Imagine stepping out of Bergen’s colorful harbor into a world of dramatic fjords, thundering waterfalls, and charming villages that seem frozen in time. As Norway’s second-largest city, Bergen isn’t just a pretty face with its UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf – it’s your perfect starting point for exploring some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Scandinavia.
🏠 Where to Stay in Bergen City:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Bergen Børs Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Norge by Scandic
- 🏨 4-Star: Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Citybox Bergen Danmarksplass
- 💸 Cheap: Zander K Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: Magic Hotel & Apartments Kløverhuset
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Clarion Hotel Bergen
- 🏩 For Couples: Det Hanseatiske Hotel
Whether you’re hopping on a scenic train ride, joining a fjord cruise, or taking a bus to hidden gems, Bergen makes it easy to pack unforgettable adventures into a single day. The best part? You can experience these journeys year-round, with each season offering its own magic – from the midnight sun of summer to the snow-capped peaks and northern lights of winter. Let me show you how to make the most of your day trips from this gateway to the fjords.
💁 Best Guided Tours from Bergen Area:
- Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein - Viewpoint Cruise from € 149 (⭐ 4.9/5)
- Bergen Day Trip - Chasing the Waterfalls of Hardangerfjord from € 129 (⭐ 4.8/5)
- Bergen to Flam 'The King of Fjords' One-Way or Round-Trip Cruise Ticket from € 119 (⭐ 4.7/5)
- Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein - Viewpoint Cruise from € 149 (⭐ 4.9/5)
- Guided tour - Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway from € 199 (⭐ 4.9/5)
Best Day Trips from Bergen, Norway: Fjord Cruises & Tours
1. 🌊 Nærøyfjord
Visit duration: 5-6 hours / Travel duration: 2 hours (75 miles/120 km from Bergen)
Dramatic Fjords: Ready for the most spectacular fjord experience in Norway? The narrow Nærøyfjord stretches 18 kilometers (11 miles) with cliffs soaring 1,800 meters into the sky, becoming just 250 meters wide at its narrowest point. This UNESCO-protected wonder feels like sailing through a postcard, especially when the morning mist starts dancing around the peaks.
Adventure Highlights: Electric fjord cruises operate year-round, offering panoramic viewing decks and heated lounges during winter months. The modern vessels feature audio guides in 8 languages and serve local delicacies onboard.
Cultural Heritage: The Viking Village of Njardarheimr in Gudvangen brings history to life with authentic reconstructions and interactive experiences. Here you can experience Viking crafts, traditional meals, and even attend the Chieftain’s banquet.
Key photo spots along the journey:
- Bakka viewpoint for classic fjord vistas
- Stegastein observation deck (650 meters high)
- Brekkefossen waterfall
- Traditional stave churches
- Ancient Viking burial mounds
⭐ Best Activities
Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein - Viewpoint Cruise: Embark on a scenic journey from Bergen to the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, one of Norway’s most dramatic fjords. This tour includes stops at the breathtaking Stegastein Viewpoint, a visit to the charming village of Flåm, and a ride on the famous Flåm Railway. Perfect for those seeking a comprehensive fjord day trip experience.
2. 💫 Hardangerfjord & Vøringsfossen
Visit duration: 8-9 hours / Travel duration: 2.5 hours (93 miles/150 km from Bergen)
Natural Wonders: Welcome to Hardangerfjord, where nature puts on a show that changes with every season. From spring’s pink apple blossoms to winter’s pristine snow-capped peaks, this “Queen of the Fjords” never fails to amaze.
Water Activities: RIB boat safaris zip through the fjord’s narrowest sections, offering close encounters with marine life and waterfalls. These high-speed adventures run from April to October, with special midnight sun tours in summer months.
Local Experiences: Traditional fishing villages dot the shoreline, each offering unique cultural encounters. The route includes stops at local craft workshops and fruit farms where you can taste fresh cider.
