When choosing a hotel in Norway’s charming city of Stavanger, most travelers are drawn to the scenic harbor, steps from top-notch restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions, not to mention boating fjord excursions. Here are three favorite waterfront hotels—standard, mid-range, and luxury—depending on your budget.
## A Detailed Look at Stavanger’s Waterfront Hotels
Stavanger, a vibrant city on the southwestern coast of Norway, boasts a stunning waterfront that is both historically rich and incredibly scenic. For travelers seeking accommodation that puts them right in the heart of the action, the city offers a diverse array of hotels, each with its own unique character and charm. From luxurious boutique establishments to more budget-friendly options, there’s something to suit every taste and preference. Let’s delve into a more detailed comparison of three of Stavanger’s most notable waterfront hotels: the Eilert Smith Hotel, the Hotel Victoria, and the Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge.
At a Glance: Comparing Three Distinct Stavanger Hotels
| Eilert Smith Hotel | Hotel Victoria | Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge | |
| Best For | Travelers seeking a luxurious and intimate experience with a focus on gastronomy and personalized service. | Those who appreciate historic charm, a central location, and convenient access to transportation and excursions. | Budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay with complimentary meals and harbor views. |
| Pros |
The hotel is named in honor of Eilert Smith, the original architect of the building, adding a touch of historical significance. Each of the exquisitely designed rooms features handcrafted Danish furnishings, reflecting a commitment to quality and style. Guests enjoy a complimentary made-to-order breakfast, ensuring a fresh and personalized start to each day. The hotel’s location on a quieter street provides a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas. |
This is a historic hotel located directly across from Stavanger’s bustling harbor, offering unparalleled access to the waterfront. As the city’s oldest hotel, it showcases stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture, providing a glimpse into Stavanger’s past. The hotel boasts a welcoming fireplace lobby lounge and a convenient on-site restaurant, perfect for relaxing and dining. Many of the rooms offer breathtaking views of Vågen Bay, allowing guests to soak in the beauty of the surrounding scenery. |
The hotel enjoys a prime location directly on Stavanger’s lively harbor, putting guests in the heart of the action. The architecture of the building is designed to mimic Stavanger’s old sea sheds, adding a unique and authentic touch to the hotel’s character. A majority of the rooms face the waterfront, providing guests with stunning views of the harbor and surrounding area. The on-site bar features a covered terrace, offering a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, regardless of the weather. |
| Cons | Some guests might find the location a bit far from the main attractions and nightlife. While offering tranquility, it requires a bit more walking or transportation to reach certain points of interest. | The hotel’s central location directly in front of the harbor means that cruise ships may dock nearby, potentially obstructing views and creating some noise. | The hotel’s location is in a crowded area and some guests have commented that the bathrooms appear somewhat dated, which can detract from the overall experience. |
| Budget Tier | $$$ (Higher-end pricing, reflecting the luxury and exclusivity of the experience) | $$ (Mid-range pricing, offering a balance of quality and affordability) | $ (Budget-friendly pricing, making it an accessible option for many travelers) |
| Authenticity | **** (High level of authenticity, reflecting a dedication to quality craftsmanship, local materials, and a unique design aesthetic) | **** (High level of authenticity, steeped in history and reflecting the architectural style of Stavanger’s past) | *** (Good level of authenticity, with design elements inspired by the local fishing industry) |
| Location | *** (Good location, offering a quieter setting while still being within walking distance of key attractions) | ***** (Excellent location, directly on the harbor and close to transportation, shops, and restaurants) | ***** (Excellent location, situated right on the bustling waterfront) |
| Rooms & Bathrooms | **** (High quality rooms and bathrooms with luxurious amenities and stylish design) | **** (Well-appointed rooms and bathrooms, offering comfort and modern conveniences) | ** (Basic rooms and bathrooms that could benefit from updates and renovations) |
| Other Highlights | Home to RE-NAA, Norway’s only two-starred Michelin restaurant, offering guests an unparalleled culinary experience. | Guests can borrow a bike to explore Stavanger at their own pace, providing a fun and convenient way to see the sights. | The hotel offers complimentary breakfast and light evening buffets, providing excellent value for money. |
## Eilert Smith Hotel: A Sanctuary of Luxury and Gastronomy
The **Eilert Smith Hotel**, a relative newcomer to Stavanger’s hotel scene, having opened its doors in 2019, immediately distinguishes itself with its dedication to refined elegance and personalized service. Named in honor of the building’s original architect, Eilert Smith, the hotel pays homage to its architectural heritage while embracing a contemporary aesthetic. With only 12 rooms, the Eilert Smith Hotel offers an intimate and exclusive experience, creating a sense of tranquility and privacy for its guests.
