In This Guide
- Best Stavanger RV Itinerary for long term rv rental - Overview
- 7-Day Classic Route in Stavanger
- 14-Day Extended Journey in Stavanger
- Recommended RVPlan Trip for Stavanger
- Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)
- Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Stavanger
- Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks
- How many days should you spend in Stavanger, Norway?
- Is Norway RV friendly?
- What is the best fjord near Stavanger?
- What is better, Bergen or Stavanger?
- Is Stavanger, Norway worth seeing?
- What is the most beautiful town in Norway?
- Is there a scenic drive near Stavanger?
- What is the most beautiful road trip in Norway?
- Is the drive from Stavanger to Bergen scenic?
- What is the motorhome route in Norway?
Best Stavanger RV Itinerary for long term rv rental - Overview
A long-term RV rental in Stavanger typically spans 7 days or more, offering an immersive experience of Norway's southwestern fjords, coastal towns, and natural wonders. For live availability and current prices, start with our RV Rental Stavanger - Complete Guide 2026 guide. The ideal season for an RV trip is late spring through early autumn (May to September) when roads are open, weather is milder, and daylight hours are long, often exceeding 18 hours in June. A regional 7-day itinerary covers approximately 600-800 km, while extended 14-day or longer journeys can cover thousands of kilometers, reaching as far north as Tromsø. With a rented RV, you have unparalleled freedom to explore iconic sites like Preikestolen, Lysefjord, and scenic coastal routes at your own pace, adjusting your schedule to truly connect with the culture, food, and scenery.7-Day Classic Route in Stavanger
An excellent 7-day classic RV itinerary from Stavanger focuses on the highlights of the Rogaland region, covering approximately 500-600 km with manageable daily drives. Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average to fully enjoy the scenic beauty, reducing travel stress.- **Day 1: Stavanger City Exploration (0 km)** - Arrive in Stavanger, pick up your rented RV. Explore the charming Old Town (Gamle Stavanger), visit the historic Stavanger Cathedral, and the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. Overnight at a campsite near Stavanger, such as Mosvangen Camping, which is conveniently located.
- **Day 2: Preikestolen & Lysefjord (Approx. 60 km)** - Drive to Tau (via ferry from Stavanger or through the Ryfylke tunnel), which will cost around NOK 150-250 for a Class B motorhome. Hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), a 3-4 hour round trip. In the afternoon, consider a Lysefjord cruise from Forsand or Lauvvik. Sleep at Preikestolen Camping or a nearby site.
- **Day 3: Scenic Route Ryfylke & Sauda (Approx. 120 km)** - Continue along the Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke (Rv13), exploring quaint villages and numerous waterfalls, such as Svandalsfossen. Visit Sauda, known for its industrial heritage and stunning natural surroundings. Overnight at a campsite in Sauda.
- **Day 4: Åkrafjorden & Langfoss (Approx. 90 km)** - Head north towards Åkrafjorden. Witness the majestic Langfoss waterfall, often cited as one of the world's most beautiful with an 612-meter drop. Enjoy hiking or a fjord cruise on Åkrafjorden. Overnight near Etne or Skånevik.
- **Day 5: Haugesund & Karmøy History (Approx. 100 km)** - Drive to Haugesund, exploring the city and its rich Viking heritage, including the Haraldshaugen national monument (Harald Fairhair's burial mound). Cross to Karmøy island to visit Avaldsnes (Norway's first capital) and the charming white-painted houses of Skudeneshavn. Overnight at a campsite on Karmøy.
- **Day 6: Sola Beach & Stavanger Surroundings (Approx. 50 km)** - Drive back towards Stavanger. Spend the day relaxing at Sola beach, known for its soft sand and surfing, or explore more local attractions like the Swords in Rock (Sverd i fjell) monument, located at Hafrsfjord, just south of Stavanger. Overnight near Stavanger.
- **Day 7: Departure (0 km)** - Return your RV in Stavanger, concluding your classic fjord adventure. Remember to refill fuel and empty waste tanks before drop-off to avoid additional fees. This route is also great for families, as detailed in our Family RV Rental in Stavanger - Pricing Guide 2026.
14-Day Extended Journey in Stavanger
This extended 14-day RV itinerary from Stavanger allows for deeper exploration and less rushed travel, adhering to the 100 mi / 150 km/day maximum driving recommendation for a truly immersive experience. It also provides more flexibility for enjoying traditional markets and cooking meals on board, check out our RV-friendly recipes playlist for ideas!- **Days 1-3: Stavanger & Lysefjord Immersion** - Follow Day 1-2 of the 7-day itinerary, but allow an extra day for a full Lysefjord experience, including a longer hike, kayaking, or exploring the Lysefjord area more deeply. Consider a visit to Flor og Fjære, a stunning island garden accessible by ferry from Stavanger's Skagenkaien harbor. This allows for a deeper dive than just a Weekly RV Rental in Stavanger - Pricing 2026 allows.
