With over 1,000 fjords carved into Norway’s coastline, choosing which to visit can feel overwhelming. Each fjord offers something unique—from UNESCO-protected natural beauty to world-famous hiking trails, from fruit-covered hillsides to narrow passages between towering cliffs. This ranking considers scenery, accessibility, activities, and overall visitor experience to help you choose the perfect Norwegian fjord for your trip.
1. Geirangerfjord — The Iconic UNESCO Jewel
Best for: Waterfalls, classic fjord scenery, cruise ships
Geirangerfjord consistently ranks as Norway’s most iconic fjord, earning UNESCO World Heritage status alongside Nærøyfjord in 2005. National Geographic rated it among the world’s top natural heritage sites.
Why it’s #1:
- Seven Sisters Waterfall: Seven streams plunging 250m into the fjord
- The Suitor: Waterfall facing the Seven Sisters with romantic legend
- Bridal Veil: Delicate cascade resembling a wedding veil
- Dramatic cliffs: Rising 1,400m from water to summit
- Historic farms: Abandoned clifftop farms accessible by hiking
Best viewpoints:
| Viewpoint | Elevation | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Ørnesvingen | 620m | Road |
| Flydalsjuvet | 300m | Road |
| Dalsnibba | 1,476m | Toll road |
Considerations: Very popular with cruise ships; can be crowded in summer.
Book Geirangerfjord Tour2. Nærøyfjord — The Narrow Wonder
Best for: Photography, kayaking, Norway in a Nutshell tour
A branch of Sognefjord, Nærøyfjord is one of the world’s narrowest navigable fjords at just 250 meters wide. The UNESCO-listed waterway features sheer cliffs rising 1,700m on either side.
Why it ranks #2:
- UNESCO World Heritage: Protected alongside Geirangerfjord
- Dramatic narrowness: Creates intimate, awe-inspiring atmosphere
- Kayaking paradise: Paddle between towering walls
- Flåm connection: Part of the famous Norway in a Nutshell route
- Winter magic: Stunning in snow with fewer crowds
Best ways to experience:
- 2-hour cruise from Gudvangen to Flåm
- Guided kayaking expeditions
- Winter cruise with “soft light”
- Part of Bergen-Oslo scenic journey
3. Sognefjord — The King of Fjords
Best for: Depth and length, charming villages, variety of experiences
At 204km long and 1,308m deep, Sognefjord is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord—and the second-deepest in the world. Its scale is almost incomprehensible until you experience it.
Why it ranks #3:
- Massive scale: Takes hours to cruise its full length
- Multiple branches: Includes Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord
- Flåm Railway: World-famous scenic railway
- Historic towns: Balestrand, Vik, Lærdal with stave church
- Stegastein Viewpoint: Dramatic platform 650m above the water
Sognefjord branches:
| Branch | Feature | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Nærøyfjord | UNESCO, narrowest | Cruise from Gudvangen |
| Aurlandsfjord | Flåm, railway | Train from Myrdal |
| Lustrafjord | Urnes Stave Church | Ferry + drive |
4. Hardangerfjord — The Orchard Fjord
Best for: Fruit blossoms (May), Trolltunga hike, waterfalls
Norway’s second-longest fjord at 179km stretches from the Atlantic to Hardangervidda plateau. It’s famous for apple and cherry orchards that explode with blossoms in mid-May.
Why it ranks #4:
- Spring blossoms: Fruit trees blooming against snowy peaks
- Trolltunga access: Famous rock tongue hike nearby
- Vøringsfossen: Spectacular 182m waterfall
- Cider culture: Heart of Norwegian fruit production
- Folgefonna Glacier: Third-largest in mainland Norway
Best time to visit: Mid-May for blossoms; June-September for Trolltunga hike.
5. Lysefjord — The Adventure Fjord
Best for: Preikestolen hike, Kjeragbolten, adventure activities
Located just an hour from Stavanger, Lysefjord is home to two of Norway’s most famous hikes and offers easier access than many other fjords.
