At Science Factory, you can learn about science, mathematics, energy, astronomy and the region's fascinating industrial history. There are lots of fun and exciting activities and experiments for the whole family to learn about.

All the exhibits are interactive, so you're more than welcome to touch things and even have competitions with each other on your way around the museum. For example, race in wheelchairs, find out how hot each of your brains is and test who in the family has the fastest reactions.

At Abelloftet, opened in 2019, you can explore as many as 50 mathematics experiments and installations in what is called the largest mathematics exhibition in Norway. Here, maths is far from boring – try entering the big kaleidoscope, for example, and learn how it works mathematically.

The Science Factory also has Norway's first "tesla–coil", where the brave can try to catch arcs and flashes of lightning that shoot off at a whopping 500,000 volts!

Don't forget to stop by the Observation Terrace on the top floor, where the Solar Telescope is in use on sunny days, and explore space in the state–of–the–art Planetarium, which shows both space films and an artificial starry sky that can be admired in the large 360–degree digital cinema.

The Science Factory regularly organises special events, science shows and other exciting activities – 

see the calendar, opening times and prices on the Science Factory's website.

Vestlandet

The Science Factory – Exciting technology museum near Stavanger 

As its name suggests, Sverd in Fjell is made up of three ten-metre–high vertical bronze swords that look as if they've been stabbed into the rock by a giant. The swords are said to symbolise peace, unity and freedom and stand close to the shores of the idyllic Hafrsfjord near Stavanger.

They thus stand as a beautiful monument to both the battle that (at least according to legend) led to the unification of Norway, and the subsequent peace, which, in keeping with Viking custom, was marked by the warring parties sticking their swords into the ground.

The story behind the swords is both a dramatic love story and a bloody war story. In the 8th century Norway was ruled by a series of minor kings, and according to legend Harald Hairy set out to unite the country in order to impress his chosen wife, Gyda Eiriksdatter, who would only marry him if he succeeded in subduing all of Norway. He therefore went to war against the other minor kings, and the decisive battle was at Hafrsfjord in 872. Here Harald defeated his last important opponents, and Norway was united in one kingdom (and he got his Gyda).

In 1983, the Norwegian artist Fritz Røed perpetuated this story with the artwork Sverd i Fjell, which was unveiled by King Olav himself. The swords now stand as an impressive monument in the middle of the beautiful fjord landscape and are a perfect destination for a day out when you want to experience nature and culture as well as history. Bring a packed lunch and enjoy it at the foot of the impressive swords, looking out over the clear waters of the fjord and feeling the wings of history.

Afterwards, continue the day with a walk along the area's idyllic hiking and cycling trails or explore Stavanger's Broken Column sculpture project, which consists of 23 cast–iron figures placed around the city.




Sverd i Fjell – Stavanger's impressive Viking monument

From Stavanger, it is only around one hour's drive to reach Hunnedalen, where the hike starts. There are plenty of parking spaces and the starting point of the route is well marked. Lace up your hiking shoes, make sure your packed lunch and water bottle are in your bag – and set off into the stunning Norwegian mountain landscape!

The first part of the hike to Blåfjellenden Tourist Cabin goes uphill until you reach the top of the mountain. Then you'll head over the mountain, past small waterfalls, streams and wetlands – and lots of berry bushes and other mountain plants that give the landscape its unique character. Remember to look up as you make your way over the mountain – and enjoy the views of cliffs and lakes as the landscape spreads out around you under the blue sky.

After around three hours you arrive at the tourist cabin, where you can rest your legs while eating the packed lunch and enjoying the view of the impressive mountains around you and the small lake next to the cabin.

Then the trip goes back to Hunnedalen and your car. If time allows, we recommend you take a look at the map and follow one of the alternative routes back to Stavanger – or perhaps drive out to Solastranden to enjoy the sunset before heading back to your hotel.

Hike to Blåfjellenden – Idyllic hike in Fjord Norway

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum is located just five minutes from Stavanger town centre and the more than 5,000 sqm offers a wealth of exhibitions and experiences for young and old.

The museum shows how oil and gas were created millions of years ago and how the technology for extracting oil has evolved since the Norwegian oil adventure started in the mid–1960s. Interactive exhibits bring the stories to life, and activity sheets and quizzes make touring the museum fun for all ages.

In one of the museum's most popular activities, you can experience first–hand what life is like on an oil rig, and the bravest members of the family can test a life jacket and slide four metres down a life net, or try to find their way through the maze of the catastrophe room when the tide is out.

Of course, the museum also focuses on the future and how climate change has and will affect the world – and not least on what the oil industry and we ourselves can do to help mitigate climate change in the future.

If you have more energy left after your visit, you can end the day in the Geopark just outside the museum – a popular and challenging playground built from elements of the oil industry.



Read more and see opening times and prices on the Norwegian Petroleum Museum's website.

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum – Fun learning about the history and future of oil

You will find the Iron Age farm just three km south of Stavanger city centre. Located on the site of a farm during the Migration Period (200–700 AD), you'll literally travel back in time when you visit this cosy farm.

