Skip to Main Content
Holland America
  • Search
  • Favorites
  • en
    • English
    • Spanish
    • English
    • Spanish
  • Chat
    • 1-855-932-1711
    • or
    • Live Chat
  • My Account
    Hello Credits
    My Account Exclusive Offers Log out
  • Book a Cruise
    Book a Cruise
    Find
    • Search All Cruises
    • Cruises: 1 – 8 Days
    • Cruises: 9+ Days
    • Cruises: 17+ Days
    • Legendary Voyages: 25 – 59 Days
    • Grand Voyages & World Cruises: 60+ Days
    • Transatlantic Cruises
    • Holiday Cruises
    • Solar Eclipse
    • Charters
    Plan
    • City Stays & Overland Packages
    • Flights & Transfers
    • Hotel Packages
    • Cancellation Protection
    Gifts
    • Gift Cards
    • Send a Gift to a Guest
    Learn More
    • Cruise Planning 101
    • Required Travel Documents
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Family Travel
    • Accessibility
    Need free advice? Talk with a Personal Cruise Consultant.
    Celebrating our Anniversary with experiences too good to hurry through
    Savour The Journey
  • Destinations
    Destinations
    North & South America
    • Alaska & Yukon
    • Canada & New England
    • Caribbean
    • Hawaii
    • Mexico
    • California & Pacific Coast
    • Panama Canal
    • South America & Antarctica
    • Bahamas
    Europe & Mediterranean
    • Europe
    • Mediterranean
    • Norway
    • Iceland
    • Scandinavia
    • Transatlantic
    Asia, Australia & New Zealand
    • Asia
    • Australia & New Zealand
    • Tahiti
    See the World
    • Legendary Voyages
    • Grand Voyages
    Holland America Owned
    • Half Moon Cay
    • Holland America Denali Lodge
    Need free advice? Talk with a Personal Cruise Consultant.
    Couple admiring view from ship deck
    Your dream vacation begins here.
    View Cruises
  • Alaska
    Alaska
    Alaska Cruises
    • All Cruises
    • 6 – 8 Days
    • 9 – 16 Days
    • 17+ Days
    • Learn about Alaska Cruises
    Alaska & Yukon Cruisetours
    • All Cruisetours
    • 9 – 16 Days
    • 17+ Days
    • Learn about Cruisetours
    Glacier Viewing
    • Interactive Glacier Map
    • Guide to Glacier Tours
    • Glacier Bay National Park
    • Our Glacier Guarantee
    Wildlife & Wilderness
    • Alaska Wildlife
    • Denali National Park
    • National Parks
    • White Pass Scenic Railway
    Learn More
    • Sustainable Seafood
    • What to Pack
    • Cruisetour Tips
    • Featured Ports
    Holland America Owned
    • Holland America Denali Lodge
    Need free advice? Talk with a Personal Cruise Consultant.
    Brown bear with three cubs
    Cross Denali off your bucket list.
    View Cruisetours
  • Ship Life
    Ship Life
    Our Ships
    • Fleet Overview
    • Suites & Staterooms
    Activities
    • Activities Day & Night
    • Spa & Salon
    • Casino
    • Shopping
    • Kids & Teens
    Dining
    • Destination Dining™ Our Commitment to Fresh
    • Culinary Ambassadors
    • Restaurants
    • Bars & Lounges
    Music & Entertainment
    • Production Shows
    • Live Music & Nightlife
    • Destination Experts
    Shore Excursions
    • Find Shore Excursions
    • Overland Tours
    • Best Price Guarantee
    Other Amenities
    • Club Orange
    • Have It All Package
    • Wi-Fi & Internet Packages
    Women relaxing at the Holland America Spa & Salon
    Treat yourself at sea.
    Go to Spa & Salon
  • Deals
    Deals
    Deals
    • All Cruise Deals
    • All Exclusive Offers & Cruise Deals
    • Travel by Sea Sale
    • Father's Day Weekend Sale
    • Top Ten Cruise Deals
    • Refer a Friend, Get $50
    • Community Appreciation Offers
    • AARP Member Offer
    • Grand Voyage Early Booking Bonus
    • Special Offers for Guests 3 & 4
    • Standby Program
    Have It All
    • Have It All Premium Cruise Package
    • Have It All Early Booking Bonus
    Club Orange & Mariner Society
    • Join Club Orange
    • $400 Onboard Credit - Early Booking Bonus
    • Mariner Society
    Our best amenities in one premium package
    Explore Cruises
  • Manage My Cruise
    Manage My Cruise
    Manage
    • My Cruise
    • Check In
    • Make a Payment
    • Book Flights
    • Book Airport Transfers
    • Book Hotels & Travel Packages
    • Cancellation Protection
    Customize Your Cruise
    • Shore Excursions
    • Spa & Salon
    • Beverage Packages
    • Wi-Fi & Internet Packages
    • Dining Reservations
    Celebrate On Board
    • Gifts & Extras
    • Stateroom Décor Packages
    • Send a Gift to a Guest
    More Info
    • Download Mobile App
    • Know Before You Go
    • Cruise Credits
    • Departure Port Information
    • Required Travel Documents
    Airplane flying above clouds
    Book flights the easy way.
    Try Flight Ease®
  • My Account Exclusive Offers
  • Search
  • Log out
  • en
    • English
    • Spanish
  • Chat
  • Chat
  • 1-855-932-1711
  • or
  • Live Chat

