day trip to hardangerfjord from bergen

• Trade/Press
• Barnas Bergen

Welcome to the Itinerary Planner. Use this tool to build your own journey or choose from an exciting range of specially selected tours.

• Fjord tours
• Fjord tours in winter
• Short cruises and fjord tours
• Guided Tours
• Glacier Tours
• Hiking in Bergen
• Kayaking & Rafting
• Segway Tours
• Climbing and Zipline
• Fun and games
• Horseback Riding
• Activity Organisers in Bergen
• What is a fjord?
• Bergen fjords

Hardangerfjord

• The best fjords in Norway
• Stegastein Viewpoint
• Vøringsfossen Waterfall
• Bryggen in Bergen
• Family Friendly
• Fløibanen funicular
• Ulriksbanen Cable car
• Churches in Bergen
• Water Parks
• Road trips from Bergen
• "Ring of Waterfalls"
• The wool heritage route
• Sightseeing
• Sauna & Spa
• Things to do in Voss
• What's On Highlights
• Shows, Theatres & Opera
• Exhibitions
• Large city events
• Conferences & Trade Exibitions
• Music Venues
• Hotels by The Airport
• Hotels in City Centre
• Fjord Hotels
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Self Catering and Villas
• Buy a Bergen Card
• Attractions
• Food & Drink
• Transport & Travel
• Entertainment
• Typical Norwegian
• Seafood & Sushi
• International

Bergen Seafood

• Persetorsk from Bergen
• Bergen fish soup
• The secrets of the dish called Raspeballer
• Skillingsbolle - Bergen's favourite pastry
• Wild sheep – a local delicacy
• The champagne of apple cider
• Why apple juice from Hardanger is special
• Bareksten - world famous gin from Bergen
• Beer from Bergen
• A guide to Bergen's microbreweries
• Coffee Shops
• Night Clubs
• Event Venues
• The top 10 things to see and do in Bergen
• Five things to do in Bergen
• Top 10 Free Days Out
• Top 10 Rainy Day Ideas
• Top 10 Photo Spots in Bergen
• Top 10 Sunny Day Ideas
• Top 5 Child Friendly Ideas
• 10 reasons to be charmed by Bergen
• Christmas highlights
• Winter in Bergen
• Bryggen - behind the scenes!
• Winter swimming in Bergen
• Art in Bergen
• 10 unique places to stay in Bergen
• Workation in the Bergen region
• Districts and neighborhoods
• 48 hours in Bergen
• 3 Days in Bergen
• 3 Day Winter Program
• Weekend trip from Frankfurt to Bergen
• Weekend Trip From London to Bergen
• Weekend Trip From Aberdeen to Bergen
• Weekend Trip to Bergen
• Tips for an exciting weekend with kids in Bergen
• Children in Bergen
• Edvard Grieg
• Explore Norway
• Films and pictures
• Travel Information
• Bergen Tourist Information
• Bergen Airport Bus
• Transport Bergen Airport to city centre
• Bergen Weather
• Travel essentials
• Wheelchair friendly attractions
• Austrheim - The jewel of the west coast
• Gulen - In the footsteps of the Vikings
• Masfjorden - In the footsteps of war heroes
• Modalen - Small in size, but rich in experiences
• Vaksdal - Textiles and nature for world champions
• Osterøy - The green island with the rich culture
• Fedje - The village in the ocean
• Øygarden - Where the coast is your playground
• Austevoll - Enjoy the good things in life
• Tysnes - an island of goodness
• Accomodation in Øygarden
• Things to do in Øygarden
• What's on in Øygarden
• What's On in Nordhordland
• What's On in Osterøy
• Hiking in Nordhordland
• Accommodation in Nordhordland
• Things to do in Nordhordland
• Road trips from Bergen to Nordhordland

The Queen of the fjords

You are here: Home Things To Do Norway fjords Hardangerfjord

Plan & Book

Hardangerfjord - the queen of the fjords.

With Sognefjord being regarded as the King of the Fjords, Hardangerfjord is the shining Queen! With picturesque fruit farms and small charming villages lined along the fjord, Hardangerfjord is a worthy carrier of the title.

From the Hardangerfjord you can enjoy a view of the magnificent Folgefonna National Park and other nature conservation areas with varied animal and plant life, waterfalls and glaciers, high mountains, and deep forests.

Where is the Hardangerfjord?

How long is the Hardangerfjord?

The fruit orchard of Norway

If you ask a Norwegian to pull out a few images to represent Norway, half of them would probably show a picture from Hardanger. And it would definitely be in springtime with all the apple trees along the fjord in full blossom! It is truly a magnificent sight and even Norwegians gets a bit awed. The other half would perhaps show a person with a bunad, also from Hardanger. In the orchard. (A bunad is the Norwegian traditional costume.) Okay, perhaps someone would pull out a picture from Lofoten in northern in Norway, but for this purpose we’ll leave them be.

With the combination of good soil and climate, the fruits from Hardanger is exceptionally tasty. Try the Hardanger cider made from apple or the delicious apple juice. Many farms producing cider also offer tastings. The Hardanger cider has become very popular in Norway and is a typical gift to bring if you’re invited to someone for dinner.

