The Most Beautiful Fjords in Norway: 20 Stunning Places to Visit

If there’s one landscape that defines Norway, it’s the fjord. Carved by glaciers over millions of years, these deep inlets slice through the coastline, creating some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe. Towering mountains, thundering waterfalls, tiny waterside villages and winding roads all combine to make Norway’s fjords one of the country’s biggest attractions.

The challenge isn’t finding a fjord – Norway has more than 1,000 of them. The challenge is deciding which ones are actually worth your time. From world-famous fjords such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord to lesser-known gems in Arctic Norway, this guide rounds up the best fjords in Norway, along with tips on how to visit them and where to stay nearby.

fjord with blue water and rugged mountains
Hardangerfjord is the main gateway to the iconic Trolltunga hike | Dong Zhang

Norway’s iconic fjords

If you’re visiting Norway for the first time, these are the fjords you’ve probably already seen on postcards, travel brochures and Instagram feeds. They’re famous for a reason: dramatic scenery, spectacular viewpoints and some of the country’s most unforgettable landscapes.

1. Geirangerfjord

fjord with water and mountains
Norways’s most famous fjord: Geiranger | admiratio

Geirangerfjord is, without doubt, Norway’s most famous fjord. Its dramatic scenery inspired parts of Disney’s Frozen, while the nearby mountain above the fjord formed the backdrop to the Norwegian disaster movie The Wave (Bølgen). Today, Geirangerfjord is one of the country’s most visited natural attractions.

Along with Nærøyfjord, some 120km away, it forms part of a Unesco World Heritage Site. Make no mistake, this is classic fjord scenery!

The fjord is located in the district of Møre og Romsdal, two and a half hours from Ålesund. Wherever you stop near the fjord, you’ll be treated to stunning views of steep mountaintops rising quickly out of the water. There are several impressive waterfalls here too, including the jaw-dropping Seven Sisters (which, unbelievably, doesn’t even make the top 40 in the list of the highest Norwegian waterfalls).

However, all of this stunning scenery is actually under threat. A huge section of a nearby mountain called Åknes is slowly becoming unstable. Geologists believe it could eventually collapse into the fjord, triggering a tsunami that would threaten nearby communities, including the village of Geiranger. The mountain at Geirangerfjord is monitored closely, though, and experts expect to be able to give plenty of warning so that locals can evacuate.

Our advice is to go soon, before the fjord changes forever!

Getting there

Geirangerfjord is best visited in summer, when boat trips and hiking trails are at their most accessible. One of the best ways to experience the UNESCO-listed fjord is on a sightseeing cruise, which sails past famous waterfalls, abandoned cliffside farms and some of Norway’s most dramatic scenery.

Where to stay

The Grande Fjord Hotel is just over a mile from the village of Geiranger and has smart, clean rooms, some with balconies overlooking the fjord. Alternatively, Geirangerfjorden Feriesenter offers compact self-catering units with exceptional views.

2. Sognefjord

mountains by the sea fjord
Norway’s longest fjord: Sognefjord | Bruna Santos

Sognefjord is the longest fjord in Norway, and also the deepest. Located in western Norway, it stretches for more than 200km and reaches depths of over 1,300 metres in places. Rather than a single attraction, the Sognefjord is an entire region of mountains, villages and waterways that rewards travellers who take the time to explore.

You can spend days driving between fjord-side villages, hiking in Jotunheimen National Park at the fjord’s eastern end, or visiting historic sights such as the stave church at Kaupanger. The charming village of Balestrand, with its grand historic hotels and beautiful waterfront setting, is another highlight and makes an excellent base for exploring the area. From here, you can also join a guided trip to nearby Fjærland, combining dramatic fjord scenery with views of the Jostedalsbreen glacier. Jostedalsbreen – mainland Europe’s largest glacier – is also nearby and offers opportunities for guided glacier hikes.

Many visitors experience part of the fjord on the famous Sognefjord or Norway in a Nutshell route, which combines scenic train journeys, boat cruises and some of western Norway’s most spectacular landscapes. However you choose to explore it, allow plenty of time: distances can be deceptive and there’s far more to see here than first meets the eye.