- **Days 4-6: Rogaland's Southern Coast** - Drive south from Stavanger along the scenic coastal route Fv44. Explore towns like Egersund, known for its wooden houses and pottery, and picturesque areas like Jæren with its vast, flat beaches and iconic lighthouses such as Kvassheim Fyr. Enjoy coastal hikes and local seafood. Overnight in Egersund and Flekkefjord, where campsites offer good facilities.
- **Days 7-9: Hardangerfjord & Waterfalls** - Head north towards the stunning Hardangerfjord region, a journey that might involve several ferry crossings, a common and beautiful part of RV Rental Norway - Complete Guide 2026. Visit the iconic Låtefoss waterfall, explore Odda, and experience the fruit orchards of Hardanger, especially beautiful in spring. Consider a scenic drive along the Hardangerfjord National Tourist Route. Overnight in Lofthus or Eidfjord.
- **Days 10-12: Folgefonna National Park & Rosendal** - Explore Folgefonna National Park, home to Norway's third-largest glacier. Enjoy glacier hiking tours (guided) or a visit to the Folgefonn Centre in Rosendal for educational exhibits. Discover Rosendal with its beautiful Barony and impressive gardens. Take local ferries to cross fjords, experiencing a crucial part of Norwegian RV travel, often paid via the AutoPASS system.
- **Days 13-14: Return to Stavanger & Departure Prep** - Begin your journey back to Stavanger, perhaps via another scenic route or a different ferry crossing. Use the final day to relax, enjoy a last Norwegian meal, and prepare the rented RV for return. Refill fresh water, empty grey and black waste tanks at a designated dump station (like the one at Mosvangen Camping or outside Stavanger airport), and refuel before drop-off. For checking final costs, including fuel and tolls, remember that on RV PLANET routes, travelers can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting. For more on pricing, see RV Rental in Stavanger - Prices and Best Deals 2026.
Recommended RVPlan Trip for Stavanger
For those seeking an extensive long-term RV adventure starting in Stavanger, the '
Stavanger to Tromsø - The Viking Trail
Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)
Avi Bandana's personal picks focus on authentic cultural and culinary experiences that enrich your long-term RV rental in Stavanger and beyond, providing a deeper connection to the country.- **Traditional Markets:** Don't miss the opportunity to visit a local traditional market, such as Bergen's Fishmarket mentioned in some RV PLANET trip descriptions. These markets offer a vibrant glimpse into local life and provide fresh, regional produce perfect for your RV kitchen, like locally caught seafood or artisan cheeses.
- **Traditional Restaurants / Fine Dining:** While on your journey, seek out traditional restaurants for a taste of authentic Norwegian cuisine. From fresh seafood caught in the fjords to hearty regional dishes like Fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew), these establishments offer a genuine culinary experience. In Stavanger, try Fisketorget, the fish market restaurant near the harbor, for exquisite local dishes.
- **Traditional Visits:** Immerse yourself in Norway's rich history and culture through its traditional sites. RV PLANET trip itineraries often highlight places like Sverresborg Trøndelag Folk Museum and Bardu Bygdetun, which are open-air museums that transport you back in time to experience historical Norwegian life and craftsmanship. Closer to Stavanger, the Iron Age Farm at Ullandhaug offers a fascinating look into early settlement.
Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Stavanger
Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average when driving a rented RV in Norway, allowing ample time to soak in the scenery and enjoy spontaneous stops without feeling rushed. Norway's winding roads, numerous ferry crossings, and stunning viewpoints naturally encourage slower travel, making shorter daily distances more enjoyable and less stressful. Traffic can be heavier on the E39 near larger cities like Stavanger, especially during rush hours (7-9 AM and 3-5 PM), so planning travel around these times can save considerable time.- **Stavanger to Preikestolen (via ferry/tunnel):** Approximately 1-1.5 hours (around 60 km), depending on ferry wait times from Lauvvik or the Ryfylke tunnel. The ferry costs roughly NOK 120-200 for a standard RV.
- **Stavanger to Egersund:** Approximately 1.5-2 hours (around 75 km), offering a relaxed coastal drive along the scenic Fv44. This route has some narrow sections but is generally manageable.