Stop for dinner at the restaurant Siderhuset Ola K in Sørfjorden where they combind a fine dining experience with local food and cider.

How to visit the Hardangerfjord

So, no need to wait for an invite. The fjord is always open and ready to be explored. Being located south of Bergen, this is the natural place to start your journey. You can join one of the many  fjord cruises from Bergen or set off on your own adventure. The choice is yours and the road is your highway. Well, not literally. Rather than express lanes, the roads are more of a scenic take-your-time kind of roads. But it is well worth taking your time. Read more about driving around Hardanger here.

To help you plan your itinerary when visiting Bergen and the fjords, check out Things to do in Bergen.

Hardangerfjord cruise

The fjord is of course the highlight itself. To see the fjord from the road is nice, but to be on the fjord is even better. And there are several fjord tours and cruises to choose from. Check out all the options further down on this page.

You will find the greatest selection during the summer season; however, spring and autumn is also great alternatives. The most popular tours are perhaps the tours called Fjordcruise on the Hardangerfjord or Hardangerfjord in a nutshell . These two tours are quite similar, and both include a detour to the Vøringsfossen Waterfall in Eidfjord. 

Another popular tour with great reviews is the tour Hardangerfjord Cruise and Waterfall tour . All tours to Hardangerfjord can be booked online here at visitBergen.com or at the Tourist Information in Bergen .

Vøringsfossen Waterfall – a surprise bonus

Filling up your camera with shots of the fjord, you will perhaps run into trouble when arriving at Vøringsfossen Waterfall in the village of Eidfjord . Because this waterfall you definitely want to show your friends and family back home! The waterfall plunges down 182 meters into the Måbødalen Valley and is one of the most famous waterfalls in Norway, and one of the main tourist attractions in Hardanger.

Things to do in the Hardangerfjord – top 5 things not to miss

The Hardangerfjord is long and crooked and you might not have the time to explore the whole Hardanger area on one visit. Not to worry, we’ll help you along the way by giving you top 5 things not to miss. 

• A fjord cruise. No surprise there, but it had to get the first place.
• Vøringsfossen or Steinsdalsfossen waterfall. It’s hard to choose. The first offers grandness and the second one you can actually walk behind! Why not try to include both? 
• A hike to Trolltunga . It is definitely a hit on social media, but with the 12 hours (and strenuous) hike it is not for everyone.
• Hardangervidda National Park . A mountain plateau and quite different from the steep mountains along the fjord and great for hiking. 
• Taste the local cider by joining the Cider Safari in Sørfjorden.

HM Queen Sonja’s panoramic hike – Dronningstien

Dronningstien hike is still a fairly long hike of 16 kilometres and not for a beginners. However, a lot of travellers come to Norway to hike, and if you are one of them, then add this on your list together with these popular Norwegian hikes . The Queen Sonja’s panoramic hike has a normal duration of about 5-6 hours plus (it is a one way hike). Add a few hours for taking pictures, having a lunch break, and just enjoying the scenery.

Folgefonna Glacier - from fjord to skiing

Folgefonna glacier is located in Hardanger and is accessible from different locations. You can access the glacier from near the village of Jondal, where you will find the Fonna Glacier Ski Resort. You can also join a guided tour on the glacier or a Half day dogsledding tour . There are several possibilites for seeing the glacier on a day trip from Bergen.

When travelling the Norway fjords , check out these essential packing tips. If there are just too many fjords to choose from, then simply head over to The best fjords in Norway – and why they are awesome!  

Number of results:

Number of results: 19

60 minutes Fjord safari with RIB-boat on the Hardangerfjord from Øystese

Join us on a 60 minutes fjord safari with a RIB boat from Øystese, beautifully located by the Hardangerfjord! A fast-paced tour in a RIB-boat along steep mountain sides and roadless hamlets 1.5 hours from Bergen.

Guide Price

75 minutes Fjord safari with RIB-boat on the Hardangerfjord from Norheimsund

Join us on a 75 minutes fjord safari with a RIB boat from Norheimsund, the gateway to the Hardangerfjord! A fast-paced tour in a RIB-boat along steep mountain sides and roadless hamlets 1.5 hours from Bergen.

Boat cruise Bergen - Rosendal (round-trip) on The Hardangerfjord Express

Visit beautiful Rosendal on a day trip from Bergen. The tour is available all year. See the village, the rose garden at the Barony or go hiking.

• Stiftelsen Miljøfyrtårn Eco-Lighthouse

Chasing the Waterfalls of Hardangerfjord

Walk behind Steinsdalsfossen waterfall, see the beautiful Norwegian landscape, and visit picturesque villages on this 6 hour tour from Bergen.

Dronningstien panoramic hike in Hardanger

Enjoy Queen Sonja's panoramic hike Dronningstien 2,5 hours from Bergen. One of Norway’s most beautiful mountain walks for experienced hikers.

Fjordcruise Bergen – Mostraumen

Experience fjords and mountains on a 3-3,5 hour cruise to Osterfjord and the picturesque Mostraumen where boats are just able to pass through!

