fjord day trip

THE 10 BEST Fjord Norway Tours & Excursions

Fjord norway tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein - Viewpoint Cruise

2. Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

3. Guided day tour - Premium Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway

4. From Stavanger: Lysefjord Sightseeing RIB Boat Tour

5. Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present

6. The Best Fjordcruise: Bergen fjord by Zodiac or Pontoon Boat

7. Tour from Alesund to Trollstigen, The Land Of The Trolls

8. Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen - Land of Trolls

9. Haugesund Shore Excursion: Åkrafjorden & Langfoss waterfall

10. Bergen Highlights: Bryggen, Fløibanen, and Fortress Tales

11. Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R

12. Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour

13. Lysefjord RIB Safari from Stavenger

14. Guided Fjord & Glacier Tour - From BERGEN

15. Bergen: Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

16. Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour

17. Stavanger: Waterfalls, Caves and Rock Tour By Sea

18. Guided hike to Pulpit Rock Preikestolen

19. Food and Culture walk

20. Rib safari Tour in Haugesund

21. Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

22. PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR: Queen of the Fjords - tour from Bergen, 6 hours

23. Alesund Shore Excursion: From Fjords to Trolls

24. Best Views of Bergen - Segway Day Tour

25. Self-guided day tour - Premium Nærøyfjord Cruise & Flåm Railway

26. Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord

27. 5-Hour Guided Hike Tour to Himakånå The Mini Trolltunga

28. Self-Guided 22-Hour Round Trip From Oslo To Sognefjord With Flåm Railway

29. 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway

30. On Top of Bergen - Public Tour

What travelers are saying.

Guided Fjord Tours

Exclusive day tours to the norwegian fjords, most popular tours.

• Calendar All year round
• Hour Glass 4 hours
• Tag Fjord Cruises from Bergen

Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

This fjord cruise takes you up the 27-kilometre Osterfjord in modern, comfortable boats with sundecks and refreshments. See a waterfall and the Mostraumen Strait.

• Calendar March - November
• Hour Glass 10 hours
• Tag Private Day Tours from Bergen

Private day tour to Hardangerfjord, incl Voss Gondol & Four Great Waterfalls

This scenic Hardanger tour takes you along Norway’s second-longest fjord to see four spectacular waterfalls. You also ride the Voss Gondol for breathtaking views of the mountains.

• Most Popular Tour!
• Calendar May - September
• Hour Glass 10 hours and 30 minutes
• Tag Guided Day Tours from Bergen

Guided day tour to Flåm – Nærøyfjord Cruise & Flåm Railway

Book Norway’s most popular day tour and experience the country’s beautiful scenery on a fjord cruise and train journeys on Europe’s top-rated railways. Explore the best of Norway’s natural beauty on our guided discovery tours of the Nærøyfjord and Flåm Railway.

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Guided day tours.

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Private Day Tours

Self-guided day tours from bergen, fjord cruises from bergen, welcome to bergen and fjord norway.

Norway is the undisputed king of fjords, with more than 1,100 of these beautiful geological features scattered along the vast coastline. You will find fjords pretty much wherever you go, but a handful of them are extra special and definitely worth seeking out.

From Bergen, you have the opportunity to visit Norway’s two largest fjords, the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord. Guided Fjord Tours arranges day tours to several destinations in these areas daily from Bergen. We are ready in all seasons to guide you through the most beautiful landscape in the world.

Top-Rated Tours in Bergen

Definitely recommend doing this if you don't have more time to explore the beautiful surroundings of Bregen. Norway is just amazing.

We had a fabulous trip up the fjords crew were lovely and it was managed very well and adjusted according to the weather conditions we thoroughly enjoyed the experience well worth it.

This trip leaves from close to the fish market in the centre of Bergen. The fast catamaran quickly gets you to the narrower part of the fjord where the views are simply breathtaking. We stood outside for much of the trip, but they sell reasonably priced hot drinks on board to warm you up. Highlights are the whirlpools and waterfalls at the far end at Mostraumen.

We had a great time with our tour guide Frode, he was excellent, very knowledgeable and great conversationalist. I highly would recommend this tour for anyone looking to enjoy great views and a delicious lunch.

Norway in a Nutshell®

Cruise the unesco-listed nærøyfjord on norway's most popular tour.

Discover breathtaking nature and one of the world's most spectacular fjords on this iconic tour. The Norway in a Nutshell® tour brings you close to stunning nature in a responsible way with emission-free transport. Ride the rails on two of the top train journeys in the world and cruise the fjords on a quiet electric fjord cruise.

Planing to take the tour during winter? Read more about our winter edition of the tour here !

Start from: Oslo, Bergen, Voss, Flåm or Geilo

Duration: One day or more

Personalize with: Activities and overnight stays

Season : Available all year

The Norway in a Nutshell® tour includes:

• The narrow UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and Nærøy valley
• Beautiful mountain landscapes
• The historic Flåmsbana, the Flåm Railway
• Cascading waterfalls
• The scenic Bergensbanen, the Bergen Railway
• The charming fjord village of Flåm
• The option to add accommodation and activities

Norway's most popular tour package

This legendary low emission tour brings you close to Norway’s breathtaking UNESCO-protected fjord and mountain scenery. On top of that, you will also experience Europe’s top scenic rail journey.

You can choose to start this tour in Oslo or Bergen , but you can also take just part of the trip by travelling from Voss , Geilo , or Flåm . Make the trip your own by spending time exploring the different destinations and adding activities and overnight stays along the way.

Booking your tour

You can start the Norway in a Nutshell® tour from Oslo, Bergen, Flåm, Voss or Geilo.

Select you starting point, end point and date in the booking box to see available options.

Book you experience as a standard tour or customize it with activities and accommodation.

Cruise the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord

• Experience incredible scenery on one of the world’s narrowest fjords
• See mountains towering up to 1,700 meters above
• Pass scenic waterfalls
• Glide quietly through dramatic fjord landscapes on an electric fjord cruise

Travel back in time on the Flåmsbana, the Flåm Railway

• Called the world's most beautiful train journey by Lonely Planet
• Ride through pristine and scenic Norwegian nature
• One of the steepest railway lines in the world
• A 20-km long historic train ride
• A historic and unique train with original interiors

Bergensbanen – one of the world's most scenic railways

• A 500 km long railway line that runs from Bergen to Oslo
• Frequently named one of the world's top train journeys
• Northern Europe's highest altitude railway line

Beautiful scenery in the Nærøydalen valley

• See picturesque waterfalls and quaint farms
• The Nærøydalen valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Good to know

Get ready for a Nutshell tour with Fjord Tours! Here you will find information that can be good to know before you start your tour.

Top activities on the Norway in a Nutshell­® tour

Book an exciting activity as part of your Nutshell tour . Some activities may require overnight stays during your tour. This is just a selection - see all activities during the booking process!

Norway in a Nutshell® & Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell™

This round trip from Oslo combines two of our most popular tours: Norway in a Nutshell® and Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell™. You won’t miss any of Norway's highlights on this tour. If you're looking for an adventure starting and ending in Oslo - this is the tour for you!

Want to see even more on your tour?

There are lots of things to experience in Norway. Learn more about how you can extend your tour.

APRIL SALE Extended:   Book now for   up to 60% off!

Norwegian Fjords Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Norwegian Fjords. We've got 101 trips going to Norwegian Fjords, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 22 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the most tour departures.

101 Norwegian Fjords tour packages with 130 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Spectacular Norwegian Fjords with Cruise Experience

• Hiking & Trekking
• Sightseeing

Norway Fjord Trekking

I LOVED this tour!! It was pricey but that's just what Norway costs. We did four hikes in total throughout the trip and they all had different challenges and amazing scenery, and they were well spaced with a rest day before the final Trolltunga hike. I'd say anyone in reasonable shape should be fine for this tour - there were some spots with steep rocks and we had to use a rope to help pull ourselves up, but you definitely don't need any advanced hiking or climbing skills. Our guide, Karl, was really friendly and knowledgeable, giving us lots of fun facts about Norway and the regions we were in. 100% would recommend this tour!

Magical Fjord Adventure

The excursions were very enjoyable. The hotels were great - very clean and well located within walking distance of downtown, trains and buses. The paperwork pre-tour was prompt and and very well explained. Any questions I had were promptly responded to.

• Northern Lights

Northern Norway Explorer

This was a bit challenging for me The guide Shane was wonderful

Magic of the Fjords - 7 days

This tour delivers on the scenery at an affordable cost. Accommodations are good. Outstanding breakfasts at Clarion hotels. Good dinners in Balestrand. Using public boat transportation to Balestrand is less than ideal when going Bergen to Oslo route as to get window seats the queue for boarding we were told started at 6:30 for 8 am departure. We had interior seats so spent most of trip on top deck standing. Spoke to someone who rode 2 days later as you use next leg of route to Flam arrived 7:25 and got window seat. Why disappointing going Bergen to Oslo: as this was first viewing of the beauty you travel to see. Time in Balestrand is weather dependent for some activities. Lunch options in Balestrand very limited as 2 of 3 places outside hotel open at 14:00 and 15:00.