Why it ranks #5:
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock): Flat cliff 604m above fjord
- Kjeragbolten: Iconic boulder wedged between cliffs
- Easy access: Close to Stavanger Airport
- Fjord cruises: See Preikestolen from below
- Adventure activities: Base jumping, kayaking, climbing
Famous hikes:
| Hike | Distance | Time | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preikestolen | 8km round-trip | 4-5 hrs | Moderate |
| Kjeragbolten | 11km round-trip | 5-6 hrs | Challenging |
6. Hjørundfjord — The Hidden Gem
Best for: Authentic experience, mountain scenery, escaping crowds
Often overlooked in favor of more famous fjords, Hjørundfjord offers dramatic scenery rivaling any UNESCO site—without the crowds. Surrounded by the Sunnmøre Alps, it’s one of Norway’s most pristine fjords.
Why it ranks #6:
- Sunnmøre Alps: Dramatic mountain backdrop
- Fewer tourists: Authentic, peaceful experience
- Alpine hiking: Excellent trail network
- Traditional villages: Øye and Urke preserve old Norway
- Hurtigruten visits: Cruise ships include it optionally
Getting there: Ferry from Ålesund or scenic drive.
7. Nordfjord — The Glacier Fjord
Best for: Glacier experiences, Loen Skylift, Via Ferrata
Nordfjord offers access to Jostedalsbreen—mainland Europe’s largest glacier—and exciting modern attractions like the Loen Skylift.
Why it ranks #7:
- Jostedalsbreen Glacier: Blue ice hiking and glacier walks
- Loen Skylift: Cable car to 1,011m with panoramic views
- Via Ferrata: Climbing routes along fjord cliffs
- Olden: Charming cruise port
- Less crowded: Fewer visitors than southern fjords
Glacier options:
- Briksdalsbreen arm: Accessible glacier tongue
- Nigardsbreen: Guided blue ice hikes
- Jostedalen: Multiple glacier experiences
8. Aurlandsfjord — The Classic Stop
Best for: Flåm base, scenic railway, cruise starting point
A branch of Sognefjord, Aurlandsfjord is famous for Flåm village—the starting/ending point for the legendary Flåm Railway.
Why it ranks #8:
- Flåm Railway: One of world’s most scenic train journeys
- Stegastein Viewpoint: Iconic viewing platform
- Flåm village: Brewery, museums, dining
- Cruise connections: Hub for fjord cruises
- Year-round access: Good winter destination
From Flåm:
- Nærøyfjord cruises (2 hours)
- Flåm Railway to Myrdal (1 hour)
- Kayaking and RIB boat tours
- Hiking to viewpoints
9. Romsdalsfjord — The Mountaineer’s Fjord
Best for: Trollstigen, climbing, dramatic peaks
Leading to the famous Trollstigen mountain road and surrounded by some of Norway’s most dramatic peaks, Romsdalsfjord attracts climbers and adventurers.
Why it ranks #9:
- Trollstigen: Iconic serpentine mountain road
- Romsdalseggen: Epic ridge hike
- Trollveggen: Europe’s tallest vertical rock face
- Åndalsnes: Adventure capital base
- Rauma Railway: Scenic train from Dombås
Best for climbers: Multiple world-class climbing routes.
10. Trollfjorden — The Northern Drama
Best for: Hurtigruten cruise highlight, dramatic navigation
A narrow side-fjord in Lofoten, Trollfjorden is most famous as a highlight of Hurtigruten and Havila coastal cruises.