Bergen Card benefits:

Fjordcruise on the Hardangerfjord

Experience a journey through a landscape of majestic mountains, roaring waterfalls and idyllic orchards, on the beautiful Queen of fjords, the Hardangerfjord.

Fjordcruise on the Hardangerfjord including tour to Vøringsfossen (Vøring waterfall)

Experience a journey through a landscape of majestic mountains, roaring waterfalls and idyllic orchards, on your way to the beautiful Queen of fjords

Guided glacier hiking Folgefonna

Round trip from Bergen to Folgefonna Ski Centre including 5-hour guided tour on the glacier Folgefonna.

Guided hike on "secret" and unmarked paths in the mountains in Hardanger

Join our experienced guides on a hike on unmarked paths in the mountains around Herand, with superb views over the beautiful cultural landscape in the Hardangerfjord.

Guided hike on the spectacular Bufærvegen in the mountains in Hardanger

Join our experienced guides on a hike in the area around Herand, with superb views over the beautiful cultural landscape in the Hardangerfjord.

Guided hike with superb views in the Herand area

Join our experienced guides on an easy hike in the area around Herand with superb views over the beautiful cultural landscape in the Hardangerfjord.

Guided snowshoeeing hike for groups in the Hardangerfjord mountains

Join us on an exclusive snowshoeing hike to hidden gems along mountain sides covered in snow by the Hardangerfjord. Our experienced guides will give your group an unique experience.

Guided walk for groups in mountains in the Hardangerfjord-area

Join our guides on a easy walk in the mountains to hidden gems in the beautiful fjord landscape in the middle of the Hardangerfjord. Exclusive tour for groups; suitable for couples, groups of friends or companies.

Half day dogsledding at Folgefonna glacier

Join us for a half-day dogsledding adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of Norway's arctic wilderness alongside our friendly huskies.

Hardangerfjord Cruise and Waterfall Tour

Day trip from Bergen to Hardangerfjord. Bus from Bergen to Norheimsund, fjord cruise on a RIB boat and a walk to the beautiful Steinsdalsfossen waterfall.

Heit Sørfjorden Sauna in Hardanger outside Bergen

2,5 hours from Bergen you can enjoy a steaming hot sauna with the spectacular view to the fjord, the mountains, and the glacier.

The Folgefonn Centre (in Rosendal)

The new Folgefonn Centre in Rosendal offers interactive exhibitions on the Folgefonna National Park and aquatic life in the Hardangerfjord.

The Great Waterfall and Fjord Tour™

Experience the majestic Hardangerfjord, and two of Norway’s most famous waterfalls – all in one day!

• E-newsletter

Other Sites

• Trade / Press
• About this site
• Photo credits
• Data protection declaration

Visit Bergen

Strandkaien 3

NO-5013 Bergen

© Visit Bergen 2024

Don't miss

Fjordcruise Bergen - Mostraumen

Guided fjord cruise incl. Stegastein

Fløibanen

Bryggen highlights guided tour

Boat trip and dinner at Cornelius

Food and culture guided walk

Bareksten - world famous gin

Airport bus

Kystbussen from Stavanger

Bergen - Rosendal (The Hardangerfjord Express)

Bergensbanen train from Oslo to Bergen

Hardangerfjord in a nutshell™

Experience the majestic vøringsfossen and the local fjord culture of hardanger.

As one of Norway’s most popular tourist destinations since the beginning of the 19th century, the Hardangerfjord region is filled with a wide variety of impressive highlights! Idyllic fjord landscapes, lush fruit and cider farms, mighty mountains with dramatic waterfalls and powerful glaciers are just some of the highlights to look forward to!

Explore   the   colorful   and   majestic   Hardangerfjord - All in   one   tour   from Bergen or Oslo!   Travel effortlessly and comfortably by boat, fjord cruise, bus, and train, and experience everything the Hardangerfjord is known for:

• Idyllic fjord landscapes
• Lush fruit farms producing world-famous ciders
• Mighty mountains
• Powerful glaciers
• Dramatic waterfalls
• The spectacular Trolltunga

Journey through an unforgettable landscape 

When you visit the Hardangerfjord region, it's easy to understand why this region has been one of Norway’s most popular tourist destinations since the beginning of the 19th century. 

What’s unique about the Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell tour, is the wide variety of highlights you will experience.

On the boat trip between Bergen and Rosendal, you will experience the raw and beautiful coastal scenery of Western Norway. In Rosendal you can visit Scandinavia's smallest castle with its 60-acre Victorian landscape park, while in Odda , you can add a hike to the spectacular Trolltunga .

Admire the majestic nature on a fjord cruise

During the cruise on the Hardangerfjord, you can jump off to wander through one of the lush fruit orchards dotted along the fjord. The cider in Hardanger has won a number of international awards in recent years, so be sure to visit one of the farms for some cider tasting!

The tour also includes a visit to the Norwegian Nature Centre , the dramatic Vøringsfossen waterfall,  and a ride across the wild and beautiful Hardangervidda mountain plateau.

You will stay overnight in the charming fjord village of Ulvik, beautifully situated by the fjord and a perfect place to enjoy splendid nature and local cultural experiences.

Read more about the highlights below!