Getting there

From Bergen, the Sognefjord region is best reached by car (it takes around four hours to get to Sogndal).

Where to stay

Lavik Fjord Hotell is pricey but some of the modern rooms offer great views. There are also some excellent hiking trails nearby. Botnen Camping has cheaper bunk rooms and simple cottages.

3. Nærøyfjord

fjord in mountains seen from a boat with mirror like water
Best views from the water: Nærøyfjord | Meriç Dağlı

Nærøyfjord is actually a part of Sognefjord. Along with Geirangerfjord (see above) Nærøy makes up part of a World Heritage Site. It’s 17 km long but in places can be extremely narrow – just a couple of hundred metres across at its thinnest point. The fjord is surrounded by mountains that soar more than a kilometre above the waterline, making this one of the most dramatic places to visit in all of western Norway.

Even if it rains (and it probably will) this is a spectacular place to take photos, have a picnic, or simply stare in awe. It’s also a great place to go kayaking – this full-day guided kayak trip from Voss gives you the best vantage point to see the fjord, its waterfalls and mountains. 

Getting there

Nærøyfjord is one of the most popular fjords to visit on a day trip from Bergen. We especially like this guided tour, which combines a cruise on the Nærøyfjord with a visit to the Viking Village and a ride on the famous Flåm Railway – three of western Norway’s biggest highlights in a single day.

You can also get there independently by rental car from Bergen – it’s a drive of about two hours and fifteen minutes from Bergen to Gudvangen at Nærøyfjord’s southern tip.

Where to stay

The Gudvangen Fjordtell is a comfortable, upmarket option in  in the village of Gudvangen right at the southern tip of the Nærøyfjord. Alternatively, there’s the simpler good-value Gudvangen Budget Hotel.

4. Aurlandsfjord

viewpoint fjord norway
The Stegastein viewpoint offers the best views of Aurlandsfjord | Robert Bye

One of Norway’s narrowest, deepest and most beautiful fjords, the Aurlandsfjord is actually an offshoot of the Sognefjord, along with its western neighbour the Nærøyfjord. At the fjord’s southern end sits the village of Flam, best known as the terminus of one of Norway’s – and indeed the world’s! – most picturesque railway trips.

One of the best ways to experience the Aurlandsfjord is from the spectacular Stegastein viewpoint, which projects 650 metres above the water. We especially like this guided tour from Flåm, which includes a visit to the spectacular Stegastein viewpoint and showcases some of the best scenery around Aurlandsfjord.

Getting there

The most fun way to reach the Aurlandsfjord is to take the Flamsbana railway to the village of Flam, at the fjord’s southern tip. For more on the journey, read our guide on the Bergen to Flam railway. This day-trip from Bergen includes a ride on the Flam railway plus a boat trip on the Aurlandsfjord. 

Where to stay

The Flåm Hostel has good-value rooms in the village close to the waterfront, or there’s the pricier Flåmsbrygga Hotel near the train station and overlooking the fjord. Alternatively, the comfortable Heimly Pensjonat has pretty gardens and views over the fjord.

5. Hardangerfjord

a boat docked in the water in a fjord
A rogue boat docked on the edge of the masterpiece that is Hardangerfjord | Wes Grant

Hardangerfjord is Norway’s second longest fjord. From its mouth, which opens up to the North Sea some 80km south of Bergen, Hardangerfjord stretches inland towards the Hardangervidda National Park.

At the eastern end of the fjord lies Odda, a popular base for hiking and outdoor adventures in the Hardangerfjord region. It’s also the main gateway to Trolltunga, the iconic rock formation that draws thousands of hikers each summer and offers some of Norway’s most spectacular views. From Odda, there are some very good guided tours that take in Trolltunga and the fjord. For more on Odda, see our guide to What to see and do in Odda.

Getting there

The drive to Odda takes around four hours from Stavanger, three hours from Bergen or two hours from Haugesund. You can also reach Odda by long-distance bus from Bergen, Oslo and other major cities, with services operated by Vy and regional transport providers.

Where to stay

The rooms at Trolltunga Camping are functional and fairly cheap (by Norwegian standards, anyway), while the Trolltunga Hotel has simple but comfortable rooms in Odda, some overlooking a lake.

