That founded in 1125 city was famous once for fishing of sardines, fishing and petroleum manufacturing. Nowadays it is attracting tourists with its beautiful, low-key old town and possibility of tasting typical, Norwegian, based on fishes cuisine. Why it is worth to go there?
It is best to sightsee that harbour city during a walk via streets of Gamle Stavanger, which means Old Stavanger. It is there, where along cosy, narrow streets are standing 170 wooden houses dated back to 18th and 19th century. In this part of the city there is also located the Museum of Tins (Norsk Hermetikkmuseum) and precious monuments such as: the Roman Cathedral of St. Swithun (Stavanger domkirke), the Court Ledaal from the 18th century and the Bishops’ Palace. The district is situated on a hill, from which there is a lovely view for the city. Worth visiting is also a port and its neighbourhood, where there are the best restaurants serving fish dishes.
Stavanger is also popular starting base for those interested in trekking and walking trips. The most visited places are Preikestolen (a ledge hanging 604 metres above the fiord) and Kjeragbolten (stone of rounded shape that is clinched in cliff at the altitude of around 1000 metres above the water level). Both this spots are very characteristic and appear in almost every coverage on Facebook and Instagram from trips to that part of Norway. The city’s surroundings is also a centre for winter sports, whereas in summer it tempts to spend actively time on one of its splendid beaches.
Stavanger used to be considered as the capital of sardines, but now halibut is reigning in that region. This fish is served by local restaurants in many, sophisticated ways. It tastes especially good grilled or smoked, served with spinach or potatoes, or in form of meat loafs (fiskeboller). It is worth to try also other local specialties like smoked cod (sztokfisz), fish pasties (mediste kake), octopus served with mashed turnip, as well as caught just a few hours earlier shrimps or mussels. After dinner make sure to order coffee, as it is a Scandinavian habit. Where to eat? We recommend Fisketorget, Spiseriet or Bolgen & Moi.