Tour Highlights

The Hardangerfjord

The 179-kilometer-long Hardangerfjord will spellbind even the most well-traveled tourists. You will experience scenic fjord villages nestled in tradition and heritage, living alongside innovative new industries such as fish farms and hydropower plants.

A visit to Hardanger will surely leave you with long-lasting impressions, as you travel through an area where cultural and natural gems seamlessly merge and abound.

The Vøringsfossen Waterfall

The Vøringsfossen Waterfall is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Norway. The 182-meter tall waterfall is a mighty sight to behold, and the foaming water from the Hardangervidda mountain plateau cascades into the lush Måbødalen valley.

In 2020, a unique stair bridge over the waterfall was opened, which makes it possible to cross the canyon in 99 steps, a walk that is guaranteed to give you some butterflies in your tummy! The bridge, installations, and viewing platforms are great examples of innovative architecture combined with beautiful nature.

Fruit farms in Hardanger

Hardanger is famous for its many fruit farms and visitors from all over the world travel to Hardanger to witness the amazing fruit blossoming in May and June. T he Norwegian microclimate in Hardanger is perfect for growing a huge variety of fruit in flourishing orchards. The fjord is of great value for the farms since it reflects light onto the steep slopes, which helps fruit to grow and keeps the climate cooler during the summer. W e highly recommend that you visit a fruit- and cider farm while in Hardanger. Join in on a cider-tasting experience at Nå , Aga , Lofthus , or Ulvik to learn more about cider production and get to taste the award-winning Hardanger Cider. 

Hardangervidda mountain plateau

The Hardangervidda mountain plateau is Norway's largest National Park, and a journey over the beautiful and untouched wilderness landscape is filled with contrast. With vast arrays of mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, Hardangervidda is a very popular area to explore.

The mountain plateau is located above the alpine tree line and has a distinctively alpine climate with reindeer herds among the largest in the world. The fjords, mountains, and marked trails make the Hardangervidda National Park a perfect place for the active nature lover. 

West Coast Cruise

On the boat between Bergen and Rosendal, you travel along the raw coastal scenery of Norway's West Coast. This boat is a comfortable, modern, and spacious vessel, and during the trip, you will have excellent views of the beautiful, untamed landscapes passing by.

Enjoy a cup of coffee from the inside lounge with large viewing windows, or venture out on the large outdoor deck to take in even more magnificent views. There is a kiosk onboard selling snacks, light meals, and cold/hot drinks. While in Rosendal you can stop by the Folgefonn Center offering interactive exhibitions on the Folgefonna National Park.

Every traveler is unique - Just like our Nutshell Tours

With our unique booking tool, you can personalize your Nutshell Tour. During the booking process, you can easily extend the tour and combine it with experiences and hotels along the route. We recommend local food and cider tastings, but feel free to explore your options and the amazing activities in the Hardangerfjord’s unforgettable landscape.

One of the most popular activities you can add to this tour is a hike to Trolltunga. This Instagram icon is one of Norway's most photographed places. Whether you want the standard tour or personalize it by adding activities and hotels is up to you. Just pick what’s best for you, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Recommended activities during the tour

Please note that certain activities depends on season, availability and travel route. Some activities may require overnight stays during your tour.

Have a great trip!

Book a fjord adventure

Purchase tickets to our fjord cruises here, and pay online with Visa or Mastercard. Bon Voyage!

• Lauvvik-Lysebotn
• Fjord cruise Bergen-Mostraumen
• Hardangerfjord Express Boat
• Fjord cruise to Modalen & guided mountain hike to “Slottet”
• Fjord cruise Lysefjord & Preikestolen - from Stavanger
• Preikestolen cruise & hike – summer
• Preikestolen cruise & guided hike - winter
• Day trip to the Flørli stairs
• Day trip to the Flørli stairs ourbound/return on different days
• Ski boat to Sauda
• Lysefjord - Passenger boat from Stavanger
• Northern lights safari
• Whale safari
• Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromsø
• Lysefjord Tourist Car Ferry

Hardangerfjord Express Boat – Day trip to Rosendal

Experience beautiful rosendal.

The village of Rosendal, at the mouth of Hardangerfjord, is like a slice of Norway in miniature. The possibilities are endless, whether you just want to stroll around the beautiful village, stop at a gallery – or take in the magnificent scenery. Some of the finest hiking areas in western Norway are nearby, with mountain trails suited to all levels of trekkers, from families with children to those seeking tougher challenges. Of course, there is a broad range of activities to choose from: kayaking on the fjord, canoeing on the lakes, glacier hiking, off-road cycling and Putball – or soccer-golf as it is also called! Not far from Rosendal center are beautiful sandy beaches.

Just a 1.5 kilometer walk from the village center is the Baroniet (Barony), with Scandinavia’s smallest castle, from 1665, surrounded by a beautiful rose garden with a pleasant garden cafe where you can have lunch if you’d like.

At the Folgefonn Center, you can learn about Folgefonna National Park, water’s journeys on earth, climate change, biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources.

The boat trip from Bergen through beautiful, untamed landscapes is an experience in itself. The boat also stops at Flesland quay and at Os on the way to and from Rosendal.