- **Stavanger to Haugesund:** Approximately 2-2.5 hours (around 80 km), including potential ferry crossings like the one from Mortavika to Arsvågen, which is part of the E39 highway and integrated into the AutoPASS toll system. This provides a good balance for a day's journey.
Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks
Choosing the right RV class significantly enhances your long-term rental experience in Stavanger, balancing comfort, maneuverability, and space for your adventure. Our service helps you compare final prices across suppliers, so what you see is what you pay, with no surprise fees at pickup.For Couples: Class B - Camper Van
An ideal choice for couples, the Class B Camper Van offers excellent maneuverability and fuel efficiency, perfect for navigating Norway's often narrow and winding roads and city streets. Bandana's local fleet Class B Camper Vans average 5.9 meters in length, comfortably sleeping 2 adults, and boasting impressive fuel consumption of around 8-11 Liters / 100 Km. Its compact size makes parking easier in towns like Old Stavanger and at popular attractions, providing a nimble and economical long-term travel option. Examples from our fleet, like the "Active Original" or "Camper 2 - LOKI," are popular with travelers seeking flexibility.For Families: Class C - Alcove
For families embarking on a long-term adventure, the Class C Alcove motorhome provides ample space and comfort. These vehicles from Bandana's local fleet average 7.4 meters in length, with an average of 5-7 sleeping places and accommodating 4-6 adults, making them perfect for larger groups. The over-cab alcove bed offers extra sleeping space, making it ideal for families with children. While larger, the extra living area and storage capacity are invaluable for extended trips, and fuel consumption is typically 10-14 Liters / 100 Km. Consider our Rent&Plan service, which pairs your RV rental with a ready-made itinerary crafted by travel professionals, offering full access to trip-planning software to remove the hassle of organizing a long-term Norwegian adventure. Vehicles like the "Euro Deluxe" or "Family Sleeper (FS)" are popular for families.How many days should you spend in Stavanger, Norway?
To fully experience Stavanger and its immediate surrounding attractions like Preikestolen and Lysefjord, a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended, though a long-term RV rental allows for a much more in-depth exploration over 7-14 days or more. For a focused trip on Stavanger city and the iconic Preikestolen hike, 3-4 days provides enough time without feeling rushed. An RV allows you to extend this significantly, exploring the entire Rogaland region, including the scenic coastal roads south towards Egersund or north towards Hardangerfjord. A 7-day RV itinerary from Stavanger can comfortably cover the highlights of Rogaland, including several fjords and charming coastal towns. For a true long-term immersion, 14 days or more allows for leisurely exploration, incorporating longer hikes, multiple fjord cruises, and visits to more remote areas, providing flexibility for weather changes or spontaneous discoveries. Many travelers combine a Stavanger stay with a broader RV Rental Norway - Complete Guide 2026 adventure.Is Norway RV friendly?
Norway is exceptionally RV friendly, offering stunning scenic routes, well-maintained campgrounds, and robust infrastructure, though travelers should be prepared for tolls, ferries, and sometimes narrow roads. The country boasts numerous official campsites, often with excellent facilities for emptying waste, refilling water, and electrical hookups. For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip, we recommend using RV PLANET (rvplan.net) - a great resource for locating available spots along your route. Norway is famous for its 18 National Tourist Routes, many of which are perfect for RV travel, offering breathtaking views and designated stops. While main roads are generally good, some fjord roads can be narrow, steep, and winding, requiring careful driving, especially for larger motorhomes. Be aware that many roads, bridges, and tunnels are toll roads (the AutoPASS system is prevalent), and numerous car ferries are integral to navigating the fjords. It's advisable to register your RV with AutoPASS or a similar service to simplify payment. Norway's 'Right to Roam' (Allemannsretten) generally permits wild camping, provided you are at least 150 meters from inhabited houses/cabins and respect nature. However, specific local regulations may apply, and using official campsites is often more practical for waste management and amenities. Fuel stations are common, but it's wise to fill up when opportunities arise, especially in more remote areas. Basic RV supplies are also generally available in larger towns.What is the best fjord near Stavanger?