Must-visit waterfalls:
- Vøringsfossen (182m drop)
- Steinsdalsfossen
- Låtefossen twin falls
- Furebergfossen
⭐ Best Activities
Bergen Day Trip - Chasing the Waterfalls of Hardangerfjord: Explore the stunning Hardangerfjord, known for its beautiful waterfalls and picturesque villages. This day trip from Bergen includes visits to Vøringsfossen, one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls, and offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the fjord region. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
3. 🏔️ Sognefjord
Visit duration: 10-12 hours / Travel duration: 3 hours (112 miles/180 km from Bergen)
Scenic Majesty: Stretching an incredible 205 kilometers (127 miles) inland, Sognefjord isn’t called the King’s Fjord without reason. This natural giant serves up a feast of landscapes that’ll make your camera work overtime.
Village Discoveries: Charming settlements like Flåm and Balestrand showcase distinctive Norwegian architecture and artisan traditions. The route connects several historic villages, each offering unique perspectives on fjord life.
Photography Paradise: Professional and amateur photographers flock here for the ever-changing light conditions and dramatic landscapes. Mountain peaks tower 2,000 meters above the fjord, creating spectacular photo opportunities.
Essential photo locations:
- Aurland Lookout
- St. Olaf’s Church
- Hopperstad Stave Church
- Fjærland Glacier views
- Traditional red fishermen’s cabins
⭐ Best Activities
Bergen to Flam 'The King of Fjords' One-Way or Round-Trip Cruise Ticket: Experience the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, the Sognefjord, on this cruise from Bergen to Flåm. This trip offers stunning views of the fjords and mountains, making it a great way to see Norway’s natural beauty. You can choose between a one-way or round-trip ticket, perfect for those planning to explore Flåm or continue their journey.
4. 🌄 Stegastein
Visit duration: 3-4 hours / Travel duration: 2.5 hours (155 miles/250 km from Bergen)
Scenic Marvel: The journey from Bergen to Stegastein offers one of Norway’s most famous fjord views along the dramatic Aurlandsfjellet National Tourist Route. The viewing platform hovers 650 meters above Aurlandsfjord, creating perfect photo opportunities of the narrow and dramatic landscape below.
Travel Options: Access the viewpoint by rental car, organized bus tours, or guided day trips from Bergen. The steep mountain road features seven hairpin turns, making the shuttle bus from Flåm or Aurland a great way to see the sights without driving stress.
Visitor Experience: The platform extends 30 meters from the mountainside, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding fjords. Visit between 10:00 and 15:00 for optimal lighting, especially in winter months when daylight is limited.
Must-know visitor tips:
- Open year-round (road from Aurland only in winter)
- Regular shuttle buses from Flåm
- Free admission to viewpoint
- Limited parking available
- Weather-dependent visibility
⭐ Best Activities
Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein - Viewpoint Cruise: This tour combines a fjord cruise with visits to key attractions like the Stegastein Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the fjords, and the historic village of Flåm. It’s an excellent option for those looking to experience the narrow and dramatic Nærøyfjord and the scenic Flåm Railway.
5. 🏰 Rosendal Village
Visit duration: 6-7 hours / Travel duration: 2 hours (75 miles/120 km from Bergen)
Journey Options: Take the Hardangerfjord Express boat from Bergen’s Strandkaiterminalen for a scenic cruise along the fjord. The boat trip takes about two hours each way, with stunning views of Norway’s beautiful fjords and mountains.
Village Highlights: Rosendal perfectly combines natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Baroniet Rosendal manor, Scandinavia’s smallest castle, features magnificent rose gardens and hosts year-round cultural events. The Folgefonna Centre offers interactive exhibitions about the nearby glacier and national park.
Adventure Activities: The village serves as a gateway to outdoor activities including kayaking, glacier hiking, and mountain trails. The emerald-green Bondhusvatnet Lake, with the Bondhusbreen Glacier as backdrop, offers perfect photo opportunities.
