Stavanger Past & Present
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port
Stavanger, Norway
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$149
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals not included
Stavanger and the surrounding areas have, for centuries, played a leading part in Norway's maritime history, from the time when the Viking kings battled in Hafrsfjord, through the white sails period and steamships, up to modern super-tankers. Stavanger is also the most important oil city in Norway due to its geographical location. This tour will unravel the city's history.
Begin with a ride through agricultural countryside en route to Ullandhaug to visit reconstructed farmhouses from the Iron Age. In one of the low houses with a turf roof, you'll learn more about the living conditions around the year AD 500. A local guide will demonstrate how the inhabitants made flour and wove fabric for their clothing.
From the Ullandhaug viewpoint, observe the fertile farmland of Jaeren, with the Ryfylke Mountains as a backdrop. To the west is a magnificent view over Hafrsfjord, where the Viking king, Harald Haarfagre (Fairhair), defeated the last of the regional princes and united 29 small kingdoms under the Norwegian crown in 872. The stunning Sword in the Rock Monument commemorates this event.
Driving along the harbor, you'll catch a glimpse of one of the oil-drilling platforms in the overhaul area, and cross the bridges to some of the islands, which are today part of modern Stavanger.
Visit the Petroleum Museum -- its striking building is situated on a small island in the middle of the harbor. It is a museum characterized by interactive experiences, a lot of hands-on exhibits, and electronic interactivity. There are exhibitions on land as well as three mini-platforms. Walking out to these installations in the sea offers a glimpse of offshore life in the North Sea.
Stroll back to the ship on your own. En route, you'll have the option to walk through Old Stavanger. Picturesque, well-preserved wooden houses, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, line the narrow lanes and are a charming sight. The houses were mostly built for seafaring people, craftsmen or businessmen. This particular area is considered quite unique in Norway and it is the city's most important renovation project. It is situated only minutes away from where your ship is docked.