Stavanger is a city full of surprises—its compact size makes it easy to explore, but what really stands out are its diverse ways to see and understand the place. Whether you’re interested in uncovering hidden corners of the old town, pedaling along dramatic coastlines, or cruising between islands, Stavanger offers tours that suit your style. We’re especially fond of the Highlights of the Region – City/Skudenes/Avaldsnes Guided Bustour for its blend of scenic stops and local storytelling, giving a well-rounded taste of Karmøy’s history and scenery.
If you prefer a more active approach, the Guided EL-Bike tour in Haugesund and Coastal path takes you through coastal landscapes while sharing Viking tales, all with pedal assist to keep it easy and fun. For a personal touch, the Discover Private+ Stavanger Guided City Tour lets you explore tucked-away spots with a private guide. Want a flexible, hop-on-hop-off experience? Stavanger’s open-top buses are reliable options, with routes that let you craft your own sightseeing day.
Below, we’ll walk through each tour, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which one fits your travel style.
1. Highlights of the Region – City/Skudenes/Avaldsnes Guided Bustour
This 4-hour guided bus tour takes you around Karmøy, a region that beautifully blends history and nature. It’s a trip designed for those who want a taste of local heritage without too much fuss. The tour kicks off with a visit to Visnes, where a tiny Statue of Liberty symbolizes the town’s global links—copper from here went into the original statue. Next is Åkrasanden, a Blue Flag beach renowned for its soft sands and clear waters—ideal for photos or a quick paddle.
The highlight for many is Skudeneshavn, a charming village often called Norway’s ‘White Lady’ for its picturesque, well-preserved wooden houses. Walking through the narrow streets, you’ll feel like stepping back in time, with options to indulge in waffles and coffee. With a solid 4.5/5 rating from 77 reviews, this tour offers good value for its $90.46 price, especially if you prefer a relaxed, informative experience with an expert guide.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a scenic, cultural overview with plenty of photo opportunities and local stories.
2. Guided EL-Bike tour in the city of Haugesund and Coastal path
This 2-hour e-bike tour provides a lively way to explore Haugesund and its breathtaking coastal scenery. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to cover more ground without tiring out. The tour begins on Haraldsgata, the city’s main shopping street, then heads towards the coastal path—an area packed with Viking relics and modern monuments, including the striking Harald Hårfagre statue and the Jason deCaires Taylor horse sculptures.
What makes this trip stand out is the pedal assist feature, letting you control your effort level and making hills feel effortless. Limited to just 10 riders, you’ll enjoy a small-group atmosphere and plenty of personalized attention. Reviews praise Ern, the knowledgeable guide, for sharing stories about Norway’s Viking past and guiding you past sights like Korsshaugen, the 1,150-year-old monument.
At a price of $86.29, it’s a good value for a quick but comprehensive outdoor experience, especially if you want to combine physical activity with cultural insight. Be prepared for some traffic, but the guide’s tips keep it manageable.
Bottom line: Excellent for energetic travelers who want a memorable, guided ride with historical insights along scenic coastal paths.
3. Discover Private+ Stavanger Guided City Tour
For those who desire a personalized exploration of Stavanger’s most intriguing spots, this private tour offers a tailored experience. Lasting around 2 hours, it’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups. Your guide will take you through hidden corners and popular landmarks, sharing stories about the city’s Viking roots and modern charm.
The tour includes stops at strategic viewpoints and quiet neighborhoods, with the option to customize your route. It’s especially suited for travelers who value flexibility and detailed local knowledge. With a top rating of 4.8/5 based on just 5 reviews, it’s a small but highly-rated experience. The guide’s friendly approach and tailored itinerary make it stand out.
This tour is best for visitors who want to avoid cookie-cutter itineraries and prefer a more intimate, focused look at Stavanger’s core. Because it’s private, you can request extra sights or spend more time at your favorite spots.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who prefer a custom experience and want to dig a little deeper into Stavanger’s character.
