Norway Fjord Tours from Bergen

Frequently Asked Questions About Tours from Bergen, Norway

You might have a few questions before booking your Norwegian fjord trip with Nordic Visitor. Read on for answers to these common queries. You can find more practical tips and attraction recommendations in this Norway Travel Guide.

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1. What is a fjord?

A fjord is a narrow inlet of the sea that stretches far inland and is formed by glacial erosion over millions of years. Norway’s fjords were carved by glaciers during the last ice age and often reach depths of over 1,000 metres (3,280 feet).

On one of these tours, you could explore famous Norwegian fjords, like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjorden, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Plus, you could visit Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord.

• Related: The best and most beautiful fjords in Norway

2. How many days should I spend in Bergen?

You'll find that 2–3 days in Bergen are ideal for exploring the city, as well as taking fjord excursions or going hiking.

If you have one day, you can visit the historic Bryggen wharf, ride the Fløibanen funicular, and browse the fish market in the city centre. With a second day, you can enjoy a perfect full-day tour to destinations like Flåm or Hardanger.

If you're staying 3 days, you'll have time for a more leisurely pace, visiting extra museums like KODE art galleries, taking the Ulriken cable car, or heading up one of the hiking trails on Mount Fløyen. For more trail recommendations, read this guide to the best hikes near Bergen.

You may also want to use Bergen as a base for longer fjord expeditions. Many travellers use it as their starting point for week-long Norwegian adventures. This way, you can combine multiple fjord regions that suit your interests.

• Related: Things to see and do in Bergen

3. What is the best way to see Norway’s fjords?

Norway’s fjords are one of the top places to visit in Northern Europe. The best way to discover them depends on how you like to travel.

With any of these tours, you’ll have an expert travel consultant to plan your route and make bookings on your behalf. This leaves you free to enjoy all the perks of self-guided travel. You can go at your own pace and tailor your trip to suit you by adding extra nights and activities.

You could explore on a rail and cruise tour, discovering iconic rail routes such as Norway in a Nutshell®, and setting sail on a Havila or Hurtigruten coastal cruise. Get inspired by the best cruise journeys in Norway.

On the other hand, for even more flexibility, go for a self-drive tour. On these trips, you take the wheel on an expert-curated itinerary through Norway’s fjords and mountains.

If you’d prefer to have a local guide to show you around, choose a small group tour. These trips always have a maximum of 16 people per group, so you have more time to learn from your guide.

You’ll travel in a comfortable minibus, which is more convenient for sightseeing. You’ll be able to access smaller places that large tour buses just can’t reach.

However you want to see the fjords, you can rely on your travel consultant to help plan your dream getaway.

• Related: Best Norway road trips

4. Should I start the Norway in a Nutshell tour from Oslo or Bergen?

Norway in a Nutshell is the country's most popular scenic route. It combines train, bus, and boat travel to showcase spectacular fjord landscapes through attractions like the famous Flåm Railway and UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.

Compared to Oslo, Bergen has shorter travel times to the dramatic fjord scenery. You can get to the heart of the fjords within 2–3 hours rather than in 5–6 hours from Oslo. Bergen's coastal location also gives you easier access to cruises and mountain railways.

What’s more, Bergen Airport Flesland (BGO) is Norway’s second largest, with direct flights from major hubs like London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Copenhagen and Paris. Once you land, it’s just a 25-minute journey into the city centre, whether you hop on the Airport Express Bus or take the Bergen Light Rail.

On the other hand, if you're flying internationally, Oslo has great airport connections. Plus, you can explore the capital's Viking heritage, catch a show at the Oslo Opera House and browse world-class museums. Then you can journey through diverse landscapes before reaching the fjords.

• Related: Why Bergen is called the “Gateway to the Fjords”

5. Can I choose my arrival date?

Of course! Depending on the trip and season, you’ll find that most packages have daily departures. This means you can pick the arrival date that works best for you from each tour’s online availability calendar.

If you have a specific date in mind, be sure to book early to secure your ideal departure.

• Related: When is the best time to visit Norway?

6. Can I customise my tour?

Absolutely! We can tailor all fjord experiences to match your interests and time frame.

You can customise your adventure during the booking process by adding extra nights or fun excursions, such as a fjord boat tour. Or, if you have something particular in mind, just ask your travel consultant.

Our regional experts bring insider knowledge that makes all the difference. Our travel consultants have explored the routes and can recommend secret spots that others might miss.

7. What should I pack and wear for a fjord tour from Bergen?

What you need to pack will depend on the time of year you visit. That said, no matter when you travel, it’s best to be prepared for changeable conditions, because many of Norway’s attractions are outdoors.

The unpredictable weather means it’s a good idea to carry a small rucksack with spare warm and waterproof layers. Here’s a basic packing list for your trip to Norway:

• Walking boots or shoes with good grip
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Insulated jacket
• Woollen or fleece jumpers
• Thermal base layers
• Warm hat, scarf and gloves
• Hiking socks
• Rucksack
• Sunglasses and sun cream
• Umbrella
• Swimwear
   

For more information, check out this Norway packing guide.