Why go to Stavanger?
Home to unusual museums like the Norwegian Canning and Petroleum museums
The city is full of shops and restaurants, but you might find prices too high for your taste
Options for all from museums and historic spots to shopping and Lysefjord trips
Stavanger Cruise Port Facilities?
There are no port buildings with facilities, but the tourist office drops off a box of maps, set on a table as you walk out of the secure area into town. Shops, museums, restaurants and other attractions are all within walking distance.
Good to Know?
Norway is very expensive; crewmembers report buying a Big Mac, fries and a milkshake for $40! Be prepared for sticker shock if you're planning on dining in town or doing any shopping.
Also, the weather in Norway can be changeable. On a July day in Stavanger, bright sun and downpours switched off throughout our visit. Wear layers and bring rain gear -- even if it seems nice when you're preparing to disembark.
Getting Around?
On Foot: If you're sightseeing within town, you can walk to all attractions. Parts of Old Stavanger and the harbor area are pedestrian-only zones.
By Bus: A hop on, hop off bus is available if you want to visit multiple museums, including the few not immediately in the harbor area (although it's not the typical red City Sightseeing bus company you'll find in other ports). The buses park right by the premier cruise ship berth by Old Stavanger and go to the tourist information office/Stavanger cathedral, the Petroleum Museum, Stavanger Museum, Museum of Archaeology, Stavanger Art Museum and the royal home Ledaal. Buses depart every half hour, and the circuit takes 45 minutes. Tickets may be purchased at the tourist office or onboard the bus.
Local buses will take you to the Iron Age Farm (about a 10-minute ride) or to the beaches at Sola and Valard. Inquire at the tourist office for more information.
By Bike: You can rent bikes at the tourist office. One scenic cycle route takes you from Stavanger to the beach at Sola.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK). For updated currency-conversion figures, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com. Most shops and restaurants will accept credit cards, but there are ATM's (called minibanks) throughout the harbor area if you need to withdraw cash. There are two by the tourist office, on either side of the Spare Bank building. You can also change bills only at the tourist office.
Language?
Norwegian is a varied language, with two written forms -- Nynorsk and Bokmal. When speaking, Norwegians use their own regional dialects but generally can understand each other. Most people speak excellent English, as kids learn it in school from an early age.
A few key phrases to know include: hallo (hello); tak (thank you); ja (yes); and nei (no).
