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The 14 Best Tours & Experiences in Stavanger
Stavanger is Norway’s oil capital turned charming coastal city, packed with rugged landscapes, fjords, and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s a place where thrill-seekers and history lovers find plenty to love. We especially admire Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), whose sunrise hike is an unforgettable way to start the day — plus, the post-hike breakfast makes the early start worth it. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, a private city walk reveals hidden corners and local stories. And if you’re into rugged scenery, the Kjerag and Lysefjord adventures—by foot or boat—are hard to beat.
No matter your style, Stavanger offers a mix of awe-inspiring hikes, scenic cruises, and cultural insights. We’ve rounded up the top experiences, all with their own flavor and unique appeal, so you can decide what fits your trip best. Whether you’re after a guided small-group trek or a flexible hop-on hop-off tour, there’s something here for every traveler.
Quick Overview
Stavanger’s best tours cover hiking, private city walks, fjord cruises, and RIB boat adventures. For a memorable start, the Preikestolen Sunrise Hike + Breakfast Buffet offers a peaceful dawn ascent with a rewarding view and hearty breakfast. If you prefer exploring at your own pace, the Private Walking Tour with a Local reveals hidden local spots. For thrill-seekers, the Kjerag Summer Hike and Lysefjord boat tours provide spectacular scenery by land and water. For a quick taste, the RIB boat adventures deliver high-speed excitement and exceptional views from the fjord. Keep reading for detailed reviews and what makes each one special.
1. Stavanger: Preikestolen Sunrise Hike + Breakfast Buffet
Starting your day with the Preikestolen Sunrise Hike + Breakfast is a fantastic way to experience Fjord Norway’s most iconic viewpoint. This 9-hour guided tour from Stavanger begins in the early morning, with pickup from 13 locations including hotels and guesthouses. The highlight is the 2-3 hour hike in the quiet of dawn, when fewer people are on the trail and the light is perfect for photos. Reaching the top of the 604-meter-high cliff, you’ll be treated to dramatic views of the Lysefjord — a truly breathtaking spectacle. After soaking in the scenery, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the mountain lodge, making this a well-rounded, memorable experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of peaceful early morning solitude, expert local guides, and the post-hike breakfast. Rated 5/5 by 53 reviews, travelers love the serenity and the chance to see the sunrise on one of Norway’s most famous landmarks. If you’re an early riser and love hiking, this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a peaceful start to the day with unforgettable views and a filling breakfast. Book early, as this popular tour fills up quickly.
2. Stavanger: Private Walking Tour with a Local
For a personalized introduction to Stavanger, the Private Walking Tour with a Local offers an authentic look at the city’s hidden corners and the stories behind its buildings. This 2-6 hour tour is fully customizable — set your own start time, pick your interests, and meet your passionate local guide. The tour can include the city center, secret alleyways, or cultural highlights like the old harbor and historic buildings.
What makes this experience unique is the opportunity to connect with someone who knows the city inside out. The guide shares tips, local secrets, and personal stories, making it a flexible and insightful experience. Priced at $65 per person with excellent reviews (4.6/5 from 95 reviews), it’s perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and tailored insights.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want an intimate, flexible exploration of Stavanger’s lesser-known spots. It’s a good value and highly customizable.
3. Stavanger: Kjerag Summer Hike with Packed Lunch
Seeking a more challenging adventure? The Kjerag Summer Hike is a 12-hour guided walk into the heart of the Ryfylke region. This early-morning tour takes you away from the crowds, hiking through near-solitude amid spectacular scenery. The trail culminates at the famous Kjerag Boulder, suspended high above Lysefjorden, offering jaw-dropping views. Included is a picnic lunch from a local bakery, tailored to dietary restrictions.
Rated 4.9/5 by 40 reviews, hikers praise the knowledgeable guides and the tranquil atmosphere. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with a demanding 12 km trail, but the payoff is the chance to experience Norway’s rugged landscape and iconic rock formation without the crowds. The tour provides a safe, well-supported environment to push your limits.
Bottom Line: Perfect for hikers eager for solitude and a scenic challenge, with knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and enjoyment.