Each room is a masterpiece of design, boasting luxurious amenities and handcrafted wood furnishings sourced from a renowned Danish company. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the room, from the premium bedding to the carefully selected artwork. Even the single rooms are equipped with Nespresso machines, complimentary minibars, and luxurious Malin + Goetz bath products, while the larger room categories offer the added convenience of kitchenettes and comfortable seating areas. For the ultimate in luxury, the hotel features a stunning residence on the upper two floors, offering panoramic views of the Stavanger harbor.
A hallmark of the Eilert Smith Hotel experience is the personalized breakfast service. Each morning, guests can savor a delicious made-to-order breakfast in the comfort of their own rooms, with a menu that changes seasonally to ensure the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. This approach also helps to minimize food waste, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to sustainability.
The Eilert Smith Hotel is also home to **RE-NAA**, Norway’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant, making it a true culinary destination. While securing a reservation at RE-NAA can be challenging, hotel guests are given preferential treatment, with one table in the restaurant reserved exclusively for them. The hotel staff is also happy to assist guests with reservations at other high-quality restaurants in Stavanger, as well as arranging in-room spa treatments and private excursions to nearby attractions. Guests also enjoy complimentary access to a nearby gym, allowing them to maintain their fitness routine while traveling.
Located on a quieter street in Stavanger, across from the harbor, the Eilert Smith Hotel offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The views of the harbor, with its boats and occasional cruise ships, are captivating. While the hotel may be slightly off the beaten path for some visitors, it is still within a convenient 10-minute walk of the city’s best shopping and dining options, located in the charming cobblestone streets of Stavanger.
## Hotel Victoria: A Historic Landmark with Modern Comforts
The **Hotel Victoria**, a Stavanger landmark dating back to 1900, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. Its striking Neo-Renaissance redbrick exterior is easily recognizable from all areas of the harbor, making it a prominent feature of the Stavanger skyline. While retaining its historic charm, the hotel has undergone an extensive renovation, seamlessly blending its original architectural features with modern interiors and amenities.
The Hotel Victoria boasts an enviable location directly across from the ferry terminal, providing quick and easy access to a variety of boat excursions in the stunning Lysefjord area. Its central location also means that a large cruise ship might be docked right in front of the hotel, offering a close-up view of these impressive vessels.
The hotel’s 107 rooms are thoughtfully designed, featuring tall ceilings, luxurious bedding, and elegant furnishings in neutral tones. The bathrooms have been updated with new subway tiles and eco-friendly bath products. Standard rooms offer minibars, kettles, and bathrobes, while superior rooms include Nespresso machines for added convenience. The deluxe rooms, ideal for families, feature seating areas with sofa beds that can accommodate up to two additional guests and provide harbor views.
A highlight of the Hotel Victoria is its impressive breakfast buffet, which is included for all guests. Served in two adjacent rooms on the second floor, the buffet features chandeliers and white-table-cloth service, creating an elegant and inviting atmosphere. The selection of hot and cold items is extensive, with plenty of healthy options to cater to vegetarians and gluten-free guests. The hotel also has a stylish restaurant on the ground floor, serving lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, and custom cocktails. During the warmer months, guests can relax on the outdoor patio facing the harbor or take advantage of the hotel’s loaner bikes to explore Stavanger.
## Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge: A Waterfront Gem with Added Value
Located just a few doors down from the Hotel Victoria, the **Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge** offers a more approachable and budget-friendly option for travelers seeking a waterfront stay in Stavanger. Opened in 1988, the hotel’s award-winning architecture was inspired by Stavanger’s old sea sheds or boathouses, reflecting the city’s rich herring fishing industry. The hotel’s laid-back lobby and friendly front desk create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
The Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge features 116 basic but contemporary rooms, all with large windows. A significant number of rooms, even in the standard category, offer waterfront views, although guests are encouraged to request this upon check-in. All rooms are decorated in a muted color palette with carpeting and bright bursts of jewel tones. Standard rooms are available in single and double options, while superior rooms offer more space. Deluxe rooms can accommodate up to two extra beds, making them ideal for families. The hotel also offers two bi-level suites that can sleep up to five guests.
A major draw of the Clarion Collection Hotel Skagen Brygge is its generous freebies. In addition to the breakfast buffet, guests can enjoy an afternoon treat and a light evening buffet with hot and cold items. When the weather is pleasant, guests can take their food and drinks to the outdoor deck, which is surrounded by a white picket fence and potted plants, providing a relaxing spot to enjoy the harbor view. The outdoor space allows for relaxation in a beautiful setting. The views offer a special memory-making chance.
B-1872