In one of the three houses, you can meet the housewife and perhaps be lucky enough to taste her freshly baked 'hellekaker' (a type of potato pancake), while sitting in the exact same spot where the farm's original inhabitants sat around 1,500 years ago.

On your way around, you can also meet the other inhabitants of the farm, including the bards and not least the werewolf, who offers to tell your fortune in runes – if you're brave enough to hear about your future.
The farm is beautifully situated on top of Ullandhaug with magnificent views over the region and Hafjrsfjord. A visit here is a pleasant and exciting experience for the whole family!

Read more and see opening hours on the Iron Age Farm website.

A traditional grass-covered stone house in a green landscape under a blue sky.

The Iron Age Farm – an exciting journey through time 

Kongeparken is often described as a "headquarters of magic and excitement", and as the largest amusement park in Fjord Norway, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

The park offers both cosy and safe experiences for the little ones and plenty of speed and excitement for the family's daredevils and superheroes.

For a day of fun and relaxation, make your own chocolate in the chocolate factory or visit Gråtassland, where children can experience farm life, take a ride in the big Massey Ferguson tractor or meet 'the little grey tractor' and his friends from the famous children's films.

If you have action–hungry teenagers on holiday, they can let loose on the more challenging rides with the telling names "Høydeskrekk", "Stupet" (meaning "the fall") and "Fossen" – or try Norway's biggest and tallest carousels and Norway's longest bobsled run.

Kongeparken adds new rides every year and also has different decorations and activities depending on the time of year you visit the park. In the high season of summer it's all about the fun attractions, cooling water games and activities in the sun. In autumn the park is transformed into a magical world of golden leaves, pumpkins and hay bales, and at Christmas the park is transformed into a beautiful snow paradise with thousands of lights and fun Christmas activities.

Read more and see opening hours on the Kongeparkens website.

Kongeparken – a kingdom of magic and thrills

Tryggvi Icelandic Farm, around 20 minutes south of Stavanger, offers guided horseback rides for young and old riders of all experience levels. The rides are adapted to the individual rider, so inexperienced riders will ride in easy forest terrain at a walk, and experienced riders will go on more challenging rides in all five gaits, riding through rivers or up steep trails.

It is possible to book tours from one hour to half a day, and the experienced guides know both the terrain and the horses inside out, which means that you are guaranteed a good, safe environment, whether you are just striding through the idyllic woods or taking a good gallop across a meadow.

Whether you are experienced or a beginner, you can look forward to a pleasant day with lots of great nature experiences in the company of the calm, robust horses!



Read more and book your riding tour on Tryggvi Icelandic Farm's website.

Guided rides on Icelandic horses

Norway

From hikes, bike rides and fjord cruises in beautiful scenery over intriguing history and culture – and to fun and action in amusement parks, sandy beaches and exploratoriums. And best of all: The city is only a night’s sail from Denmark!

To kick off this introduction to Stavanger, here are our Top-3 of things not to be missed on your holiday adventure in Stavanger and the surrounding region:

Stroll through the atmospheric streets of Old Stavanger

The iconic Sverd i fjell monument in Stavanger, Norway, illuminated at night by the peaceful fjord.

If you’re planning on visiting Stavanger, the easiest and most direct way is to sail with us from Hirtshals in North Denmark. If you are driving in a car/motorhome, you can reach Hirtshals by freeway from most of Europe – and if you travel on foot, you can reach our port of departure by train and bus, as the town is only an hour’s bus ride from Aalborg, which is connected to the European rail network.

Find the best prices on boat trips right here.

Stavanger in itself of course has a lot to offer as a holiday destination – but now that you’re visiting this south Norway gem, we recommend at least one day trip or maybe even an overnight stay where you can experience the incredible fjord scenery of the surrounding region.

The breathtaking view from Preikestolen overlooking the serene Lysefjord in Norway. Foto: Outdoor Life

 – the world-famous cliff formation that offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the Lysefjord.

 – enjoy the incredibly beautiful fjord scenery from an electric tour boat.

 – next to Preikestolen, the region’s most famous hiking destination. 

Bike around the Lysefjord – if you go the entire route, it’s a 250-km ride, but you can choose shorter and family-friendly stages if you wish. 

Magma UNESCO Global Geopark – a unique lunar landscape shaped by the ice age and showing the real power of nature. 

Close to Stavanger, you can visit the Solastrand Beach which has been on The Sunday Times’ list of the world’s most beautiful beaches!

A couple enjoying a peaceful walk through the sand dunes on a chilly day.

Stavanger – impressive history and culture

Stavanger’s main attractions are all associated with the city’s impressive history – from Viking Age legends to current industrial history. In recent years, Stavanger has also become a vibrant cultural scene that offers everything from sculpture treasure hunts to world-class museums. Among the highlights are:

, an impressive bronze monument consisting of three ten-metres-tall bronze swords embedded in the bank of the Hafrsfjord.

Old Stavanger, a district consisting of 173 wooden houses built around the year 1800.

 where you can experience the history of oil from its creation millions of years ago to the climate–friendly solutions of the future.