Lysefjord is widely considered the best fjord near Stavanger, primarily due to its dramatic landscapes and iconic attractions like Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Kjeragbolten. This fjord stretches approximately 42 kilometers inland from the coast. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is a famous flat-topped cliff offering panoramic views over the fjord from 604 meters above, one of Norway's most iconic hikes, easily accessible from Stavanger by rented RV. For more adventurous hikers, the challenging trek to Kjeragbolten, a boulder wedged between two cliffs 1,000 meters above the fjord, provides an adrenaline rush and spectacular views. Numerous boat tours operate on Lysefjord, offering a unique perspective of the towering cliffs, waterfalls like Hengjanefossen, and the 'hanging' Pulpit Rock from below. The surrounding area also offers charming villages like Flørli (known for its 4,444-step wooden staircase) and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and exploring the serene waters. For details on how to incorporate this into your trip, see RV Travel Guide to Stavanger - Tips and Top Spots 2026.What is better, Bergen or Stavanger?
Determining whether Bergen or Stavanger is 'better' depends on your travel priorities, though both offer distinct charms and are excellent starting points for an RV adventure in Norway. Stavanger, often called 'The Oil Capital & Fjord Gateway,' is renowned for its closer proximity to iconic natural wonders like Preikestolen and Lysefjord. It offers a more compact city experience with a picturesque Old Town (Gamle Stavanger), 173 preserved wooden houses dating from the 18th century. Stavanger is often considered a quieter, more relaxed starting point for a Rogaland-focused tour. Bergen, 'The Gateway to the Fjords & UNESCO City,' offers direct access to a wider array of major fjords (Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord) and many National Tourist Routes. As a larger city, it boasts more cultural attractions, including the historic Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, Bergen can be busier and more challenging to navigate with an RV within the city center, and campsites might be further out. Its popularity means more crowds during peak season (June-August). From an RV perspective, for a long-term RV rental focused on dramatic fjord landscapes and iconic hikes within a single region, Stavanger's location is arguably superior for hitting bucket-list items within Rogaland. For broader fjord exploration (e.g., Sognefjord, Geirangerfjord), Bergen serves as a more central hub, though both are viable starting points for extended tours, potentially involving one-way RV rental from Stavanger - Price Guide 2026 to Bergen.Is Stavanger, Norway worth seeing?
Yes, Stavanger, Norway, is definitely worth seeing, serving as a vibrant cultural hub, an oil capital, and a gateway to some of the country's most spectacular natural wonders, making it an excellent base for a long-term RV rental. Its primary draw is its proximity to Lysefjord, home to the world-renowned Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Kjeragbolten, offering unparalleled hiking and scenic experiences. The city itself boasts 'Gamle Stavanger' (Old Stavanger), Europe's best-preserved wooden house settlement with 173 white-painted wooden houses, charming cobblestone streets, and artisan shops. Cultural attractions include the Stavanger Cathedral, dating from 1125, and the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, reflecting its role as Norway's energy capital. Stavanger has a growing reputation for gastronomy, including Michelin-starred restaurants and a lively fish market, reflecting its coastal heritage. For RV travelers, Stavanger offers a convenient city with good amenities and easy access to the region's natural playgrounds, often with average daily costs for a motorhome rental starting from €90-€120 in the shoulder season.What is the most beautiful town in Norway?
Determining the 'most beautiful' town in Norway is subjective and highly dependent on individual preferences, as the country is replete with picturesque locales, from fjord-side villages to historic cities. While Stavanger, with its charming Old Town and vibrant harbor, is undoubtedly beautiful, other towns frequently cited for their stunning aesthetics include:- **Ålesund:** Known for its unique Art Nouveau architecture, rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904, nestled among fjords and islands with a dramatic backdrop.
- **Reine (Lofoten Islands):** A quintessential fishing village with iconic red cabins (rorbuer) set against dramatic jagged peaks and turquoise waters, often considered one of the most photographed villages in Norway.
- **Flåm:** A small village at the end of Aurlandsfjord, famous for the Flåm Railway, one of the world's steepest standard-gauge railway lines, and spectacular fjord scenery.
- **Undredal:** A tiny, idyllic village on the Aurlandsfjord with a population of about 100 people and 500 goats, known for its stave church and traditional goat cheese.
Is there a scenic drive near Stavanger?
Yes, Stavanger is surrounded by several scenic drives, offering breathtaking views of fjords, mountains, and coastal landscapes, perfect for a rented RV adventure.- **Norwegian Scenic Route Ryfylke (Rv13):** This route, easily accessible from Stavanger, stretches over 200 km between Oanes and Håra and includes highlights like the dramatic Sandsfossen waterfall, the charming village of Sand, and offers stunning views of Lysefjord. This road involves ferry crossings that are part of the scenic route experience.
- **Coastal Route 44 (Jæren Coast):** Driving south from Stavanger along Rv44, you'll encounter the unique flat agricultural landscapes of Jæren, punctuated by long sandy beaches (like Sola Beach near Stavanger airport) and charming coastal towns such as Egersund. This route is distinctly different from the fjord landscapes, offering wide-open vistas and a sense of endless horizon.