4. Frafjord Paddling & Månafossen Waterfall Hike Stavanger
If combining land and water sounds appealing, check out the Frafjord Paddling & Månafossen Waterfall Hike. This 7-hour adventure involves a scenic drive, paddling in a quiet fjord, and a hike to one of Norway’s tallest waterfalls, Månafossen. The tour emphasizes intimate experiences with nature, with a local guide handling transportation and guiding.
Rated 5/5 by 20 reviews, travelers love the mix of paddling and hiking, and the chance to see Norway’s natural beauty from multiple perspectives. Paddling in a SUP or kayak, you’ll get close to the cliffs and waterfalls, making it a perfect outing for active travelers who want a varied day. The small-group format ensures personalized attention.
Bottom Line: A balanced combination of paddling and hiking that’s ideal for nature lovers seeking a full-day adventure.
5. Highlights of the Region – City/Skudenes/Avaldsnes Guided Bustour
For those wanting a taste of the wider region, the Highlights of the Region takes you on a scenic 4-hour bus trip. You’ll visit places like Visnes, with its tiny Statue of Liberty made from Norwegian copper, and Skudenes, a picturesque village known as Norway’s most charming summer town. Stops at Akrasanden, a Blue Flag beach, give plenty of photo opportunities.
Rated 4.5/5 from 77 reviews, this tour offers a relaxed way to see the coast’s highlights and learn about local culture and history. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer sightseeing from a comfortable coach. The detailed stops make it more than just a scenic drive.
Bottom Line: A compact, informative trip ideal for travelers wanting to sample the region’s culture and scenery comfortably.
6. Guided sunrise hike to Pulpit Rock Preikestolen
If you’re after spectacular early-morning views, the Guided sunrise hike to Pulpit Rock is a 10-hour adventure that beats the crowds. Starting early from Stavanger, you’ll catch the ferry and hike in a small group led by an experienced guide. The terrain is easy to moderate, making it accessible for many fitness levels, and you’ll arrive at the top just as the sun rises over the fjord.
Rated a perfect 5/5 by 17 reviews, the tour’s small-group format and included hotel pickup make it a personal, stress-free experience. The views from the top are incomparable, and the quiet atmosphere adds to the magic. This tour is ideal for those who want to avoid the daytime crowds and enjoy a serene hike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for early risers looking for an intimate, well-guided experience with breathtaking views.
7. From Stavanger: Off-Season Hike to Kjerag with Premium Lunch
For a demanding full-day hike, the Off-Season Hike to Kjerag offers a 12-hour trek led by expert guides. The trail covers 12 km up the steep slopes to Kjerag’s famous Boulder, with a gourmet lunch included. Starting before the crowds arrive, you’ll enjoy Norway’s rugged landscape at its best.
Rated 4.8/5 from 25 reviews, this tour appeals to experienced hikers and those wanting a more challenging experience. The small group size ensures safety and personal attention. It’s a high-value, unforgettable adventure for those comfortable with tough terrain and long days.
Bottom Line: A top choice for seasoned hikers craving a challenging, scenic day with excellent guides and a delicious lunch.
8. Stavanger: Guided Lysefjord Cruise to Pulpit Rock
For a relaxed way to see Lysefjord, the Guided Lysefjord Cruise offers a 2-hour boat trip with commentary on the fjord’s legends. During the cruise, you’ll see Vagabond’s Cave, Whiskey Falls, and even get a glimpse of the towering Pulpit Rock from below — a perspective that’s quite different from the hiking experience.
Rated 4.9/5 by 18 reviews, this tour suits travelers who want to combine sightseeing with comfort. Small groups and knowledgeable guides make it intimate, and the onboard commentary enriches the experience. It’s a wonderful way to relax after a morning of hiking or as a scenic afternoon activity.
Bottom Line: A scenic, informative cruise that complements land adventures perfectly — ideal for those short on time but craving fjord views.
9. From Stavanger: Lysefjorden & Pulpit Rock Safari by RIB
For adrenaline junkies, the Lysefjorden & Pulpit Rock Safari by RIB is about as exciting as it gets. This 105-minute high-speed ride whisks you through the fjord, getting you close to Whiskey Falls, Vagabond’s Cave, and even the Pulpit Rock from the sea — a perspective few get to enjoy.
