If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful Scandinavian country then you NEED to visit some of the best fjords in Norway.
But, just in case you have no idea what a fjord is, it’s a long, narrow, body of water that is surrounded by cliffs on all sides.
They are typically created by glaciers and can be found in places like Alaska, Chile, New Zealand, Greenland, and Canada.
I have seen some of the most beautiful fjords in Norway and recommend that you do the same during your trip.
But, a big mistake many travelers make is that they fly into Oslo and expect to see tons of pretty fjords in Norway from here.
Sadly, there are no fjords in or around Oslo. Instead, you have to head up to Bergen and do a bit of fjord spotting there since this area is full of them.
Therefore, if you’re short on time and planning a quick, 7-day itinerary in Norway then you might want to skip Oslo.
It’s a lovely city but the beauty of Norway lies in its nature. Plus, if you’re short on time, you don’t want to waste precious days exploring a city since you probably have tons of those at home.
So, let’s look at some of the most famous fjords in Norway. You’ll even get awesome secret tips from someone who has visited Norway more times than she can count.
Yeah, this country just gets prettier and prettier every time I visit – even if tourist numbers just keep getting bigger and bigger. SIGH.
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Pro Tip: Please remember that when visiting the best fjords in Norway, many roads are closed during the winter. So, the best time to visit is between May and September when most roads and ferries are open.
But, always check for closures BEFORE you visit. Use this epic Norway travel tip for a much smoother experience.
1. Sognefjord
Commonly referred to as “The Monarch of the Fjords”, Sognefjord is one of the best fjords in Norway that is all the most expansive.
It extends for over 160 km (100 miles) and is known (like most fjords) for its incredible landscapes. It even has two unique branches that become Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord respectively.
You can also explore some of the most stunning places in Norway while you’re here since this fjord is home to both Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen National Park.
Visitors can explore the best hiking trails in Norway as they cruise past glaciers, climb soaring mountain ranges, and spot local wildlife.
While exploring this region, don’t miss the opportunity to travel on the Flåm Railway as it ascends to Myrdal village.
Additionally, a trip north from Flåm to see the ancient Urnes Stave Church, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is well worth your time.
So, if you want to visit this impressive fjord in Norway, catch a plane or train here from Bergen. Flights regularly fly into Sogndal Airport from Oslo and Bergen.
Otherwise, you can hop in your rental car and drive for anywhere between two and three hours to this amazing spot.
Another great option is to take the train from Bargen to Flåm railway station or to take a ferry from Bergen one of the villages along Sognefjord.
Pro Tip: The first time I visited Norway I was short on time and did the Norway in a Nutshell Tour from Bergen. Yes, it was expensive and probably would have been cheaper to organize on my own.
But, I was short on time, had never visited the area, and didn’t want to make any mistakes. So, I booked this tour which allowed me to see a ton of amazing Norway attractions in a single day.
2. Geriangerford
This fjord in Norway is one of the country’s most famous. It also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can marvel at deep blue waters, soaring cliffs, and a cascade of waterfalls.
Visitors can indulge in a myriad of activities like hiking and kayaking before visiting the Geiranger Skywalk.
It will take you 1500 meters (4,920 feet) above sea level and features unparalleled views of the fjord.
Afterward, make your way along the curves of Eagle Road to reach the Ørnesvingen viewpoint or enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Hellesylt.
This is one of the most charming towns in Norway that is actually home to the most historic Viking port in the country.
To visit, try flying into the Ålesund Airport or taking the train to Åndalsnes Railway Station. You could also rent a car in the summer and drive from Ålesund or Åndalsnes to Geirangerfjord when local mountain passes are open.
You can also catch the bus from Ålesund or take a direct ferry from Ålesund to Geirangerfjord between April and October.
3/4. Aurlandsfjord & Nærøyfjord
Extensions of the aforementioned Sognefjord, Aurlandsfjord is the easternmost fork of the main fjord and is the westernmost branch.
Additionally, the Aurlandsfjord culminates at Flåm which is home the the iconic, and steep, Flåmsbana railway.
In contrast, Nærøyfjord leads you into Gudvangen and is connected with Aurlandsfjord by way of the Gudvangentunnelen.
Therefore, use this tunnel, which connects Flåm to Gudvangen, to travel between these two fjords in twenty minutes.
Just don’t leave without taking a boat trip through the fjord since this is the best way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Plus, you can visit at any time of year since the ferry is open year-round.
To visit, take the train from Bergen to either Aurlandsfjord or Nærøyfjord. It’s about a four-hour trip to Flåm, with a stop in Myrdal. You can also drive and that will take around two hours.
5. Lysefjord
Located just East of Stavanger, this 25-mile long fjord is best seen after doing the hike to Pulpit Rock.
Referred to locally as “Preikestolen”, this lookout point is incredible. Sure, you definitely won’t have this place all to yourself.
But, try to leave as early as possible so that you can enjoy the sweeping views without 10,000 other people.
It’s easily one of the best ways to see the fjord and is a moderately challenging hike that covers 5 miles. It’ll also take around 3 hours to complete so plan accordingly.
Next, visit one of the biggest wooden staircases in the world and get ready to climb up 4,444 steps at Flørli. Honestly, it’s really hard. But, what can I say, the views are epic.
You can also crash in Forsand village and just chill at the base of the fjord after that climb. I also love that this place is a quick, 40-minute drive from Stavanger, making it easy to visit.
If you want, you can also use the bus/ferry in the summer. Just take either from Stavanger to Tau and then continue on to Forsand.