6. Lysefjord

fjord seen from the sky with blue sky
Lysefjord seems to go on and on | Hendrikje Glauner

Lysefjord is home to the 604m-high Preikestolen, or ‘Pulpit Rock’. This (admittedly rather big) wedge of rock attracts an incredible 300,000 visitors a year – even Tom Cruise has stopped by to film scenes for Mission Impossible 6. If you want to have your own Tom Cruise moment, this tour includes transport from Stavanger, plus an experienced guide to take you on the 4-6 hour trek up to the top of the dramatic summit. Learn more in our guide to hiking Pulpit Rock.

The rock isn’t the only reason for you to check out the area around Lysefjord. The area offers plenty of hiking trails, for example, and is also home one of the world’s longest wooden staircases, Flørli 4444 (with, you guessed it, 4444 steps).

There’s also Kjerag, a huge boulder that’s suspended high up between two sheer rock faces. This guided tour takes you up to the Kjerag rock, where you can get the obligatory shot standing on the boulder – if you’re brave enough!

big rock with people in the mountains by fjord
Preikestolen: the views make up for the crowds! | Ivars Utināns
Getting there

Lysebotn is only reachable by ferry in winter (or, in summer, via 27 hairpin turns on the road called Lysebotnvegen). Lysefjord itself is around an hour from Stavanger by boat. If you’re driving, you can take the car ferry to Lysebotn, jumping off point for the hike up to the Kjerag boulder.

Where to stay

The picturesque village of Lysebotn, at the end of the fjord, is a good place to spend a few days. In summer (May–Oct), Lysefjorden Turisthytte offers simple lodging and is in a handy spot for touring the local area. Alternatively, there’s the Flørli 4444 Hostel, which sits at the bottom of the Flørli steps and can only be reached by boat. It has a variety of accommodation options including apartments on the shores of the fjord, dorm beds and camping.

The dramatic fjords of Western Norway

Western Norway is the heartland of fjord country. Beyond the headline attractions, you’ll find quieter waterways, hidden valleys and mountain scenery that can rival Norway’s most famous destinations.

7. Hjørundfjord

Hjørundfjord: dramatic mountains and idyllic fjord villages | Fjords.com

Deep and narrow, the 35km long Hjørundfjord is one of the less-visited fjords, its blue-black waters overlooked by glowering mountains that plunge straight into the fjord. A branch of the Storfjord, it lies south of Ålesund and is surrounded by the stunning forested Sunnmøre Alps, some of whose peaks reach some 1,500 metres above the water.

There are few settlements along the shores of the fjord, as the steep mountainsides make building difficult, and people tend to come here for its brooding tranquillity and beautiful walks in the surrounding mountains. The hike from the pretty village of Øye up Mount Slogen is challenging but rewards you with great views over the fjord.

If you’d rather admire the scenery from the water, this round-trip fjord cruise from Ålesund is a great option, sailing past steep mountainsides, tiny villages and some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Sunnmøre Alps.

Getting there

From Ålesund, it takes around two-and-a-half hours to drive to Sæbø, on the western shores of the fjord, via the Solavågen-Festøya car ferry across the Storfjord. Alternatively, Hurtigruten boats call in to the Hjørundfjord (see here for the low-down on travelling on the Hurtigruten).

Where to stay

The comfortable and smart Sagafjord Hotel in Sæbø sits right on the waterfront, or splash out on the historic – and supposedly haunted – Hotel Union in the remote village of Øye.

8. Nordfjord

fjord view with sunset
Sunset over Loen, Nordfjord | Maarten Verstraete

Nordfjord is another gorgeous slice of scenery in the Sogn og Fjordane region of western Norway. Apart from the great views, it’s also near the Jostedalsbreen glacier (see above) and the Loen Skylift at Innvikfjord (a branch of Nordfjord), which brings you to the top of the 1km-high Mt. Hoven in just five minutes.

If you want to slow down and soak up the scenery, this beginner-friendly kayak tour is a fantastic way to experience Nordfjord’s mountains, quiet waters and unspoilt landscapes.