Essential stops in Rosendal:
- Baroniet Rosendal manor and gardens
- Folgefonna Centre
- Stone Park
- Local craft shops
- Traditional cafés
Rail Journey Day Trips
1. 🚂 Flåm Railway Experience
Visit duration: 2-3 hours / Travel duration: 2 hours (105 miles/170 km from Bergen)
Scenic Wonder: The Flåm Railway drops an impressive 867 meters through 20 tunnels, serving up a feast of Norwegian landscapes right outside your window. It is definetly one of the world’s most spectacular train journeys
Journey Magic: The train winds through the spectacular Flåm Valley, making a special photo stop at the thundering Kjosfossen waterfall. Modern carriages feature panoramic windows and comfortable seating with audio guides in multiple languages.
Seasonal Beauty: Each season transforms this journey into something unique. Summer brings lush valleys under the midnight sun, autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, while winter creates a magical snow-covered wonderland with frozen waterfalls.
Must-see highlights along the route:
- Flåm Church from the 17th century
- Traditional mountain farms
- Ancient avalanche barriers
- Historic fishermen’s platforms
- Berekvam passing station
⭐ Best Activities
Guided tour - Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway: Dive into Norway’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Viking Village of Njardarheimr, followed by a cruise through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. The tour concludes with a ride on the beautiful Flåm Railway, known for its stunning views. This comprehensive day trip from Bergen is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
2. 🏔️ Bergen-Voss
Visit duration: 4-5 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (76 miles/122 km from Bergen)
Mountain Gateway: Welcome to your express route into Norway’s adventure playground! The high-speed train from Bergen to Voss covers the distance in just about an hour, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h.
Adventure Paradise: The modern Vy trains come equipped with spacious seats, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets, making your journey comfortable while you watch the stunning landscape roll by. The train route offers a continuous showcase of Norway’s natural beauty, passing along the North Sea coastline and the picturesque Evangervatnet Lake.
Essential experiences in Voss:
- Rafting on Europe’s premier rapids
- Paragliding over fjord landscapes
- Skiing at Myrkdalen or Voss Resort
- Hiking mountain trails
Coastal Adventures
1. 🏝️ Øygarden Islands
Visit duration: 6-8 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes (25 miles/40 km from Bergen)
Maritime Heritage: The Øygarden archipelago is your ticket to a fascinating journey through centuries of maritime history, just a stone’s throw from Bergen. Øygarden Opplevelser offers an unforgettable day of crab fishing and seafood feasting. You’ll set out on a Raven Rib boat, pull your own crab pots, and learn the art of preparing your catch. The experience culminates in a mouthwatering meal overlooking the North Sea – talk about fresh-to-table dining!
Coastal Exploration: The Coastal Museum in Øygarden is a treasure trove of exhibits tracing life along these rugged shores from the Ice Age to the present day. Set in a stunning maritime area, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
Must-visit spots in Øygarden:
- The Coastal Museum’s “Life by the Sea” exhibition
- Traditional boathouses in Vik village
- North Sea Traffic Museum in Telavåg
- Herdla Museum for World War II history
⭐ Best Activities
Fishing Tour and Outdoor Cooking Bergen: Enjoy a unique fishing experience in the fjords around Bergen, followed by an outdoor cooking session where you’ll prepare and savor your catch. A perfect blend of adventure and culinary delight.
2. 🌊 Mostraumen Fjord
Visit duration: 3-4 hours / Travel duration: Departs from Bergen
Scenic Wonders: The Mostraumen Fjord cruise is a half-day adventure that packs in more natural beauty than you can shake a Viking sword at. This journey takes you through the stunning Osterfjord, where towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a landscape straight out of a fairy tale.
Waterfall Magic: As your boat navigates the powerful currents of the shallow Mostraumen strait, you’ll get up close and personal with thundering waterfalls. The captain even steers close enough for you to taste the fresh mountain water – now that’s what I call interactive sightseeing!
Village Vistas: The cruise offers glimpses of charming coastal settlements that seem frozen in time. Keep your eyes peeled for traditional red fishermen’s cabins and maybe even spot an eagle soaring overhead.
