Stavanger on a Shoestring: A Day Trip Guide

Experience the natural wonders of Stavanger, Norway without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Stavanger, Norway is a great destination for those on a limited budget. Take advantage of the low-cost flights available from major European cities and stay in a budget-friendly hostel or camping accommodation. Explore the city's stunning views and natural wonders with free hikes and walks, and sample the delicious street food scene for affordable dining options.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering Stavanger's Charm on a Budget

  • Start the day with a stroll along the harbor to admire the colorful houses of Old Stavanger.
  • Visit Stavanger Cathedral, a stunning example of medieval architecture dating back to the 12th century.
  • Head to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to learn about Norway's offshore oil industry, with interactive exhibits for all ages.
  • Take a hike up to Valbergtårnet, an old watchtower offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords.
  • For a budget meal, try Pasha Kebab, a local favorite serving up delicious and filling Turkish-style wraps and plates at a reasonable price.
  • End the day with a sunset stroll along the beautiful waterfront park of Mosvatnet Lake, watching the swans and ducks glide past.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Stavanger

Looking for a place that's equal parts quaint and quirky? Look no further than the city of Stavanger, where the locals are friendly, the seafood is fresh, and the sheep are...well, sheep.

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Type of trip

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Stavanger, Norway: A Viking Adventure for the Whole Family

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