Shopping in Stavanger

Stavanger’s shopping scene is dominated by national and multinational chains, though there are a few independent shops amongst the lanes and alleys of Skagen, the knobbly promontory on the east side of the main harbour. One Norwegian oddity is that strong beers, wines and spirits can only be bought at the state-owned Vinmonopolet stores – and there are several outlets in and around the city centre.

Key areas

Old Stavanger is a good part of the city to seek out for arts and crafts items from the region.

Markets

Stavanger’s gastronomic pride and joy, its excellent fish market (closed Sun), is located on the edge of Torget, the main square, by the harbour.

Shopping centres

The biggest shopping centre in Stavanger is the Stavanger Storsenter, which is located in the heart of the city at Klubbgaten 5. Home to over 70 shops and stores, it offers everything from fashion to furniture, electronic equipment to music, books and games.

Opening hours

Normal shopping hours are Monday through Friday 1000-1700, with late opening on Thursdays till 1900 or 20000, plus Saturdays from 1000-1400 or 1500. Supermarkets are open much longer and later, but these are also usually closed on Sundays.

Tax information

The Norwegians operate a tax-free shopping scheme for tourists at several hundred specified shops and stores. You reclaim the VAT as you leave the country. Further details are available from www.visitnorway.com.

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Book Accommodation

Featured Hotels

Thon Hotel Maritim

Overlooking lake Breivannet, this large, medium-range, tower-block hotel has over 200 modern rooms plus a gym, sauna and solarium. The city's shopping and cultural venues are just a few minutes' walk away.

Skagen Brygge Hotell

With its perfect location down by the harbour, this delightful modern Stavanager hotel was built in the style of an old warehouse to blend in with its surroundings. The rooms are tastefully decorated and the buffet breakfast excellent. The hotel has a Turkish steam bath, sauna, sun beds and a fitness room. There is also a nice coffee corner selling hot drinks and international newspapers.

Skansen Hotel

A moderately priced hotel down by the main harbour, this unassuming place has about 30 en suite guest rooms decorated in a neat and trim modern style with comfortable beds, TVs and private bathrooms. The hotel bar can be a fun place to socialise, as it has become something of a meeting place for locals and hotel guests alike.

Stavanger Bed & Breakfast

Located in a residential area just five minutes' walk from the railway station this friendly hostel-style B&B has around 20 frugal but very clean rooms most of which have showers and sinks but shared WCs. Every night guests gather for complimentary tea coffee and waffles – and a very pleasant evening it is too with travellers sharing tips and gossip. Free parking and Wi-Fi too. One of the best cheap hotels in Stavanger.

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel

With its 215 large and well-appointed guest rooms, this is one of Stavanger's larger accommodation options, and stands close to the Old Town. The hotel offers complimentary high-speed and wireless internet access throughout the premises. Facilities include a gym and sauna.

Preikestolen Mountain Lodge

At the starting point of the two-hour hike to the remarkable Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), this new mountain lodge has 27 en suite rooms, each of which is comfortable and in tip-top condition. There's a café, a restaurant and a lovely lounge with wide views plus a roaring fire in winter.

Introducing Stavanger

While you’re there

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Norway Information

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