Highlights of the Mostraumen Fjord cruise:
- Panoramic views of UNESCO-listed Bryggen from the water
- Sailing through the narrow Mostraumen strait
- Waterfalls you can almost touch
- Chance to spot diverse wildlife
- Year-round departures from Bergen’s Fish Market
⭐ Best Activities
Fjord Cruise to Osterfjord and Mostraumen Roundtrip from Bergen: Take a scenic fjord cruise from Bergen to the narrow and dramatic Mostraumen strait. Experience the power of the currents, see waterfalls up close, and enjoy panoramic views of the fjord landscape.
Seasonal Considerations
🌞 Summer Activities
Endless Daylight: Bergen’s summer is a magical time when the sun barely sets, giving you extra hours to explore. From late May to mid-July, you can experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, perfect for late-night fjord cruises or hikes.
Summer Festivals:
- Bergen International Festival (May 22 – June 5)
- Bergenfest (June 12-15)
- Beyond the Gates Metal Festival (July 31 – August 3)
- Feelings Festival (August 23-24)
- Bergen Food Festival (August 30-31)
Adventure Activities:
- Seven Mountain Hike (late May)
- Bergen to Voss Cycle Race (June 1)
- Mostraumen Fjord Cruise – runs daily with extended hours in summer
- Trolltunga hiking (best conditions June-September)
Peak Season Tips: Book accommodations at least 3 months in advance. The Bergen Card offers free public transportation and museum access. Consider staying in Voss or other nearby areas for better rates.
❄️ Winter Experiences
Festive Events:
- Bergen Gingerbread Village (November 23 – December 31)
- Festival of Light (November 23)
- Bergen Christmas Market (November 29 – December 22)
- Bergen Aquarium – daily penguin feeding and sea lion shows
- VilVite Science Centre – over 100 interactive installations
- Hanseatic Museum – open year-round with winter exhibitions
Winter Adventures:
- Snowshoe hiking with Norway Mountain Guides (2.5-3 hours tours)
- Ski resorts in Voss (1.5 hours from Bergen)
- Winter fjord cruises to Nærøyfjorden – UNESCO World Heritage site
Weather Notes: Winter temperatures typically hover around freezing. The city experiences limited daylight (sunrise around 10 AM, sunset around 3 PM) during peak winter. Pack waterproof gear as Bergen is known for frequent rainfall.
Transportation Options
🚌 Public Transport
Transport Network: Bergen’s integrated public transport system makes exploring the city and surrounding fjords a breeze. The Skyss network combines buses, light rail (Bybanen), and ferries, with the Bergen Light Rail running every 4-5 minutes during peak hours (7:00-9:30 and 13:30-18:00).
Ticket Options: Purchase tickets through the Skyss mobile app, ticket machines at light rail stops, or directly from bus drivers. Single tickets in Zone A cost NOK 47 for adults, with children traveling free when accompanied by a paying adult (up to 4 children per adult).
Service Coverage: The light rail connects key locations including:
- Bergen Airport Flesland
- Fantoft Student Village
- Haukeland University Hospital
- City center attractions
- UNESCO-listed Bryggen
Travel Tips:
- Download the Skyss Billett app for easy ticket purchases
- Consider the Bergen Card for unlimited travel
- Use SMS ticketing by texting “Vaksen” to 2412
- Avoid cash payments on buses (includes surcharge)
🎫 Guided Tours
Local Expertise: Professional guides offer tours in over 20 languages, sharing insider knowledge about Bergen’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and hidden gems.
Tour Varieties: Choose from:
- Walking tours through historic districts
- Minibus city explorations
- Fjord cruises with commentary
- Cultural heritage walks
- Mountain hiking expeditions
Booking Details: Tours operate year-round with increased frequency during summer months (May-September). Private tours accommodate groups from 2-15 people, while scheduled walking tours follow set routes through Bergen’s highlights.
