Malmö to Stavanger Road Trip: Ultimate Guide

The E6 highway between Malmö and Stavanger crosses two countries, three major bridges, and a submarine tunnel beneath the Oslo Fjord. It is a route of dramatic contrasts—from the flat farmlands of Skåne to the carved fjords of Rogaland.

This guide covers the essential aspects of the drive, including the best stops, practical logistics, and hidden gems. For a general approach to discovering stops between cities, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road quality on main highways is excellent, but secondary roads in Norway (Rv13, Rv7) may be narrow with hairpin turns. Animal hazards include moose and deer, especially at dusk.

Speed limits: 110 km/h on Swedish motorways, 100 km/h in Norway, and 80 km/h on twisty fjord roads.

• Rest zones: every 30–50 km with picnic tables; official rest stops have toilets.
• Family-friendly stops: Universeum Science Center in Gothenburg, Kristiansand Zoo, and Swords in Rock monument.
• Fatigue tips: stop every 2 hours; use the E6's 'Autopass' cameras for tolls without stopping.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most ferries accept pets but require muzzles and leashes. Hotels like Scandic and Thon are pet-friendly. Many rest areas have dog waste bags; bring your own just in case.

Infrastructure Safety

Emergency phones on Norwegian motorways every 2 km. Winter driving requires studless or studded tires (mandatory Nov–Mar). Snow chains may be needed on Rv13 above 500m.

From Malmö's Öresund Bridge approach to the Rv13 through the Ryfylke fjords, the scenery evolves from flat farmland to rugged mountains. Highlights include:

• Kullaberg Nature Reserve – Sea cliffs and caves near Höganäs, accessible via a short detour from E6.
• Lake Vänern – Europe's third-largest lake, visible from the E18 near Karlstad.
• Preikestolen – Iconic cliff overlooking Lysefjord, a must-do hike one hour from Stavanger.

Local commerce is seasonal: farm shops selling strawberries and potatoes in summer, and Christmas markets in December along the route.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Two UNESCO sites lie near the route: the Royal Domain of Drottningholm (slightly off the path) and the Rock Art of Tanum (in Tanum Municipality, west of Uddevalla). The Tanum petroglyphs date back to the Bronze Age and are a 45-minute detour.

The total driving distance from Malmö to Stavanger is approximately 1,140 km, with a typical drive time of 10 hours excluding breaks. Fuel costs vary; expect around €150–€180 for petrol.

Toll roads and ferries are unavoidable. The Oslo Fjord tunnel (toll ~€30) and two ferry crossings on the E39: Moss–Horten (free) and Stavanger–Mortavika (approx €15).

• Key highways: E6, E20, E39, and Rv13 (scenic alternative).
• Estimated fuel stops: 2–3 recommended (e.g., Gothenburg, Oslo, and Sørlandet).
• Tolls prepaid via AutoPASS (register online).

Is it worth driving Malmö to Stavanger? Yes, for the freedom to explore remote fjord villages and mountain plateaus. However, consider that one-way rental drop-off fees can exceed €300.

Best stops Malmö to Stavanger include Kosterhavet National Park, Lysefjord viewpoint, and the town of Uddevalla.