Stavanger is the fourth largest city in Norway and the gateway to one of the most stunning tourist attractions in the world, Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen ). Widely regarded as the oil capital of Norway, Stavanger is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture and stunning scenery. The city is located in the southwestern corner of the country.
One of the highlights of any trip to Stavanger is a hike to Pulpit Rock, also known as Preikestolen. This iconic natural landmark rises 604 meters above the Lysefjord and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Imagine yourself hiking through forests, rocky terrain, and mountain plateaus before reaching the top of Pulpit Rock and gazing out over the fjord below. It’s an experience that will take your breath away!
If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty, look no further than Stavanger, Norway! In this post were going to speak about some of the best things to see and do in Stavanger and Pulpit Rock.
Øvre Holmegate
One of the most picturesque places in the city is the Øvre Holmegate. The most colourful street in Norway, known locally as Fargegaten (colour street) where all the buildings are painted in different colours. It looks like Stavanger’s version of Notting Hill. It’s most definitely worth a walk up here, sitting down and having a coffee while taking in the scenery and people watch. There are plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants here, as well as a few niche shops for you to buy some souvenirs. A short walk from the city’s waterfront where all the big ships come into the dock so it’s very easy to find.
Gamle Stavanger
If you’re a history buff or simply appreciate charming architecture, you’ll love exploring Gamle Stavanger, the city’s picturesque old town. Imagine strolling through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colourful wooden houses and gardens. The buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, and some are open to the public as museums, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history. I recommend taking a guided tour with one of the warm and welcoming locals.
Petroleum Museum
For those interested in learning more about the history of Norway’s oil and gas industry, the Norwegian Petroleum Museum is a must-see attraction. This interactive museum located on the harborfront offers a fascinating look at the history, science, and technology of the industry. You can even try your hand at drilling for oil or designing a platform for offshore drilling!
Scenic fjord cruise
To experience the stunning beauty of the Lysefjord from a different perspective, take a fjord cruise. Sailing through calm waters, surrounded by towering cliffs, and watching for wildlife like dolphins, seals, and eagles. You can even choose a dinner cruise, where you’ll enjoy the delicious local cuisine as you take in the breathtaking scenery.
Discover the magic of Stavanger with these unforgettable experiences.
Kayaking in the fjords
Stavanger has an abundance of activities for those looking for adventure or an adrenaline fix. Not only do you have the hikes, but you can also kayak, canoe, fish, ski, boat, zip wire, and even surf, yep surf. Stavanger has a beach, with Sola Beach being the closest to the airport. The beaches are very popular among water sports enthusiasts. Stavanger has endless activities for you to partake in, no matter what you are into.
The hike to Pulpit Rock.
Start by taking a ferry from Stavanger to Tau, which takes about 40 minutes. The ferry port is just a short walk from Stavanger Centre. From there, you can take a bus to the Pulpit Rock trailhead, which takes around 20 minutes. The trail itself is approximately 8 kilometres round trip and takes around 4 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level.
Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes, dress in layers, and bring plenty of water and snacks. Keep in mind that the weather can change quickly in this region, so check the forecast before you go and be prepared for any conditions. But, the stunning views and sense of accomplishment at the top are well worth the journey!
The hike itself takes you through a stunning landscape of forests, rocky terrain, and mountain plateaus, all while surrounded by panoramic views of the Lysefjord. Upon reaching the top you are greeted with some of the most stunning scenery there is to see looking out over the fjord and surrounding mountains. It’s a moment that will stay with you forever and make you feel truly alive.
Opening times of the tourist information in Stavanger are as follows:
May 1- May 31st open Monday to Friday 8:00 am – 3:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm June 1st- August 31st open daily 8:00 am – 6:00 pm September 1st – October 31st Monday to Friday 8:00 am – 3:00 pm and Saturday 09:00 am – 2:00 pm October 15 – April 30th Monday to Friday 08:00 – 3:00 pm.