Location & Transportation
When Stavanger has two or more ships in town, Sandnes steps in as a convenient alternative. The dock is about a 25-minute walk from Sandnes’ center, which makes it easy to explore the town on foot. Nestled at the crown of Gandsfjord in southwestern Norway, Sandnes is a charming suburb of the historic city of Stavanger.
The train station is right in the heart of Sandnes, with departures every 15 minutes for a short 30-minute trip to Stavanger. This makes it ideal if you’re planning to explore a bit more of the region.
Sightseeing
Though small, Sandnes exudes local charm:
- Meander through the town center and discover intimate art galleries and cozy streets.
- Enjoy scenic views of the fjord and harbor that showcase the natural beauty of southwestern Norway.
- Take a quick train ride to Stavanger, where you can visit highlights like the picturesque Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger district) or the Norwegian Petroleum Museum.
Tours & Excursions
If you’re up for a little adventure:
- Consider a guided day tour that combines Sandnes with a visit to Stavanger’s top attractions.
- Join a local walking tour of Sandnes to delve deeper into its art scene and waterfront vistas.
- For the nature lovers, a tour from Stavanger to nearby Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is a must. This dramatic cliff offers breathtaking views and is one of Norway’s most famous excursions.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Shopping in Sandnes is relaxed and intimate:
- Explore a few small boutiques and specialty shops in the town center for unique Norwegian handicrafts.
- Local art galleries often have handcrafted items and collectibles that make memorable souvenirs.
Dining
Dining in Sandnes offers a taste of true Norwegian cuisine:
- Enjoy fresh seafood dishes – the local salmon and arctic char are must-tries.
- Savor traditional Norwegian fare in cozy cafés and bistros, where locally sourced produce shines.
- For a sweet treat or a light snack, pop into a local bakery offering freshly baked bread and pastries.
Culture & Local Events
Sandnes is proud of its Norwegian roots:
- The local currency is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s handy to have some cash for smaller shops or local stands.
- Norwegian is the primary language, but you’ll find English spoken by many, especially among the younger crowd.
- The town’s relaxed vibe is punctuated by local art exhibitions and community events, especially during the summer months. It’s a great place to get a feel for regional traditions.
- A few words in Norwegian, like “Hei” (hello), can go a long way in connecting with the locals.
Safety & Awareness
Norway is known for its high safety standards:
- Both Sandnes and nearby Stavanger are very safe, with a low crime rate.
- Standard travel precautions apply—always keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas.