As Norway's fourth-largest city, Stavanger is an important cultural and economic hub on the west coast. It built its fame as a shipbuilding town and, more recently, the on-shore centre for Norway's oil industry. As a result, the city is prosperous, with modern buildings around its outskirts, including glitzy high-rises. Learn all about Norway's oil boom at the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, nestled in the heart of the port.
Despite its contemporary allure, Stavanger's historic centre, Gamle Stavanger, is one of the country's best preserved. Many whitewashed 18th-century wooden buildings line the cobblestone streets and pretty waterfront. It's a treat to wander in and around this area, followed by a visit to the Canning Museum, which takes you through the town's sardine-canning past.
Stavanger was founded during the 12th century and flourished under the Vikings. While little remains of this period, the cathedral, Stavanger Domkirke, is among the country's oldest and best preserved. The décor is an incredible blend of styles from Gothic to Romanesque. Just nearby, you'll find the Archaeology Museum and Stavanger Museum, both of which offer a deep dive into the city's human past.
Stavanger is a shopping and dining haven with cute boutiques and bustling cafes. One of the most popular streets is Øvre Holmegate, home to multi-coloured shopfronts and eateries. Numerous malls also provide convenient shopping opportunities with international and Norwegian brands. These include Arkaden Torgterrassen, Magasin Blaa and Mediegården. Another highlight is the famous Stavanger fish market, where you can admire the latest catch and dine on local sea-based delicacies.
Further from the city centre, you'll discover Stavanger Kuntmuseum, home to Norwegian art from the 18th century on. It overlooks Mosvatnet Lake, a popular spot for ice skating during the frozen winter. Further west, you can visit Jernaldergården, a replica Iron Age farmstead and living museum.
Car or van hire in Stavanger will allow you to explore more of the Rogaland area, like Hafrsfjord and its Sverd i Fjell (three swords in rock). This is the site where Harald Fairhair founded a united Norway in 872. Driving east of Stavanger, you'll gain access to Frafjordheiane, an area of rugged wilderness above Lysedjord with exceptional hiking opportunities. Or you can explore Gandsfjorden and its peaks, like Dalsnuten, within 30 minutes from Stavanger by road.