Sandnes

Norway

Explore the striking Jæren coastline where dramatic cliffs meet golden beaches and traditional Norwegian fishing villages dot the picturesque landscape.

💱 Currency Norwegian Krone (NOK)

🗣 Language Norwegian

🕐 Time Zone CET (UTC+1)

☀️ Best Time to Visit May–Sep

🚢 Typical Duration 14 nights

💰 Price Range $649–$18,800 per person

⚓ Port Type Port of Call

🚤 Tender Port No

Gateway to the Norwegian fjords and Scandinavian landscapes, offering cruisers access to stunning natural beauty and Viking heritage in Western Norway.

Cruises that visit Sandnes

Build Your Day in Sandnes

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM

Usually about 9 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Gamle Stavanger Definitely stop by the small shops, like the tiny ceramics workshop. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 9k

Kvadrat shopping centre You can spend much time in here and never get bored. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 7k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Norwegian Outlet Stavanger This Outlet has really great brands and prices Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Thon Senter Sandnes Home things, clothing, shoes, food, supermarkets. Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Maxi Sandnes Good local shopping mall, also with Vinmonopolet as one of the shops. Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM

Lurabyen Decent size mall, have a Burger King, Jula, Electrician Shop and resturant. Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 AM

Dalsnuten Amazing way to spend your weekend. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 1k

Sandved Park There is also a kafe! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 1k

Bystasjonen The biggest advantage is that they have a free public toilet. Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Dalsnuten Hike Lots of options, from moderate to more challenging! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 1k

Rogaland Arboret Arboret is place to hike around, roam around entire day within the nature. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k

Hereford & Friends Steakhouse Really good food, had a 3-course menu which was great value. Steak · ★ 4.2 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM

Melkebaren AS Good vibes and good beer selection with the team knowing their knowledge. Pub · ★ 4.4 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM

Delikatessen by Foodfighters Very good food, quiet place, polite but a bit relaxed service staff. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM

Sandnes AS Beautiful place with lots of specialized and unique shops Association / Organization · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Megleren Bar & Nattklubb Sandnes Fair prices on drinks. Bar · ★ 4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 PM Fri

Sports Outlet Sandnes Affordable prices Sporting goods store · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Austrått aquatic centre Children have a lot of fun forcing the floating obstacles line. Aquatic center · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 AM

Vår Energi Arena Sandneshallen Another big plus is the easy access by public transport. Athletic track · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM

Sense Garn They also send the orders out so fast. Yarn store · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Hanatrappene Recommended for a visit. Scenic spot · ★ 4.7 · 0k

The K Chicken Sandnes Great food, Great atmosphere and great service. Korean · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM

Bruelandsenteret Great selection, but expensive. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

Zouq Sandnes Delicious food in a calm, comforting and warm atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM

Sumo Restaurant Sandnes The service was excelent, recommended the perfect things to eat and drink. Asian Fusion · ★ 4.1 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM

Vitenfabrikken Lot of activities and adults will not get bored. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM

Madame Aase Nice atmosphere, very chilled & friendly customers and staff. Pub · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Damai Food is perfect, service is perfect, atmosphere is perfect. Japanese · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM

Tribute Definitely the place to be, if you're in the area. Bar · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM

Vårlivarden Recommended. Scenic spot · ★ 4.7 · 0k

Søstrene Grene There's a bit of everything, paints, chocolats, jam, cups, kids games Home goods store · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM

SHAAHI MAHALL Great menu and great location on the waterfront in a historic building! Indian · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM

Petite AS They had very nice drinks and kind staff Cocktail bar · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 PM

Yunskitchen Food is delicious and beautifully presented. Korean · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM

Drøøs Best bar in Sandnes Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM

Soi 4 Delicious food and warm atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM

Syd Vest Sandnes AS Good food and selection of something to drink and reasonably priced. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM

Løå På Lea No takeout·No delivery Bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Fuglevennen Sculpture · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Plagiat bar Great atmosphere, cocktails and music on Friday nights. Bar · ★ 4.1 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 3 PM

Tempo Wine Bar Exellent wine map, exellent service and great atmosphere. Wine bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 5:30 PM

Mariusbakken Hiking area · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Nordsjøvegen Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Observation Deck Observation deck · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Illusion Bar Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM

Sandnes Tourist Office You could tell the person who works there loves her job and her region. Tourist information center · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM

View point Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Renseparken Park · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Sandnes

About Sandnes

Sandnes serves as a vibrant port of call in Northern Europe, welcoming cruise passengers from six major cruise lines including Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Silversea. With 72 upcoming cruises and a strong peak season spanning May through September, this Norwegian port is a popular stop on longer 14-night itineraries that explore Scandinavia and Northern Europe, with convenient connections to destinations like Oslo, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and the stunning Norwegian fjords.

When your ship docks in Sandnes, you'll discover a charming Norwegian coastal town that blends maritime heritage with modern Scandinavian culture. Whether you're interested in exploring local shops and cafes, taking in views of the surrounding fjords, or venturing into the nearby countryside, Sandnes offers a genuine slice of Norwegian life away from the busier cruise hubs. The relaxed pace and authentic character make it an ideal port day for both active explorers and those seeking a more leisurely experience ashore.

Explore Sandnes' Industrial Heritage

Discover the fascinating history of this former pottery and ceramics capital at the Sandnes Museum, housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings. Walk through exhibitions showcasing the region's renowned earthenware tradition and learn how local artisans shaped Norwegian craftsmanship. The museum offers genuine insight into the city's cultural identity and industrial pride.

Taste Fresh Norwegian Seafood

Savor locally-caught fish and shellfish at waterfront restaurants near the port, where traditional Norwegian recipes meet contemporary cuisine. Try the famous local catch prepared simply to highlight its quality, paired with crisp Nordic wines. The harbor area buzzes with authentic dining experiences that showcase Sandnes' coastal culinary traditions.

Stroll the Scenic Gandsfjord Waterfront

Walk along the picturesque fjord promenade offering stunning views of surrounding mountains and sparkling waters. The peaceful waterfront path provides perfect photo opportunities and a refreshing escape from the ship. Local parks and green spaces line the shore, ideal for stretching your legs and breathing in fresh Norwegian air.

Shop at Sandnes' Pottery Markets

Browse unique handcrafted ceramics and pottery at local artisan shops throughout the city center, reflecting Sandnes' celebrated ceramic heritage. Find one-of-a-kind souvenirs directly from skilled potters and contemporary makers. The city's pottery tradition remains vibrant, offering authentic Norwegian crafts unavailable elsewhere.

Experience Authentic Norwegian Hospitality

Visit cozy local cafés and traditional establishments where friendly residents welcome visitors warmly. Engage with the genuine, unhurried pace of Norwegian life in this charming smaller city. Sample homemade pastries and coffee while experiencing the genuine warmth that defines Norwegian culture beyond typical tourist attractions.