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Stavanger

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About Stavanger

Stavanger is a beautiful city situated on the south-west coast of Norway — perfect for a summer getaway. With a medieval history, stunning beaches and excellent hiking and biking trails, there's something for everyone here. The city also boasts a lively cultural scene, with plenty of museums, galleries and concert halls to explore. The best places to stay in Stavanger reflect the city's easy-going atmosphere, from simple self-catering apartments to chic boutique hotels.

Start your explorations in the Old Town, home to well-preserved 18th and 19th-century wooden houses. Be sure to visit the Norwegian Canning Museum, housed in an old cannery, as well as the Stavanger Cathedral, a fine example of Gothic architecture. Gamle Stavanger is also worth a visit for its atmospheric winding streets lined with traditional wooden houses. Art lovers will enjoy the variety of galleries and museums on offer, including the Stavanger Kunstmuseum, which showcases both Norwegian and international art.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice here too. The city is surrounded by stunning scenery, including the Pulpit Rock — a towering cliff face with breathtaking views. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming and kayaking. The Preikestolen Plateau is one of the most popular hiking trails in Norway and can be reached by taking a bus from town.

When it comes to dining, Stavanger also has plenty to offer from cosy cafes serving traditional Norwegian dishes to upscale restaurants with views of the harbour. The city's nightlife is lively, with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from. So whether you're looking for a relaxing break or an action-packed adventure, be sure to add Stavanger to your list of must-visit destinations! Use our guide to the best places to stay in Stavanger and start planning your getaway now.

The Best places to stay in Stavanger

For Families

  • Just a short drive from Stavanger, but feeling far more remote, Sola Strand Hotel is a fantastic pick for a family holiday. Set on one of area's best beaches, there's a good range of smart accommodation with a classic yet contemporary feel. But it's the facilities that make it stand out for families; there's the beach of course, plus loads of activities for all ages both on land and in the water, and a spoiling spa.

For a central stay

  • Thon Hotel Stavanger is situated right in the centre of town close to everything from culture to nightlife. It's a contemporary property with a buzzing bar and nicely designed interiors.
  • Hotel Skagen Brygge enjoys a waterfront location overlooking the harbour. Behind the traditional facade of this historic building you'll find smart modern interiors, and great views from the seafacing rooms. Plus there's a casual restaurant for healthy Norwegian cuisine.

For Foodies

  • Foodies should make a beeline for Eilert Smith Hotel. It's a 12 room boutique property designed by a renowned local architect, but the real draw is the fabulous two Michelin starred restaurant Re-Naa. Book well ahead to ensure your table and enjoy the epic 22 course tasting menu!

For the university

  • Anyone needing to be close to the uni should book a room at Ydalir, which is situated on the campus. Its 59 rooms are done in Scandi-chic style and you can enjoy great views from floor-to-ceiling windows. Plus there's a cool bar and cafe for light bites and pastries.

For an apartment or holiday home

Travel Information

  • Stavanger's airport is 20 minutes' drive from the centre of town. There's a good shuttle service between the two. If you have time on your hands, take the train from Oslo. It's not only cheaper but very beautiful, though it can take up to 8 hours!
  • If you plan to explore Norway by car, we recommend you look at the prices on Rentalcars.
  • The best time of year to visit Stavanger is during the summer months from May to September. The average daily high in July and August is 17°C and in June you will see almost no darkness at night! Winters tend be wet and chilly.

Still not sure which to book?

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Monthly Weather in Stavanger

Best Hotels in Stavanger

  • Ydalir Stavanger 59 rooms from $156

    Local exploring  -  Set on the University of Stavanger campus - this is an ideal choice for those visiting the institution
    Great walks  -  Just an hour outside the city are the epic landscapes at Lysefjord - ideal for long walks
    Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A Scandi-chic hotel located right on Stavanger University campus. Light and spacious rooms are classically unfussy with floor-to-ceiling windows, pale wooden floors and simple contemporary furniture. A chic bar serves excellent cocktails and the cafe churns out some top-notch pasteries. A fine stay. See More

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  • Sola Strand Hotel Stavanger 139 rooms from $172

    Families  -  Family suites, children's menus, plenty of activities for young and old(er), plus the beach - idyllic family escape
    Beach Life  -  Set overlooking the picturesque and rugged white sand beaches on the North Atlantic
    Tennis  -  Play a game on the hotel's courts
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor pool
    TennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    Just minutes from Stavanger but feeling a million miles away. A quiet hotel set on one of the area's prettiest beaches. Choose from a cosy traditional room or a spacious modern offering. Complete with a spa, tennis courts and a superb seafood and game restaurant, this is perfect for a family break. See More

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  • Thon Hotel Stavanger Stavanger 147 rooms from $203

    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of the Stavanger, just a stone's throw from the city’s nightlife, cultural, and entertainment options
    Disabled accessNo pets

    A chic contemporary hotel right in the centre of Stavanger. Vibrant rooms are decorated with bright prints from Ikat to fun graphics. A lively bar serves up some innovative cocktails while breakfasts are an indulgent affair. A convenient and sleek city crashpad. See More

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  • Hotel Skagen Brygge Stavanger 116 rooms from $228

    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located on the Quayside in central Stavanger, offering sea views and access to the pedestrianised part of the city
    City Style  -  A beautiful historic building with chic contemporary interiors
    Traditional
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    RestaurantPet friendlyParking

    A beautiful historic building sitting on Stavenger's quayside. Behind the traditional facade interiors are chic and modern. Spacious rooms have picture windows framing the sea views. A casual restaurant serves healthy Nordic cuisine and afternoon teas are offered. A charming and convenient stay. See More

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  • Eilert Smith Hotel Stavanger 12 rooms from $376

    Foodies  -  Be sure to reserve a table early to sample the 22-course dinner (with wine pairings) at the renowned seafood restaurant Re-Naa
    Boutique  -  A charming small boutique mixing chic Scandi style with a good dose of homely charm
    Great walks  -  Just outside the city are a good choice of hiking trails with routes for all abilities
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the oldest and best preserved cathedral in Norway - Stavanger Cathedral
    RestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    A 12-room boutique hotel designed by renowned local architect Eilert Smith. Spacious rooms and suites are decorated with Scandinavian design pieces and most have kitchenettes. Continental breakfasts are served in-room however the two-star Michelin seafood restaurant, Re-Naa, is the real lure. See More

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