- **Lysevegen (Lysefjord Road):** While challenging due to its 27 hairpin bends from Lysebotn up to Sirdal, this road offers incredible views over Lysefjord, especially if combined with a visit to Kjeragbolten. It's typically open only during the summer months (May-October) due to snow.
What is the most beautiful road trip in Norway?
Norway is renowned for its stunning road trips, with several vying for the title of 'most beautiful,' often traversing the iconic Norwegian Scenic Routes and encompassing fjords, mountains, and coastlines. While subjectivity plays a role, top contenders for the most beautiful road trip include:- **The Atlantic Ocean Road (Atlanterhavsvegen):** Famed for its dramatic bridges connecting islands across the open sea over an 8.3-kilometer stretch, often cited as one of the world's most beautiful drives.
- **Trollstigen (Troll's Ladder) and Geirangerfjord:** Part of the Golden Route (Rv63), combining a thrilling serpentine mountain pass with 11 hairpin bends and the majestic UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord.
- **Lofoten Islands:** The E10 through the Lofoten archipelago offers unparalleled beauty with its fishing villages, white-sand beaches, and jagged mountains.
Is the drive from Stavanger to Bergen scenic?
Yes, the drive from Stavanger to Bergen is exceptionally scenic, characterized by stunning coastal views, numerous fjord crossings by ferry, and opportunities to explore charming towns along the way. The journey itself spans approximately 200 kilometers along the E39 highway, taking around 5-6 hours of driving time plus ferry wait times.- **Ferry Crossings:** The journey involves multiple ferry crossings over picturesque fjords, such as the Mortavika-Arsvågen and Halhjem-Sandvikvåg routes, which are an experience in themselves and provide fantastic photo opportunities from the deck of your rented RV. These ferries are an integrated part of the national road network.
- **Coastal Landscape:** The route hugs the southwestern Norwegian coastline, offering views of rocky shores, sandy beaches, and vibrant green landscapes, with traditional red and white houses dotting the hillsides.
- **Quaint Towns:** You'll pass through several small, picturesque towns and villages, each offering a glimpse into local life and potential stops for a coffee or a meal. Communities like Haugesund and Stord provide good places to stretch your legs and replenish supplies.
- **Route Options:** While the E39 is the main and most scenic route, there are longer inland alternatives. For RV travelers, the E39 is usually preferred for its dramatic views and immersive ferry experiences.
What is the motorhome route in Norway?
There isn't a single 'motorhome route' in Norway; rather, the country offers a network of excellent roads, including 18 designated Norwegian Scenic Routes, that collectively form an unparalleled motorhome touring experience. These specially designated roads (e.g., Ryfylke, Hardanger, Sognefjellet, Trollstigen, Atlantic Road, Lofoten) are designed for scenic travel, featuring viewpoints, picnic areas, and impressive architecture, making them ideal for rented RVs. Fjordland routes are particularly popular, with many itineraries traversing the fjord regions of Western Norway, connecting cities like Stavanger, Bergen, Ålesund, and Trondheim, involving a mix of road driving and numerous ferry crossings. Coastal & Northern Adventures extend along the stunning coastline, reaching up into the Arctic Circle to destinations like the Lofoten Islands, North Cape, and Tromsø, often following the E6 or E39 highways. For a long-term RV rental starting in Stavanger, popular itineraries often involve exploring Rogaland (Lysefjord, Preikestolen), then heading north towards Hardangerfjord and potentially further towards Bergen and the Sognefjord. An ultimate Norwegian adventure could be an epic journey like the 'Stavanger to Tromsø - The Viking Trail,' covering over 3200 kilometers.Final Thoughts
Embarking on a long-term RV rental adventure in Stavanger offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in Norway's breathtaking natural beauty and rich culture. From scaling iconic Preikestolen to leisurely cruising through picturesque fjords and exploring charming coastal towns, a rented motorhome provides the ultimate flexibility and comfort. Remember to travel slowly, averaging 100-150 km per day, allowing yourself the time to truly connect with each place, its food, and its scenery. Whether you choose a week-long exploration of Rogaland or an ambitious multi-week journey towards the Arctic Circle, proper planning for routes, campsites, and local customs will ensure a smooth and memorable trip. Bandana Caravan is here to support you in finding the perfect RV and inspiring itinerary for your Norwegian escape. Find Motorhome Rentals in StavangerOn the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.
