Why Stavanger?

Located in the southwestern corner of Norway, the Stavanger region is indeed the shortcut to the Norwegian fjords. Most cruise ships dock in the city centre and close to many nice attractions.

A short stroll away in cobbled pedestrian streets are nice museums, the lovely Stavanger Cathedral and the charming city centre. Apart from shopping and cafes, there are also several centrally located museums.

The landscape in the region varies between fjords, beaches and steep mountains. The Lysefjord and the iconic Pulpit Rock are just an hour’s boat trip away from the city. Fit and properly equipped guests can even enjoy a hike to the Pulpit. Others may choose a shorter hike to Dalsnuten.

Norway’s second largest cruise port has become a popular and attractive stop on cruises to Norway. Locally trained and authorised local guides handle more than 20 different languages.

What to see & do in Stavanger

Old Stavanger is a National Heritage Site. This is a cluster of 173 small, white, wooden houses built some 200 years ago. All of the houses are inhabited. Some now house craft shops, galleries and a museum. The Norwegian Canning Museum, the brand-new Graphic Museum and the Norwegian Petroleum Museum are only a short walk from the port.

Built in in 1125 AD, Stavanger Cathedral is one of the few churches in Scandinavia that has kept its original design. Its patron saint is St Svithun. The cathedral will reopen in 2022 after thorough renovation.

The city centre consists of cafes, shops and shopping centers and narrow, cobbled streets.

The Lysefjord is one of Norway’s spectacular wonders. There, Preikestolen (the Pulpit Rock) rises 604 m (1,968 ft) above sea level.

Who is this destination suitable for?

Most cruises have Stavanger either as first or last call. Individual guests and groups are well taken care of, no matter what age they are. Almost all locals are fluent in English and are in general very happy to be stopped for advice and directions. 

Guests with mobility challenges can be advised of smart routes for getting around. Most attractions are within short distances from the cruise port. Buses and boats to attractions outside walking range leave from the port area.

The Port of Stavanger offers up to three centrally located berths capable of hosting even the biggest cruise ships. The smaller ones are also welcome. Cruise ships with low environmental footprints are rewarded with deductions on some of the port fees.