Getting there

The village of Nordfjordeid, at the eastern end of the fjord, is the best place to stay near the fjord. It’s a three-hour drive from Ålesund. However, you can also reach Nordfjordeid by bus from Oslo, and by express boat from Bergen.

Where to stay

The upmarket Nordfjord Hotel in Nordfjordeid has reasonable rooms, along with a pool and a spa, or there’s the cheaper Sentrum Hotel, with basic, clean rooms.

9. Romsdalsfjord

women and girls walking in alps
Litlefjellet in Vengedalen in Romsdal: view towards Mt Romsdalshorn and Trollveggen | Fjords.com

Norway’s ninth longest fjord, the Romsdalsfjord is surrounded by towering snow-clad mountains in winter and fields of wildflowers in spring. Unusually for Norwegian fjords, it’s home to several islands and its clean waters are rich in marine fjord, so popular for fishing.

At the Romsdalsfjord’s eastern tip lies the pretty village of Isfjorden, while the larger town of Åndalsnes sits on its southern shores. Åndalsnes makes a great base from where to take a trip along the exhilarating Trollstigen, Norway’s most dramatic mountain road with 11 hairpin bends. 

If you don’t fancy driving it yourself – and we don’t blame you, it’s pretty hairy! – you can take this guided tour, where experienced drivers do the scary bit for you!

Getting there

The best way to get to Åndalsnes is by train, on the scenic Rauma line from Dombas, which has regular connections to Oslo and Trondheim. There are also regular buses to Molde and Ålesund.

Where to stay

Right in the centre of Åndalsnes, the Grand Hotel is the smartest place to stay, with stunning views of the lake and mountains. A cheaper option is the Romsdalseggen Camping in the nearby village of Isfjorden.

10. Sunnylvsfjord

fjord with green hills and bird
Stunning Sunnylvsfjorden | P&O cruises

Overshadowed by its famous neighbour Geirangerfjord, Sunnylvsfjord is often overlooked by visitors rushing towards one of Norway’s biggest tourist attractions. That’s a shame, because this broad, deep fjord offers many of the same dramatic landscapes, with fewer crowds.

Steep mountains rise directly from the water and waterfalls tumble down the surrounding cliffs, while ferries glide between small settlements dotted along the shoreline. If you’re driving towards Geiranger, chances are you’ll already pass through part of Sunnylvsfjord without even realising it.

Getting there

Sunnylvsfjord lies just south of Geirangerfjord in the Sunnmøre region of western Norway. The easiest way to visit is by car from Ålesund or Geiranger.

Where to stay

The waterfront Havila Hotel Geiranger is a good base, or stay at the peaceful Lunheim Accommodation in Hellesylt at the mouth of the fjord.

11. Tafjord

man and woman in kayaks in fjord
Kayaking on Tafjord | Tafjorden Explorer Ræin Adventures

Tucked away at the end of a narrow branch of Storfjord, Tafjord is one of western Norway’s lesser-known fjords. The scenery here is spectacular, with steep mountains, waterfalls and winding roads leading into a remote landscape that feels far removed from the busy tourist routes.

The fjord is also known for a dramatic chapter in Norwegian history. In 1934, a rockslide into Tafjord triggered a tsunami that destroyed several villages and claimed 40 lives. The disaster helped shape Norway’s modern systems for monitoring unstable mountains and landslide risks.

Today, visitors come for the hiking, fishing and tranquillity rather than the history.

Getting there

Tafjord is around two hours by car from Ålesund via Valldal and Norddal.

Where to stay

Most visitors base themselves in nearby Valldal when exploring Tafjord. The comfortable Valldal Fjordhotell has modern rooms overlooking the fjord, while Valldal Camping offers cabins and apartments at more affordable prices.

Norway’s wild Arctic fjords

North of the Arctic Circle, Norway’s fjords take on a wilder character. Expect jagged mountains, remote fishing villages, northern lights and some of the country’s most dramatic coastal landscapes.

12. Trollfjord

fjord and moutains seen from boat covered with snow sunset
Magical Trollfjord during winter | Pascal Debrunner

Up in the Arctic, Trollfjord (yep, trolls again) is one of northern Norway’s best-kept secrets. Located between the Vesterålen and Lofoten islands, Trollfjord is only a 2km-long fjord but its shape, with a narrow channel opening up into a large oval bay, makes it feel even more hidden.