Our comfortable, modern boats are large and spacious, with plenty of space both outside and inside. The kiosk on board offers snacks and cold/hot drinks. See our menu here.

Departure point

Practical information.

Daily departures all year. Corresponding buses from Rosendal to Odda and Husnes. See full schedule . Schedule changes on public holidays . Flexible change and cancellation policy. Learn more

Bergen – Rosendal

Adults one way: NOK 456

Roundtrip : NOK 684

Two hours each way.

For a guaranteed ticket, book at rodne.no. These tickets can be pre-booked online. Also available for purchase at the pier/boat or at the Tourist Information.

From Strandkaiterminalen in Bergen.

Accessibility

Suitable for baby carriages and a limited number of wheelchairs . Attendants travel free with documentation. For reservation of attendant ticket, please contact us at email

Facilities on board

All our boats have toilets, access to changing tables, sun decks and spacious lounges. Kiosk offering snacks and refreshments.

Hardangerfjord Cruise

Cruise on hardangerfjord, explore an array of small villages and pay a visit to picturesque eidfjord.

Bergen busstasjon, Bergen, Norge

15 minutes before departure

May - September

This full day fjord tour to Hardangerfjord and Eidfjord invites you to admire the breathtaking fjord scenery in a comfortable way.

You get to enjoy a fjord cruise on the majestic Hardangerfjord, sailing past fruit orchards, waterfalls and mountains. On the cruise heading to Eidfjord, the boat will stop at a number of picturesque villages along the way.

Your journey begins with a bus ride from Bergen to Norheimsund , where you will embark on the Hardangerfjord cruise to Eidfjord .  

Upon docking in Eidfjord in the Hardangerfjord region, you have 3 hours and 40 minutes to explore the village at your own pace. Shop local crafts, go for coffee, join a local adventure or try some of the area’s food specialities . Located at the foot of Hardangervidda mountain plateau, the nearby nature is also beautiful to explore.

Heading back on the scenic route to Bergen, you swap the boat for a bus on the pier of Norheimsund . On your return, the trip from Norheimsun d to Bergen includes a 45-minute stop at Steinsdalsfossen , giving you the opportunity to explore the waterfall and its surrounding beauty. You can even walk behind the waterfall!

Popular experiences in Hardanger

Folgefonna summer skiing, folgefonna glacier hike, hardangerfjord cruise and vøringsfossen waterfall.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Heart My Backpack uses affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission.

The Three Absolute Best Day Trips from Bergen

April 6, 2023 by Silvia 5 Comments

I’m always telling people to check if they can fly into Bergen instead of Oslo because Bergen is beautiful and tourists are often a bit underwhelmed by Oslo. But maybe my favorite thing about Bergen is the city’s stunning surroundings. In fact while I love the city, one of the main reasons I moved to Bergen was because it’s near some of Norway’s most incredible fjords, waterfalls, and mountains. For visitors this means that even if you’re only here for a short time you can still get out and see what Norwegian nature is all about. 

There are so many different day trips from Bergen you could take, and I know all the options can be overwhelming. So I thought I would narrow down the list for you with my top three choices for Bergen day trips. And of course if you’d like you can always extend your trip for a bit and spend a night or two in these places.

As for your time in Bergen, here’s my full guide for to things to do in Bergen – from a local who lives here!

And here’s my guide for the best roads trip from Bergen , from a day trip to 2 or more weeks.

And if you want more tips for planning your trip through southern Norway, I’ve gathered all my best advice in a 95-page ebook covering my top recommendations for places to visit (both on and off the beaten path), the best times of year to visit, how long to visit for, the best accommodation choices, transportation, what to eat, what to pack, and a sample itinerary that covers my personal favorite route through the south. You can purchase The Southern Norway Travel Guide here .

Hardangerfjord

The second longest fjord in Norway, Hardangerfjord is probably best known for its beautiful springtime views when the fruit trees are in bloom, which usually happens in May. But this fjord is beautiful anytime of year, and just two hours from Bergen, making for a wonderful day trip from the city.

Bergen to Hardangefjord day tours

If you won’t be renting a car, or if you want to see the fjord by boat, there are lots of guided trips of Hardangerfjord on offer, including this small cruise from Bergen to Rosendal , a village at the mouth of Hardangerfjord. And if you want to extend your stay here, you can spend the night at the beautiful Rosendal Fjordhotel right on the fjord. 

Or you could even take  this epic day trip from Bergen to both Hardangefjord and Folgefonna Glacier , Norway’s third largest glacier.

Sea kayaking on Hardangerfjord

One of the best ways to experience the quiet majesty of the Norwegian fjords is by kayak, and this sea kayak tour leaving from Jondal looks incredible. 

Helicopter tour over Hardangerfjord and Trolltunga

Or if you want a truly epic experience, you can take this helicopter tour from Bergen over Hardangerfjord, glaciers, waterfalls, and Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue), Norway’s most famous cliff. Or a cheaper option is this fjord and mountain helicopter tour from Bergen . 

And if you decide to rent a car you can make lots of stops along the way, or even spend a night along the fjord. You can book your rental car here , and read all my tips for driving in Norway here .