With rave reviews (5/5 from 9 reviews), travelers love the personal touch and the thrill of speeding through the fjord. Guides are highly experienced, and the small group size makes it a personalized adventure. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, action-packed trip that shows off Norway’s dramatic coastline.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure lovers wanting a quick, exciting way to see the fjord from a different view.
10. From Stavanger: Lysefjord RIB Boat Tour with Boathouse Visit
History and speed combine on the Lysefjord RIB Tour from the Old Boathouse. This 1.5-hour tour departs from a 400-year-old boat house — a rare setting that adds character. Speed through the fjord to see Pulpit Rock, Whisky Falls, and Vagabond’s Cave, stopping for photo opportunities at key sights.
Rated 4.9/5 with glowing reviews, travelers appreciate the mixture of history, scenery, and adventure. The boat’s speed and the historic boathouse make it a memorable, different experience. It’s perfect if you want a short, energetic trip with a touch of local charm.
Bottom Line: Ideal for short, action-packed tours with a historical twist — especially good for those who like a fast, fun ride.
11. Stavanger: Sights & Highlights Minibus Tour and Museum Entry
If you prefer a more relaxed, cultural approach, the Sights & Highlights Minibus Tour combines scenic drives with visits to notable sites like Sverd i fjell, the vintage car museum, and the local fishing harbor. The 2.5-hour trip includes several photo stops and opportunities to learn about Stavanger’s past.
Rated 5/5 from 5 reviews, this tour suits those interested in local stories, history, and culture without the physical effort. It’s a good value at $76 per person and offers a rundown of the region’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, informative overview of Stavanger and its surroundings.
12. Stavanger: 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass GrayLine
For maximum flexibility, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus allows you to explore Stavanger’s main sights at your own pace. With over a dozen stops, you can visit Stavanger Cathedral, the Art Museum, or the Sverd i fjell monument, then hop back on when ready.
Rated 3.7/5 by 183 reviews, it’s a budget-friendly way to cover ground and get orientated. The audio guide adds context, and you can customize your day by choosing your stops.
Bottom Line: Excellent for flexible sightseeing, especially if you’re short on time or prefer to plan your own route.
13. Stavanger: Prekestolen Tour with Guide and Pickup
This Preikestolen guided day trip includes hotel or ship transfers, making it easy to access the trail. The 6.5-hour tour features a scenic bus ride, followed by a 4.5-hour hike to the top of Pulpit Rock. The route is suitable for most fitness levels and offers spectacular vistas over Lysefjord.
Rated 4.1/5 from 50 reviews, travelers appreciate the convenience of pickup and the guided support. The hike is a highlight, and the panoramic views are unbeatable.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a guided, hassle-free trip to Preikestolen with a comfortable pickup service.
14. Discover Private+ Stavanger Guided City Tour
Finally, the Private+ City Tour offers a 2-hour exploration of Stavanger’s best hidden corners. This tour focuses on the city’s Viking roots and scenic viewpoints, with flexible start times and tailored stops.
Rated 4.8/5 by 5 reviews, this tour is perfect for travelers wanting a quick, personalized overview of Stavanger’s charming streets and Viking history, with tips from a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, intimate introduction to Stavanger, especially for history and culture lovers.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing among these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you’re after a spectacular sunrise hike, the Preikestolen Sunrise Hike + Breakfast is hard to beat, especially if avoiding crowds appeals. For a personalized city experience, the Private Walking Tour offers tailored insights with local flavor.
Active travelers craving scenery might prefer the Kjerag Summer Hike, while those seeking a quick thrill can try the RIB safari. Budget travelers will find the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus a flexible and affordable option. Lastly, if you want a rundown, the Sights & Highlights Minibus Tour combines scenic and cultural sights in one trip.
Final Thoughts
Stavanger’s range of tours offers something for every interest and fitness level. The Preikestolen sunrise hike remains a top choice for its combination of natural beauty and serenity, while the Lysefjord boat trips provide a relaxed, scenic escape. For those who like to explore at their own pace, private tours or hop-on hop-off buses give flexibility without sacrificing insight.
Book early, especially for popular excursions like the sunrise hike or Kjerag trek. With so many options, the hardest part is deciding where to start your adventure in this stunning Norwegian city.