6. Trondheimsfjord
Venture to the historic city of Trondheim and discover its many charms, like the colorful homes and quaint canals that line Bakklandet, or the Old Town area. I
t’s a great place to pick up cool Norway souvenirs too.
Next, pay a visit to the Trøndelag Folk Museum and Nidaros Cathedral which is the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world.
It’s a unique city that was once the capital of the country and that, today, plays a pivotal role as the host of coronation ceremonies for new kings.
It also has an exquisite location on the Trondheim Fjord and acts as a major gateway to some of the area’s most famous attractions.
So, during the warm summer months, you can enjoy a scenic boat ride to the historic island of Munkholmen.
Or, catch a ferry to the town of Kristiansund. Upon arrival, marvel at breathtaking views of the area’s dynamic natural landscape.
To visit one of the best fjords in Norway, you can either fly to Trondheim from either Bergen or Oslo. You can also take a beautiful, 7-hour train trip from Oslo to Bergen and just enjoy the view.
7. Hardangerfjord
Extending down over 0.5 miles at its deepest point, Hardengerfjord is one of the longest fjords on the globe.
It is also home to the world-famous Trolltunga hike. So, if you can, definitely tackle this hike.
Yes, it is intense. I may have cursed more than a few times. But, it’s worth it since you’ll be standing 1,100 meters (3,610 feet) above the fjord.
Plus, the feeling from the top is almost surreal as you stand on that rock over the fjord and look out at the landscape below.
Just be aware that the hiking season is only from June through September. Otherwise, there is just too much snow.
If you can, try to base yourself in Odda. This way you can easily explore cool places like Hardangervidda National Park and Folgefonna Glacier.
To visit, you’ll want to drive from Bergen since it’s only about an hour away by car.
Otherwise, you could take the bus from Bergan to Bergen to Mundheim (just under two hours). You could also take a year-round ferry but it is a little less direct.
You’d have to take a ferry from Bergen to Rosendal and then grab a bus to either Husnes or Odda.
8. Trollfjorden
Wondering if Norway is as expensive as they say? Well, if you visit the Lofoten Islands it is!
It’s a stunning place that is home to some of the most beautiful fjords in Norway, like Trollfjorden. But, it’s expensive and not easy to get to this island chain.
In fact, you’ll have to fly to Svolvær from either Bodø or Oslo. Additionally, if you plan to do an extended Norway road trip then you may want to fly to Bodø and then take a car ferry to Moskenes from there.
This way you can bring your car and use it to visit cool places like Trollfjorden.
For the best views of the fjord, do a challenging 3-mile hike to the top. It should take 2+ hours to complete since there is a ton of elevation gain.
Also, watch out for landslides since they can obscure the trail.
Other than that, enjoy the northern lights in the winter and stunning natural landscapes in the summer. You can also enjoy beach strolls, fjord kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
9. Hjørundfjord
If you’re seeking out peace and tranquillity then Hjørundfjord is one of the best fjords in Norway for you.
See, this fjord closely resembles Geirangerfjord, but doesn’t receive nearly as many tourists. So, it’s a gem of a place for anyone looking to escape the crowds.
Upon arrival, visit the cute towns that sit along the edge of the fjord, like Urke, Sæbø, and Øye.
You can also tackle challenging hikes, like Urkegga, Skåla, and Saksa, as you enjoy the ruggedness of the mountains.
Finally, relax in a sauna and enjoy a beautiful stay at local hotels like Hotel Union Øye.
To get here, just rent a car and drive from Ålesund. Or, you can always visit as part of a day cruise during the summer.
10. Romsdalsfjorden
As a whole, the Romsdal region is well-known for its varied and breathtaking scenery.
So, head west to discover the awesome beauty of Romsdalsfjorden. It stretches out for 88 kilometers (55 miles) and features a shoreline filed with tiny inlets just waiting to be explored.
Next, drive along the stunning, Trollstigen road and visit Trollveggen if you dare.
At 1000 meters (3280 feet) It’s Europe’s tallest vertical, overhanging rock face. It’s a fun challenge for any experienced rock climbers out there.
Additionally, the Romsdalen Gondola is perfect for anyone who wants an easy climb up Nesaksla Peak. From the top, you can see all of Åndalsnes and check out the Romsdalseggen ridge trek.
You can even go skiing at Kirketaket in winter and enjoy sweeping panoramas of Romsdalsfjord.
Map of the Best Fjords in Norway
Most Beautiful Fjords in Norway FAQs
What is the Best Fjord to Visit in Norway?
The best fjord to visit in Norway is Geirangerfjord. It’s one of the most famous fjords in Norway and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its tremendous natural beauty.
As one of the most popular fjords in Norway, it gets crowded. So, be prepared for hordes of tourists.
Where is the Best Place to See the Fjords in Norway?
The best place to see fjords in Norway is Bergen. No, there aren’t any in the actual city. But, it’s a well-located city. So, you can do day trips to fjords ilke Sognefjorden, Hardengerfjorden, and Osterfjorden.
What is the Most Beautiful Part of Norway?
There are so many beautiful places in Norway that it’s hard to pick one. However, I love Geirangerfjord, Svalbard, and the Lofoten Islands.
What is the Best Fjord to Visit from Bergen?
From Bergen, the best fjords to visit are Sognefjorden, Hardangerfjorden, and Osterfjorden. You can easily visit them by taking a ferry to Flåm. It’s a long journey and should last around 5.5 hours.
That wraps up this guide to the best fjords in Norway. Did your picks for the most beautiful fjords in Norway make the list? If not then let me know.