7 Days Ultimate Magical Fjord Premium Adventure

Endless Beauty of Magical Fjord Premium Adventure 7 Days

4 days in charming Alesund

Excellent - very informative

The beautiful Norway End Oslo

Legendary Fjords End Oslo

Tailor-Made Private Norway Tour to Scenic Sognefjord

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Highlights of Norway (Oslo to Bergen) (2024)

• Kayak & Canoe

5-DAYS FJORD NORWAY ADVENTURE PACKAGE

• Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Private Norway Trip to Chase the Northern Lights

Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!! Jann was friendly and educated/answered all questions even with personal stories! We were very lucky and had a great viewing night and Jann had prepared us for the post that we would not see anything, would highly suggest the Jann experience to everyone!

Tromsö & Alta: Arctic Northern Lights - 5 days

What people love about norwegian fjords tours.

Active and rewarding trip.

Just finished our tour. Everything went smoothly and the staff at Tour Radar were quick to respond when I had a question while traveling. The hotel rooms in Oslo and Bergen were a bit small. I would recommend the upgrade but the locations and breakfasts in both were excellent. Our favorite hotel, by far, was the Kivnes in Balestrand. Just beautiful and right on the fiord. Thank you Tour Radar!

Norwegian Fjords Tours starting in:

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• Partially Guided (17)
• In-depth Cultural (13)
• Intl. Flights Included (12)
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• Ocean Cruise (9)
• Coach / Bus (5)
• 7 Day Tours (27)
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• 3 Week Tours (7)
• Spring 2024 (21)
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• Fall / Autumn 2024 (50)
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Other Regions in Norway

• Northern Norway (38)
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The best fjord cruises in Fjord Norway

The best way to see the fjords is from a boat! Here is our list of the top day cruises available.

Read more about the Norwegian fjords :

• The most famous fjords in Norway
• The little-known fjords you mustn’t miss
• The best activities to experience the fjords

1. From Bergen city centre to Mostraumen

Join a fjord cruise from Bergen through spectacular fjord landscape! Narrow fjords, steep mountain sides, mighty waterfalls – a unique fjord experience ! Daily departures all year. Book your fjord cruise to Mostraumen from Bergen here

2. Fjord cruise from Stavanger to the Lysefjord and Preikestolen

On this fjord cruise from Stavanger, we sail silently with our brand new electric boat MS Rygerelektra into the beautiful Lysefjord and Preikestolen. Gaze up at majestic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) from the sea. See the mysterious Vagabonds Cave. Be charmed by goats at summer pasture. Feel the refreshing spray from the impressive Hengjane waterfalls. Have an unforgettable adventure in any weather! Book your fjord cruise from Stavanger to the Lysefjord with Rødne Admire the breathtaking Pulpit Rock from below and explore Fantahålå from the comfort of a modern and comfortable catamaran. As the wind blows through your hair, you will also have stunning views of small islands, waterfalls, traditional farms and local wildlife as you cruise along Lysefjord. The fjord is exceptionally straight and is lined with granite walls which you can appreciate from the deck or the large panoramic windows on board Go Fjords cruises. Book your fjord cruise on the Lysefjord with Go Fjords

3. From Stavanger to Flørli 4444

The cruise into Lysefjord is an adventure in itself. We sail through spectacular fjord scenery past impressive Preikestolen and on to the Hengjane Falls before arriving at Flørli at about 10:30 in the morning. Flørli is perhaps best known for its world-record wooden staircase, with 4,444 steps. You can climb the stairs on the way to the old power plant 750 meters above the village, with spectacular views during the trek. Book your fjord cruise to Flørli here

4. From Ålesund to famous Geiranger

3 fjords in 3 hours! From Ålesund you travel through three different fjords and spectacular scenery before you arrive in Geiranger. You can either choose to stay in Geiranger, or take the boat back again, after a few hours in Geiranger where you can have lunch and go for a short sightseeing tour to the closest viewpoints Ørnesvingen (the Eagle bend) or Flydalsjuvet. Book your fjord cruise from Ålesund to Geiranger

5. The car ferry from Hellesylt to Geiranger

On your way to Geiranger you can enjoy the Geirangerfjord, see the famous Seven Sisters waterfall and the Bridal Veil (Brudesløret) waterfall and gaze up at the abandonded farms clinging on to the mountain sides.

6. Fjord tour Flåm - Gudvangen - Flåm

Experience the Nærøyfjord, the narrowest and most spectacular of the inlets of the Sognefjord, at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Area. Available all-year! Start your fjord cruise from Flåm or Gudvangen. If you travel from Flåm, you will first sail through the idyllic Aurlandsfjord, which is also inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Then, the boat continues through the narrow Nærøyfjord before arriving Gudvangen, innermost in the Nærøyfjord. The trip takes around two hours one way.

7. Hjørundfjorden from Ålesund

See unspoilt nature on this cruise from Ålesund to Øye, through the 35 km long Hjørundfjord! The Hjørundfjord is surrounded by the Sunnmøre Alps, with mountains streching up to 1700 m.a.s.l. Pass villages along the way, some without road connection. You can disembark at Trandal, where you can try the world's most instagrammable swing. Book your fjord cruise from Ålesund to the Hjørundfjord here .

8. Wonderful Rosendal from Bergen

The most beautiful and fastest way to travel from Bergen to Hardanger! A day trip to charming Rosendal - or the perfect starting point for the trip on to Trolltunga. In Rosendal you can visit the Barony, Scandinavia's smallest castle from 1665, visit the Folgefonnsenteret or just stroll in the center with narrow streets, cozy cafes and nice galleries. Book your fjord cruise from Bergen to Rosendal .

9. Cruise on the Lovatnet lake in Nordfjord

Technically not a fjord cruise (it's on a lake), there are few boat trips more beautiful than the trip on Lovatnet lake in the Lodalen Valley, encircled by high mountains and glacier tongues of Jostedalsbreen glacier.

10. Full day cruise from Haugesund

Go on an unforgettable trip to famous natural gems along the coast. The fjord cruise consists of a guided tour to destinations such as Flor & Fjære, Bekkjarvik Gjestgiveri and Espevær. When you arrive at your destination, you will be given a tour by a local guide, followed by a delicious dinner.

Narrow fjords, steep mountains, clean air and an endless coastline – these are some of the things that make Norway so popular

Top-rated bus service: express bus to preikestolen and kjerag from stavanger, go hiking at preikestolen and kjerag, preikestolen & kjerag combination, kjerag express bus round trip, preikestolen express bus round trip, explore the staggering beauty of the lofoten islands, sea eagle rib safari trollfjord, kayak safari in svolvær, deep sea lofoten fishing trip, experience the magnificent vøringsfossen waterfall, hardangerfjord and vøringsfossen tour from voss, vøringsfossen waterfall express, hardangerfjord cruise and vøringsfossen waterfall, welcome to norway.

A country with plenty of space and lots to offer. From northern lights and majestic fjords to tall mountains and a wealth of wildlife. Norway has something in store for every kind of visitor.

Find some inspiration for your next adventure!

Guided glacier hiking at folgefonna: one for the bucket list, 6 tips to help you prepare for the preikestolen hike, 10 things you may not know about stavanger, 3 ways to experience trollfjorden in lofoten, we go to work every day to create experiences that become lasting memories, see what previous travelers think about us.

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5 BEST Fjord Cruises from Bergen, Norway [A Local’s Guide]

Psst! Some links in my posts may be affiliate links, which means that I get paid a fee if you chose to purchase something through it. This doesn't cost you anything, but makes a huge difference for me! Thanks for your support!

As the “gateway to the fjords”, there are many fjord cruises from Bergen to choose from . It can be a little overwhelming knowing which one is the right fit for you. But I’m here to help!

I have lived in Bergen for more than 7 years now, and grew up just a few hours from here (right by the fjords). As a result, I’m the perfect person to share the best fjord cruises leaving from Bergen!

In the past I have covered some of the great tours and excursions in Bergen , but the ones on this list are focused on just the fjords.

There are a few fjords within easy reach near Bergen, such as the Hardangerfjord, the Sognefjord (with its arms) and Osterfjorden. Some of these are amongst the best fjords in Norway , in my opinion.

Table of Contents

Quick Bergen Travel Guide

Where to stay : Hotel Norge is a centrally located, higher-end hotel that is perfect for any traveler – and my favorite (their scrambled eggs at breakfast are the best in Norway). If you are looking for something in the historic city center, Clarion Havnekontoret is just a stone’s throw from the UNESCO-listed Bryggen. For something more budget-friendly, CityBox and Moxy are great alternatives!

Where to eat : I have so many favourite restaurants in Bergen, and have covered them all in this guide . Don’t miss Bryggeloftet (traditional, Norwegian), Poca Madre (Mexican), Boccone (Italian) and JAJA (International Street Food).

Top activities and tours in Bergen :

• Mostraumen Fjord Cruise from Bergen (check out the best fjord cruises from Bergen in this guide )
• Seeing the UNESCO listed Bryggen (on your own or on a walking tour )
• Viking ship fjord cruise
• Hiking or taking the funicular up Mount Fløyen
• Going on a day trip to Flåm and the Nærøyfjord

Packing for Bergen : My golden rule when packing and dressing for any destination in Norway is layers. Layers, layers, layers – and Bergen is no different. Additionally, Bergen can be quite a rainy city, so a waterproof jacket such as this one is ideal. Good shoes for walking around the city is a must too (the city is very walkable).

