Best shore excursions for Stavanger cruise guests 2026

For official information, visit Avinor Stavanger Airport.

For official information, visit Region Stavanger & Ryfylke.

The challenging hike takes about four hours to complete for most average fitness levels now. You should wear sturdy hiking boots to ensure your total safety on the rocky trail. Guided tours include comfortable transport from the city center to the main trail head area. Expect to pay around 900 NOK per person for a professional guided hiking tour.

Summer months are the absolute best time for hiking to the top of the cliff. The trail is well-marked and very easy for most travelers to follow without any trouble. You will see stunning mountain landscapes along the entire path during your long journey. Bring plenty of fresh water and healthy snacks to keep your energy high while hiking.

Scenic Lysefjord Sightseeing Boat Cruises

A fjord cruise is a relaxing way to explore the natural beauty of the region. Boats depart directly from the harbor area located very close to the main cruise terminal. You will see the famous Pulpit Rock from a unique perspective deep below the cliff. This tour is perfect for all age groups and people with limited physical mobility.

These scenic cruises usually last about three hours from start to finish for most guests. You will see massive waterfalls and hidden mountain farms during your peaceful trip on the water. The famous Vagabond's Cave is a major highlight of the trip for many curious travelers. Tickets cost roughly 600 NOK for adults during the busy 2026 summer cruise season.

The modern boats offer comfortable indoor and outdoor seating areas for all of the passengers. You can enjoy delicious local snacks and warm drinks while you sail through the fjord. Learn about the local history from the expert guides who speak during the entire trip. Check the what cruise ships are visiting Stavanger in 2026 list for specific schedules.

Historic Stavanger City Walking Tours

Old Stavanger is a charming historic area located very near the main cruise ship port. It features over 170 white wooden houses that are kept in very excellent condition today. These historic buildings date back to the late 18th century and offer great photo spots. Walking through these streets feels like stepping back in time to an older era.

You can easily explore this historic area on foot without needing any expensive private transport. Many guests use the how to walk from Stavanger cruise port 2026 guide for help. The narrow streets are paved with beautiful cobblestones that add to the local charm. Visit the local craft shops to find unique souvenirs made by talented local artists.

The Stavanger Cathedral is another must-see landmark located in the middle of the city center. It is the oldest cathedral in Norway and features very impressive medieval stone architecture today. Entry costs about 50 NOK for most visitors who want to see the beautiful interior. This building reflects the long and rich history of this important Norwegian coastal city.

Cultural Highlights and Local Museums

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum is a very popular attraction for many visiting cruise ship guests. It explains the important role of the city in the global oil and gas industry. The building itself looks like a modern oil platform sitting right on the water's edge. It offers many interactive exhibits that are fun for both children and adult visitors.

You might also enjoy visiting the unique Canning Museum located in the historic city center. It showcases the interesting history of the local sardine industry from many decades ago. Learn how the local workers packed fish by hand before modern machines were invented. This museum is located in the heart of the beautiful Old Stavanger residential district.

Art lovers should definitely visit the Stavanger Art Museum during their day in the city. It houses a large collection of famous Norwegian art from the past several centuries. The museum sits near a beautiful lake and a large park for relaxing walks. Check the Museum Stavanger (MUST) website for information on current exhibitions.

Thrilling RIB Boat and Helicopter Tours

Try a fast RIB boat tour if you want high-speed thrills on the water. These powerful boats zip across the waves at very high speeds for an exciting ride. You will reach the deep fjords much faster than on a traditional large cruise boat. It is an exciting way to see the rugged coastline in a short time.

Helicopter tours offer a spectacular bird's-eye view of the entire Stavanger and Ryfylke region. You can see the entire length of the Lysefjord from high above the clouds. These tours are more expensive but provide a very memorable experience for luxury travelers. Prices start at 3000 NOK for a short flight over the city landmarks.

Kayaking is a peaceful way to see the calm water near the city harbor area. Many local operators offer guided kayaking tours specifically designed for visiting cruise ship guests. You can paddle near the city or explore the quiet corners of the fjords. No previous experience is required for these safe and calm trips on the water.