On our Norweigan Fjords cruise, Stavanger was the first port we stopped at. As first time cruisers, we didn’t really know what to expect, but was excited to wake up and discover somewhere new. If Stavnager is on your port list, you’re in for a real treat, especially if you’re visiting as a family. Here are some ideas and activities if you’re spending a day in Stavanger with kids.
Morning: Stroll through Old Stavanger
A great way to start your day in Stavanger is to head to Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger). It’s only a short walk from the cruise terminal and will take you hardly any time at all. Here you’ll find cobbled streets, 18th century white wooden houses and colourful shop fronts.
This is a great area to explore with children, as there’s so much to look at. See how many different coloured doors you can find, which is the most interesting shop and even stop somewhere for morning coffee and a cake!
Mid-morning: Visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum
After soaking up the charm of Old Stavanger, head to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. It’s only a 10-minute walk along the waterfront and is surprisingly family-friendly. The museum offers hands-on exhibits that explain Norway’s offshore oil industry in an engaging and interactive way.
Kids can crawl through a replica oil pipeline, operate machinery in the play zone, and watch educational films in the cinema. It’s both educational and entertaining — a win-win for parents!
After the museum, be sure to visit Geoparken, which is right outside and free! This is a maritime-themed playground constructed from recycled oil industry materials. With climbing frames, slides, and plenty of space to run around, it’s ideal for younger children. Parents can relax on nearby benches while enjoying the sea views. We spent quite a while here, letting Erin blow off some steam and have fun.
Late morning: Sverd i Fjell – The Swords in Rock
Before lunch, take a short trip to see the iconic Sverd i Fjell (Swords in Rock). Located at Hafrsfjord, around a 15-minute drive from the city centre, these three massive swords commemorate the Battle of Hafrsfjord in 872, where Norway was united under one king. The monument stands as a symbol of peace and unity.
It’s a fantastic spot for a family photo, with the swords towering over the beautiful fjord as a backdrop. Kids will enjoy exploring the shoreline while you take in the historical significance and natural beauty.
Lunch: Harbourfront Dining
For lunch, the Stavanger Harbour offers plenty of options. Many restaurants serve fresh seafood, but there are also plenty of choices for picky eaters. If you prefer something quick and budget-friendly, head to one of the local bakeries for a traditional Norwegian pastry called a ‘skolebrød’ (school bread) – a cardamom bun filled with custard and topped with coconut.
Alternatively, the ship is within walking distance of the harbour and it’s so easy to pop back on board for a quick lunch. During port days the ship isn’t so busy and you’ll be able to grab something from Taste 360 or the Horizon buffet with ease.
Early afternoon: Take a Fjord Cruise (option 1)
A trip to Norway wouldn’t be complete without witnessing the majestic fjords. From Stavanger, you can embark on a short Lysefjord cruise, which typically lasts around three hours. Family-friendly boats offer indoor seating, large windows, and commentary to keep little ones engaged.
Highlights include the impressive Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) towering above the fjord, cascading waterfalls, and the occasional sighting of seals or porpoises. Make sure to bring a jacket, as it can get breezy on the water.
Late afternoon: Walk around the white houses opposite the ship (option 2)
Thanks to Instagram, somewhere I was desperate to explore was the area of white houses just opposite the ship. You can see them from some of the balconies, depending on which side you’re standing. Although it won’t take you hours, this little community is adorable and is filled with charming houses, immaculate gardens and cobbled lanes.
People do live here so it’s important to be respectful when walking around, and being careful about where and what you take pictures of. However, everyone we met was so friendly, and we even managed to make friends with a neighbourhood cat!
Other activities to consider:
Stavanger City Museum
A family-friendly museum showcasing Stavanger’s history, culture, and heritage. Interactive exhibits and engaging displays make it fun for children to learn about the city’s past.
Stavanger Botanical Garden
A peaceful, scenic spot for a family stroll, with beautifully themed gardens and plenty of open space for children to explore. The garden also has a large play area for younger kids to enjoy.
Viking House
A hands-on experience where children can step inside a Viking longhouse, try on costumes, and learn about Viking history through interactive displays and fun activities.
Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)
A stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views of the Lysefjord. The hike is challenging, but older children and families with an adventurous spirit will enjoy the experience and the spectacular scenery at the top.
Kongeparken Amusement Park
A vibrant amusement park just outside Stavanger with rides, playgrounds, and outdoor activities. It’s ideal for younger children, offering a range of attractions for all ages to enjoy.
Sola Beach
A relaxing family spot perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Children can play in the sand or splash in the shallow waters during the summer months, while parents can unwind by the seaside.
Skattkammeret – The Treasure Chamber
An interactive museum designed for children to explore Stavanger’s rich history. Kids can embark on a treasure hunt, solving riddles and engaging with exhibits in a fun, playful way.
Go-Karting at Kvadrat Shopping Centre
For children who enjoy a bit of speed, the go-kart track at Kvadrat Shopping Centre offers a safe and exciting racing experience for families to enjoy together.
Norsk Oljemuseum (Norwegian Oil Museum)
A fascinating museum that explains the history of Norway’s oil industry. With interactive exhibits, children can learn about the science and history of oil production in an engaging, hands-on environment.
Stavanger with kids: top tips
We found Stavanger to be a very family-friendly port to stop at. Not only is it a beautiful place for families to wander around, but there’s loads to do if you have the time. Here are a few tips to make your day in Stavanger even easier:
- Pram friendly: Old Stavanger’s cobbled streets can be tricky with a pushchair, so consider a baby carrier for younger children.
- Snacks and water: Norwegian prices can be steep, so bringing some snacks from the ship is a good idea.
- Weather ready: Stavanger’s weather can be unpredictable. Layers and waterproofs are recommended. The good news is that the ship isn’t far away if you need a change of clothes because of the rain.
- Food options: While it’s great to try new things, we all know that children can be fussy. Stavanger has loads of wonderful restaurants and bakeries but if, like us, you wanted something familiar, there’s a McDonald’s right in the middle of town.
- Feed the ducks: A short walk from the ship is a lovely big lake, which was full of ducks and geese when we visited. This might be a nice idea with younger children.
- Excursions: There are plenty of excursions available for Stavanger and can be booked with P&O. Alternatively, you’ll find lots of gazebos at the waterfront also offering trips, if you fancy doing something last minute.
Final thoughts
With a perfect mix of culture, nature, and fun, Stavanger is a fantastic family-friendly stop on your cruise adventure. You can make the day as relaxed or adventurous as you like, depending on the age and interests of your children.