Getting to Bergen : I have covered how to get from the airport to the city center in detail here .

Getting Around : Skyss is the official public transportation system in Bergen. Download the app Skyss Billett (ticket) to have tickets on your phone.

What is a fjord cruise?

In my Norway travel guide I have explained in detail what a fjord is, so I won’t spend too much time on that here. In short, a fjord is a body of water connected to the ocean , that was created by the glaciers of the last ice age.

There are over 1700 named fjords in Norway, which is quite insane to think about. It is not hard to understand why Norway is the official land of the fjords.

So, what is a fjord cruise ?

There are two types of fjord cruises. One type of fjord cruise is a large cruise ship going on a several days long trip along the Norwegian coastline and into the fjords. Cruise lines like P&O , Costa , MCS and Viking Cruises all have cruises to the Norwegian fjords.

However, the Bergen fjord cruises we are focusing on today are slightly different. They are also what most people think about when they hear the term.

A fjord cruise is a fancy name for a boat trip on the fjord . It has gotten its name because you are cruising silently on a fjord – and probably to make it sound a little more inviting than just “boat trip”.

But, basically, these are the Norwegian equivalent of the party boats in Punta Cana or the catamaran cruises in Cancun .

The cruises can take any shape or size, from large electric vessels to small, fast-paced ones. All though the latter is often called a “Fjord Safari” instead.

No matter where in Norway you go, you are likely to come across a fjord cruise. Whether that’s Flåm , Geiranger, Stavanger or even Oslo .

And of course Bergen. Which is the focus of this article.

5 Best Fjord Cruises from Bergen

With Bergen being the largest city in western Norway, and within easy reach of several of the best fjords, it’s only natural that there are loads of fjord cruises to choose from.

That being said, which one should you choose?

Below I have outlined the best fjord cruises from Bergen – and highlighted details about each of them. That way, you can decide which is the perfect one for you!

Going on a fjord cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Bergen , and an absolute must when you visit. All of these start from the docks in the center of Bergen, and are round trip cruises. Unless otherwise specified.

#1 Fjord Cruise Bergen to Mostraumen

The fjord cruise from Bergen to Mostraumen is amongst the most popular ones leaving from the city . This is mainly because it is the shortest and easiest way to see the fjords from Bergen.

If you are spending a day in Bergen and are short on time – and don’t have plans to travel from Bergen to Flåm – this is a good choice.

This 3-hour fjord cruise takes you from the Bergen docks through the Mostraumen strait. Along the way you will see the Osterfjord, one of the fjords closest to the city.

I will say, these fjords aren’t the most dramatic in the region, but it is the best option for anyone wanting to see the fjords from Bergen in a day (and don’t have a rental car).

You’ll stay nice and warm inside the boat, which departs year-round. This fjord cruise is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit.

There is also a private option available for this tour, which might be a little pricy for most, but perfect for groups of friends and families.

• Duration : 3-4 hours
• Fjords : Osterfjord
• Max travellers : 85
• Advance booking needed : Yes

#2 Sognefjord Cruise from Bergen

The Sognefjord is known as the “king of the fjords”, and with good reason. It is the longest fjord in the world (with the exception of one in Greenland that is frozen – so it doesn’t count, in my opinion). It is also the deepest.

In addition to this, it has some pretty famous fjord arms. Fjord arms are basically smaller fjords that “stick out” of the bigger fjord.

If you imagine your arm and hand being the main fjord (i.e. the Sognefjord in this case), your fingers would be the fjord arms. This is how I usually explain the fjords and fjord arms when I guide for Adventures by Disney (I work as a Disney Adventure Guide in Norway every summer, and it’s the best job in the world, after travel blogging!).

At the end of the Sognefjord you will find the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, both world heritage fjords and a world heritage site. The latter is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List together with the Geirangerfjord (further north).

This is also where I grew up (in Aurland)!

Therefore, traveling through the Sognefjord from Bergen is a great way to see the length of the world’s biggest fjord. However, it is a full-day trip – so expect to leave Bergen early (at 8 in the morning), and to get back late (around 9 in the evening).

This includes a 2-hour stop in Flåm. I recommend having lunch at the bakery and going on a stroll along the fjord during your time there.

Basically, this is a return ticket on the express boat from Bergen to Flåm. It runs only in the summer months. Many locals don’t consider it a fjord cruise, but a mode of transportation. But, as we established above, a fjord cruise is simply a boat on the fjord – so you’re good to go!

You can also consider getting a return ticket for the next day, and spend the night in Flåm! There are some great hotels in Flåm to choose from, and this would give you a chance to explore the village and region more. Note that accommodation is not included in the boat ticket.

• Duration : 13 hours
• Fjords : Sognefjord, Aurlandsfjord
• Max travellers : 150
• Cost : $244 (round trip) / $144 (one way)

#3 The Nærøyfjord Fjord Cruise (including train & bus)

As mentioned, the Nærøyfjord is a fjord arm of the Sognefjord and perhaps the most important destination for fjord tours near Bergen.

On this full day trip, you’ll get to not only experience a fjord cruise on the Nærøyfjord, but also the famous Flåm Railway (one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys).

Thus, this is not just a fjord cruise from Bergen, but a round trip excursion taking you from Bergen to the fjords and back using train, bus and cruise. The Oslo-Bergen railway is also included on this trip.

It is very similar to the Norway in a Nutshell tour , so it is possible to book each leg of the journey individually. If you have more than just a day, I also recommend looking at some of my itineraries , that take you from Bergen to the fjords for a night or two.

Sights along the way on this cruise not only include the Nærøyfjord, but also picturesque fjord villages, waterfalls and of course the Flåm Valley (where the Flåm Railway goes).

• Duration : 10 hours
• Fjords : Nærøyfjord, Aurlandsfjord
• Max travellers : 99
• Cost : from $308

#4 Viking Ship Fjord Cruise

If you want a more unique, and exclusive experience, this might be the cruise for you.

Sailing on an authentic Viking ship with just 12 travellers on board is a great way to explore the harbour and sights outside of Bergen. Whilst it doesn’t take you far from the city, and thus not into any of the more dramatic fjords, this can still be worthwhile if you want to go off the beaten path.

During this 1,5-hour sailing you’ll be treated to a hot drink, and some lovely views of the city. Definitely a must for families or Viking enthusiasts!

If you consider yourself the latter, I hope you’ll head on over to read my guides to Nordic symbols and their meanings , Norse Goddesses and of course the most famous Vikings of all time !

• Duration : 1,5 hours
• Fjords : Bergen harbour, Puddefjorden
• Max travellers : 12

#5 Private Fjord Cruises from Bergen

Last, but not least, going on a private Bergen fjord cruise might be more your style. These options are perfect for those traveling in a big group or with a rowdy family.

Or just for a couple wanting a truly exclusive experience on the fjords.

There are several options for private tours from Bergen, taking you through Osterfjorden by private yacht or in a fast-paced RIB boat.

Basically, you can choose your own adventure here, and since it’s just you onboard, you get the full attention of your captain and crew.

• Duration : 4-11 hours (depending on what you book)
• Max travellers : Private
• Cost : from $500
• BOOK PRIVATE RIB HERE / BOOK PRIVATE YACHT HERE

More Fjord Cruises from Bergen

Of course, this list includes the 5 best fjord cruises departing (and ending) in Bergen. However, there are more to choose from. Below you’ll find more Bergen fjord tours to choose from, in case you wanted more options!

Bergen Fjord Cruises FAQ

Below are the most frequently asked questions about taking a fjord cruise from Bergen – answered by a local!

The closest fjord to Bergen is the Osterfjord, which you can reach on a fjord cruise to Mostraumen. However, the Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord are just 3 hours away!

Personally, I think the fjords are beautiful year round. The most stunning months in terms of waterfalls is May-June, and July-September are also great.

The Norwegian fjords are just a short drive or fjord cruise from Bergen.

Lots of them! Costa, P&O, Viking, MSC, Royal Caribbean to name a few.

Layers. No matter what time of year, the weather in Norway can change fast, so always wear and bring layers. A small puffer jacket, such as this one , is ideal.

YES! The fjords are absolutely breathtaking, with such stunning natural scenery. They should be on your bucket list.

Yes, you can! All though it is a little colder than you might be used to.

Yes, but only small ones, such as Puddefjorden.

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Experience the Breathtaking Norwegian Fjords: A Day Trip from Oslo

Norway, a land of stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes, is home to some of the most magnificent fjords in the world. These majestic geological wonders are a must-see for any traveler looking to explore the very best of Scandinavia. Just a short journey away from Norway’s bustling capital city, Oslo, you’ll find yourself amidst the breathtaking beauty of these glacial-carved valleys.

“Embrace the whispers of nature as you wander through Norway’s spectacular fjords, where the echoes of ancient glaciers carve a melody on your soul.”

Table of Contents

Journey to the fjords, nærøyfjord: serenity & beauty, aurlandsfjord: panoramic views & charming villages, other activities, winding down your day.

