How to See Norway’s Highlights on a 7-Day Cruise

Seeing Norway’s dramatic fjords, storybook towns, and cultural capitals doesn’t require weeks of travel. With 7-day cruises to Norway, you can experience the country’s most unforgettable highlights efficiently and comfortably — all while unpacking just once. This is an ideal way to balance scenic cruising with immersive time ashore, especially with Holland America’s carefully curated Norwegian itineraries.

A well-planned 7-day Norway cruise blends vibrant cities, charming coastal towns, and awe-inspiring fjords. Our itineraries typically include a mix of port days and scenic cruising through UNESCO-listed waterways like Geirangerfjord or Hardangerfjord. Explore itinerary options on our Norway cruises page, along with helpful planning resources and guides to Norway’s cuisine.

Check out a sample snapshot of common 7-day itineraries through Norway:

Explore Itinerary

Because shore excursions in Norway are highly sought-after, booking early is recommended — while still leaving time for spontaneous wandering through cafés, viewpoints, and local shops.

Blending modern design with deep history, Oslo has plenty to see like the Munch Museum, the Viking Ship Museum, as well as opportunities to walk along scenic waterfronts.

Surrounded by mountains and sea, Bergen charms visitors with its UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf and the Bryggens Museum, which reveals daily life in medieval Norway. Stroll through the lively fish market and experience the rich maritime heritage.

Often called Norway’s most beautiful city, Alesund is one of few towns in Norway with remaining Art Nouveau buildings. It also offers panoramic viewpoints such as Mount Aksla.

Near Hardangervidda National Park, Eidfjord offers thundering waterfalls, reindeer sightings, and outdoor adventures such as kayaking and hiking.

Holland America enhances Norway sailings with destination-focused enrichment, regional cuisine, and expertly narrated scenic cruising through fjords. Our perfectly sized ships navigate Norway’s famous fjords with ease yet still offer numerous dining and entertainment options.

Popular shore excursions are best reserved in advance to maximize your time ashore:

• Fjord kayaking
• Glacier walks
• Walk with huskies
• Northern Lights Cathedral

Looking to experience something otherworldly? Cross the aurora borealis off your bucket list on one of our 2026/2027 Northern Lights cruises. With an overnight stay in Alta, Norway, this remote location offers you the best chance at spotting the Northern Lights.

Layers are key. Even in summer, pack a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes for all-day adventures. Read about what to wear in Norway.

On board your cruise, you’ll find dishes made from fresh local ingredients like North Sea cod or Norwegian salami to get the full experience. Plus, enjoy a Baltic and Scandinavian brunch once on board, featuring gravlax, a traditional Nordic dish of cured, marinated salmon, and other specialties. Learn more about the best Norwegian culinary traditions.

traditional Nordic dish of raw salmon that is “cured” with a dry marinade of salt, sugar, and fresh dill

What ports are typically included on a 7-day Norwegian fjords cruise?
Common ports include Oslo, Bergen, Ålesund, and Eidfjord, plus scenic fjord cruising days.

What is the best time to cruise the Norwegian fjords?
Summer offers the best weather, longest daylight hours, and peak scenic beauty.

What activities are available in Norway?
Travelers can enjoy museum visits, hiking, kayaking, scenic railways, wildlife viewing, and cultural tours.

A 7-day cruise is the perfect introduction to Norway — delivering iconic sights, cultural depth, and unforgettable scenery in one seamless journey.

Access Exclusive Deals & More