Excursion Old stavanger and canning museum on foot tour at Stavanger

Stavanger, the fourth largest city in Norway, has always played an important role in our history. Especially when it comes to the history of navigation, from the time when the Viking Kings fought in the Hafrsfjord, via the times of the white sails and the steamships and up to the present day with the oil- and gas industry as the most important income source.

Old Stavanger

You will explore the city by foot. Your first visit will be "Old Stavanger". This is an area of the town consisting of well-preserved wooden houses surrounded by tiny, colorful gardens, dating back to the 18th and 19th century. It is not a museum area; on the contrary, it is a part of the city very much alive. Narrow lanes with paving stone and old gas lanterns are a charming sight. The houses were mostly built for seafaring people, craftsmen and trading people. This particular area is today considered to be unique and the city's most important rehabilitation project.

Old Canning Museum

Next visit the old Canning Museum and savor samples of the King Oscar Sardines. A short walk takes you to the market square at the head of the harbor bay. It is a pleasant sight during summer with fruit and vegetables as well as colorful flowers and seafood for sale. Just behind stands the cathedral, the best preserved of Norway's Mediaeval churches, built around 1125 by Bishop Reinald of Winchester. You will take a closer look at the cathedral (outside visit only) which was built with the aid of British masons in Anglo-Normannic style and dedicated to St Svithun. Carry on through the adjacent pedestrian street with many tempting shops and a bustling life.

Valberg Tower

At the far end you reach the Valberg tower, situated on a little hill overlooking the central parts of the city and the harbor. In former days it was used as a watchtower in case a fire should start somewhere in one of the many wooden buildings. Nowadays the tourists flock here to enjoy the view over the city and harbor. The tower was built in the years 1850-53 and was in use up to 1922 when the last watchman left his duty. Entrance to the tower is not included, but there are wonderful views from the site.

Øvre Holmegate

Before returning to the ship you will make a stop in the colorful Øvre Holmegates.Your tour ends back at the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Old Stavanger, Narrow Lanes, Old Gas Lanterns, Market Square, Old Canning Museum, Medieval Churches, Cathedral, Valberg Tower, Øvre Holmegate

Note

Please note: Tour involves extensive amount of walking for 1.5 hours and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and those guests who utilise a wheelchair. It is recommended to wear flat, comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. Order of sights may vary. Local currency is required for restroom facilities.