Embarking on a day trip to explore the Norwegian fjords from Oslo couldn’t be easier. There are several convenient options for travelers, such as guided bus tours, train rides through scenic routes, or even self-driving for those who prefer an independent adventure. One popular choice is taking the picturesque Bergen Railway from Oslo Central Station to Myrdal and then changing onto the Flåm Railway – an unforgettable journey that will transport you through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and striking mountain vistas.

“Discover the enchanting beauty of Norwegian fjords, where lush forests and cascading waterfalls meet majestic mountain vistas on a day trip from Oslo.”

The Fjord Experience

Once you reach Flåm, nestled in the heart of Sognefjord – Norway’s longest and deepest fjord – prepare yourself to be awed by nature’s grandeur. This charming village is a gateway to exploring nearby fjords such as Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord.

Nærøyfjord, located in Norway, is a remarkable destination that has been recognized as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. This majestic fjord is undeniably one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, with its awe-inspiring steep cliffs that tower 1,700 meters above sea level. Adding to its picturesque appeal are the charming and rustic farms that cling to the sides of the cliffs. The narrow inlet stretches for 17 kilometers and provides a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and reflection.

A popular way to explore this breathtaking area is by joining a cruise or kayak tour departing from Flåm or Gudvangen. While sailing through the peaceful waters, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings even more fully. Whether you are an adventure seeker or someone who wants to unwind, Nærøyfjord surely won’t disappoint

“Amidst the embrace of steep cliffs and tranquil waters, Nærøyfjord whispers the beauty of our world, reminding us to cherish nature’s masterpiece.”

Aurlandsfjord, an offshoot of the stunning Sognefjord, is a must-visit destination for panoramic views and picturesque villages. One of its highlights is the Stegastein Viewpoint, a remarkable architectural structure that juts out 30 meters from the mountainside and offers jaw-dropping views of the fjord below. Don’t miss visiting the idyllic village of Undredal, famous for its charming stave church and delectable goat cheese.

While exploring the Norwegian fjords, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy:

• Hiking: Numerous trails offer hikers the opportunity to witness magnificent bird’s-eye views of the fjords or discover hidden waterfalls.
• Cycling: Rent a bike in Flåm and cycle along scenic routes such as Rallarvegen or explore picturesque villages like Aurland.
• Museums & Heritage: Discover local history at Flåm Railway Museum or experience traditional Norwegian life at Otternes Bygdetun , an open-air museum in Aurland.

Related posts:

• Experience the most beautiful sea voyage with the Norwegian Hurtigruten from minute to minute
• All about the Atlantic Road in Norway: drive between unique islands and wild landscape
• Drive the Trollstigen: a ride full of hairpin bends through the fjords of Norway

After a day filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty, head back to Oslo by train or car with memories to cherish for years to come. While it’s impossible to see everything in just one day trip, this brief sojourn into Norway’s fjords will surely leave you longing for more – perhaps inspiring you to plan your next adventure in this stunning region!

“Embrace the breathtaking beauty of Norway’s fjords, as a single day unfolds memories that will inspire your soul for a lifetime.”

In conclusion, a day trip from Oslo provides an unforgettable experience that showcases Norway’s awe-inspiring fjords. With various transport options and activities available within arm’s reach, it truly is a traveler’s dream come true. So pack your bags and embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!

Last Updated on May 26, 2023

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I'm a passionate travel blogger captivated by Scandinavia's stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and Viking history. I explore offbeat destinations in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, providing authentic insights into Nordic life. When not adventuring, I share my experiences, photos, and love for Scandinavian cuisine. Join me as I uncover Scandinavia's hidden gems and magic!

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• Things to do
• Fjord cruises

Fjord cruise in Oslo

Experience Oslo from the fjord!

• Enjoy the scenic Oslofjord on a sightseeing fjord cruise and get an overview of the city and its attractions
• Pass through narrow sounds, idyllic bays, and through a maze of islands with small summer houses
• Oslo, with its superb location, offers unique opportunities on and around its fjord which stretches almost into the city center

Tour description

You’ll sail past numerous islands, including Hovedøya and the Dyna Lighthouse, through narrow inlets and into sheltered bays so that you can capture the capital on camera from different angles.

We will also sail past the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet House in Bjørvika in inner Oslofjord. The Opera House was designed by the architectural firm Snøhetta AS, which won an architectural competition in 2000. It was officially opened on 12 April 2008 and the building has received numerous international awards.

The boat also passes close to the peninsula of Bygdøy, housing many interesting museums as well as beaches such as Huk Bay. See the Maritime Museum with its veteran sailing ships moored outside, and the impressive Fram Museum, housing the polar ship of the same name.

This trip offers a great way to see the capital of Norway and get an overview of the city and all its attractions.

Good to know

The best things to do in oslo.

Book an exciting activity as part of your Nutshell tour or as a stand-alone booking. Check out our exciting collection below!

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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 . 

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Reader Interactions

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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!

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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 !

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7 Day Norway Itinerary: How to Spend One Week in Norway

N orway is maybe the most beautiful place I’ve ever been. It’s full of mountains and waterfalls and fjords along with delicious food and incredible cities. If you’re looking to plan a trip to Scandinavia, this 7 day Norway itinerary will help you easily see some of the best parts of Norway.

This is an itinerary you won’t need a car for, so it’s super easy for every traveler, especially if you are hesitant about renting a car in another country.

Keep in mind, Norway is a HUGE country with TONS to see though. Seven days in Norway won’t let you see everything, but it is a manageable trip that will let you see some of the best and most popular parts of Norway!

Why Visit Norway?

Norway is a country on so many people’s bucket lists. And for good reason! It is a beautiful country with breathtaking mountains and fjords, refreshing forests, and dramatic landscapes. Here are some reasons you may want to visit Norway:

• To stand on top of some of the most beautiful mountains (and you don’t even have to hike to them!)
• To take a bucket-list worthy fjord tour that I promise you will remember forever!
• To go to some amazing museums where you can learn about Vikings, see some of the most famous art in the world, and even let your kids play.
• To enjoy some of the most photogenic (i.e. Instragrammable, because let’s just be honest here) architecture and landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Norway

Every season in Norway can be a good one to visit, even winter! Each season is just very different.

But I think the best time to visit Norway is summer. You’ll get the best weather, with mild temperatures and less rain. Plus the sun hardly sets at all, which gives you extended daylight hours to enjoy all Norway has to offer!

When we visited in the summer, temperatures hovered around 60 degrees. So we needed light jackets, but we were perfectly comfortable!

Getting to Norway

If you arrive at the Oslo Airport, you’ll need to take a train into the city center. Oslo Gardermoen airport is about 35 km (or 22 miles) northeast of Oslo. But it’s super easy to take a train to the Central Train Station in downtown Oslo.

Likewise, the Bergen airport is several miles from the city center, but you can easily take the light rail into the city. It takes about 45 minutes or so. You can also choose to take the bus, which takes about 30 minutes.

If you are coming from a nearby country, you may choose to arrive by train. In that case, you should arrive at the central train station for each city, and from there it should be easy to walk or find public transportation to your accomodations.

Getting Around Norway

If you wanted to, you could definitely rent a car to get around Norway. However, it is NOT necessary! Norway has a fantastic public transportation system, with trains that can take you from city to city as well as around the city you are staying in.

On our trip, we didn’t rent a car at all and instead relied on trains and buses. And while going back to Norway and renting a car to drive around ourselves is definitely on my bucket list, we didn’t have any issues or feel like we missed anything by just taking public transportation!

Plus, since we bought the Oslo Pass and Bergen Card , all of our transportation (except for our longer train ride between Bergen and Oslo) was included!

7 Day Norway Itinerary Summary

Before we dive into the details of each day, let’s take a look a summary of this 7 day Norway Itinerary.

• Day 1: Arrive in Oslo and Explore Oslo
• Day 2: Explore Oslo with Akershus Fortress and Holmenkollen Ski Jump
• Day 3: Go to the Bygdøy Peninsula Museums in Oslo
• Day 4: Take the train from Oslo to Bergen

Day 5: Explore Bergen’s Mountains

Day 6: take a fjord tour.

• Day 7: Tour Bergen’s Best Museums

Norway Travel Resources

Do the cost analysis and consider getting an Oslo Pass and a Bergen Card . These passes include free (or sometimes discounted) admission to almost all of the city’s attractions and include free public transportation.

Where to Stay in Oslo: The Clarion Collection Hotel Bastion for families. Thon Hotel Opera for a super convenient location.

Where to Stay in Bergen: The Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekonteret for families. Opus XVI for a splurge.

Or use VRBO in either city to find a vacation rental.

You can buy a train ticket for the journey between Oslo and Bergen directly on Vy.no .

7 Day Norway Itinerary

Now let’s dive into the details of this itinerary! We’ve broken each section up into morning, afternoon, and evening to help you plan each day.

Also feel free to switch days around based on what works best for your schedule or even what the weather looks like! I mean, you don’t want to be going up mountains on the rainy day and touring museums on the sunny day!

One note: We did choose to start this itinerary in Oslo for a reason. Mostly because you know that travel advice to go from low to high or budget to luxury when moving resorts? I’m going to apply it to cities here too. Oslo is great and fine and good. And there are some incredible things to do here. But Bergen is one of our favorite cities ever, so it’s the best note to end on! BUT if it works better for you to reverse that order, definitely do it!

