I took a forty minutes flight from Bergen to Stavanger to continue my Norwegian experience. It’s a short flight but the one-way ticket amounted to SGD 160. And that is something I struggled getting used to since Norway is known to be one of the most expensive countries in the world. So I suppose the price issue will always be mentioned but it’s really worth the time and moolah. The spectacular landscapes will be imprinted into your mind for the longest time. How about popping over to my posts on Lofoten Islands to see what I mean?

Stavanger is the oil capital of Norway and known to be the country’s richest city. But despite that, I find it to be a quaint place and there is actually a small town feel to it. And I thought that’s nice for a place known for its oil riches. The first place of visit was the old town (Gamle Stavanger) near to the port area, where I find old wooden houses lining the cobbled streets.

There is this Norwegian Canning Museum (Norsk HermetikkMuseum) housed in an old factory building. It showcases Norway’s exported canned-fish production which Stavanger was once a powerhouse.

I went for an early dinner at Skagen Restaurant which is located alongside the port area. I like the heavy wood interior but most importantly, the food is great!

Norsk Oljemuseum Geopark

Stavanger Geopark (Geoparken) is an industrial-looking urban space next to Norwegian Petroleum Museum (Norsk Oljemuseum). The unique Geopark covered in graffiti was built with materials, scraps and waste related to oil production. Even the shape of it was based on the shape of an oil field. It is an amazing sight and so fitting for a city synonymous with oil. Maybe I should have allocated time to visit the oil museum too.

I almost did not realize it’s also a playground until I noticed children running around and having fun.

The port of Stavanger

I made my way to Valbergtarnet (Valberg Tower) before heading back to the port. The shops close early in Stavanger and the streets were empty by evening time.

Things are livelier around the port area where the restaurants and bars are located. The port looks even better in the night and I just chillax here to take in the views. It’s also amazing to note that Stavanger population is the fourth largest in Norway but the city still exudes an endearing small-town atmosphere. Nice!

STAY: Best Western Havly Hotell review

Best Western Havly Hotell is located near to Valbergtarnet and short walking distance to the port. It’s a nice and comfortable hotel with extremely friendly staff. The room is quite small but good enough for me. The variety and selection of the continental breakfast buffet could have been better. Nevertheless, I would stay here again when back in Stavanger.

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What are your thoughts about Stavanger? Leave a comment and share it with me.

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