Wondering how to see fjords in Bergen, Norway? This city is called the Gateway to the Fjords for a reason. In this guide, you’ll find 9 stunning fjords and exactly how to visit them.
Situated on Norway’s western coast, Bergen is a beautiful destination and the perfect launchpad for exploring famed natural wonders. The city of Bergen offers easy access to a number of Norway’s most breathtaking fjords, where you’ll witness colourful waterside towns, towering cliffs, waterfalls, and even glaciers.
In this guide, we’ll dive into all the best Norwegian fjords you can visit from Bergen, their unique features to help you choose which ones to visit, and all the logistical information you need to get there. You’ll see just how easy it is to visit these stunning fjords right from Bergen. After all, it is known as the “Gateway to the fjords” for a reason.
Why Bergen is Called the Gateway to the Fjords:
Bergen’s title as the “Gateway to the fjords” isn’t just a catchy phrase – it is a testament to the city’s prime location on Norway’s coast. Historically, Bergen has played a pivotal role as a major port and trading hub, with bustling harbours that have welcomed traders, merchants, and explorers for centuries. Today it earns its prestigious title as an adventure destination because of its role as the starting point for epic fjord explorations.
Bergen lies within one of Norway’s most famous fjord landscapes and is surrounded by 9 fjords that are accessible from the city. The city itself is located between two of the most famous fjords in the country, Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord. In addition to their proximity, there are a plethora of Bergen fjord tours available that bring you directly into the heart of these natural wonders. You can choose from a variety of boat tours or fjord safaris and packaged days with numerous stops and adventures. We’ll detail exactly how to see the fjords in Bergen below!
The Best Fjords Near Bergen
Bergen is surrounded by 9 nearby fjords that are easily accessible. On the list, you’ll find Norway’s most popular and hidden gems that retain their remote natural beauty. In summary, they are:
- Sognefjord
- Hardangerfjord
- Nærøyfjord
- Osterfjord
- Mostraumen
- Fjærlandsfjorden
- Aurlandsfjord
- Fyksesund
- Geirangerfjord
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How to See Fjords in Bergen (A Complete Guide)
When it comes to experiencing the fjords in Bergen, guided tours offer an unbeatable combination of convenience, expertise, and adventure. There are very few that can be visited independently and opting for Bergen fjord tours ensures you are getting the most out of your trip as you can. Plus you’ll gain insight from the knowledgeable local guides.
Fjord tours cater to a variety of preferences and interests, whether you are seeking a leisurely cruise along tranquil waters, an adventure-packed fjord safari, or a little bit of luxury. So, if you’re looking for the best way to see fjords in Bergen, a guided tour is the way to go!
1. Sognefjord – The King of the Fjords
One of the two fjords that sandwich the city of Bergen, Sognefjord is a natural first option for your fjord adventures. Pronounced “son-ya-fyord,” Sognefjord stretches over 200 km inland, making it the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. It boasts dramatic cliffs, emerald waters, and cascading waterfalls.
The best way to experience the grandeur of Sognefjord is on a guided tour that also combines a visit to the famed Flåm Railway. Highlights of the tour include passing by coastal villages that dot the mountain landscapes with pops of colour, stops in the most stunning local towns to explore the forest and mountain scenery, and a ride on one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. You’ll visit the beautiful town of Flam with some free time, witness the Kjosfossen waterfall, and see views of the Sognefjord from above. On this day trip from Bergen, you’ll quickly discover why Sognefjord is known as Norway’s “King of the Fjords.”
Book The Sognefjord Boat Tour: Premium Day Trip to Sognefjord and Flam Scenic Railway
2. Hardangerfjord – The Second Longest Fjord in Norway
The second fjord that Bergen sits between is Hardangerfjord. Stretching over 179 km from the Atlantic Ocean into the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, this is Norway’s second longest fjord. Hardangerfjord is known for its picturesque villages nestled along its shores, such as Ulvik, Eidfjord, and Odda, each offering a unique glimpse into Norwegian coastal life. The fjord also features famous fruit orchards that bloom in spring to paint the landscape in vibrant colours. However, its most iconic feature is the Vøringsfossen waterfall, which plunges over 180 metres into the Måbødalen valley, making it Norway’s biggest waterfall. Vøringsfossen can be admired from viewing platforms or by hiking down to its base for a closer look.
The best way to explore Hardangerfjord is on a scenic boat ride with views of the rising fjords from the water. The tours will stop to savour the views at several points, visiting small towns along the coastline. And some will take you to the famous Vøringsfossen to marvel at its crashing waters.