Hiking Trolltunga

You could also carry on to Odda and then hike Trolltunga the next day, though be aware that Trolltunga is an expert level hike. Even if you’re an experienced hiker I’d recommend doing this hike with a guide, and if you want to avoid the crowds (Trolltunga is one of the most popular hikes in Norway), this guided Trolltunga hike with an overnight in a glamping dome would be such a unique experience! If you have a guide you can also hike Trolltunga in the winter. 

Hardangerfjord accommodation

My favorite accommodation on Hardangerfjord is probably Ullensvang Gjesteheim . It’s set on a farm right by the water and one of the prettiest spots along the fjord. It’s super cosy, with the sweetest owners and a delicious breakfast. Check current rates here .

I also love Rosendal Fjordhotel , which is especially convenient if you’ll be taking the Hardangerfjord boat from Bergen, which ends in Rosendal.  Check current rates and availability here . 

Or if you wanted to stay on the other side of the fjord, this vacation home looks gorgeous. And then of course there is the famous Hardanger Panorama Lodge treehouse , which I haven’t stayed at yet but is definitely on my bucket list! Check current rates and availability here

Sognefjord will definitely make an appearance on anyone’s list of the best fjords in Norway . Sognefjord is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, and the second longest and second deepest in the world, stretching over 200 kilometers and 1,000 meters deep at its deepest points. Several of its branches are probably the most popular fjords for tourists to visit, both because of the beautiful views and their relative easy accessibility from Bergen.

As Norway’s longest fjord, there are of course so many different places along the fjord that you could visit on your Bergen fjord day trip, as close as a couple of hours by train or 2.5 hours by car from Bergen. 

You could take the express boat from Bergen into Sognefjord stopping at Aurland, Flåm, or Balestrand, among other places, or do the popular Norway in a Nutshell public transportation route. I’ve made a detailed guide for Norway in a Nutshell here .

But if you want the freedom to explore on your own, stopping for all the photos you want, explore Sognefjord by car. 

If you’re driving from Bergen you’ll definitely want to drive down the Aurlandsfjellet and Sognefjellet National Scenic Routes , both of which take you along the prettiest fjord and mountain views.  

Sognefjord has a lot of branches, and my two favorites are probably Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. The village of Aurland is absolutely stunning, and as it’s on the popular Norway in a Nutshell route there’s a lot to do here, including the famous Stegastein viewing platform , which offers incredible views over the fjord. 

And then Nærøyfjord is super narrow and dramatic. My friends and I spent the night at the Gudvangen Fjordtell on Nærøyfjord, which is quite cheap and right by the famous Viking village of Njardarheimr .

In Njardarheimr you can visit people of all ages who have chosen to live as the Vikings did a thousand years ago. This is the perfect place to learn more about the Vikings, from people who still live that way today. Adult tickets cost 205 NOK. 

Sognefjord accommodation

While you can easily see some of Sognefjord on a day trip from Bergen, if you want to really explore the different branches of the fjord you may want to spend a night or two along the fjord. 

I’ve compiled a list of incredible accommodation spots along Sognefjord here , but my personal favorites are: 

Fjærland Fjordstue Hotel in Fjærland dates back to the 1930s and sits right on the fjord. It even has a private beach! This is my favorite place I’ve stayed on Sognefjord, as the views are incredible. Plus there’s a super cute little book town down the street from the hotel, which is home to over four kilometers of books! There is the giant Tusund og ei natt bookstore, as well as small outdoor Sjølvplukk (pick-your-own) shelves calling themselves “the country’s most honest bookstore” where you leave a bit of money for each book you take.  Check current rates and availability here 

Fretheim Hotel in Flåm is a beautifully decorated, refurbished 1800s manor house, with luxurious rooms all with mountain or fjord views. Flåm isn’t the most picturesque part of Sognefjord, however it is the most convenient, as the railway station and ferry port are both an easy 5-minute walk from the hotel. And the hotel really is special! If you stay here, be sure to book a session at the floating sauna just a short walk from the hotel (you can see my TikTok from the sauna here ).  Check current rates and availability here

The Walaker Hotel in Svolvorn, Lustrafjord is Norway’s oldest hotel, dating all the way back to 1640! The hotel is located in the quiet village of Svolvorn right by the beach. The hotel is also nearby the 12th century Urnes Stave Church and Jostedalsbreen Glacier. Check current rates and availability here

The Gudvangen Fjordtell on Nærøyfjord  is budget friendly and right by the Viking village. There’s also a Viking style restaurant at the hotel. Check current rates and availability here

Voss is known as Norway’s adrenaline capital and is only 1 hour 45 minutes from Bergen by car, or just a little over an hour by train, making it an easy day trip from Bergen. 

The town itself doesn’t look that special, but some of Norway’s best outdoor adventure activities are based out of Voss. From river rafting to rock climbing to skiing to sky diving, Voss really has it all.

And if you’re visiting in the winter you’ll definitely want to hit the slopes in Voss. Voss has two ski resorts, Myrkdalen Fjellandsby and Voss Resort. Many of Norway’s world champion and Olympic athletes have trained in Voss and Voss apparently has more medals per capita than any other place in the world!

