Are you planning a trip to Stavanger, Norway? It’s one of the country’s oldest cities, therefore it has a fascinating history worth learning about. I’ll cover all of the biggest attractions, museums, and breathtaking views in this comprehensive guide to the best things to see and do in Stavanger!
Stavanger has a plethora of museums dedicated to the city’s rich history, so expect to find quite a few of them on the list. I’ve also included some of the best hikes and attractions outside of the gorgeous Norwegian city for those of you who are constantly feeling a little more adventurous!
Stavanger City Museum
The Stavanger City Museum should be one of your first attractions when visiting this city. What better way to get to know a new city than by visiting a museum that will tell you everything there is to know about it?
The Stavanger City Museum has been functioning since the late 1800s and features local history displays. It’s entertaining for both adults and children; parents can learn about the city’s cultural heritage as well as the region’s flora and wildlife, while children can play with the various interactive displays.
Holmegate/Fargegaten (The Colorful Street)
Holmegate is a street in Stavanger’s old town that is one of the city’s most scenic spots. On either side of the street are bright buildings with amazing murals and drawings. It’s Stavanger’s selfie street, so stop by if you’re in need of some new profile pictures. It’s also known as Fargegaten, which means “colourful street” in English.
Stavanger Cathedral
If you appreciate the sight of Gothic and Romanesque architecture from the 10th century, you will undoubtedly enjoy a visit to Stavanger Cathedral. It is Norway’s oldest cathedral and the home of the Bishop of Stavanger. This is without a doubt one of the country’s most unique religious structures, and it is well worth a visit.
The inside of the Stavanger Cathedral is just as lovely as the outside. You won’t regret seeing the interior of the structure, which features stained glass windows, ornate ceilings, and wonderful detailing.
Gamle Stavanger
Gamle Stavanger is the old city centre of Stavanger, which is full of 18th and 19th-century homes. Walking along this cobblestone alley, which is flanked on both sides with wood plank cottages, is like stepping back in time.
Although the lovely lane is an excellent spot for photos, there isn’t much else to do here besides take a quick sightseeing tour.
Vålandstårnet
In the Vlandsskogen public park, Vlandstrnet is a famous tower. The tower itself isn’t really noteworthy – it’s just an old white home with a tall white tower, with nothing particularly noteworthy about it. The amazing views of Stavanger from the tower are what makes this destination so popular with both locals and tourists.
It’s undoubtedly the nicest panoramic city view in the neighbourhood, so come here if you want to be impressed. From the city centre, it’s a short walk, and there’s even a café in the tower where you can have a nice cup of coffee while taking in the view.
