Stavanger is a fascinating blend of old and new – from the Middle Ages when Vikings ruled the seas to today’s North Sea drilling platforms that have made Norway one of the world’s leading oil producers.
Echoing this duality is the contrast of modern architecture and trendy, stylish cafés with ancient cobblestone walkways, and rows of 18th-century whitewashed wooden houses.
As you wander around town, keep your eyes open for the 23 identical cast iron figures by sculptor Antony Gormley that are scattered about. They are six feet tall and all face 10° west.
Representing Northern Europe's best preserved wooden house settlement, Old Stavanger is located on the harbor. Walk narrow cobbled streets and explore the charming historical houses (173) and Norweigan Canning Museum (where the sardine can key was invented).
Lysefjord fills a mountian cleft, strecthing 23 miles long, 1,500 feet deep and between 550-2,200 yards wide, with sheer rock walls enclosing it up to 3,000 feet. The Pulpit is a natural observatory, 2,000 feet high with magnicifcent views, but the journey to reach it is not for the faint of heart!
On the island of Mosterøy is Norway's best-preserved medieval monastery, dating to the 800s. Originally home to Viking Kings, it was given to Augustinian Monks around 1265. Explore Utstein Kloster and hear its amazing organ and hear stories of medieval ghosts and Viking victories.
Step back to The Middle Ages on a guided walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Stavanger that showcases the town’s storied history.
Travel back to the days of brave Vikings and through the rugged medieval times of Norway on this guided exploration of historic Stavanger.
Step back in time and discover a Viking landscape on this panoramic cruise through Lysefjord, passing under the shadows of sheer mountains.