Stavanger, Norway cruises

Norway's Stavanger is not only blessed with compelling history, but also a natural beauty. From the ancient port, the city radiates across a network of islands which are connected by graceful bridges.

Your guide to Stavanger.

Once the European Capital of Culture, the Norwegian city of Stavanger is blessed with a compelling history and unbridled beauty effortlessly blending the old with the new. From its ancient port the city fans out along a network of islands, each one connected to its neighbour by an elegant bridge. In Gamle Stavanger (the historic centre) artists’ workshops still occupy 18^th century houses, much as they did in years gone by. It’s a wonderful chance to step back in time and immerse in the Stavanger of old, while the city’s museums shed light on Stavanger’s long-standing relationship to the sea. 

Exploring.

Stavanger is the epitome of charm: a characterful mix of ancient houses and modern architecture that offers an ever-present nod to the past. In the city’s oldest neighbourhood of Gamle Stavanger 18^th Century wooden buildings still dominate the streets, while the Canning Museum (Norsk Hermetikkmuseum) and Stavanger Museum offer an enriching glimpse into Stavanger’s maritime history. Those seeking a postcard-worthy view should aim for The Guards’ Museum in Valbergtårnet (Valberg Tower) - the highest point in Gamle Stavanger - and if you’re a fan of Gothic architecture the exquisite craftsmanship of The Anglo-Norman Stavanger Cathedral will no doubt delight.

Eating and drinking.
A port call in Stavanger offers the opportunity to indulge in native Norwegian delicacies such as locally reared elk, reindeer and venison. You’ll find a choice of restaurants near the harbour and while some open only for dinner many places offer a lunchtime service too. Seafood is first-class in Stavanger and a visit to TORJÅ fiskedisken (fish market) is an excellent opportunity to see the day’s fresh catch being sold at the source. For a low-key bite at lunchtime try a smørbrød – an open sandwich topped with meat, fish or cheese - or Koldtbord, a variety of hot and cold dishes offered for a fixed price on an ‘eat all you like’ basis.

Shopping.
If seeking a travel keepsake for your collections, the historic Gamle Stavanger district will see you right. Filled with small independent shops and colourful artists’ workshops, it’s the ideal place to track down a locally produced piece of art, pottery or other craft to take home. For mainstream shopping on a grander scale, Arkaden Torgterrassen, a shopping centre in central Stavanger offers around 70 stores, including many international brands. A second shopping centre, Kilden, with around 60 stores and eateries, is located around a mile away in Stavanger’s Hillevåg district. There’s also a number of boutiques around Øvre Holmegate, Stavanger’s pretty, colour-dominated, street.

Beyond Stavanger.
Journeying just a few miles from Stavanger, you’ll find the popular regional attractions of Jernaldergarden and Ullandhaugtårnet, while Stavanger Art Museum - offering works by Norwegian artists – lies on the city’s outskirts. Of the former, Jernaldergarden is a historical farm re-enactment depicting life during the Nordic Iron Age, while Ullandhaugtårnet - a tower in Stavanger’s surrounding countryside - offers sweeping scenic views. Another worthwhile excursion is to Mosterøy Island, home to Utstein Monastery. Formerly a royal estate belonging to King Harald Fairhair, the journey is an adventure in itself, taking you through one of the world’s longest and deepest sea tunnels.