Popular Experiences:
- Bryggen historical walks
- Norway in a Nutshell combinations
- Nærøyfjord UNESCO cruises
- Hardangerfjord adventures
- Mountain hiking with local experts
Planning Tips
⏰ Time Management
Journey Planning: Most fjord cruises from Bergen’s Fish Market pier take 3-12 hours, while railway adventures on the famous Bergen Line range from 2-7 hours. Mountain excursions typically need 4-6 hours, perfect for capturing Norway’s dramatic landscapes. For island hopping around Bergen’s archipelago, set aside 3-5 hours.
Departure Points: Bergen’s central station serves as the main hub for train journeys to Oslo, Voss, and the spectacular Flåm Railway. Fjord cruises depart from the iconic Fish Market pier, while guided tours usually gather at Bryggen’s main square. Remember to arrive 15 minutes early for any departure.
Booking Windows: Summer season (May-September) demands advance planning – book popular routes like Norway in a Nutshell at least 2-3 months ahead. Winter offers more flexibility, though fjord cruises still require booking by 15:00 the day before. Last-minute spots occasionally open up, but it’s risky during peak season.
Essential booking deadlines:
- High season (June-August): 2-3 months advance
- Shoulder season: 2-4 weeks ahead
- Winter activities: 1-2 weeks notice
- Guided tours: 48 hours minimum
🎒 Essential Information
Travel Preparation: Pack smart for Bergen’s changeable weather with waterproof gear and layers. Bring your camera with extra batteries – you’ll want to capture the dramatic fjord landscapes, especially during golden hour at Stegastein Viewpoint or morning mist over Nærøyfjord. Don’t forget your Bergen Card for public transport savings.
Culinary Adventures: Food options vary by route. Longer fjord cruises offer on-board dining with traditional Norwegian dishes. The Flåm Railway journey pairs perfectly with a stop at Flåm Bakery for fresh pastries. Many small towns along the routes feature local cafes serving authentic Norwegian cuisine.
Photography Opportunities: Morning light creates magical conditions for photographing the UNESCO-listed Bryggen, while afternoon sun illuminates waterfalls perfectly. The Fløyen viewpoint offers stunning city panoramas, especially during sunset. Consider weather conditions – overcast days often provide the most dramatic fjord photographs.
Must-have items for your journey:
- Waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes
- Camera gear and weather protection
- Water bottle and energy snacks
- Valid ID and booking confirmations
- Bergen Card for public transport
- Local currency for small purchases
❓ FAQs
Which day trip from Bergen is most popular?
The Norway in a Nutshell tour, combining the Bergen Railway, Flåm Railway, and a fjord cruise, ranks as the most visited day trip option. This journey takes you through some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery, including the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and the mountain village of Flåm.
How long is the trip from Bergen to Voss?
The Bergen to Voss train journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering stunning mountain views along the way. Voss serves as a perfect base for outdoor activities, including skiing in winter and hiking or rafting in summer.
Is Trolltunga doable as a day trip from Bergen?
While technically possible, Trolltunga requires 10-12 hours of hiking plus 3 hours of driving each way from Bergen, making it extremely challenging as a day trip. It’s better to stay overnight in Odda and start the hike early morning to fully enjoy this dramatic cliff formation.
What’s the best fjord cruise from Bergen?
The Mostraumen fjord cruise offers a perfect 3-hour introduction to Norwegian fjords, while the full-day trip to Sognefjord showcases Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Both options provide spectacular views of waterfalls, mountains, and traditional Norwegian villages.
Can I visit Oslo as a day trip from Bergen?
The Bergen-Oslo railway journey takes about 7 hours each way, making it impractical as a day trip. Instead, consider exploring closer destinations like Voss, Flåm, or Rosendal, which offer equally impressive Norwegian experiences.
What’s the best winter day trip from Bergen?
A trip to Voss ski resort combines perfectly with the scenic Bergen Railway journey and offers excellent winter sports facilities. The journey provides stunning views of snow-covered mountains and frozen waterfalls along the way.
Is Folgefonna Glacier accessible as a day trip?
The Folgefonna Glacier can be visited on a day trip from Bergen, with guided tours available from June to September. The journey takes about 3 hours each way, offering views of Hardangerfjord and several waterfalls including Vøringsfossen.