5 Best Fjords in Norway

Norway is known for its jagged coast, staggering cliffs and 1,190 glass-like fjords. Cut by glaciers during the ice age, these saltwater inlets are a cruising paradise with calm waters and fairytale landscapes. Like a diamond or a snowflake, each fjord is unique. Here are the best time to visit Norway fjords, the best tours of Norway fjords, along with what makes each fjord different.

Geirangerfjord | Sognefjord | Hardangerfjord | Trondheimsfjord | Liefdefd Fjord

 

If you’re ready to book a fjord cruise, check out Northern Europe cruises to explore your options.


Geirangerfjord, Norway.

1. Geirangerfjord - Most Beautiful  Fjord

Geirangerfjord has an impressive resume. Framed by forested mountains and plunging waterfalls, it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and claims to be “the world’s most beautiful fjord.” Geirangerfjord is so pretty, it could make a run for the world’s most beautiful place.

Known for its towering mountain peaks, striking blue waters, and abundant waterfalls, Geirangerfjord is the place to be to admire stunning scenery. After Norway's glaciers receded, they created deep valleys that were later filled with seawater. The Geirangerfjord has a depth of almost 500 meters (1,640 feet).

 

Geirangerfjord Location
Hailed as one of the most picturesque places in Scandinavia, Geirangerfjord is located within Stranda Municipality. Geiranger, a quaint village nestles at the head of this shimmering inlet. Here, passengers can join in a cultural love of the outdoors and sea kayak right on the fjord, or hike and bike numerous trails. Cabins, old fishermen houses, and fjord farms dot this quintessential Nordic landscape. The Geiranger Skywalk offers the perfect perch for jaw-dropping panoramas.

 

Best Time to Visit Geirangerfjord
A Norway summer tour is a great way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site at its most lush. If you plan to travel to Geirangerfjord between May and September, you’ll also benefit from the year’s best weather.

 

 

View at the top of Mt Dalsnibba in Geiranger, Norway.

Mt Dalsnibba & The Eagle Road

Journey to one of Norway’s best-known resort spots and reach the summit of Mount Dalsnibba for a unique view of the breathtaking Geirangerfjord.

Excursion Details
Sea kayaking in Geirangerfjord, Norway.

Kayak On Geirangerfjord

Take an aquatic adventure and paddle along the steep fjord walls to marvel at the reflection of the cliffs in the waters below. Geirangerfjord, one of nature’s masterpieces, is waiting for you.

Excursion Details

A view of Pulpit Rock in Haugesund, Norway, with visitors gathered on the flat cliff overlooking turquoise waters.

Fjordward Bound? Find Out Where We Go!

Uncover the breathtaking fjords you can experience during cruises and shore excursions with our interactive map.

View Interactive Map

Map point Lysefjord, Norway

An odd collection of houses at Sognejford

2. Sognefjord - The King 

Nicknamed King of the Fjords, Sognefjord is the longest and deepest of all the fjords in Norway. Any best tours of Norway fjords must include the King, which is celebrated for the magnitude and drama of its surroundings. It winds over 100 miles inland and has two smaller arms, Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. 

The end of Aurlandsfjord is marked by Flåm , a pastoral burg that’s like a step back in time. The town is so tiny that there aren’t traffic lights, but it is home to one of Norway’s greatest engineering feats—the Flåm railway, known for a steep gradient. Climb aboard to chug alongside narrow cliffsides to a waterfall where you might spot Hulder, a legendary forest creature.

 

Sognefjord Location
If your desire is to explore the untamed terrain of Norway, then Sognefjord is among the premier places to visit in the country. Norway’s top destination is surrounded by two magnificent national parks, Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen, where you can trek alongside stunning glaciers, marvel at towering summits, and relish the experience of observing wildlife.

