Storied Stavanger: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Stavanger , Norway

Storied Stavanger: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this audio tour through the historical centre of Norway’s fourth largest city, you’ll trace the city’s transformation from a medieval religious center to a canning industry powerhouse and, eventually, the wealthy ”Oil Capital of Norway” we see today.

You’ll walk through the winding streets of Old Stavanger. You’ll see Northern Europe’s best-preserved neighborhood, where 18th and 19th-century buildings and wooden houses reveal the city’s working-class roots.

The tour weaves together tales of herring booms, witchcraft trials, petroleum discoveries, and even connections to American history, showing you how this coastal community at the edge of the North Sea has repeatedly reinvented itself. You’ll also discover its identity as a street art destination, with plenty of pieces by international artists.

By the end of this tour, you’ll have a greater appreciation for a city that has continually adapted, while staying true to its distinctive maritime character and architectural heritage.

Available options

Storied Stavanger: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Starting outside Stavanger Tourist Information, you’ll walk through the winding streets of Gamle Stavanger’s (Old Stavanger).

You'll hear about the city's role in the war as you pass Thore Horve Statue.

You'll have a chance to take in the magnificent Stavanger Concert Hall before making your way further into the old town.

On this self-guided tour, you’ll walk through the winding streets of Gamle Stavanger’s (Old Stavanger) and hear how wealthy Stavanger began as a small Viking settlement.

On this walking tour through the historical centre of Norway’s fourth largest city, you’ll trace the city’s transformation from a medieval religious center to a canning industry powerhouse and, eventually, the wealthy ”Oil Capital of Norway” we see today.

You see and learn how this coastal community at the edge of the North Sea has repeatedly reinvented itself.

On this self-guided tour, you'll see the colorful Fargegaten (Color Street), where a hairdresser’s ambitious Miami Vice-inspired painting created one of the city’s most vibrant attractions.

You’ll visit landmarks, some over 900 years old, including the magnificent Stavanger Cathedral, whose construction in 1125 marked the city’s official founding.

You'll pass by the library and cultural centre, learning about them as you walk.

On this self-guided tour, you'll discover the fascinating tale of Norway’s oil adventure at the waterfront, where the distinctive Norwegian Petroleum Museum stands.

You'll have an opportunity to visit Valberget Utsiktspunkt Tower, a former watchmen’s residence that now offers panoramic views of the harbor.

As you make your way to the Sjofartsmonumentet in Fisketorget Stavanger, the Fish Market where our tour ends, you’ll hear about some of the Michelin-starred restaurants that have earned the city recognition as a culinary hotspot.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

"This tour starts at the Stavanger tourist Information. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Stavanger

Stavanger is a charming coastal city known for its well-preserved old town, rich Viking history, and stunning natural surroundings. As the gateway to the famous Lysefjord and Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Gamle Stavanger)

Gamle Stavanger is one of the best-preserved old towns in Norway, featuring 173 well-maintained wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, some museums charge entry fees

Norwegian Petroleum Museum

This award-winning museum offers an interactive and educational experience about Norway's oil and gas industry.

Museum 1-2 hours NOK 160 for adults, discounts available

Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)

Preikestolen is a breathtaking cliff that rises 604 meters above Lysefjord, offering stunning views and a challenging hike.

Nature Half-day to full day Free, but parking and guided tours may cost extra

Lysefjord

Lysefjord is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, offering boat tours and hiking opportunities.

Nature Half-day to full day NOK 200-400 for boat tours

Valberg Tower

Valberg Tower is a historic tower offering panoramic views of Stavanger and the surrounding area.

Historical 1 hour NOK 50 for adults

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fårikål

A traditional Norwegian stew made with lamb, cabbage, and spices.

Main Dish Not vegetarian or vegan

Rakfisk

Fermented fish, usually trout or char, served with flatbread, sour cream, and onions.

Snack Not vegetarian or vegan, contains fish

Lutefisk

A traditional Norwegian dish made from aged stockfish or dried whitefish, soaked in lye.

Main Dish Not vegetarian or vegan, contains fish

Kjøttkaker

Norwegian meatballs, usually served with potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry jam.

Main Dish Not vegetarian or vegan, contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking Rock climbing Kayaking Spa treatments Beach activities Picnicking Museum visits Walking tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and the best conditions for hiking and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Norwegian
Widely spoken: English, German, Swedish, Danish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stavanger is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Stavanger Airport, Sola • 11 km from city center

By train

Stavanger Station

By bus

Stavanger Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxa4x365

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Vågen Eigeland Hillevåg

Day trips

Lysefjord

25 km • Half-day to full day

Lysefjord is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, offering boat tours and hiking opportunities.

Sandnes

15 km • Half-day

Sandnes is a charming town known for its rich cultural heritage, museums, and beautiful parks.

Jæren

30 km • Full day

Jæren is a coastal area known for its beautiful beaches, birdwatching opportunities, and historic sites.

Festivals

Stavanger Festival • June Norsk Klepp Jazz Festival • July Stavanger International Chamber Music Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Old Town (Gamle Stavanger) early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds
Take a guided tour of the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to gain a deeper understanding of Norway's oil and gas industry
Hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) for a breathtaking view of Lysefjord, but be prepared for a challenging and steep trail
Explore the local food scene by visiting Stavanger Market (Stavanger Marked) for fresh produce, local crafts, and street food
Use the Kolumbus app for real-time bus information and to plan your public transportation routes