The fjord is also surrounded by steep mountainsides, which seem to spend much of the year in black and white, thanks to the dark colour of the rocks and the thick snow that clings to them.  The frigid water in the fjord looks like dark and inky, and you’ll sometimes see eagles circling overhead, adding to the edge-of-the-world feel. The tallest mountain here, Mt Trolltind, reaches 1084m above sea level.

Getting there

Trollfjord can be visited either by Hurtigruten cruise (see our guide for more on travelling on the Hurtigruten) or on a boat trip from Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands.

Plenty of tours leave from Svolvær. For a relaxed experience, we like this silent electric cruise through Trollfjord, which offers close-up views of the dramatic mountains, sea eagles and the fjord’s famously narrow entrance. If you’re after a little more adventure, this RIB safari heads deeper into the fjord in search of seals, eagles and other Arctic wildlife.

Where to stay

This is a wild part of Norway and the only accommodation nearby is this simple hut, run by the Norwegian tourist authority. For something a little more comfortable, base yourself in Svolvær at the Scandic Svolvær Hotel, on a tiny island in the middle of the harbour.

13. Lyngenfjord

woman looking at fjord view
Lyngenfjord surrounded by gorgeous peaks | VegardStien

Lyngenfjord is another fjord in the north of Norway, located in the Lyngen Alps near Tromsø. At 82km long it’s absolutely huge, and it stretches through a region that’s popular with people looking to see the northern lights.

The high peaks of the Lyngen Alps create a bit of a rain shadow, which means clear skies are more likely here than in many other parts of the country. There’s more on seeing the northern lights in Norway in this guide. On the edge of the Lyngenfjord, the village of Lyngseidet is home to the world’s northernmost whisky distillery.

Getting there

From Tromsø, you can get to the village of Lyngseidet by car or bus.

Where to stay

The friendly Magic Mountain Lodge in Lyngseidet has doubles rooms with views of the fjord and a dorm, plus a communal kitchen and sauna.

14. Vestfjord

The Vestfjorden runs between Norway's northwest coast and the Lofoten Islands
Vestfjorden between the Lofoten and mainland | Ximonic (CC)

If you want to visit an off-the-beaten-path fjord for a more tranquil experience, the Vestfjorden, whose name means “West fjord”, is a good bet. Almost a hundred miles long, it runs between the Lofoten Islands and the northwest coast of mainland Norway.

At its southern end where it meets the sea, it’s about 50 miles wide, so is one of the largest fjords. But several smaller fjords run off it, such as the Ofotfjorden and the Tysefjorden at its northern end, and the tiny Nusfjord, to the west.

Getting there

The northern end of the fjord is most easily accessed from the city of Narvik. Home to Norway’s northernmost train station, Narvik is served by the Ofotbanen, also known as the Arctic Railway, from Kiruna in Sweden.

Where to stay

The Bogen Hostel has simple rooms and a caravan looking out over the Ofotfjorden.

15. Ofotfjord

fjord with snow covered mountains
Ofotfjord is one of Norway’s most historically important fjords | Wojtek Szymański

While many travellers pass through Narvik on their way to the Lofoten Islands, relatively few take the time to explore Ofotfjord. Stretching inland from the Norwegian Sea, the fjord is surrounded by rugged mountains that remain snow-covered for much of the year.

This is also one of Norway’s most historically significant fjords. During World War II, fierce naval battles took place here as German and Allied forces fought for control of Narvik and its strategically important iron ore railway.

Today, Ofotfjord is a fantastic destination for hiking, photography and scenic train journeys on the spectacular Ofoten Line, which connects Narvik with Kiruna in Sweden.

Getting there

Narvik sits on the northern shore of the fjord and can be reached by train from Sweden or by domestic flights from Oslo and other Norwegian cities.

Where to stay

The Scandic Narvik offers modern rooms with sweeping views over the fjord, while Breidablikk Guesthouse is a good-value alternative.

