Port Guide | Norway | Dive Deep
Sandnes
August C. W. | Editor
Published on 2025-01-07
Welcome to Sandnes, the plucky Norwegian port city that stubbornly refuses to fit neatly onto any postcard. Known affectionately (and maybe slightly competitively) as Stavanger's down-to-earth neighbor, Sandnes swapped Viking invasions for pottery kilns a century back-yes, this town was once Norway's very own ceramic capital, because nothing says "thrilling Northern adventure" like tasteful crockery. Luckily, what Sandnes lacks in berserker raids nowadays, it generously compensates for with stunning natural playgrounds practically at your doorstep. Within shouting distance is Lysefjord, a glacial-carved marvel of geology, and its famously vertiginous rock formation Preikestolen-or Pulpit Rock for the less linguistically adventurous-which will leave even seasoned travelers suitably awestruck (and slightly dizzy). But before you unleash your inner Nordic explorer, shake off that cruise-ship lethargy with a strong coffee downtown and some fresh-baked Norwegian cinnamon buns. Trust me, the Vikings would approve.
Norway has 7 Travel Advisories
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Notes from the Editor
Sandnes is known for its beautiful landscapes and proximity to the Stavanger region, including Lysefjord and Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). Travelers should consider local attractions and outdoor activities.
Where do cruise ships dock in Sandnes?
Port Name Sandnes
Country Norway
Region Northern Europe
Ship Terminal Sandnes Port
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility Sandnes is approximately 3 km from the city center, easily accessible by local transport and walking paths.
What's the weather like in Sandnes?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters.
Weather Notes Summer months are relatively temperate; occasional rain showers are common.
Temperature Range Average high 68-73 F (20-23 C)
High Temp 73F
Low Temp 43F
Average Temp 58F
What do I need to know about Sandnes?
Language Norwegian
Currency Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 14,549
Timezone Central European Time (CET)
How do I get around Sandnes?
Buses, taxis, and bike rentals are available for local transportation.
What are The Best Things to do in Sandnes?
Discover what you should do while you're in Sandnes.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Sandvedparken Sculpture Walk
Sandvedparken, Sandnes, Norway
An outdoor sculpture exhibition amid scenic trails and riverside views, featuring Northern Norwegian artists.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Historic Stangeland Stone Church Tour
Stangelandveien 317, 4312 Sandnes, Norway
Explore one of Norway's oldest stone churches, dating back several centuries.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Sandnes Kunstforening Gallery
Olav Kyrres Gate 5, Sandnes, Norway
Gallery showcasing exclusive Northern European art, featuring local talents and summer exhibitions.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
Visit the Vikings at Ullandhaug Tower Museum
Ullandhaug, N-4036 Stavanger, Norway
Reenact Viking life at an open-air museum, understanding Northern European heritage.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Dalsnuten Mountain hiking
Dalsnuten, 4308 Sandnes, Norway
A scenic hike leading to panoramic views over Sandnes and surrounding areas. Perfect for summer hikes.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Bike Rental and Coastal Trail Cycling
Sandnes Tourist Information, Sandnes, Norway
Cycle along coastal trails and discover picturesque Norwegian landscapes under the summer sun.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Beach Volleyball at Vaulen Beach
Vaulen Badeplass, Sandnes, Norway
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball at a popular summer hotspot addressing Norway's beach culture.
Distance from Terminal: 4 miles
Whitewater Canoeing at Figgjoelva
Figgjoelva River, Sandnes, Norway
Challenge yourself with exciting canoeing down the rapid waters of the Figgjoelva river.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
Horseback Riding Across Sandnes Trails
Sandnes Rideklubb, Oygardsveien 11, Sandnes
Ride through picturesque trails that blend lush greenery and traditional Nordic landscapes.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Explore Lysefjord by Kayak
Lysefjorden, Sandnes Municipality, Norway
Paddle through majestic fjords to get close to waterfalls and dramatic cliffs, an experience unique to Norway.
Distance from Terminal: 20 miles
Visit Sandnes Garn Yarn Factory
Foss-Eikeland, Sandnes, Norway
Discover the artistry behind famous Norwegian knitwear at this iconic local yarn factory.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Traditional Fishing at Gandsfjorden
Gandsfjorden, Sandnes, Norway
Experience traditional Norwegian fjord fishing techniques and catch local fish varieties.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
Norwegian Culinary Workshop at Matmagasinet
Langgata 41, Sandnes, Norway
Hands-on cooking classes specializing in traditional Northern European cuisine using fresh summer produce.
Distance from Terminal: 0.9 miles
Overnight Trips
Summer Night Camping at Alsvik Strand
Alsvik Nature Centre, 4308 Sandnes, Norway
Overnight camping under the midnight sun, with picturesque beach views and summer bonfires.
Distance from Terminal: 14 miles
A Little Extra
Guided Sundial Photography Tour
N/A
Capture images under Northern Europe's extended summer daylight hours with expert guidance.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Norway Regional Tip
Value of Punctuality Arriving promptly to business meetings, social gatherings, and appointments is expected and reflects reliability and respect.