 

The Best Time to Visit Sognefjord
If you’re looking for a classic fjord experience, plan to visit Sognefjord in the summertime. But autumn is the ideal time to enjoy clear air and admire scenic fall colors – the best time of the year for hiking and cycling. If you’d rather experience alpine ski touring, sled dog tours, fjord kayaking, the  Flåm railway, and guided tours to the magical blue ice caves under the glacier, winter is the best time to visit the Norway fjords. The spring breaks in with flowering and snow powdered mountain tops – maybe the best time of year to visit the Sognefjord.

 

Village of Flam, Norway.

Best of Flam

Experience one of the most spectacular railroad journeys in Norway and enjoy the stunning natural beauty the Aurlandsfjord region has to offer.

Excursion Details
Sea kayaking in Geirangerfjord, Norway.

Kayak Nærøyfjord: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Kayak Nærøyfjord: A UNESCO World Heritage Site Surrounded on both sides by mountains almost 6,000 feet tall, and laced with cascading waterfalls ancient landscapes, admire the stunning scenery along Nærøyfjord.

Excursion Details

3. Hardangerfjord - Troll’s Tongue 

Stretching from the Atlantic through the verdant Vestlandet region, Hardangerfjord is the fifth-longest fjord in the world. Many visit in spring to explore fields filled with blossoming fruit trees.

Trolltunga or Troll’s Tongue, a flat rock formation that juts over Ringedal Lake and Folgefonna Glacier is one of Norway’s most well-known hiking spots. Look for reindeer herds, along with elk and mountain fox frolicking in forested groves and thickets. In the arm of the fjord, you can visit Eidfjord, a beautiful town near the Vøringsfossen waterfall.

 

Hardangerfjord Location
The Hardangerfjord is located in Vestland County in the Hardanger region. At 161 kilometers (100 miles) long, the fjord is one of the longest in the world and plunges down almost 914 meters (a half mile) at its deepest point. It extends inland northeastward for 113 kilometers from Stord Island, at its entrance in the North Sea, to the Hardanger Plateau.

 

The Best Time to Visit Hardangerfjord
The best time to visit Hardangerfjord depends on your interests and activities. If you enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing, then the winter season from December to February would be the best time to visit, as the Hardangervidda mountain plateau becomes a winter wonderland with ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

If you prefer milder temperatures and wish to experience the fruit orchards in full bloom, then the spring season from May to June would be the ideal time to visit the Hardangerfjord. The area is famous for its fruit blossoms, and the sight of the flowers in full bloom against the backdrop of the fjord is truly mesmerizing.

The summer season from July to August is the most popular time to visit the Hardangerfjord, as the weather is mild and ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring the surrounding areas. The days are also longer, allowing for more time to enjoy the natural beauty of the fjord.

 

 

Hardangerjord and the Highlands in Bergen, Norway.

Hardangerfjord & Highlands of Scenic Norway

Marvel at the stunning beauty of the Queen of Fjords flanked by majestic mountains. On a clear day, admire the third-largest glacier in Norway. Brilliant colors, and scenic waterfalls await in Norway.

Excursion Details
Fjord in Bergen, Norway.

Fjords & Glaciers Seaplane Flightseeing

Relish in the beauty of stunning fjords of Bergen and its mountain scenery, soaring over snow-capped mountains and the wild landscapes of western Norway.

Excursion Details

An island view of Port Trondeheimfjord in Norway

4. Trondheimsfjord - The Wake of Vikings 

Cruise in the path of Vikings along Trondheimsfjord . Though this fjord isn’t as mountainous as others on our best fjords in Norway list, it is a historic passageway that teems with fascinating bird and marine life-—even giant squid have been found in these waters. Artefacts from 3,000-year-old settlements were discovered in this region and it was the route of Vikings as they returned to their capital, Trondheim.

 

Trondheimsfjord Location
Trondheimsfjord is in the west-central part of Norway in Trøndelag county, stretching from the municipality of Ørland in the west to the municipality of Steinkjer in the north, while traversing the city of Trondheim en route. Near the end of the fjord, the island of Ytterøya is known for its produce, idyllic summer cottages and for Stone Age burial mounds.

 

The Best Time to Visit Trondheimsfjord
Each season has its own unique benefits. The best time to visit Trondheimsfjord depends on what you want to see and do. If you’re itching to go skiing, snow shoeing, or dog sledding, the winter season from December to February would be the best time to visit.