16. Reinefjord

aerial view of fjord and mountains with small town
Reinebringen in the Lofoten | Joshua Kettle

If you’ve ever seen a postcard from the Lofoten Islands, there’s a good chance you’ve already seen Reinefjord. Surrounded by jagged peaks and overlooked by the iconic fishing village of Reine, this narrow fjord is one of the most photographed landscapes in Norway.

The best views come from the famous Reinebringen hike, which climbs steeply above the village and rewards hikers with a breathtaking panorama of islands, mountains and deep blue water. For a truly memorable experience, join this midnight sun kayaking tour and paddle across the calm waters of Reinefjord beneath the endless summer daylight of northern Norway.

Despite its popularity, Reinefjord still feels wonderfully wild, particularly outside the busy summer season.

Getting there

Reine lies around two hours south of Svolvær by car on the E10 highway through the Lofoten Islands.

Where to stay

Traditional fishermen’s cabins at Andøy Vest Rorbuer Reine offer an unforgettable stay right on the waterfront.

Beyond the classic fjord route

Not every remarkable fjord is found on Norway’s main tourist trail. These fjords offer everything from Arctic wilderness and wildlife to city escapes and fascinating history.

17. Vistenfjord

Norway's southern fjords are very popular

“The unknown fjord” Vistenfjord in winter | Vistenfjord in Statskog SF

Due to their dramatic scenery and picturesque villages, some of the southern fjords are hugely popular – and rightly so – and can get very busy in peak times. So if you’re looking for more wild and rugged landscapes, the 22km-long Vistenfjord is a quieter hidden gem. 

Also known as “the unknown fjord”, it’s tucked away between the Vega Islands and the Seven Sisters mountain and extends into the wild and remote Lomsdal-Visten National Park. Great for hikes and kayaking, it’s a peaceful fjord, surrounded by mountains and ancient farming communities, and is known for its biodiversity. 

Getting there

Daily express boats from Tjøtta or Forvik run along the Innervisten to Aursletta and Bønå at the head of Vistfjorden.

Where to stay

This pretty cottage in Vevelstad, with views over the water makes a great base for exploring the Vistenfjord.

18. Trondheimsfjord

coloured wooden fish houses
Trondheims is located right in the Trondheimsfjord | Joshua Kettle

Trondheimsfjord is one of the more accessible fjords in Norway, as it’s situated right by the city of Trondheim. The fjord stretches from the Norwegian Sea all the way to the town of Levanger, around 50km to the northeast. Why should you visit? Well, there’s the big skies, the birdlife, the rolling countryside, the open expanses of glittering blue water… need we go on?

Getting there

The fjord runs right past Trondheim so if you’re visiting that city, you’re already by the water. There are several ferries and boat tours (in summer only) that take you out onto the fjord. For example, you can travel to the island of Ytterøy or to visit the former prison island and fortress at Munkholmen.

Where to stay

Trondheim has a few cheap bed and breakfasts and apartments, plus dozens of hotels.

The Rumi Hostel, with dorms and twin rooms, is a good bet if you’re on a budget.

19. Oslofjord

hikers in the mountains
Oslo Vettakollen hike with view of the Oslofjord | GYG

If you’re only in Norway for a couple of days but would like to see at least one fjord, don’t worry! Oslo has got you covered. The Oslofjord might not be as spectacular as the fjords of western Norway but it still offers plenty of nice islands (and beaches!) for a summer visit.

It’s also one of the easiest fjords to visit on a guided tour. This hybrid electric boat trip is a good eco-friendly option, and includes brunch and a glass of bubbly while sailing silently through the fjord. Or join this guided hike to see the best views of the city, the Oslo fjord, and the surrounding areas from the top of Vettakollen mountain.

Or, you can explore the fortress island Oscarsborg, the old monastery on the island Hovedøya, or the Bygdøy Peninsular, which has some great museums. There’s more on exploring the Oslofjord in this guide.

Getting there

Several ferries and boat trips leave the harbour at Aker Brygge daily, or you can travel through the Oslofjord and Skagerrak/Kattegat on one of the ferries connecting Norway with Denmark. There’s more on getting around the Oslofjord on a budget here.

Where to stay

Hotels in Oslo are expensive! Try one of these great hostels if you’d rather avoid paying for a hotel (most offer private rooms), or one of these cool Airbnbs.