Broken Column, a world-renowned sculpture project that consists of 23 cast-iron sculptures places around the city.

Stavanger Museum of Fine Arts, a unique collection of distinguished Norwegian art from the 1800s to contemporary art.

A mother and daughter enjoying the exhibition of oil platforms at a museum.

Stavanger also offers a wealth of exciting experiences for children – here’s our Top-3 of fun and intriguing attractions for the entire family:

 – a true kingdom of experiences with more than 60 activities that offer visitors of all ages a day filled with fun and excitement.

 – a technology museum where you can explore four floors of interactive exhibitions and experiments.

– a fun and exciting way to explore the beautiful nature near Stavanger.

Stavanger is renowned for its excellent cuisine that is primarily based on local produce – from cattle that runs free on the flatlands of the Jæren region to the fruits of the North Sea in the form of world-class seafood dishes.

Our top-3 tips for incredible culinary experiences in the area are:

 – the first sushi restaurant in Norway to receive Michelin status

 – a two-Michelin-star restaurant in the city centre that focuses on seasonal ingredients and regional flavours

 – a combined restaurant and fishmonger that offers dishes based on the day’s catch from the North Sea

You can of course also explore the multitude of cafés and local eateries that all take great pride in offering delicious traditional dishes based on local and seasonal produce.

When choosing your accommodation on your trip to Stavanger, all options are open to you. The city and surrounding region offer everything from campsites and holiday houses to hotels of all sizes and standards.

When you travel to Stavanger with Fjord Line, you can take advantage of our package deals and book excellent accommodation at the 

 or, a little ways outside the city (and perfect if you’re planning a Preikestolen hike), the 

Your guide to an unforgettable holiday in Stavanger

Family vacation, hiking adventures or exploring new cultural experiences? – No matter the headline for your next vacation to Norway, you can find it in Stavanger! The city and surrounding region offer a perfect mix of nature, history and culture, with an added dose of learning made fun – and of course family fun in the Kongeparken amusement park!

Read more about what to do and where to stay in Stavanger below – and find inspiration for your Stavanger adventure in our travel articles about the area.

Hirtshals

Stavanger

Three women walking down a charming cobblestone street lined with traditional white wooden houses in Stavanger..

Stavanger in southwest Norway is a holiday gem for young and old. From amusement parks and exploratoriums to stunning nature just outside the city.

Visit Stavanger in Norway – Fjords, beaches and fun for all!

If you visiting Stavanger on foot, or if you wish to stay in the heart of the city, you have a wide range of hotels, hostels, bed & breakfasts and guest houses at your disposal. Many of them are located right in the city centre with only a few minutes’ walk to all that this charming city has to offer – from cosy streets and snug cafés to vibrant nightlife and beautiful evening strolls along the waterfront.

Stavanger city centre is just a short bus ride from the ferry terminal, so even if you are arriving to Stavanger on foot, it is no hassle at all to reach your overnight accommodation.

If you are touring the area in your car or motor home, the region offers a number of beautifully located campsites that offers nature surroundings from every taste.

Visit, for instance, the idyllic Preikestolen Camping right at the bank of the Lysefjord, Mosvangen Camping by the lake Mosvatnet or Bore Strandcamping right by one of Norway’s longest sandy beaches.

Find more excellent campsites near Stavanger here.

When you travel to Stavanger with us, you can take advantage of our package deals with two of Stavanger’s most popular hotels, which offer excellent service and a prime location close to some of Stavanger’s best sights and experiences: 

If you are planning a hike to Preikestolen – or just wish to spend your vacation in the beautiful nature near the Lysefjord, we also offer a package deal with the charming 

 which, as the name indicates, has the added benefit of a brewery right around the corner!

Looking for a place to stay in Stavanger? Accommodation in this southwest holiday gem comes in many forms – from world-class hotels to primitive campsites. 

Accommodation in Stavanger: From hotels to campsites

Stavanger has played a key part in Norwegian history for several centuries, and today, the city contains an intriguing mix of charming historical activities and innovative museums and exploratoriums with a look to both current climate challenges and future solutions.

From the spectacular historical monument 

 to the 23 cast-iron figures of the Broken Column sculpture project – and from Old Stavanger’s charming, white-painted wooden houses to the colourful and vibrant ‘Fargegata’ – the Street of Colours – Stavanger offers a variety of sights that are not to be missed when you visit the city.

Stavanger is the gate to a number of world-class nature experiences. Go on a hike to 

, climb up the world’s tallest wooden staircase at Flørli 4444 (yes, it does mean that there are 4444 steps!) – or embark on a fjord cruise on the Lysefjord to experience the beautiful sights from below. Or how about a visit to a one-of-its-kind lunar landscape in the nearby Magma Geopark?

And if you’re bringing children (of all ages) along on your Stavanger adventure, great experiences await you all in the 

 (and the 11 (!!) other museums under the umbrella organization ‘Jär Museum’), the Norwegian Children’s Museum and, of course, the famous amusement park 

Get our insider tips for what to do in Stavanger. From sights you’ll remember forever to fun activities for everyone in the family. 