breakfast
- Hostel options available
Near Pulpit Rock
Preikestolen Fjellstue:
- Mountain lodge at trailhead
- Start hike from doorstep
- Book ahead in summer
Location Tips
- City centre for exploring Stavanger
- Trailhead lodge for early morning hike
- Harbour area for restaurants and nightlife
Best Time to Visit
By Season
Summer (June-August):
- Best Pulpit Rock conditions
- Warmest weather (15-22°C)
- Longest days
- Peak tourist season
- Book accommodation early
Spring (May):
- Good hiking weather beginning
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Some services starting up
Autumn (September-October):
- Hiking still possible
- Autumn colours
- Reduced crowds
- Weather becoming unpredictable
Winter (November-March):
- Mild by Norwegian standards (2-10°C)
- Pulpit Rock dangerous without gear
- City attractions available
- Fewer tourists
Sample Itineraries
2-Day Pulpit Rock Focus
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Early morning Pulpit Rock hike, evening in Old Stavanger |
| 2 | Lysefjord cruise, Petroleum Museum, departure |
3-Day Complete Stavanger
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Old Stavanger, Cathedral, Petroleum Museum |
| 2 | Pulpit Rock hike (full day) |
| 3 | Lysefjord cruise, Sverd i Fjell, Colour Street |
4-Day Adventure
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive, Old Stavanger, harbour evening |
| 2 | Pulpit Rock hike |
| 3 | Lysefjord cruise, museums |
| 4 | Kjeragbolten hike (fit hikers) or city exploration |
Practical Information
Costs
Stavanger is expensive, even by Norwegian standards:
| Item | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Budget hotel | £95-145/night |
| Mid-range hotel | £145-225/night |
| Restaurant meal | £28-56 |
| Lysefjord cruise | £48-80 |
| Petroleum Museum | £18-20 |
| Pulpit Rock tour | £65-120 |
Practical Tips
- English universally spoken
- Cards accepted everywhere
- No tipping required
- City compact and walkable
- Book Pulpit Rock tours in advance
Weather
- Milder than much of Norway
- Summer: 12-22°C
- Winter: 2-10°C
- Rain possible year-round
- Coastal winds common
Final Advice
Stavanger offers the ideal combination of iconic natural wonders and charming urban exploration. Standing on Pulpit Rock watching clouds drift through the fjord below, then returning to wander Old Stavanger’s white wooden houses, creates a Norwegian experience that encompasses both adventure and culture.
Come prepared for the hike—proper boots, early start, and respect for the cliff edge are essential. But also allow time to appreciate Stavanger’s unique character: the oil wealth story at the Petroleum Museum, the medieval cathedral, and the vibrant dining scene fuelled by international influences. This southwestern gateway deserves more than just a quick stop on the way to Preikestolen.
Information in this guide is sourced from Lonely Planet and regional tourism authorities. Trail conditions vary—always check current information before hiking. Last updated January 2026.