Stavanger, Norway: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure!

Discover the wonders of Stavanger, Norway, where adventure meets family-friendly fun!

19 July 2023

Stavanger, Norway is a remarkable destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Explore the picturesque streets of Gamle Stavanger, where charming traditional wooden houses transport you back in time. Take a boat tour to the awe-inspiring Lysefjord and hike to the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), a flat mountain plateau with breathtaking views, ensuring a memorable adventure for the whole family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Stavanger's Charms:

  • Check into the adorable and family-friendly Hotel Victoria, right in the heart of Stavanger, known for its quaint cobblestone streets and vibrant facades.
  • Jump-start your day with a tasty breakfast at Café Sting, a hipster hangout with funky artwork and a bustling vibe.
  • Take a leisurely stroll down Øvre Holmegate, Stavanger's "colorful street" where every building seems to have overdosed on a rainbow.
  • Dare to venture underground to the Norwegian Canning Museum, where you'll discover the intriguing history of sardines and practice your canning skills.
  • Reward yourself with a scrumptious seafood feast at Fisketorget, a vibrant market boasting fresh catches and local specialties.
  • Wrap up the day with a peaceful walk along Stavanger Harbor, admiring the tranquil waters and the majestic mountain backdrop.
Day 2

Conquering Prehistoric Wonders:

  • Embark on a day trip to the awe-inspiring Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, perched dramatically over the Lysefjord.
  • Strap on your hiking boots and tackle the challenging 2-hour hike to the top, where you'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping panoramic views.
  • Pack a picnic and soak in the natural beauty surrounding you, while contemplating the sheer audacity of ancient glaciers shaping this breathtaking landscape.
  • Snap a thousand selfies, striking fierce poses on the edge of the cliff (always prioritize safety, of course), making your Instagram following squirm with envy.
  • Rejuvenate those weary legs with a well-deserved dinner at Sjøhuset Skagen, where you can savor mouthwatering seafood while gazing out at the twinkling fjord.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to the quirky Bella Bambini Gelateria, serving decadent gelato flavors that will make your taste buds sing an opera of joy.
Day 3

A Dip into Viking History:

  • Grab a hearty breakfast at Café 26, a charming spot known for their delectable pastries and irresistible cinnamon buns.
  • Unleash your inner Viking at the Stavanger Maritime Museum, where interactive exhibits will transport you back in time and possibly ignite a sudden urge to pillage.
  • Immerse yourself in the remarkable Iron Age at the reconstructed Swords in Rock monument, where colossal swords honor legendary King Harald Fairhair.
  • Refuel with a lunchtime detour to Renaa Matbaren, an elegant eatery offering modern Nordic cuisine with local, sustainable ingredients.
  • Engage your little adventurers with a visit to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, complete with hands-on exhibits, subsea exploration, and even simulated oil rig emergencies!
  • Lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Stavanger, where charming wooden houses and blooming gardens create a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely evening stroll.
Day 4

Nature's Masterpieces:

  • Savor a leisurely breakfast at the delightful Ostehuset Øst, a cozy café nestled in a vibrant, bohemian neighborhood.
  • Hop on a boat and discover the awe-inspiring Lysefjord, surrounded by staggering vertical cliffs and thundering waterfalls that will make you feel tiny and insignificant.
  • Keep your eyes peeled for wild seals, puffins, and maybe even playful dolphins, who love to show off their aquatic acrobatics.
  • Catch your breath during a pitstop at Flørli, home to the world's longest wooden staircase providing a serious workout for those brave enough to climb all 4,444 steps.
  • Trek to the enchanting Bråsteinsvatnet lake, bathed in stunning emerald hues, and enjoy a serene picnic in the midst of nature's splendor.
  • Wrap up your day with a sumptuous dinner at Tango, a trendy restaurant known for its fusion cuisine and eclectic ambiance, making your taste buds tango in delight.
Day 5

Cultural Delights:

  • Start the day with a delightful breakfast at Café Hekkan, a hidden gem adorned with vintage knick-knacks and serving up mouthwatering traditional Norwegian pancakes.
  • Immerse yourself in art at the Stavanger Art Museum, where modern masterpieces and thought-provoking installations will ignite your inner muse.
  • Delve into the city's history at the Historical Museum, housed in a former canning factory, and let the exhibits transport you to Stavanger's past glory.
  • Challenge your family to a round of mini-golf at Outdoor Life Stavanger, a quirky course adorned with whimsical sculptures that will test your putting skills.
  • Celebrate your last evening in Stavanger with a feast fit for Vikings at Fiskedronningen, indulging in an unforgettable seafood platter teeming with local delicacies.
  • Wander down Øvre Holmegate once more, bidding farewell to Stavanger's vibrant spirit and cherishing the memories of a truly family-friendly adventure.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Stavanger, Norway by plane is to fly into Stavanger Airport, which is the only airport in the region that services international destinations. From there, it is a short bus or taxi ride into the city center.

Car

If you are driving to Stavanger, there are several routes you can take depending on your starting location. From Oslo, the E39 is the most direct route and takes about 8.5 hours. From Bergen, the E39 takes about 5.5 hours. Once you arrive in Stavanger, there are several parking garages in the city center.

Train

While there are trains that run throughout Norway, there is no direct train service to Stavanger from other cities. The closest train station is in Sandnes, which is about 15 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi into Stavanger.

Boat

Stavanger is a popular port of call for many cruise lines, so if you are arriving by boat, chances are you will be docking in the city center. There are ferry services that operate from Denmark and Sweden, but they are not as frequent as other modes of transportation.

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate routes to Stavanger from other cities in Norway. The easiest way to find a bus schedule and ticket is to use a booking website like Busbud or Nettbuss. The bus station in Stavanger is located in the city center and is easy to navigate.

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Stavanger, Norway offers a perfect family-friendly trip with its combination of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and engaging activities. Explore the famous Lysefjord and marvel at the breathtaking Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), a popular hiking destination suitable for all ages. The city itself boasts charming streets lined with colorful wooden houses, a maritime museum showcasing the region's seafaring heritage, and a sculpture park that will engage both adults and children alike.

Love in Stavanger: A Romantic Day Trip Guide

Stavanger, Norway is a stunning destination for a romantic getaway. Enjoy breathtaking views of the fjords and explore the charming streets of Old Town. Indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants before ending the night with a picturesque stroll along the harbor.

Stavanger, Norway: A Viking Adventure for the Whole Family

Stavanger, Norway offers a perfect family-friendly trip with its beautiful landscapes, charming old town, and numerous kid-friendly attractions. Explore the breathtaking fjords on a family cruise and take in the stunning views of Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock) or Kjeragbolten. Enjoy a visit to the interactive Norwegian Petroleum Museum or the Stavanger Maritime Museum, providing educational and entertaining experiences for all ages. End your day by indulging in delicious Norwegian cuisine at one of the family-oriented restaurants in Stavanger's city center.

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Stavanger, Norway boasts breathtaking scenery, charming downtown areas, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures making it an idyllic destination for a romantic trip. Visitors can explore historic neighborhoods, admire contemporary art, or take a hike to Pulpit Rock for panoramic views over the Lysefjord. Couples can also enjoy fresh seafood, cozy accommodations, and strolls along the picturesque harbor for an unforgettable romantic getaway.