20. Isfjord (Svalbard)

Fin whales can be seen in the Isfjord, one of Norway's 12 best fjords to visit.
Dream big: spot whales in Svalbard | Guillaume Baviere

Now we’re really getting off the beaten track. More than 800km north of the Norwegian mainland, the wild and icy Svalbard archipelago lies high up in the Arctic Circle. Its main island, Spitsbergen, is wrapped around the dramatic Isfjord, some 100km long.

Fed by many side fjords which freeze over most winters, the Isfjord itself is usually ice-free due to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream. With two national parks along its shores, it’s home to an extraordinary variety of birdlife and is a fantastic place for wildlife-spotting.

Species regularly seen here include Arctic foxes, reindeer and polar bears on land, with whales, seals and walruses in the water. It’s also a great place to see spectacular northern lights displays.

The island capital, Longyearbyen sits on the fjord’s southern side, and plenty of tours head out from here to explore the Isfjord and the surrounding wilderness. Click here for more on things to do on Svalbard, such as this tour of a historic coal mine.

Getting there

By far the easiest way to get to Svalbard is to fly with Norwegian from Oslo.

Where to stay

Most of Svalbards’ accommodation is in Longyearbyen : Gjestehuset 102 hostel has simple good-value rooms, while the Svalbard Hotell Polfareren offers pricier boutique-style comfort.

fjords and mountains in the mist
Plenty of fjords to explore on the Lofoten islands | Sandra Seitamaa

FAQ

Where are the best fjords in Norway?

Since the fjords are often quite hard to get to, it would take a long trip if you wanted to visit all 20 of our favourite fjords. So, if we had to pick just one area to visit, we would choose the region around Bergen.

From Norway’s second city, you can visit get two of our favourite fjords on a day trip by boat – the Nærøyfjord and the Aurlansfjord –  or you can take the ferry there and get Norway’s most dramatic mountain railway back again. 

Why does Norway have so many fjords?

The fjords are u-shaped valleys that were created by glaciers over millions of years. The glaciation took place below sea level and since Norway has a long coastline and a cold climate, hundreds of fjord developed along its coast.

Are fjords only in Norway?

The simple answer is no – New Zealand, Chile, Canada and Greenland all have fjords. The reason we associate them primarily with Norway is that fjord is a Norwegian word (of Viking origin) that has been adopted throughout the world to describe the dramatic glacial indents.

How deep are Norway’s fjords?

The depth of the fjords varies, but generally speaking they are stretch down a pretty long way! Sognefjord is Norway’s deepest fjord – up to 1.3km at its deepest point.

When is the best time to visit the Norwegian fjords?

Summer is peak season in the fjords. From June to early September, you’ll get long hours of daylight, mild temperatures and a good chance of some sunshine. It’s also the best time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, white water rafting and kayaking. However, it’s also when the fjords are at their most crowded and accommodation is at its priciest. To avoid the crowds, it’s worth considering a visit in autumn or winter.

Seeing the fjords in autumn can be beautiful, when the leaves are turning beautiful orange, brown and gold colours.

And winter, of course, can be spectacular, with the mountains clad in snow and ice, and the popular sights are much quieter. You can even do some some outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, and you’ve got a good chance of seeing the spectacular northern lights. If you are planning a winter trip, however, you’ll need to check the road conditions before travelling as some passes and road will be impassable due to snow.

Which Norwegian fjord will you visit first?

From the world-famous Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord to remote Arctic waterways such as Isfjord and Vistenfjord, Norway offers an astonishing variety of fjord landscapes. Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip, a hiking adventure or a voyage through the far north, there’s a fjord to match every type of traveller.

Have you visited any of the fjords on this list, or do you have a favourite we should add? Let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your own fjord adventures in Norway.

Don’t forget insurance – even if your trip has already started!

It’s no good visiting Norway’s beautiful fjords if you don’t have adequate travel insurance. Even though travelling in Norway is safe, we strongly recommend getting a decent policy for your trip. It really can make a world of difference if you lose your valuables or get involved in an accident.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Travel insurance for Scandinavia

See also:
Where to stay to visit the fjords
Cool eco-friendly places to stay in Norway
The best places to stay in Norway

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