While you can definitely fit in some outdoor adventures on a day trip to Voss from Bergen, Voss would be a great place to spend a night or two, if you have the time. In fact I would say while Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord are perfect day trips from Bergen, Voss really would be best if you have a night (or longer!) to spend here. 

You can read my full guide for things to do in Voss here , but some of my favorite activities include:

Guided sea kayaking through the Nærøyfjord from Voss

There’s seriously no better way to experience a fjord than from a kayak, and from Voss you can take a guided sea kayaking tour through Nærøyfjord, which is one of the prettiest branches of Sognefjord. Fjord kayaking is very calm, so you don’t need any prior kayaking experience.  Check current prices and availability here

Whitewater rafting through the Raundal valley

Voss is famous for rafting, and a whitewater rafting tour along the Raundal River takes you through a number of Grade III rapids, while being suitable for beginner and experienced rafters alike.  Check current prices and availability here

River kayaking courses

Voss is the perfect place to learn the whitewater kayaking, or level up your skills if you already have experience. You can choose an introductory, novice, or intermediate course based on your level.  Check current prices and availability here

Rock climbing 

Lønahorgi mountain and Uskedalen, a fjord valley outside of Voss, offer Western Norway’s best climbing from beginner to expert levels. You can  book guided rock climbing to fit your level here .

Voss accommodation

Staying at a mountain hytte , or cabin, is just about the most Norwegian thing you can do, and Voss is a great place to get that experience. This Voss cabin is located in Skulestadmo, 100 meters from Bavalls ski lift at Voss Resortand will give you that typical Norwegian experience of going to the hytte. Check current rates and availability here

Otherwise you could stay downtown by the train station at either the brand new Scandic Voss or the historic Fleischer’s Hotel . 

Related Posts

Reader Interactions

Get updates.

Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive updates and stories from my world travels and life in Norway!

Pocket Wanderings says

July 23, 2021 at 4:08 pm

Ah I am desperate to visit Norway! It’s very high on my bucket list. I’ll definitely check out all these amazing places – thanks for sharing.

August 5, 2021 at 7:56 am

All these places in Bergen look so stunning. I would love to visit Bergen during my next trip to Norway. I would definitely check out some of the places mentioned here.

July 24, 2022 at 2:05 pm

Hi Silvia, If I were to make Bergen my base in August and do day trips from Bergen, or even an overnight or 2 somewhere then back to Bergen, how many days would I need to visit the most beautiful sights. Which ones would you recommend? I shall be using public transport as I assume this would be a lot cheaper than hiring a car? Thank you Silvia

April 14, 2023 at 6:39 pm

We want to do the Fjord Naeroyfjord crusie – what I can’t figure out is which itinerary is the better/preferred route:

A: Bergen-Myrdal-Flam-Gudvangen-Voss-Bergen OR B: Bergen-Voss-Gudvangen-Flam-Myrdal-Bergen?

The routes of course are similar but is there an optimal (prettier view / route) of A or B? Not sure which is the best one to select?

Silvia says

April 15, 2023 at 11:03 am

The routes are exactly the same except in reverse, so you the views will be the same!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

COME AND GET IT!

Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive updates and stories from my world travels and life in Norway:

Sign up on TourScanner

Don't know where to start, tours and things to do in bergen, best day trips from bergen.

• Norsk bokmål

About Norled

Informasjon

Information

Travel Type

Hardangerfjordcruise to Eidfjord incl. bus from Bergen

Bergen busstasjon.

Daily at 07:25

May - September

Take a fjord cruise along the 179 km hardangerfjord, also known as the “queen of the fjords”., fjord cruise.

Bergen bus station

April - october, daily departure.

From Bergen busstasjon

Departure at 07:25 Arrival at 20:15 Duration ca 12:50 hours

Sightseeingtour to Vøringsfossen Waterfall with go fjords

Starting from Eidfjord quay, our bus first takes you to the Norwegian Nature Center Hardanger full of interactive exhibitions celebrating the Norwegian nature, climate and environment. The newly renovated panoramic cinema that opened this spring, gives you a unique film experience showcasing the national park.

Continuing with a winding and steep drive up Måbødalen valley, the last stop on the tour is Vøringsfossen waterfall. With a dramatic fall of 182 m (597 ft), the true beauty of Vøringsfossen is hard to put into words. Vøringsfossen waterfall is one of the most popluar waterfalls in all of Noway for a reason.

After spending time feeling the power of nature and taking in the gorgeous views, the bus returns you to Eidfjord.

The leg from Eidfjord to Vøringsfossen is audio-guided. Listen to facts and stories about the places along the route via the sound system on the bus. Practical information: Tickets can be bougth at   www.Gofjords.com.

Admission to the Norwegian Nature Center Hardanger is included in the ticket

The electric bus departs from right next to the pier in Eidfjord – in front of the tourist information. It is clearly marked with Go Fjords.

Other things to do in Eidfjord

At the Tourist office on the quay, you can book a rib-safarie or a kayak trip on the fjord, rent a bicycle or canoe, information about hiking tours etc. You can rent a car and drive to the famous mountain farm Kjeåsen (it is also possible to do a hike to Kjeåsen).