Book the Boat Tour to Hardangerfjord:
Option 1 – A Thrilling RIB Fjord Safari
This incredible boat trip starts at a meeting point close to Bergen in a town called Øystese. It is a 1 hour 20 minute drive to get there, where you will meet your group to head off on your tour of Hardangerfjord. The boat trip is in a zodiac boat and will take you at high speeds throughout the fjord to see the absolute most you can in the 1.5 hour tour. You’ll zip along the most famous portion of the fjord near Fyksesund and visit the charming village of Botnen.
Option 2 – Private Full-Day Scenic Tour in Hardangerfjord Region with Scenic Cruise
If you want to explore Hardangerfjord in the best possible way with some added luxury, this private excursion is worth the extra buck. The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Bergen with a private driver-guide for the day. You’ll cross the Hardangerfjord Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges, visit the Hardangervidda Nature centre, and get up close to Vøringfossen waterfall.
3. Nærøyfjord – One of the World’s Most Spectacular Fjords
Nærøyfjord is often considered one of the most spectacular fjords in the world. An arm of the longer Sognefjord, this wild and beautiful fjord stretches 17 km long and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is filled with narrow inlets, with its narrowest point only 250 metres wide. Nærøyfjord is known for its unique setting of snow-topped mountains that rise dramatically from the water’s edge, waterfalls, and farms nestled into the mountainsides.
The boat trips through Nærøyfjord are considered one of the most impressive fjord trips in all of Europe. The best boat trip to explore Nærøyfjord combines a peaceful electric cruise through the fjord with a ride on the Flam Railway. You’ll experience Nærøyfjord’s most iconic features such as panoramic views of Nærøydalen valley and Stalheimskleiva, the Gudvangen Marina, and the magnificent Kjosfossen Waterfall.
Book the Nærøyfjord Boat Tour: Guided Naeroyfjord Boat Cruise and Scenic Flam Railway Train Ride
4. Osterfjord – A Fjord of Charming Villages
Osterfjord is another stunning fjord close to Bergen. It extends for approximately 27 km from the Atlantic Ocean into the heart of Norway’s fjord landscape. The fjord ranges from about 1 – 3 km wide and is known for its serene waters that reflect the surrounding mountains and forests. There are several charming villages of note along the fjord, including Osterøy and Modalen, each offering a unique glimpse into Norwegian coastal life and culture. Modalen Valley is also a highlight, considered a hidden gem tucked in the mountains where visitors can hike through pristine wilderness to discover hidden waterfalls, lush forests, and viewpoints overlooking Osterfjord.
The easiest way to visit Osterfjord is on a combined boat cruise through Mostraumen. You’ll cruise through scenic straits, pass by colourful villages, and get right up close to a beautiful cascading waterfall.
Book the Osterfjord Boat Tour: Cruise Along Mostraumen and Its Waterfalls to Osterfjord
Full Day Secret of the Fjords Tour to Osterfjord: Private Guided Tour Secrets of the Fjords to Osterfjord and Mo
If you are interested in a full-day unique experience, take this private guided tour to visit the secrets of the fjords. On this private tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit remote areas not often visited by tourists to view the best of Osterfjord and its surrounding landscape. The tour is done in a comfortable private vehicle, and you’ll visit viewpoints over Osterfjord, shop traditional Norwegian artisans, road trip along mountain roads to spot secluded villages, visit the magical Hesjedalsfossen waterfall, visit Mo (a tiny village between two waterfalls), and more!
5. Mostraumen – Bergen’s Most Accessible Fjord
Mostraumen is a narrow strait located in Hodraland country near the city of Bergen. It connects Osterfjorden and Sørfjorden, offering a breathtaking journey through Norway’s majestic fjord landscape. Mostraumen is home to several impressive waterfalls, including Fretheimfossen and Kvernhusfossen, which cascade down the cliffs into the fjord below. The passage narrows at certain points to as little as just 150 metres wide, creating a dramatic view with the mountains rising from the water. There are also a lot of wildlife living in the strait, such as seals, eagles, and various sea birds.
The best way to experience Mostraumen is by boat cruise. In fact, it is one of the most popular boat cruises leaving directly from Bergen’s harbour.
Book the Mostraumen Boat Tour: Cruise Along Mostraumen Fjord and Its Waterfalls
6. Fjærlandsfjorden – Home to Impressive Glaciers
Fjærlandsfjorden is a picturesque fjord located in Sogn og Fjordane county, Norway, near the village of Fjærland. It is a branch of Sognefjord and extends approximately 25 km to the village of Mundal. Fjærlandsfjorden is home to several impressive glaciers, including Bøyabreen and Supphellebreen, which glisten from the surrounding mountains into the fjord below. The charming village of Mundal is also a highlight, known for its historic wooden buildings, cultural attractions, and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and fjord.