4. Stavanger: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
If you’re short on time but want a broad overview, this one-day hop-on hop-off bus is a reliable choice. For $49, you get unlimited access to 12 stops around Stavanger, including the Old Town, the Petroleum Museum, and the Stavanger Museum. The open-top double-decker design makes it easy to take in the sights without fuss.
The commentary, available in 8 languages, offers nuggets of info about Stavanger’s history, architecture, and culture. The flexibility to hop off at any stop and return later means you can tailor your day to your interests. The route is well-organized, and reviews indicate it’s a good value, especially for travelers who want a quick, rundown.
Keep in mind that with a 3.6/5 rating from 144 reviews, some travelers find it less engaging than more personalized options, but it’s still an easy, affordable way to see many highlights.
Bottom line: Best suited for budget-conscious visitors who want a flexible, no-fuss approach to city sightseeing.
$49 per person
5. Stavanger: City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour
This 5-hour combined tour balances bus comfort with walking exploration. For $98, you visit Old Stavanger, Valbergtårnet, and other city landmarks. The walking segments include stops at Fargegaten, the colorful street, and Sverd i fjell—the famous swords in the rock monument.
It’s an especially good choice for those who want to see the city’s highlights in depth. The tour’s reviews praise the flexibility of the guide and the scenic stops. The mixture of bus and walk helps cover more ground comfortably, and the tour provides plenty of opportunities for photos and local tips.
Ideal for travelers who want a structured but relaxed overview, focusing on Stavanger’s most iconic sights. Since it caters to a small group, you’ll get a more personal experience than on a larger bus.
Bottom line: Perfect for visitors who want a detailed yet leisurely exploration of Stavanger’s most photogenic and meaningful locations.
6. Stavanger City Island, Guided cruise tour
For a luxurious and flexible experience, this private boat cruise offers a unique way to explore Stavanger’s islands. Costing $2,398.69 per group (up to 12 people), it’s a splurge, but with the ability to customize your route, it’s worth it for special occasions or those seeking privacy.
Your private yacht and guide can take you anywhere among the city’s island chain, with the option to pre-order lunch. Coffee and tea are included, and the vessel provides a comfortable setting for families, friends, or business groups. The boat tour lasts from 1 to 2 hours, giving you ample time to relax or explore specific spots.
The appeal lies in its customizable nature and the chance to see the archipelago in style. It’s best suited for those with a higher budget, a taste for comfort, and a desire for an exclusive experience.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for private groups seeking tailored, scenic island hopping with a touch of luxury.
7. City Sightseeing Stavanger Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (2.5-hour version)
This shorter, 50-minute route offers a quick way to get a feel for Stavanger’s core attractions. Priced at $50, it’s a practical option for travelers with limited time. The buses run every 30 minutes, stopping at key sites like the Ledaal Royal Residence and the Stavanger Museum.
While the reviews are mixed—many appreciate the convenience and affordability—some find it less comprehensive. Still, if your priority is a brief overview of the city’s highlights, this is a solid choice.
It works best for cruise passengers or those who want to combine it with other activities, especially since it can be booked last minute or as a city orientation.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers on a tight schedule who want a quick, guided overview of Stavanger’s main sights.
$50
How to Choose the Right Tour in Stavanger
When deciding between these options, consider your time, budget, and interests. Want an in-depth, private experience? The Discover Private+ Stavanger Guided City Tour might suit you best. Looking for a scenic, active adventure? The Guided EL-Bike tour provides a blend of culture and exercise. Short on time but want to see the highlights? The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus offers flexibility and quick coverage.
For a splurge and special occasion, the private boat cruise can add a memorable touch. Meanwhile, the City Highlights Bus and Walking Tour is perfect for those who want a mix of guided insight and leisurely exploration.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and experience.
Stavanger’s variety of tours makes it easy to find one that matches your travel style—whether you want scenic drives, active exploration, or private luxury. By matching your interests with the tour’s focus, you’ll enjoy a richer visit that leaves you with lasting memories. Whatever your choice, book early to make sure you don’t miss out on these memorable ways to explore Norway’s beautiful coastal city.