Planning a trip to Norway? Here are some books set in Norway to read before you go!

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo

Day 1 morning: get settled.

We’re going to assume you’re arriving to Oslo in the morning, so some of your morning time will obviously be taken up with travel logistics. We won’t pack a lot into the first morning, because you’ll want to find your bearings.

Once you get into the city, head straight to the Oslo Opera House . This is one of the most iconic sites in Oslo. It sits right on the water and you can WALK on the roof, which is pretty cool. I think this is a great place to start out because it’s a quick stop and it gives you some beautiful views, which I always appreciate after traveling.

Day 1 Afternoon: MUNCH Museum

Grab some lunch from one of many restaurants in the area near the Opera House and then head to the MUNCH Museum !

This new museum opened in 2021. It featured the works of famed Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, but it also has galleries featuring other artists and an exhibit about the life of Edvard Munch.

There are so many great things about this museum:

• Bright spaces and large galleries.
• Incredible views of Oslo!
• Fun, interactive displays and activities for kids in almost every different gallery space!
• You can see different versions of the famous painting, The Scream , here.

And if you bought the Oslo Pass , you can use it for admission into MUNCH.

Day 1 Evening: Frogner Park

Hop on the cable car near MUNCH at Dronningens gate (you’ll walk back past the Opera House) and get off at Vigelandsparken to go to Frogner Park . This is a large park in a central part of Oslo. It’s also where you’ll find the Vigeland Sculpture Park , a free outdoor museum featuring the work of Gustav Vigeland.

This is a great place to spend an evening walking the beautiful grounds and seeing some incredible (and free!) art!

Day 2: Explore Oslo

Day 2 morning: oslo’s royal history.

Let’s start day two of our 7 days in Norway visiting the royals! Well…kind of.

Start the morning off at Akershus Fortress where you can visit Akershus Castle . This complex was built in the late 1200s and has been used as a fortress and a royal residence. Today, you can tour the rooms and see the Royal Mausoleum.

While Akershus Castle is the main draw, Akershus Fortress is home to other Oslo attractions as well. You can visit the Norway Resistance Museum , which tells the story of Norway’s occupation and resistance during WWII. Or you can go to the Armed Forces Museum , which has exhibits of Norwegian military history from the Viking Age to modern day.

While entrance into the grounds of Akershus Fortress are free, you will need to use either an Oslo Pass or pay an admission fee for the museums.

After your time at Akershus, head to The Royal Palace . It’s about a 20 minute walk, or you can take the bus from Wessels plass to Nationaltheatret.

You can tour the inside of the Royal Palace from late June to mid-August, usually. But most of the time you’ll just stop by and see the outside of it. Depending on how long your morning took, you may decide to stick around and see the changing of the guard, which takes place at 1:30 p.m. each day.

Day 2 Afternoon: Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum

Note: The Holmenkollen Ski Museum is closed for renovations until the end of 2023. Until then, head to some of Oslo’s other museums like the National Gallery or the Nobel Peace Center.

For the afternoon, take the train to Holmenkollen to go to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum . (Remember, your Olso Pass gets you free access to local transportation including the regional trains like this one!). To get there, you’ll take the train from the Nationaltheatret station to the Holmenkollen station.

Pro Tip: To find the train station, you’ll go under the road from the park behind the Nationaltheatret. It’s a little hidden if you aren’t looking for it!

Once you get to Holmenkollen, it’s about a 15 minute walk (and kind of uphill, so be prepared!) to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum.

This ski jump has been operating since 1892, although of course it has been rebuilt since then. Inside the Ski Museum you’ll find exhibits about the history of skiing and the ski jump as well as the cutest indoor children’s play area I’ve ever seen.

Then you can take an elevator to the top of the ski jump for some incredible views!

Want more adventure? You can also go ziplining from the top of the ski jump!

Day 2 Evening: Oslo Street Food

For the evening, head to one of Oslo’s popular food halls, Oslo Street Food . Here you can get dinner from a variety of different food stalls that have food from around the world. Options include burgers, tacos, Hawaiian food, Korean food, and more. This is a popular place to go, so it will be busy! So find some great food and enjoy the atmosphere.

Day 3: Tour Oslo’s Bygdøy Peninsula

Day 3 morning: norsk folkemuseum.

For most of our third day in Norway, we’re going to enjoy the museums on Oslo’s Bygdøy Peninsula, which are some of the best museums in Oslo . To get there, you can easily take a bus from several spots in the city center.

The Norsk Folkemuseum , also known at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, is one of my favorite museums in Oslo. It’s a step back in time, as you can tour historic buildings in their open-air space and enjoy exhibits on Norwegian history in several indoor spaces.

Really though, my favorite thing about this museum is that you get to enjoy some peaceful nature in the middle of Norway’s capital city !

There are several highlights to see here:

• 160 historic buildings in the outdoor open-air museum.
• Gol Stave church, which is a great, easily accessible (as in, you don’t have to travel far) place to see a traditional Stave church.
• Wessels gate 15 Apartment House with rooms decorated from different time periods.
• Old Town area with buildings from Oslo, including old shops.
• Seter Summer Dairy Farm with fam animals.

This really is a beautiful museum, and is especially a great place to take kids because there’s so much outdoor space for them to run around in. Plus, on the weekends they have demonstrations that kids will enjoy like baking traditional lefse, seeing the blacksmith at work, and listening to fairytales.

While you are touring the museum, you can also enjoy lunch here at the Kafe Arkadia.

Admission to this museum is free with the Oslo Pass.

Day 3 Afternoon: Bygdøy Ship Museums

Spend your afternoon touring the rest of Bygdøy’s famous museums that all revolve of sea exploration. There are three you can choose from, and honestly, I recommend going to as many as you can. None of them are particularly huge museums, so you can spend an hour or two in each one and be able to see so much! Plus an Oslo Pass will give you free admission to all of them.

Bonus: They are all within walking distance of each other!

• Fram Museum — This museum is all about polar exploration. Climb aboard the Fram ship, learn about the race to reach the poles, go inside a sub-zero room, and test your skills as an explorer in interactive elements. This museum is really so much fun for the whole family!
• Kon-Tiki Museum — This is a smaller museum than the Fram Museum, and is all about the Kon-Tiki expedition where a Norwegian man build a balsa wood raft and sailed it with a small crew across the Pacific. The backstory of the expedition and the expedition itself are fascinating! I highly recommend this museum.
• Norwegian Maritime Museum — If you are interested in general maritime history, this is a great museum to go to! Here you can see different ships from Norway’s seafaring history, view an exhibit about what a sailor’s life has been like throughout history, and see a Viking boat being reconstructed.

Note: Normally the Viking Ship Museum is another popular museum to visit on Bygdøy. However, this museum is currently closed as they build the new Museum of the Viking Age which will open in 2026.

Day 3 Evening: Vippa

Take the ferry back across the fjord and then spend your evening at another popular Oslo food court: Vippa . This food court is located right on the Oslo fjord, which means you can enjoy your food and some great outdoor space at the same time. Here you’ll be able to find things like Syrian street food, Polish Pirogis, Chinese food, and more. They frequently switch up the food offerings, so you should find different options all the time!

This is a perfect way to end your time in Oslo — eating some great food and admiring the Oslo fjord. (And knowing that even more spectacular fjords are in your future!)

Day 4: Take the Train from Oslo to Bergen

We’re up to day four of our seven day Norway itinerary, and today you’ll be spending most of it traveling. Which can sound dull, but I promise you this mode of travel IS NOT.

Day 4 Morning & Afternoon: Train to Bergen

Today, take the train from Oslo to Bergen . This train, known as the Bergensbanen , is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. And I have to say, I agree!

You’ll start in Oslo and travel out into its suburbs before climbing mountains that still sometimes have snow in the summer, passing through forests, and getting a preview of some of Norway’s best fjords.

The train journey itself takes about 7 hours. But it doesn’t seem that long at all!

Besides the most amazing scenery, there are some other great perks to this train journey:

• A family car, with a cushioned play area kids can play and climb in.
• A café car that offers food and drink. I got a warm sandwich here and honestly though it was pretty great!
• Wi-Fi, although it can be a bit spotty in some areas.
• Lots of tunnels, which are just fun!

Day 4 Evening: Dinner in Bergen’s Fish Market

Depending on when you leave Oslo, you’ll probably get into Bergen in the late afternoon. Once you get settled, head to the central area of Bergen and find some dinner at the Bergen Fish Market .

Bergen has long been known for their fishing history, and this area in the center part of town has several restaurants you can choose from. During the summer, there are also outdoor stands that offer different menus.

Then find a bench along the water and take a deep breath of fresh Bergen air and enjoy your evening people-watching and boat-watching!

Day 5 Morning: Bryggen

Start your first morning in Bergen with a stop at it’s most photographed area — Bryggen . These wooden buildings were once used as harbor warehouses and office buildings, but are now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

And while this place can get super crowded later in the afternoon and evening, I love exploring it in the morning before the crowds are out! Be sure to go down the different alleyways and walk along the wooden planks. The architecture of this area has so much character.

Plus, morning is a great time to get photographs of beautiful Bryggen without the crowds!

