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Nature and attractions

The Fjords of Norway: Experience the most beautiful fjords in Norway!

Last updated: 30.01.2024
Jente sitter på ei huske i Hjørundfjorden med utsikt mot fjella.
The world's finest swing in the Hjørundfjord.|© Micaela Potterbaum
The world's finest swing in the Hjørundfjord.|© Micaela Potterbaum

The ultimate guide to the Norwegian fjords: what is a fjord and how were the fjords formed, what is the name of the longest fjord in Norway, and which fjord cruises should you do?

One of the things Norway is best known for is its fjords. The word ‘fjord’ is one of the few Norwegian words to have become international! In Western Norway – the region we call Fjord Norway – you will find some of the most beautiful, longest, narrowest and deepest fjords in the world.

What is a fjord?

The definition of a fjord is a deep, narrow and elongated sea or water inlet with steep land on three sides, shaped by massive glacier tongues over the course of several ice ages. ‘Fjord’ comes from the Norse word ‘fjorðr’ and means ‘where you cross’. Would you like to know more about how the fjords were formed? Watch the video ‘What is a fjord’ and read the article here.

En person på kanten av Preikestolen mens sola skimtes bak fjellene.
Preikestolen and the Lysefjord|© Explore Lysefjorden

Norway’s fjords – the most famous fjords

Norway boasts some of the longest, narrowest, deepest and most beautiful fjords in the world, and the pristine fjord landscape is even inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, represented by the Geirangerfjord and the Nærøyfjord. Read more about the most famous and most beautiful fjords in Norway here.

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Geirangerfjorden
The Geirangerfjord and the waterfall De syv søstre (the Seven Sisters).|© Per Eide

The little-known fjords you mustn’t miss

Do you prefer exploring lesser-known gems, where there are less people in summer? We can help you to find them! From the south to the north of the region, you will find many lesser-known fjords that are definitely worth visiting!

Utsikt over Åkrafjorden
The Åkrafjord and Langfoss waterfall.|© Espen Mills

When is the best time to visit the fjords?

You can visit the fjords all year round! But many people would probably say that the best time to visit the fjords is in spring and summer. Read more about the different seasons and the best time to visit the fjords.

Fjord Cruise Nærøyfjord
The Nærøyfjord in winter – beautiful silence.|© Sverre Hjørnevik / Visit Flåm

The best Norwegian fjord cruises

The best way to experience the fjords is from a boat! There are many fjord cruises throughout the region, and we have gathered the best fjord cruises for you here.

Mostraumen
Fjord cruise from Bergen to Mostraumen.|© Tom Guldbrandsen

The best activities to experience the fjords

The fjords can be experienced up close on the water, or admired from afar in the surrounding mountains, on, for example, hikes with magnificent fjord views. In many of the fjords in Western Norway, you can join a guided kayaking or SUP trip, or a more high-speed RIB boat trip. Some places organise fishing trips, and floating saunas are available in several places. Hiking with and without a guide, or snowshoe trips in winter are also recommended. Read more about the various activities on or near the fjord here.

Get close to the fjord in a kayak!

Western Norway is perfect for kayaking! This is a great activity that is suitable for most people! Read more about kayaking on the fjords and along the coast.

Kajakktur i Tafjorden og ved fossen Slufsa.
Kayaking on the Tafjord.|© Ræin Adventures

Hotels and holiday homes beside the fjords in Norway

You can stay right beside the fjord in many places in the region. Imagine waking up to a beautiful, tranquil fjord in the morning light! Little beats the feeling of tranquillity you get surrounded by beautiful scenery. Many places also rent out holiday homes with a boat. Read more about where you can stay right beside a fjord.

Fire personer med ryggen til i et utendørs svømmebasseng, og som ser utover fjorden.
Outdoor pool at Hotel Ullensvang in Lofthus, Hardanger|© fjordnorway.com

Read more about the Norwegian fjords!

A family adventure between Bergen and Ålesund

A family adventure between Bergen and Ålesund

Fjord Norway is a perfect destination for a family holiday. An adventure awaits in the mountains and fjords that will create family memories for life.

The best activities to experience the Norwegian fjords

The best activities to experience the Norwegian fjords

The fjords can be experienced up close or admired from afar. Here are some tips for the very best fjord experience!

The little-known fjords you mustn’t miss

The little-known fjords you mustn’t miss

Do you prefer exploring lesser-known gems? We can help you discover the best experiences in the lesser-known fjord arms in Fjord Norway.

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