Why it ranks #10:
- Dramatic passage: Ships navigate 100m-wide, 2km-long fjord
- 1,000m cliffs: Towering walls on both sides
- Cruise highlight: Featured stop on coastal voyages
- Midnight sun/Northern lights: Arctic location offers both
- Orca sightings: Whales visit in winter months
Comparison Table: All 10 Fjords
| Rank | Fjord | Length | Max Depth | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Geirangerfjord | 15 km | 260-700 m | Seven Sisters (410m) | Waterfalls, cruises |
| 2 | Nærøyfjord | 18 km | 500 m | UNESCO narrow (250m) | Photography, kayaking |
| 3 | Sognefjord | 205 km | 1,308 m | King of Fjords | Variety, villages |
| 4 | Hardangerfjord | 179 km | 891 m | Fruit blossoms | Spring, Trolltunga |
| 5 | Lysefjord | 42 km | 497 m | Preikestolen | Adventure, hikes |
| 6 | Hjørundfjord | 35 km | 500 m | Sunnmøre Alps | Authentic, quiet |
| 7 | Nordfjord | 106 km | 570 m | Glacier access | Glacier hiking |
| 8 | Aurlandsfjord | 29 km | 960 m | Flåm Railway | Scenic train |
| 9 | Romsdalsfjord | 88 km | 550 m | Trollstigen | Climbing, peaks |
| 10 | Trollfjorden | 2 km | 70 m | Narrow passage | Coastal cruise |
Detailed Fjord Statistics
Understanding the precise measurements helps appreciate each fjord’s unique character:
| Fjord | Length | Max Depth | Narrowest Point | UNESCO Status | 2025 Cruise Ships |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sognefjord | 205 km | 1,308 m | 250 m (Nærøyfjord) | Branch only | Multiple operators |
| Hardangerfjord | 179 km | 891 m | ~500 m | No | Limited |
| Nordfjord | 106 km | 570 m | ~400 m | No | Olden port |
| Romsdalsfjord | 88 km | 550 m | ~600 m | No | Limited |
| Lysefjord | 42 km | 497 m | ~500 m | No | Multiple operators |
| Hjørundfjord | 35 km | 500 m | ~300 m | No | Hurtigruten optional |
| Aurlandsfjord | 29 km | 960 m | ~400 m | No | Via Flåm |
| Nærøyfjord | 18 km | 500 m | 250 m | Yes (2005) | Electric vessels |
| Geirangerfjord | 15 km | 260-700 m | 250 m | Yes (2005) | 168 scheduled |
| Trollfjorden | 2 km | 70 m | 100 m | No | Hurtigruten highlight |
How to Choose Your Fjord
By Interest
Photography enthusiasts:
- Nærøyfjord — Dramatic narrow scenes
- Geirangerfjord — Iconic waterfalls
- Hjørundfjord — Alpine reflections
Hikers and adventurers:
- Lysefjord — Preikestolen, Kjeragbolten
- Hardangerfjord — Trolltunga access
- Romsdalsfjord — Romsdalseggen ridge
First-time visitors:
- Sognefjord (with Nærøyfjord) — Complete introduction
- Geirangerfjord — Classic bucket-list experience
- Aurlandsfjord — Flåm Railway included
Escaping crowds:
- Hjørundfjord — Hidden gem
- Nordfjord — Lesser-known
- Romsdalsfjord — Fewer tourists
By Season
| Season | Best Fjords | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Hardangerfjord | Fruit blossoms |
| Summer | All fjords | Full access, long days |
| Autumn | Hjørundfjord, Sognefjord | Fall colors, fewer crowds |
| Winter | Nærøyfjord, Geirangerfjord | Snow scenery, quiet |
By Access Point
From Bergen:
- Sognefjord (Flåm Railway route)
- Hardangerfjord (1.5-hour drive)
- Nordfjord (3-hour drive)
From Oslo:
- Sognefjord (Bergen Railway)
- Hardangerfjord (6-hour drive)
- Geirangerfjord (7-hour drive)
From Stavanger:
- Lysefjord (1-hour drive/ferry)
From Ålesund:
- Geirangerfjord (2-hour drive)
- Hjørundfjord (1-hour ferry)
Multi-Fjord Itinerary Suggestions
One Week: Three Fjords
| Day | Location | Fjord |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Bergen | Gateway city |
| 3 | Flåm | Sognefjord/Nærøyfjord |
| 4-5 | Geiranger | Geirangerfjord |
| 6-7 | Stavanger | Lysefjord |
Two Weeks: Five Fjords
Add Hardangerfjord (Trolltunga) and Hjørundfjord for a comprehensive tour.