Day 5 Afternoon: Mount Ulriken

Grab an early lunch, and then head to Ulriken643 to go up to the top of Mount Ulriken . You’ll have to take a bus to get here and then walk about 10 minute (kind of uphill), but I promise it is worth it!

This cable car will take you to the top of Mount Ulriken, where you’ll find amazing views of Bergen and the surrounding area. There are all kinds of hiking trails and places to explore up here. Although my favorite honestly might just be standing at the top of the mountain and looking at all the other mountains surrounding you. You can even see the lakes on top of some of them!

Ulriken is an incredible place and I definitely recommend making the time for it, even if getting to the cable car is a little out of the way.

If you are really up for an adventure, you can make a whole afternoon of hiking here too! You can hike from Ulriken to our next stop, Fløyen, across the mountaintops! It’s a medium-difficultly hike with some challenging areas and takes about 5+ hours. (And be sure to hike safely !)

Day 5 Evening: Mount Fløyen

End your day at my favorite spot in Bergen: Mount Fløyen ! This is another mountain in Bergen that offers amazing scenery and views of Bergen.

It’s a bit easier to get here than Ulriken. You can take the Fløbanen funicular, which departs just a couple blocks from the city center.

The terrain here is also very different from Ulriken. This mountain is forested, which gives you some really fun areas to explore. There are also fun things like a several playground areas, a troll forest, and ice cream stand, and a café.

You can grab dinner here, and then spend your evening exploring the forests and finding a spot at the overlook to watch the sun dip down. (Although, depending on what time of year you are visiting, it might not actually go down before you need to head to bed!)

Day 6 All Day: Fjord Tour

Bergen is known as “The Gateway to the Fjords” because it’s a great home base for seeing some of Norway’s most spectacular fjords in a day trip.

There are lots of different tours you can take to see the fjords, but we recommend the Norway in a Nutshell tour .

This tour is a self-guided tour that takes you through multiple modes of transportation (seriously, a train to a bus to a boat to another train, etc.) to popular fjords. You can choose to either book all of these tickets on your own, or pay a higher prices to have Norway in a Nutshell book the tickets for you .

When they book the tickets for you, they make sure all of your timings are worked out perfectly and they give you step-by-step instructions on how to follow the itinerary. Honestly, if it’s your first time in Norway or you feel remotely nervous about managing your own travel plans, I think this is the way to go!

This tour will take you through some of the most amazing places:

• The popular Nærøyfjord , which has to be one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway.
• Aurlandsfjord , which is a lot wider and definitely different, but still beautiful.
• Flåm , a small town situated at the base of the fjords
• The historic Flåm Railway , which takes you through the mountains and has you stop at an incredible waterfall.

I mean, did you really go to Norway if you didn’t see the fjords? So definitely make sure you set aside a day during your 7 days in Norway for a full day-trip of fjord-touring.

Day 7: Explore Bergen’s Museums

It’s your last full day in Norway, and since yesterday was so busy, we’ll take it a bit easier today with some of Bergen’s best museums.

Day 7 Morning: Gamle Bergen Museum

Start your morning off at the Old Bergen Museum (Gamle Bergen). You can take the bus from Bryggen and get off at the Gamle Bergen stop. Then it’s just a short walk under the road to the museum.

The Old Bergen Museum is an open-air museum with houses from…well, Old Bergen. They have been reconstructed to create a small town that shows what life was like in Bergen in the 1800s. You’ll find houses from community leaders, an old grocery store, and historic actors that tell you about Old Bergen.

Plus, this spot has some beautiful views out into the fjord. Besides all the things we learned about Old Bergen, I really loved this place because it felt so peaceful!

Admission to this museum is free with the Bergen Card.

Day 7 Afternoon: More Museums

Bergen has so many more museums! So after you grab lunch (maybe in Bryggen?), find one or two of these museums which sound most interesting to you!

Most of these museums have free admission with the Bergen Card.

• Norwegian Fisheries Museum — A small museum along the water that teaches you about the history of fishing in Norway and current fishing practices. Plus they have some great interactive exhibits that both kids and adults will enjoy!
• VilVite (Bergen Science Center) — If you are traveling with kids, this is a must! This museum is full of science experiments for kids. They will learn a lot, but they will really feel like they are playing the whole time!
• Bryggens Museum (Bergen City Museum) — If you want to learn more about the history and restoration process of Bryggen, then head here!
• Leprosy Museum — This is definitely one of the more unique museums in Bergen! Late 1800s, Bergen was home to the largest concentration of leprosy patients in Europe, and you can learn about this at what used to the be leprosy hospital.
• Fantoft Stave Church — If you want to venture out of town just a bit, you can take the bus to see the Fantoft Stave Church. This is less of a museum and more of just a sight to see, but if you are interested in Stave churches you’ll want to add this to your list.

Day 7 Evening: Bryggen

There’s no better way to end your last evening in Norway than back in Bryggen , where you can grab some dinner, relax by the water, and maybe do some souvenir shopping. (Although try to hit the shopping before dinner since stores will start to close!)

We’ll keep it low-key this evening, since you probably need to head back to your hotel and start packing up. But stay out for a bit and soak up a bit more of that fresh mountain air that you will wish you could bottle up and take home with you.

Tips for Visiting Norway

If you’re coming from the United States, Norway is a relatively easy country to visit. Most Norwegians are comfortable speaking English, most restaurants and shops take credit cards (in fact, lots don’t take cash!), and cars still drive on the right side of the road.

Here are a few tips to make your travels to Norway a little smoother though:

• Expect rain! It can rain a lot in Norway, and weather can easily change from clear skies to rain within the day. Always have rain gear with you! And wear shoes that will be okay in the rain.
• Wear layers. Temperatures during the day can vary, so always be prepared with layers.
• Wear sunscreen! This is just a good all around travel tip, and since Norway can sometimes be gray or rainy, you may not think to put sunscreen on. But always apply it!
• Budget for food expenses. Norway is known to be one of the most expensive countries to visit, and we definitely saw that in the food prices! So make sure you have plenty of room in your budget for food. We definitely found Oslo to be more expensive than Bergen though.
• Learn some Norwegian. Even though Norwegians are comfortable speaking English, learn a few words like “hello” and “thank you” in Norwegian to be polite.
• Don’t be surprised with you don’t get a response. If you are trying to be polite and say “thank you” don’t be surprised if you don’t get a “you’re welcome” back. It’s just one of those cultural things, but no one is being rude!
• Consider City Passes. If you plan to see a lot of sights in Oslo and Bergen during your 7 day Norway itinerary, consider getting the Oslo Pass and Bergen Card to save money. They also include local transportation!
• Check attraction times and dates. Always be sure you know what time something opens. And check the dates too! Some museums may be closed on certain days or even during the winter entirely!

More Norway Posts

• Norway in a Nutshell Review: How to See Norway’s Incredible Fjords
• 3 Days in Bergen, Norway: What to See and Do
• 13 Best Museums in Oslo, Norway
• How to Spend One Day is Oslo, Norway

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The 5 Best National Park Road Trips in the U.S.

From western landscapes to the Blue Ridge Parkway, our national park expert maps out five beautiful road trips—all doable in a week

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Here’s the dream: Quit your job and hit all 64 national parks in one huge multi-month road trip where you live mostly in a van and finally see all of these iconic landscapes for yourself. To call that dream unrealistic is an understatement, at least for me, for a variety of reasons (see “quit job,” above), though it’s been accomplished by an Outside writer.

The closest I’ve ever come was in my 20s, spending a month driving around the Rocky Mountains and American Southwest in my VW Jetta during summer break from graduate school. A decade or so later, I re-created that trip with my wife and our then four-year-old twins. Both experiences were awesome. One of them had more tantrums.

You can plan a great park trip that captures the open-road spirit on a smaller scale. Below, I’ve outlined five itineraries that take in multiple parks, all within a week. I picked a variety of terrain—lonely desert basins, ice-cold swimming holes, perfect hikes, and cultural wonders. There are one or two classic routes.

But mostly, I chose these because they go to parks that don’t get the massive amount of attention some of their cousins receive. So gas or charge up and go.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway, from Shenandoah to Great Smoky Mountains

Virginia/north carolina, distance: 470 miles, duration: four-plus days.

This trip is in my backyard, so I’m biased, but it’s also awesome, because the entire 470-plus-mile route is within a national-park unit. The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles along the peaks and valleys of the Southern Appalachian mountain range, connecting two of the country’s most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina/Tennessee and Shenandoah in Virginia.

Driving the entire length of the parkway is slow (speed limit is between 25 and 45 miles per hour) and full of curves in the road, and also overlooks,  side hikes to swimming holes, and mountain hikes through a lush landscape with elevations that top 6,000 feet. And that’s just the road between the two great national parks.

Heading south on the parkway, you will find picnic areas, trailheads, and scenic views. Give yourself at least a couple of days to complete the road alone, making sure to hike the three-mile out-and-back Sharp Top Trail in the Peaks of Otter area near Bedford, Virginia, which leads to a panoramic view of the Shenandoah Valley and the Allegheny Mountains. When you get to North Carolina, hit Grandfather Mountain State Park, where you can climb the 7.6-mile out-and-back Profile Trail , scrambling along outcroppings and climbing ladders to the summit of the 5,964-foot Callaway Peak.

