Stavanger: Private Bike Tour with 3 Swords Monument

If you’re considering a way to truly experience Stavanger beyond the usual tourist spots, a private bike tour might just be your best bet. This particular tour, offered by My Adventures Travel Pirnbacher, promises a relaxed yet comprehensive look at the city’s highlights, combined with a scenic visit to the Viking-famed Hafsfjord. While I haven’t personally taken this exact ride, I’ve gathered enough details and traveler insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect — and why it might be the perfect activity for you.

What I really like about this experience is its tailored approach, allowing you to explore at your own pace, with the guidance of a knowledgeable local. Plus, the itinerary includes some eye-catching viewpoints, a meaningful visit to Viking symbols, and a glimpse into Stavanger’s everyday life. The only note of caution? If you’re not comfortable on a bike or prefer more structured tours, this might require a bit of flexibility.

This tour is especially suited for those who love combining history, scenic beauty, and local culture into one outing — perfect for active travelers wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Contents show

Key Points

Tailored private experience with a local guide ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
Multiple scenic stops provide opportunities for great photos and local insights.
Viking heritage at Hafsfjord offers a meaningful historical connection.
Comfortable ride options include e-bikes, mountain bikes, or standard bikes.
Highlights include viewpoints, Old Town, and coastal scenery for varied, beautiful landscapes.
Duration of 2.5 hours makes it a manageable yet enriching activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the Stavanger Private Bike Tour?

This tour offers an ideal blend of city sights and natural beauty, making it a fantastic way to see Stavanger from a local’s perspective. If you dislike long, rigid schedules and prefer a more relaxed exploration, this bike trip fits the bill. The private aspect ensures a more intimate experience, with the opportunity to ask questions and customize stops.

The inclusion of electric bikes caters to a range of fitness levels, making it accessible even if you’re not an experienced cyclist. Plus, the stops at viewpoints and historical sites like the 3 Swords at Hafsfjord give this tour a meaningful edge over typical city bike rides.

Enjoying two wheels? We've reviewed these other cycling options in Stavanger

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Cruise Terminal

The tour kicks off right at the cruise terminal, a convenient spot for travelers arriving by ship. This offers an easy start without needing extra transportation to the city center. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want a quick yet comprehensive city overview.

Stop 2: Stavanger City Tour

The guided ride through Stavanger itself lasts about five minutes before you start to see some of the city’s most photogenic spots. The guide — Stefan, who is notably praised for his local knowledge — will lead you through the streets, sharing insights into Stavanger’s history, architecture, and culture. Expect to pass by iconic locations and get tips for your remaining days in the city.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stop 3: Kijów Cinema and Scenic Views

Next, you’ll stop at Kijów Cinema, a perfect spot for a quick photo opportunity. Here, the guide offers sightseeing tips and takes you through some of Stavanger’s most charming corners. The 15-minute stop includes a mix of guided explanations and scenic riding, giving you a taste of the city’s character and panoramic views along the way.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Stavanger

Stop 4: Hafrsfjord Bridge (Hafrsfjord bru)

A short 10-minute stop at Hafrsfjord Bridge allows for more photos and a chance to soak in the views. This is also where you’ll learn about the Viking monument and its significance. Reviewers mention the visit to Hafrsfjord as a highlight, especially because it symbolizes a crucial Viking battle, adding depth to your understanding of Norway’s history.

Stop 5: Hafrsfjord

The centerpiece of the tour, this 75-minute segment explores the Hafsfjord area, with a guided tour that offers more scenic vistas and historical context. Here, you’ll get to see the 3 Swords Monument, symbolic of the Viking battle. The scenery along the coast is described as spectacular, with plenty of photo opportunities.

One reviewer, Charles, mentioned that Stefan’s local knowledge made the experience memorable, especially as he took them on a route that combined city sights and fjord views.

Stop 6: Fargegaten

A quick 10-minute stop at Fargegaten, Stavanger’s colorful street, offers more photo opportunities and local charm. The guide might suggest places to enjoy local food or drinks afterward, adding to your cultural experience.

Stop 7: Stavanger Old Town and City Center

The final stop includes a break time at the Old Town. Here, you can walk around, take photos, and absorb the charming wooden houses and cobblestone streets. A 30-minute period allows for relaxation, snacks, or further exploration. Reviewers note that the guide’s tips on local restaurants and attractions added extra value.

Ending Point: Cruise Terminal

The tour concludes back at the cruise terminal, wrapping up a well-rounded, scenic, and history-rich ride through Stavanger.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

Your choice of bike — whether an electric bike, mountain bike, or standard bicycle — suits various fitness levels and preferences.
A personalized tour led by a local guide.
Visits to the best viewpoints and hidden corners of Stavanger.

Not Included:

Food or drinks, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.
Optional entrance to the Viking House, which costs 175 Krones, and is not part of the bike tour.

Worth the Price?

While the exact price isn’t specified, the value lies in the personalized experience, flexible timing, and the inclusion of e-bikes — often a premium feature. For about 2.5 hours of guided exploration, the cost likely represents good value, especially considering the insights from local guides like Stefan, who has been praised for his knowledge and communication.

Travelers get a chance to see Stavanger from a unique perspective, with stops at prime photo points and cultural sites, all without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The private nature of the tour ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, making it a particularly attractive choice for those seeking a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you love the idea of combining physical activity with cultural learning, this bike tour delivers just that. You’ll appreciate the flexibility, the scenic routes, and the chance to explore Stavanger’s Viking history in a relaxed way. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, authentic experience and aren’t afraid to pedal a little.

This tour suits those with a moderate level of fitness, especially since e-bikes are available to ease the ride. It’s also a great choice for cruise passengers, thanks to its convenient starting point and manageable duration.

However, if you prefer structured group activities or are uncomfortable on bikes, you might want to consider other options. But for those seeking a scenic, historically enriched, and personalized exploration of Stavanger — this private bike tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, with the availability of e-bikes and mountain bikes, most people can comfortably participate, regardless of fitness level.

Can I start the tour from my accommodation?
Yes, you can choose the starting point, including your hotel or a nearby location, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Are guides available in different languages?
Yes, guides speak English, German, and Norwegian, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect scenic viewpoints, Stavanger Old Town, the Viking symbol at Hafsfjord, and insider tips for your stay.

Is food or drink included?
No, but you can bring your own snacks or plan to enjoy local cuisine after the tour.

Can I visit the Viking House?
Yes, but entrance is optional and costs an extra 175 Krones, which is not included in the tour price.

To sum it up, this private bike tour through Stavanger offers a relaxed, insightful, and scenic way to explore one of Norway’s most charming cities. Its combination of cultural highlights, stunning vistas, and personalized guidance makes it an excellent choice for active travelers who want an authentic taste of Stavanger’s Viking roots and coastal beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply after an enjoyable adventure, this tour ticks many boxes for a memorable day in Norway.