The best way to experience Fjærlandsfjorden is on a combined fjord and glacier tour from Bergen. The highlights of this tour include a visit to the village of Vik and its mountain landscapes, Storesvingen viewpoint, the medieval Hopperstad Stave Church, a cruise in the Fjærlandsfjord, Bøyabreen Glacier, and the majestic Tvindefossen Waterfall.
Book the Boyabreen Glacier Boat Tour: Guided Fjord and Boyabreen Glacier Boat Tour From Bergen
7. Aurlandsfjord – A Fjord of Dramatic Cliffs
Aurlandsfjord is another stunning branch of Sognefjord, extending 29 km to the small village of Aurlandsvangen. The fjord is famed for its stunning scenery of cliffs steeply rising from the water’s edge and lush greenery adorning the mountainsides. Stegastein Viewpoint and the fjords charming villages are the highlights, offering unforgettable natural scenery and plenty of photo ops.
Aurlandsfjord is located near the village of Flam but can be visited on a self-guided day trip from Bergen. The tour company takes care of all the logistics for you and allows you a little bit of independence to explore the fjord region on your own. You’ll start with a scenic train ride to Voss and then a bus ride to Gudgangen (stopping at the Stalheimskleiva viewpoint), where you will join a scenic cruise to the beautiful Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Upon finishing the cruise, you’ll take a scenic ride on the Flam railway before departing back to Bergen.
Book the Self-Guided Aurlandsfjord Trip: Self-Guided Round Trip Day Trip to Aurlandsfjord
8. Fyksesund Fjord – The Hidden Jewel of the Hardanger Region
Fyksesund Fjord is the hidden jewel of Hordaland County, situated in the Hardanger region. The narrow fjord stretches 11 km from Hardangerfjord to the village of Eidfjord. One of the highlights of Fyksesund Fjord is the peaceful atmosphere, with minimal tourist traffic compared to other fjords in the region, allowing visitors to enjoy a tranquil and authentic Norwegian experience. Another highlight is the Fyksesund Bridge, a stunning suspension bridge that spans the narrowest part of the fjord, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjord.
The best way to experience Fyksesund fjord is on a RIB safari from Norheimsund. The tour starts in Norheimsund, approximately an hour and 15 minutes from Bergen, where you’ll set sail along the main portion of Hardangerfjord to the entrance of the Fyksesund fjord. You’ll journey along this beautiful fjord branch filled with steep cliffs and numerous waterfalls, before stopping in the old roadless town of Botnen where you can enjoy its historic charm. The tour also brings you to the Fyksesund Suspension Bridge.
Book the RIB Safari to Fyksesund Fjord: Hardangerfjord and Fykesesund RIB Safari
Bonus Fjord to Visit on an Overnight Trip From Bergen
9. Geirangerfjord – One of Norway’s Most Beautiful Fjords
Geirangerfjord is one of Western Norway’s most beautiful fjords and is about a 7-hour drive from Bergen. This incredible fjord is a great option if you have time on your Bergen itinerary for an overnight stop. It stretches about 15 km from the picturesque village of Geiranger to the open sea, flanked by steep mountainsides and cascading waterfalls. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a result of its incredible natural scenery. The fjord is home to several iconic attractions, including the Seven Sisters Waterfall, the Suitor Waterfall, and the Eagle Road.
The best way to explore Geirangerfjord is on a RIB boat safari tour that can take you right up close to the fjord’s waterfalls and towering cliffs. You’ll get to experience the charming village of Geiranger to start, before embarking on the sparkling blue waters to the Seven Sisters waterfall, Suitor waterfall, and the Bridal Veil waterfall. You might also catch sightings of the whales, porpoises, and seals that live in the fjords waters.
Book the RIB Boat Tour to Geirangerfjord: RIB Boat Excursion in Geirangerfjord
Tips for Visiting Fjords in Bergen
- Book in Advance – Fjord tours in Norway and especially Bergen are one of the most popular activities. To make sure you get a spot on the tour you want, it is wise to book in advance. This is especially important during the peak season which is from about May to September.
- Be Prepared for All Weather Conditions – Norwegian weather can be unpredictable, even during the summer. Check the forecast before departing for your tour and make sure to pack back up rain gear and layers just in case. Boat tours can also be especially cold due to the wind and temperatures off the water.
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Final Thoughts on How to See Fjords in Bergen
The “Gateway to the fjords,” Bergen is the perfect city to visit to experience authentic Norwegian culture and explore the famous fjords of Norway. From the well-explored Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord to the off-the-beaten-path fjords of Fyksesund and Aurlandsfjord, you will be absolutely stunned by the natural wonders so close to the city. As you plan your visit and search for how to see fjords in Bergen, this guide will help you get exactly the fjord experiences you are looking for.
Happy adventuring!
* Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. I only recommend products and companies that I use. Thanks for the support!
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