Adventures in Shenandoah: Located just 70 miles west of Washington, D.C, Shenandoah National Park is home to 200,000 acres of 4,000-foot peaks, dense hardwood forest, waterfalls, and historic farmland. The most popular hike is also one of the park’s toughest; Old Rag Circuit is a 9.2-mile loop that requires rock scrambling with some use of your hands to reach Old Rag Mountain, which offers 360-degree views of the park and surrounding farmland. You need a permit to hike the mountain between March 1 and November 30. It’s only $2, but permits are limited to 800 a day, so get them up to 30 days in advance .

If you’re looking to cool off, hike the Whiteoak Canyon/Cedar Run Circuit , an 8.1-mile loop that gains 3,000 feet while traversing two tight gorges packed with waterfalls and swimming holes. Lower and Upper Whiteoak Canyon Falls are the highlights, as Upper Falls drops 86 feet between narrow canyon walls, and Lower Falls has a primo plunge pool.

Adventures in Great Smoky Mountains : The Smokies comprise a mix of rocky streams stacked with waterfalls and swimming holes, and steep slopes thick with vegetation. It’s hard to get across just how green this park is. On the northern end, you’ll find Midnight Hole, a deep, cold swimming hole at the base of a small waterfall. The pool is lined with 15-foot boulders, and locals like to jump from them into the deep part. Access is via the easy three-mile out-and-back Big Creek Trail . If you want to ditch the crowds (GSMNP gets 14 million visitors a year), hike deeper into the park. Ramsey Cascades Trail is an eight-mile round trip through stands of old-growth tulip poplars to the 100-foot Ramsey Cascade, the tallest waterfall inside the park.

A few historic fire lookout towers still stand inside the park, but the most scenic is Mount Cammerer, a circular wooden building perched on a rocky outcropping, nearly 5,000 feet in elevation, offering views of 5,000- and 6,000-foot peaks as well as the Pigeon River Gorge. Hike this 11.6-mile out and back from Big Creek Parking Area, and you will do a piece of the Appalachian Trail, enjoying scenic stretches along Big Creek before climbing to the ridgeline.

Stay : In Shenandoah, Big Meadows is a historic stone-and-chestnut lodge in the middle of the park. Choose from lodge rooms or rustic cabins (from $251 a night ), and wander the mile to Big Meadow after dark for stargazing . Lodges and campgrounds are spaced all along the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, so it’s easy to break the journey up into chunks if you’re not in a hurry. Julian Price Campground is one of the most popular overnights ($20 per night, reserve six months in advance). The 190-site facility sits next to Julian Price Lake, where you can rent canoes . Under Canvas has a glamping resort on 182 acres of hardwood forest near the Gatlinburg entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Each fully furnished safari-style tent has a private bathroom, and the place features live music, campfires at night, and yoga in the morning, not to mention an on-site restaurant with seasonal dishes and craft beer.

2. Joshua Tree to Death Valley, California

Distance: 250 miles, duration: at least three days.

This route will take you to an underappreciated gem.

Is it weird to spend several days in Southern California and not go to the beach? Well, this desert romp is packed with so much wild terrain you won’t miss the Pacific Ocean. Joshua Tree National Park is 800,000 acres of sandstone boulders, crusty desert floor, and stands of the eponymous trees, while 250 miles north, Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48, at 3.5 million acres. Inside are 14,000-foot peaks, expansive craters, dunes, and slot canyons.

Weather is a factor with this itinerary because both parks are in the desert and hot as hell in the middle of summer (temps can reach 120 degrees). So consider this a late-spring or early-fall trip. (If you ever go in summer, do all of your adventures at dawn, take a ton of water, and be back at your place or camp before lunch. Also tell someone exactly where you are going.)

The 250-mile drive is mostly two-lane highway that offers a mix of desolate beauty (you’ll drive between Leghorn Lakes Wilderness and Sheephole Valley Wilderness) and California weirdness (the World’s Largest Thermometer is on this route). Want more adventure? As you drive between these two standout parks, try a pitstop at Mojave National Preserve, which has the largest grove of Joshua Trees in the world, natural springs, and towering dunes.

You can fly into Las Vegas or Los Angeles. L.A. to Joshua Tree is about 150 miles and not terribly interesting, so let’s just go straight to the park.

Adventures in Joshua Tree : J-Tree is a bucket-list rock-climbing destination, but the hiking is easily as good, and just being in the place is amazing. The 2.5-mile Split Rock Trail gives hikers a chance to see and scramble on some of the park’s signature boulders, including Split Rock, a 20-foot-tall formation with a fissure in the middle, and to explore a few small caves. If you want to see a lot of Joshua Trees (who doesn’t?), hike the Panorama Loop in Black Rock Canyon, a 6.5-mile lollipop that traverses one of the densest groves of Joshua Trees in the park, or sections of ridgeline trail, with long-range views of the 11,000-foot peaks inside the nearby Sand to Snow National Monument .

Adventures in Mojave National Preserve: Just 70 miles north of Joshua Tree, Mojave NP offers a convenient diversion on your way to Death Valley. Stretch your legs by hiking the three-mile out-and-back trail into Kelso Dunes , a 45-square-mile field with mounds of sand that rise 650 feet from the valley floor. The Kelso Dunes actually produce “booming,” which is a deep, rumbling vibration that you can hear and feel from the crest of one. Be aware that hiking in dunes is tough, as the sand shifts below your feet with every step.

Adventures in Death Valley : You hiked dunes in Mojave, so in Death Valley National Park, let’s focus on the canyons and peaks. Fall Canyon is a six-mile out and back through a slot canyon so narrow that at points you can touch both sides from the middle.

If it’s your first time to the park, you’re obligated to visit Badwater Salt Flats, the lowest and hottest point in the U.S. There’s no designated trail through the flats, so wander at will through the flat, crispy valley, flanked by the Panamint Mountains and Black Mountains.

Stay: The Inn at Death Valley is a historic lodge located inside the park, with five-star accommodations. Consider this an oasis in the desert, complete with a spring-fed swimming pool (from $359 a night). At Joshua Tree, try to reserve a spot at Indian Cove Campground , which has sites tucked between massive boulders. There are no hookups, but RVs are allowed ($25 a night). If you can’t score an advance reservation there, Hidden Valley Campground has first come/first serve sites ($15 a night). Also, Field Station is opening a new location outside of Joshua Tree in May, with campsites for van-lifers and private rooms, all of which have access to the property’s gear shop, coffee shop and communal spaces (rooms from $127 a night).

3. White Sands National Park, Carlsbad Caverns, and Guadalupe Mountains National Park

New mexico and texas, distance: 300 miles, duration: four to five days.

Want variety? This trip has a trio of national parks that are close geographically, but a world apart in terms of terrain. Carlsbad Caverns National Park is all about the subterranean, protecting 119 caves, the biggest of which are open to exploration. Guadalupe Mountains National Park covers a swath of 8,000-foot peaks in West Texas, and those include eight of the 10 tallest in the entire state. White Sand Dunes National Park is home to a 275-square-mile gypsum dune field that rolls towards the horizon in a series of white tidal waves.

All three parks are within a couple hundred miles of each other, and El Paso serves as an ideal starting point to fly into the area and rent a car. These parks don’t see the crowds that some of the big-ticket units draw in summer, so there’s a better chance for quiet and good campsites. The three also have totally different climates. White Sand Dunes is hot (but not like J-Tree or Death Valley), Carlsbad is underground, and Guadalupe is chilly.

Other than a brief period where you skirt around the edge of El Paso, you’re driving mostly two-lane highways with a real “middle of nowhere” vibe between the parks. Think sand and scrub brush for as far as the eye can see.

Adventures in White Sand Dunes: Alkali Flat Trail is a five-mile loop through the heart of the sand dunes, following red trail markers. You’re climbing and descending 60-foot dunes the entire time, so pace yourself and expect your legs to be worked at the end. Bring a sled (sold at the visitors’ center if you don’t have your own), as you’re allowed to slide down the steepest slopes along the route.

Adventures in Guadalupe Mountains National Park : The signature adventure is hiking the 8,751-foot Guadalupe Peak , with a craggy, treeless summit, the tallest in the state of Texas. The views stretching east over the plains are endless, but to earn them you will climb 3,000 feet in just over four miles. Bring a jacket, as the summit is notoriously windy. But the real treat of Guadalupe Mountains is Devil’s Hall Trail , a four-mile out-and-back that’s rocky with mandatory scrambling to traverse a dry river wash. Towards the end, you’ll climb Hiker’s Staircase, an easy hand-over-hand natural rock ladder out of the wash and into a narrow slot canyon.

Adventures in Carlsbad Caverns : Start with a self-guided tour of the Big Room, the largest single-cave chamber in the U.S., loaded with bizarre stalactites and stalagmites. An elevator could deliver you into the cave, but instead walk the switchbacks down via the Natural Entrance, and feel what it’s like to go from the surface into the cold, dark underground. The full hike down the Natural Entrance and into the Big Room is 2.5 miles and should take a few hours; without the walk in, the hike is 1.25 miles, with a .6-mile shortcut also possible, and parts of the Big Room are wheelchair accessible . If you want something spicier, sign up for a ranger-led tour of Lower Cave , which requires descending 60 feet of ladders and ropes to a series of smaller rooms with crazy rock features, like the skinny, tall “Texas Toothpick” or “cave pearls,” which look like clusters of eggs ($20, reservations required).