Useful information

Roundtrip This route is public transport but is mostly used by tourists as part of Hardangerfjord cruise travels.

Departure points

The bus starts at Bergen Busstation, platform 0, at 07:25. The boat starts in Norheisund at 09:00, with stops in Herand, Utne, Lofthus, Kinsarvik, Ulvik and Eidfjord. Return from Eidfjord at 15:20 with arrival Norheimsund at 18:10. Bus from Norheimsund at 18:59. Price examples are returfares Bergen-Norheimsund-Eidfjord.

The buss departs from Bergen Busstation, Platform O at 07:25. SKYSS bus nb. 925. OBS! public transportation, be at the platform latest 5 minutes before departure. Departure from Norheimsund in the evening at 18:59 (buss nb 930).

Tickets can be bought online, on board or at the Tourist Office in Bergen.

In order to purchase a student ticket, you must be younger then 30 years old. You also need to have a valid student card and valid semester card for this semester.

Sognefjorden - Bergen to Flåm

Kr. 1060,- per adult

Bergen - Strandkaiterminalen

Hardangerfjord to eidfjord.

Kr. 950,- per adult

Bergen buss-stasjon

Ca. 12,5 hours, half day trip to skjerjehamn.

Kr. 650,- per adult

ca. 4,5 hours

Hardagerfjord fra norheimsund.

Kr. 275,- per adult

Norheimsund kai

From 3 hours, lysefjorden - preikestolen cruise.

Kr. 760,- per adult

Strandkaien, Stavanger

March - november, ca. 2,5 hours.

Kr. 500,- per adult

ca. 4 hours

Sognefjordcruise to nordeide.

Kr. 790,- per adult

Saturday trip to Skjerjehamn

Kr. 960,- per adult

ca. 6,5 hours

Hardangerfjord to kinsarvik, inc. bus.

Kr. 830,- per adult

Hardangerfjord to Ulvik, inc. bus

Bergen - buss-stasjon.

Day trip to Hardangerfjord from Bergen

Our second day trip from Bergen was to Hardangerfjord, a fjord that is about an hour and a half southeast of the city. Mike and I booked our tour online ahead of time, and we didn’t have to be in the town of Norheimsund until noon. We decided to leave a little earlier than we needed to and make a stop along the way. We left our hotel at 9:30am. 

Fantoft Stave Church

This stave church is about 15 minutes south of the downtown area of Bergen. The original church was built in 1150 which has since been destroyed. The current church was reconstructed in 1997. The church is surrounded by woods and made me feel like I stepped into a fairytale. We parked our car at a parking lot about ⅛ of a mile away from the church and walked on an easy trail through the woods to get there. Definitely worth a quick stop!

After Fantoft, we drove the rest of the way to Norheimsund, where our boat departed from. Along the drive, there were numerous waterfalls. We stopped at one large one near the road to take a couple pictures.  

RIB Tour of Hardangerfjord

We arrived at the meeting location around 11:30 and our tour guide was waiting to greet us. He gave us our warm/dry suits and we had plenty of time to use the restroom, get organized, and suited up. Everyone else arrived shortly after and our group of eight people headed out right at 12. The RIB (rigid inflatable boat) was a fun way to speed through the fjords at around 35 mph. 

Our guide took us across the fjord to show us a few small villages that could only be reached by boat. This is where a lot of Bergen residents spend their summers. It was forecasted to rain all afternoon, but we avoided it for most of our tour.

After seeing the villages, we headed down a narrow fjord filled with many waterfalls. The guide got our boat up close to a few waterfalls and suggested we stand under one. Since we had the dry suits on, we figured “how often will we get to shower under a Norwegian fjord waterfall?” and were the first ones to do it. Right after our waterfall visit, it started raining which made the ride slightly less enjoyable. Our guide drove slowly while it rained, because the raindrops really hurt at a high speed.

When we arrived back in town at 1:30pm, we had hot coffee waiting on us to warm us up. It was a great tour and fun day!

This is the tour we booked with.

Lunch at Amigos Pizza and Kebab

Mike and I were really hungry, so we grabbed lunch at the pizza place in town. We got one large pizza which was plenty for us and very tasty.

Steinsdalsfossen

There is a waterfall named Steinsdalsfossen just outside of town. It is very popular with tourists because you can walk underneath it. The waterfall reminded me a lot of Seljalandsfoss in Iceland . Make sure to bring a rain jacket, as you will get wet from the spray. There are also a couple shops near the base that sell coffee, ice cream, and souvenirs. 

Drive back to Bergen

After a fun day filled with adventure, we made the quick 1.5 hour drive back to Bergen. This was our last evening before heading home so we had an early night.

You may also be interested in:

Two Epic Hikes in the Lofoten Islands Three Days in the Lofoten Islands Day Trip to Sognefjord from Bergen How to Spend Three Days in Bergen Logistics of a Trip to Norway 28 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit Norway

previous post

Lovely trip! May I ask which company you made use of and what was the cost please?

We booked it through this website: https://en.visitbergen.com/things-to-do/hardangerfjord-cruise-and-waterfall-tour-p4966703 and the cost was NOK 990 (about $95 USD).

post a comment cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.