Unforgettable Norway Day Trips: Top 5 Adventures
Norway, with its dramatic fjords, majestic mountains, and quaint villages, that is almost seems created for day trip exploring. It offers this variety of destinations that could easily fill weeks, even months, yet plenty are perfectly manageable for day excursions. So, if you’re planning a visit and seeking ways to maximize your time, then checking out these top 5 Norway day trips could just be the ticket for adventure.
1. Fjord Cruise to Nærøyfjord and Flåm
A fjord cruise to Nærøyfjord and Flåm, is a classic Norwegian experience and truly offers unbelievable vistas. The Nærøyfjord, so it’s a branch of the larger Sognefjord, is known for its dramatic, narrow passages framed by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, that is a view that needs to be viewed at least once in every person’s life. So, begin in either Bergen or Oslo (with a train to Flåm), this tour often involves a scenic train ride followed by a breathtaking cruise. I remember one time taking this train myself, when it went through this beautiful valley. You could see small farms tucked into the side of steep mountain valleys. Read our full review: Nærøyfjord and Flåm Full Review and Details
What to Expect
Expect to be awestruck by the natural vistas. Waterfalls, some that are like thundering down sheer rock faces, might be nearly within touching distance of the boat. Mountain goats, looking so at home in a rugged terrain, can sometimes be spotted grazing on the steep slopes. The village of Flåm is charming too it’s a great place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, or perhaps sample local craft beer before you make a journey back. The Flåm Railway is thought to be one of the world’s steepest train lines, plus it provides unparalleled vantage points of the landscape.
Things to Note
Tours can get quite packed during peak season, that can happen at almost any location; booking ahead is almost essential. Keep an eye on the weather, which as I am sure you know, could affect visibility on the fjord, that may or may not detract from your experience. Layering your clothing is really the way to go; the temperature can fluctuate even on the sunniest day. There are also many cruise alternatives; like ones offering kayaking adventures for a different viewpoint of the fjords.
2. Geirangerfjord Cruise
Another stunning fjord, Geirangerfjord, too it’s known for its ‘Seven Sisters’ and ‘Suitor’ waterfalls, plus it promises sights to capture your memory. You can set off from the town of Geiranger, then the cruise passes by sheer cliffs and abandoned farmsteads that tell a story of a hard existence against dramatic backgrounds. What’s more, keep a close watch to perhaps catch glimpses of wildlife. It truly gives you that perfect backdrop for reflection or a bit of needed escape from the grind of everyday life. The experience is so incredibly peaceful, that is also makes it easy to recommend to everybody. Read our full review: Geirangerfjord Cruise Full Review and Details
Don’t Miss
The ‘Seven Sisters’ and ‘Suitor’ waterfalls so they face each other across the fjord. According to local legend, so the Suitor is flirting with the Sisters. Now I bet you didn’t expect that. The abandoned farms that are perched on impossible to reach ledges offer a ghostlike feel. You also have an eagle safari as another alternative on some tours; this will allow a close viewing of these magnificent birds of prey. There’s nothing else quite like it.
Tips for the Trip
Geiranger is more isolated compared to Flåm, it’s still very easy to get to and from. Booking your cruise online so this ensures you get the best deals and your space; also it is a huge convenience. Remember to bring your camera so that way you can capture the scenic vista; extra batteries are usually a pretty awesome move, if you do have a nice camera!
3. Bergen to Hardangerfjord Day Tour
A day trip from Bergen to Hardangerfjord that is like immersing yourself in the ‘Queen of the Fjords’. That can take you by driving through lovely scenery, with charming villages, and when in season, you have blossoming fruit trees as this backdrop. Hardangerfjord is also a lot calmer than the other fjords I have talked about; that does create a nice place for reflection.
Read our full review: Bergen to Hardangerfjord Full Review and Details
What’s Interesting
You should plan a stop at the Vøringsfossen waterfall. It has an unbelievable drop of over 180 meters. The Hardangerfjord is actually one of the longest fjords in Norway; what you should do is plan a visit to a local farm for a taste of local cider. The villages of Eidfjord and Ulvik that are just gorgeous; they are nice spots to relax, enjoy the local ambience, and snack on some delicious pastry. If that isn’t perfect then I just don’t know.
How to Make the Most of It
While a guided tour has everything all squared away; renting a car for a drive at your pace might actually be your style. You should check for fruit blossom season so that way you can have that picturesque landscape at its peak. Take the path up to Vøringsfossen waterfall; it’ll give you even more amazing viewpoints. There are few things better in the world than standing so close to something so awesome and incredible.
4. Oslo to Drøbak and the Oscarsborg Fortress
Taking a trip from Oslo to Drøbak is almost combining history with seaside charm; the options there are many. Drøbak is a lovely coastal town at the Oslofjord’s narrowest spot. Take a visit to Oscarsborg Fortress; it has an interesting history. I think many people find a lot of wonder in old stone and places of significant historical relevancy.
Read our full review: Oslo to Drøbak Full Review and Details
Historic Insight
The Oscarsborg Fortress got seriously noticed in WWII when it sank the German cruiser Blücher; that is thought to have helped delay the invasion of Norway. You are able to go explore the fortress; you can see its museums, tunnels, and gun placements, that could have been interesting to think about what those people had to endure back then. Drøbak is the spot where you will find the Santa Claus Post office, that is something the kids may like! It offers a peek into some very picturesque, wooden houses. I have even heard that there are art galleries around.
Making the Trip Count
Drøbak is easy enough to get to either by bus or by ferry from Oslo. Schedule enough time for a trip to the fortress and some time in town. Savor a local seafood meal; it’s thought to be extra-delicious by the sea! This kind of thing will just have to be taken on faith!
5. Hiking to Trolltunga
For hikers that seek something with unbelievable viewpoints and maybe something they will really be proud of; that’s when hiking to Trolltunga will call your name. While the trip requires physical endurance and isn’t a quick thing, that is like getting repaid in amazing memories and views; Trolltunga, that does literally translate to ‘Troll’s Tongue’ , is really a horizontal rock outcrop hovering 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. You’ve probably heard of it or maybe even seen a snapshot. I can really describe the feeling for you! Read our full review: Hiking to Trolltunga Full Review and Details
Things you want to know
The hike that is to and from Trolltunga is somewhere between 10-12 hours; having a fairly solid level of physical fitness and great hiking equipment that is extremely important. This adventure can usually only take place from mid-June to mid-September, after the snow has went. Always double check that the conditions on weather, plus do speak with local guides prior to starting, for any changes. I will share more thoughts and useful hints after the next point.
Some Thoughts and Suggestions
Always have your hiking boots; this hike has some rough terrain! Start as early as possible; doing so can help beat some crowds, and you also get a very nice early start to your trip. Packing some food, extra clothes, and a good headlamp or flashlight are just some other great plans. Lastly, bringing along a portable charger will really allow you to keep the camera clicking or for anything bad! If you enjoy challenging day hikes, then I highly recommend Trolltunga. It has breathtaking rewards, with memories of the accomplishment. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Trolltunga Hike)