Where to Stay: Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Carlsbad Caverns are close enough that one campground works as a base camp to explore both. Check out Pine Springs Campground in Guadalupe Mountains, which has 20 tent sites and 13 RV sites you can reserve in advance ($20 a night). A number of hiking trails (including Devil’s Hall) begin here. The closest campground to White Sands is in Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, which has private desert sites ($10 per night). The backcountry campsites in White Sands are closed indefinitely, but nearby Alamogordo has a variety of chain hotels.

4. Denali National Park to Kenai Fjords National Park

Distance: 400 miles, duration: five-plus days, but if you’re flying all the way to alaska, take your time.

Alaska is an awe-inspiring collection of giant mountains, permanent ice fields, and jagged coast, and Denali and Kenai Fjords national parks encapsulate choice slices of that unique topography. Denali National Park covers more than 6 million acres of Alaska’s interior, including the 20,310-foot Denali, but also the tundra and spruce forest that surround it and attract big-time wildlife like caribou and brown bears. Kenai Fjords National Park couldn’t be more different; instead of forest and towering peaks, it’s home to 600,000 acres of glaciers, inlets, bays, and islands. More than half of the park is covered in snow and ice year round, and the majority is accessed by water. While much of Alaska isn’t conducive to road trips because of a lack of roads, these two parks are less than 400 miles apart and connected by highways.

The two-lane blacktop between the main destinations rolls out like a highlight reel of Alaska, offering views of Denali’s snow-capped peaks at one point and the Cook Inlet at another. Keep an eye out for Beluga whales, which live and breed in the inlet. Chugach State Park , with its 3,000-foot mountains, is also on the route.

A visitor can fly into Anchorage, halfway between the two parks. You’ll basically have to ditch the car at each destination, as car travel is limited in both parks. There are few roads in Kenai, and the main road through Denali is limited to shuttle traffic to minimize impact on the landscape. But that’s part of the charm here.

Adventures in Denali: Denali isn’t a “drive through” park. In fact, private vehicles aren’t allowed past mile 15 of the scenic Denali Park Road, though bikes get the green light. To ride in, start at the Savage River Visitor Center (mile 15) and bike to Sable Pass between miles 37 and 42, where the final 1,500-foot climb to the pass is rewarded by views that stretch all the way to Denali itself. But Sable Pass is best known for its wildlife. Mostly treeless and full of berry bushes, it attracts brown bears, caribou, and Dall sheep, which often graze in the tundra near the road. From the top of the pass, you can turn around and bike back, or, if you pre-arrange it, hop on the free Savage River Shuttle , which has bike racks. Bike Denali offers rentals (starting at $75 per day).

Or consider a guided rafting trip on the Nenana River, a glacier-fed stream that forms the eastern border of Denali. Book a mild or wild day trip with Denali Raft Adventures . The 11-mile canyon run is packed with class IV rapids with names like “Coffee Grinder,” and the full ride, for ages 12 and up, is a brisk two hours. A different short option, the two-hour-long Wilderness Run, is ideal for young families, as it contains mostly class I-II rapids and offers a good chance to see wildlife like moose and caribou. (From $130 a person, May through September).

Adventures in Kenai: Kenai is a coastal park with most of its goods accessed via boat, but land lovers have options, too. Hike on the edge of the Harding Ice Field , the largest permanent ice field in the U.S., stretching for 700 square miles and feeding Exit Glacier, which forms a half-mile-wide river of ice that melts into Exit Creek. Start at the Exit Glacier Nature Center and hike the 8.2-mile out-and-back Harding Icefield Trail , which climbs a total of 3,000 feet through the surrounding forest to gigantic views of the icefield. If you really want to throw yourself into the landscape, book an intro-to-ice climbing trip with Exit Glacier Guides , exploring crevasses and climbing pitches of vertical ice with use of rope, crampons, and axes ($249 per person).

For a water-borne adventure, head to Bear Glacier Lagoon, 12 miles south of Seward, where a thin beach separates a glacier-fed lake from the Gulf of Alaska. The lake sits in a deep bowl rising to green ridges, and the water is littered with house-sized icebergs. Liquid Adventures offers fully outfitted day trips to the lagoon ($550 per person).

Where to Stay : In Denali, book a spot at Savage River Campground , which has 32 sites tucked into a spruce forest ($49 a night). Located on mile 13 on the Denali Park Road, it’s easy to reach with a car (some campgrounds in Denali are only accessible by shuttle bus), but the real prize is access to Savage River and incredible views of Denali via a short gravel-road walk. Reservations are recommended, but not required. In Kenai, Exit Glacier Campground has 12 walk-in tent sites, first-come, first-served. They’re free, but fill up most nights during July and August. The Seward Adventure Lodge , in the middle of downtown Seward, is a seven-room mid-century-era motel with renovated rooms located just minutes from the edge of Kenai ($190 per night, two night minimum).

5. Mesa Verde and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Parks

Distance: 160 miles, duration: three days.

Rocky Mountain National Park gets most of the love in Colorado, and while it’s incredible, the Centennial State has other unforgettable national-park units. Mesa Verde National Park and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park are nestled into the southwest corner of the state, proximal enough to make for an ideal weekend road trip. Mesa Verde is a cultural treasure, containing more than 5,000 archaeological sites, including the early cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people.

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is altogether different, enveloping a nearly 2,500-foot-deep gorge surrounding the Gunnison River. It’s a deep, dark chasm with sheer vertical walls, rugged hiking and climbing, boating, and world-class trout fishing.

You can fly into Durango to kick the trip off, and Telluride is smack dab in the middle of the route between parks if you want to throw in a visit to a classic mountain town. The Jud Weibe Trail , a locals’ favorite and handy but fantastic afternoon outing, offers views of the ski area and entire valley on varied and forested terrain.

The majority of this road trip cruises through San Juan National Forest on a highway with views of some of Colorado’s tallest and most iconic peaks, including the 14,158-foot Mount Sneffels and 14,023-foot Wilson Peak. You’ll pass right through Telluride, but you can also make a 22-mile roundtrip detour to Ouray to soak in the hot springs.

Adventures in Mesa Verde: Get your bearings by driving the six-mile Mesa Top Loop Road, which winds along past excavated mesa-top villages, with overlooks to see cliff dwellings, including the Cliff Palace, which archaeologists believe could house up to 100 people. There are 30 miles of hiking trails inside the park, so you can see a lot of the area in a day. If you’re limited on time, hike the 2.4-mile Petroglyph Point Trail , which will have you squeezing through boulder passages and traversing cliffside singletrack to a large petroglyph panel. To see the cliff dwellings up close, reserve a spot on a ranger-led Cliff Dwelling Tour ($8 per person, reservations possible 14 days in advance). The Balcony House Tour is the most adventurous: you ascend a cliff face into the 700-year-old dwelling via a series of ladders, then worm through a narrow tunnel that connects rooms.

Adventures in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison : The BCOG is a tough canyon to navigate, as there are no bridges connecting the North Rim and South Rim, so it’s a circuitous two-hour drive between the two sides of the park. The South Rim is the more developed, with a dozen overlooks, a visitors’ center, and an 88-site campground. The North Rim is more primitive, with a gravel road providing access to a few developed trails and a handful of overlooks. Both sides are stunning, but I’m pointing you to the South Rim for its hiking and scrambling routes. If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy the view, stroll the two-mile Rim Rock Nature Trail for shots of the canyon and river below. But you’re here for the scramble to the bottom of the gorge via the unmarked Tomichi Route , which drops 1,960 feet in just one mile (the park allows use of the trail and offers a video about it). There’s a lot of down climbing and loose rock, but at the bottom you’ll have the Gunnison River all to yourself. Bring a fly rod; the Gunnison is a gold-medal trout stream. This is a full-day adventure, and you’ll need a permit (free) to descend into the canyon. Get one at the South Rim Visitor Center.

Where to Stay : Both parks have large campgrounds, if you want to keep it simple and budget friendly. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison’s South Rim Campground is convenient (only a mile from the visitors’ center), but don’t expect a ton of privacy ($20 a night, reservations recommended). The North Rim has a smaller campground , with 13 sites separated by piñon and juniper trees ($20 a night, first-come, first-served). Morefield Campground , in Mesa Verde, is large, with 267 sites within a broad, grassy canyon ($38 a night, reserve in advance).

If you want to spend a night in Telluride, check out The Bivvi , an upscale hostel with private or shared rooms that caters to road trippers (from $40 per night).

Graham Averill is Outside magazine’s national parks columnist. He’s currently trying to convince his 15-year-old twins to re-create the national parks road trip they undertook a decade ago. It’s not going well.

For more by this writer:

The 9 Most Fun Adventure Lodges in North America

The 9 Best Gateway Towns to U.S. National Parks

The 8 Most Adventurous States in America. Number 1 Is …

11 Remote Destinations That Are Definitely Worth the Effort to Visit

• Denali National Park and Preserve
• Fly Fishing
• Joshua Tree National Park

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