Practical Tips for Fjord Visiting
Best overall time: June-August for access and weather.
Budget tip: May and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds while most attractions remain open.
Book early: Popular fjord cruises and Trolltunga hike permits sell out in summer.
Combine wisely: Some fjords are close together; others require significant travel time.
Weather prep: Fjord weather changes quickly—layer up and bring rain gear regardless of forecast.
2025 Fjord Cruise Pricing Guide
Understanding cruise costs helps budget your Norwegian fjord adventure:
Individual Fjord Cruises
| Route | Duration | 2025 Price (NOK) | 2025 Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nærøyfjord (Flåm-Gudvangen) | 2 hours | NOK 550-750 | $50-70 |
| Geirangerfjord (Geiranger-Hellesylt) | 1 hour | NOK 350-450 | $32-42 |
| Geirangerfjord from Alesund | 3 hours | NOK 825-1,410 | $75-130 |
| Hardangerfjord day cruise | 3-6 hours | NOK 500-900 | $45-85 |
| Lysefjord cruise | 2-3 hours | NOK 450-650 | $40-60 |
| Electric vessel premium | +10-20% | ~NOK 500 | ~$45 |
Package Tours
| Tour | Duration | 2025 Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Norway in a Nutshell (Bergen) | 1 day | NOK 1,800-2,200 ($165-200) |
| Norway in a Nutshell (Oslo) | 1 day | NOK 2,400-2,800 ($220-255) |
| Sognefjord in a Nutshell | 1 day | NOK 1,600-2,000 ($145-185) |
| Hardangerfjord round trip | 1 day | NOK 1,200-1,800 ($110-165) |
Coastal Voyages
| Voyage | Duration | 2025 Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hurtigruten Classic | 12 days | $2,954 (full) / $1,477 (50% discount) |
| Havila Voyages | Per night | $185/night |
| Shore excursions | Per trip | $150-250 |
Geological Formation of Norwegian Fjords
Understanding how fjords formed enhances appreciation of their dramatic landscapes.
The Ice Age Sculpting Process
Norwegian fjords were carved over approximately 2.5 million years during successive ice ages:
- Pre-glacial rivers carved initial V-shaped valleys
- Glacial ice (up to 2,000 meters thick) ground through valleys
- U-shaped profiles formed as ice widened and deepened valleys
- Oversteepened walls collapsed to near-vertical angles
- Sea flooded valleys when ice retreated ~10,000 years ago
- Post-glacial rebound continues today (land rising 3-4mm/year)
Why Fjords Are So Deep
The exceptional depths result from glacial erosion patterns:
- Ice concentration: Glaciers eroded faster at valley centers
- Hard bedrock: Gneiss and granite resisted lateral erosion
- Sea level: Ice excavated well below current sea level
- Thresholds: Shallow sills formed where floating ice lost erosive power
Depth comparison:
| Fjord | Max Depth | Surrounding Mountain Height | Total Vertical Relief |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sognefjord | 1,308 m | ~1,400 m | 2,700+ m |
| Hardangerfjord | 891 m | ~1,500 m | 2,400+ m |
| Geirangerfjord | 260-700 m | ~1,700 m | 2,000+ m |
| Nærøyfjord | 500 m | ~1,700 m | 2,200+ m |
Photography Guide: Best Shots at Each Fjord
Iconic Shots by Fjord
| Fjord | Signature Shot | Best Location | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geirangerfjord | Seven Sisters waterfall | Fjord cruise | May-June (peak flow) |
| Nærøyfjord | Narrow passage cliffs | Kayak or cruise | Morning |
| Sognefjord | Stegastein viewpoint | Stegastein platform | Sunrise/sunset |
| Hardangerfjord | Fruit blossoms + mountains | Ulvik/Lofthus | Late May |
| Lysefjord | Preikestolen edge | Pulpit Rock summit | Golden hour |
| Hjørundfjord | Sunnmøre Alps reflection | Øye village | Calm morning |
Essential Photography Gear
| Item | Purpose | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Polarizing filter | Water reflections, sky enhancement | Essential |
| Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) | Fjord panoramas | Essential |
| Weather-sealed body | Unpredictable conditions | Essential |
| Telephoto (70-200mm) | Wildlife, waterfall details | Recommended |
| Graduated ND filter | Balance sky and shadows | Recommended |
| Tripod | Low light, waterfalls | Recommended |
Wildlife Viewing Across Norwegian Fjords
Species by Location
| Species | Best Fjords | Best Time | Viewing Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed eagle | All fjords | Year-round | Cruise, kayak |
| Harbor seal | Nærøyfjord, Geirangerfjord | Year-round | Cruise, kayak |
| Orca (killer whale) | Trollfjorden, northern fjords | November-January | Whale safari |
| Atlantic salmon | All fjords with rivers | June-September | River mouths |
| Harbor porpoise | Open fjord waters | Year-round | Cruise |
| Puffin | Outer fjord islands | May-August | Boat tours |
Best Wildlife Viewing Fjords
- Trollfjorden: Orca aggregations in winter
- Geirangerfjord: Eagles and seals
- Nærøyfjord: Eagles, seals, salmon
- Nordfjord: Diverse marine life
Sustainable Fjord Tourism
Norway leads global efforts in sustainable fjord tourism:
Environmental Initiatives
Zero-emission requirements:
- By 2026: Strict emission standards for all vessels in UNESCO fjords
- Electric vessels like “Future of the Fjords” already operating
- Shore power connections reduce at-anchor emissions
Visitor management:
- Geirangerfjord: Maximum 5 ships, 8,000 visitors per day
- Sustainable Destination certification for key areas
- Trail maintenance and erosion control
How to visit sustainably:
- Choose electric vessels when available
- Stay overnight (support local economy)
- Use public transport when possible
- Respect wildlife and protected areas
- Pack out all waste
Final Recommendations
For First-Time Visitors
Best single fjord experience: Sognefjord (Nærøyfjord branch)
- UNESCO World Heritage status
- Famous Flåm Railway included
- Norway in a Nutshell tour available
- Accessible from Bergen and Oslo
Best day trip from Bergen: Hardangerfjord
- 1-2 hours away
- Voringsfossen waterfall
- Fruit orchards (late May)
- Less crowded than Geirangerfjord
For Repeat Visitors
Hidden gems to explore:
- Hjørundfjord (Sunnmøre Alps scenery, few tourists)
- Nordfjord (glacier access, Loen Skylift)
- Romsdalsfjord (Trollstigen, climbing)
Advanced experiences:
- Multi-day kayaking expeditions
- Winter fjord cruises (snow, northern lights)
- Glacier hiking on Jostedalsbreen or Folgefonna
- Trolltunga hike (challenging 27 km round trip)
Budget Recommendations
| Budget Level | Recommended Fjords | Daily Cost (NOK) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Hardangerfjord, Lysefjord | NOK 800-1,200 |
| Mid-range | Sognefjord, Geirangerfjord | NOK 1,500-2,500 |
| Luxury | All fjords, coastal voyage | NOK 3,500+ |
Key Statistics to Remember
Norway’s fjord superlatives:
- Longest fjord: Sognefjord (205 km)
- Deepest fjord: Sognefjord (1,308 m)
- Narrowest navigable: Nærøyfjord (250 m)
- Most famous waterfall: Seven Sisters, Geirangerfjord (410 m total height)
- Total fjords in Norway: Over 1,000
- UNESCO fjords: 2 (Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, inscribed July 14, 2005)
2025 tourism data:
- Geirangerfjord: 168 scheduled cruise ships
- Daily visitor limit: 8,000 at Geirangerfjord
- Electric vessel capacity: 400 passengers (Future of the Fjords)
- Hurtigruten 12-day voyage: $2,954 (50% discounts = $1,477)
- Havila Voyages: $185/night
This comprehensive guide incorporates verified information from Visit Norway, UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Statistics Norway (SSB), and regional tourism authorities. Cruise pricing and visitor statistics updated for 2025. Last updated November 2025.