Stavanger

Norway

Stavanger offers a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes, including the famous Pulpit Rock, and a vibrant city center with a rich oil history and charming old town.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$100/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

RogalandFjord CityOil CapitalNorwegian RivieraPulpit RockKjeragbolten

🇳🇴 Country Information: Norway

CapitalOslo
CurrencyNorwegian krone (ko)
Language Norwegian , English
Phone Code+47
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up the bill or leaving 5
  • 10% is common in restaurants and for taxis
  • For hotel staff, a small tip for exceptional service is appropriate

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted
  • While cash is still used, card payments are preferred
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Punctuality is highly valued
  • Norwegians tend to be reserved, especially initially
  • Remove shoes when entering private homes
  • Respect personal space

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Norway has progressive LGBTQ+ laws, including legal same-sex marriage and adoption.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18 for beer/wine and 20 for spirits
  • Drug laws are strict, with penalties for possession and use of illegal substances

Special Laws

  • Do not jaywalk (crossing the road without a designated crossing point)
  • Be mindful of speed limits on roads

Common Phrases

NoNei (NAI) Nei
YesJa (YAH) Ja
HelloHallo (HAH-loo) Hei
Excuse meUnnskyld (OON-sheel) Unnskyld
Thank youTakk (TAHK) Takk

Climate

Climate Zone: Marine Oceanic

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

- Fly into Stavanger Airport Sola (SVG) from major European cities

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Fårikål (Lamb and Cabbage Stew) regional_speciality

Considered Norway's national dish, this is a simple yet flavorful stew made from pieces of mutton or lamb boiled with cabbage and whole black pepperco

Fiskesuppe (Creamy Fish Soup) must_try

A delightful, often rich and creamy soup packed with various types of local fish, such as salmon and cod, and mussels, along with vegetables. Given St

Kjøttkaker (Norwegian Meatballs) must_try

These traditional Norwegian meatballs are a staple comfort food, often served with a rich brown gravy, mashed potatoes, peas, and lingonberry jam. The

Røkt Laks (Smoked Salmon) regional_speciality

Tasting fresh, local Norwegian smoked salmon in Stavanger is a must for seafood lovers. It is frequently served simply with dill, mustard sauce, or on

Lefse dessert

A soft Norwegian flatbread typically made from potato, butter, and cream. It is often spread with butter and sugar, then rolled up, serving as a delig

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) Ferry/Bus Transfer Transport
Book 2 weeks to 1.5 months in advance

Transfers and parking spots to the popular Preikestolen hike trailhead fill up quickly, especially during the peak summer season (May-September).

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Kjeragbolten Hike Guided Tour/Transport tour_or_activity
Book 10 days to 1 month in advance

Access to Kjerag is highly seasonal (typically June-September) and guided tours, which are recommended due to the difficulty, have limited capacity.

Accommodation in Stavanger City Centre/Old Town Accommodation
Book 1–3 months in advance

Quality, centrally-located accommodation is limited, and prices rise significantly as the peak summer season approaches.

Fun Facts

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