Norwegian fjords cruises offer something unique, something spectacular. The mystique of the wilderness where tiny islands are suspended on deep sapphire waters, and craggy mountain ridges hide the source of cascading waterfalls.
A cruise is the ideal way to access the iconic beauty of the Norwegian fjords, guiding you around their beauty and pausing at various ports for you to discover more. Some stops offer vibrant cities while others are charming villages, and most offer a great variety of excursions and activities.
So, which is best? Below we share 5 of our favourite Norwegian ports, each with something a bit different to offer.
1. Oslo
As Norway’s dynamic capital, Oslo has plenty to offer. Its port location is conveniently located close by to the city centre, making it easy for you to explore the city’s attractions. For culture-lovers, you’re in for a treat with over 50 different museums and many galleries.
The Vigeland Sculpture Park is a highlight – the largest in the world by a single artist, with more than 200 bronze, granite and cast-iron sculptures. Or, if you love winter sports, head to the Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower to discover over 4,000 years of skiing history.
2. Geiranger
If you’re seeking the definitive Norwegian fjord experience, the village of Geiranger is a must-visit. From here, you can explore the Geirangerfjord – known as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the fjords and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; it is an utterly awe-inspiring vista.
Taking a kayak is an incredibly serene way to visit these fjords, paddling past the Seven Sisters Falls, which descend 410 metres and split into seven separate streams. The landscape is so enchanting that it even inspired Disney when creating the scenery around Arendelle in the film Frozen.
3. Ålesund
Visit Ålesund, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Nordic fairytale. Its Art Nouveau architecture is renowned, with beautifully ornate turrets and spires. As a cultural centre, it hosts numerous festivals, including the Ålesund Theatre Festival and Jugendfest and Trandal Country Festival. For nature enthusiasts, there’s the nearby bird sanctuary island of Runde and the Atlantic Sea-Park, one of the largest saltwater aquariums in Europe.
4. Olden
Olden needs to be on your itinerary if you love outdoor adventures. Start by taking the Loen Skylift cable car up to Mount Hoven. At 1,011 metres, the panoramic views are magnificent. Here you can hike one of the many trails or if you’re feeling bold, try zip-lining or paragliding. Down below, you can take a boat fishing in the crystal-clear lakes or explore the picturesque village.
5. Flåm
For picture-postcard fjord scenery, it doesn’t get better than Flåm, where the snow-capped mountains give way to verdant green forest and grassland and cool, rushing waterfalls meet the fjord’s deep waters. A trip on the Flåm railway is a must – regarded as the world’s most beautiful, it winds its way through this spectacular landscape.
Or perhaps continue your water adventure with a Nærøyfjord cruise to gain a close-up view of this gorgeous landscape. For an authentic insight into Viking history and lifestyle, pay a visit to The Viking Valley in Gudvangen.
A Norwegian fjords cruise is like no other. With natural beauty and serenity unrivalled anywhere else in the world, it will leave you totally captivated with this Scandinavia region.