If you prefer milder temperatures activities such as hiking and cycling, then the summer season from June to August would be the ideal time to visit. The weather is mild, and the days are longer, allowing for more time to explore the surrounding areas.

The spring season from March to May and the autumn season from September to November are also good times to visit Trondheimsfjord, as the weather is cooler, and there are fewer tourists. During these seasons, you can enjoy hiking and fishing without the crowds.

Hiker on trail.

Bymarka Hike

Explore an area of natural landscapes with contrasting scenery on a nature hike, and marvel at the spectacular views of the Trondheimsfjord. On a clear day, you can even spot the mountain chain linking Norway to Sweden.

Excursion Details

Trondheim City Sightseeing

Explore all the rich history and architectural beauty Trondheim’s city center has to offer. Arrive at Sverresli for stunning views of Trondheimsfjord, the city, and the surrounding countryside.

Excursion Details

A view of a mountain at Liefdeffjord

5. Liefdefd Fjord - Top of the World 

 The Liefde fjord is home to some of artic Norway’s most breathtaking backdrops. Rich in history, the fjord was named after the ship "Liefde" (meaning "Love" in Dutch) that was used by the Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz during his third voyage to the Arctic in 1596. In the early 20th century, coal mining operations began in the nearby town of Ny-Ålesund, and the fjord was used as a base for expeditions to explore the surrounding glaciers and mountains. Today, the Liefde Fjord is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Svalbard archipelago. The fjord is known for its stunning scenery, which includes towering glaciers, dramatic cliffs, and a variety of Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, reindeer, and arctic foxes. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you cruise the Liefde Fjord. Because you are.

 

Liefde Fjord Location
Cruising in Northern Europe’s isles is a bucket-list experience. On the north coast of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, the Liefdefd Fjord has some of artic Norway’s most breathtaking backdrops. Extinct volcanoes and hot springs draw many visitors to the Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park, as well as the abandoned whaling stations and glimmering, arctic-blue glaciers.

 

The Best Time to Visit the Liefde Fjord
The best time to visit Liefde Fjord depends on your interests and preferences. If you want to see the Northern Lights, winter may be the best time to visit. If you're interested in wildlife viewing, or outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and glacier walks, summer is the best time to visit when the weather is milder. The waters of the Liefde Fjord are always accessible during the summer, but ice can make navigation difficult at other times of the year .

 

A Holland America Line transatlantic cruise ship with text reading 'Sailing 150 years'

The best fjords in Norway list are just the beginning. Norway is full of cutting-edge museums, amazing islands, and thrilling excursions. Holland America Line has been guiding guests through the stunning waterways of Northern Europe for 150 years, including the majestic fjords of Norway. Our experienced staff is well-versed in the history and knowledge related to each Norway fjord, ensuring that our passengers get the most out of their visit. With Holland America Line, guests can expect to have just as enriching a conversation with our team members as they do from viewing the breathtaking fjords. So, whether you're looking to witness the wildlife, learn about the local history, or simply soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of the fjords, Holland America Line cruise is the perfect choice for your next adventure.

If you’re ready to book a fjord cruise, check out Holland America Line's  Northern Europe Cruises to explore your options.


Help Widget copy TBD

HAL Home page

Help Widget copy TBD

HAL Home page

Savour the Journey

Experiences With Us Are Too Good To Hurry Through

Explore Cruises

  • Find Cruises
  • Last Minute Cruise Deals
  • Our Cruise Ships
  • Family Cruises
  • Holiday Cruises
  • Cruise Accessibility
  • Cruise Brochures
  • About Holland America
  • Affiliates

Cruise Destinations

  • All Cruise Destinations
  • Alaska Cruises
  • Bahamas Cruises
  • Caribbean Cruises
  • European Cruises
  • Hawaii Cruises
  • Mediterranean Cruises
  • Mexico Cruises
  • Transatlantic Cruises
  • World Cruises & Grand Voyages

Plan & Manage Your Cruise

  • Cruise Check-In
  • Manage Booking
  • Shore Excursions
  • Flights & Transfers
  • Hotel Packages
  • Cruise Cancellation Protection
  • Gift Cards
  • Know Before You Go
  • Holland America Visa® Card

Customer Support

  • Cruising FAQs
  • Contact Us
  • Speak to a Cruise Consultant
  • News & Travel Advisories
  • Blog
  • Cruise Fraud Protection
  • Call 1-855-932-1711
  • Sustainability
  • Holland America Team
  • Travel Advisors
White icon devices
Navigator Mobile App
Plan activities, purchase shore excursions, make reservations and more right from your phone while on board.
Google Play button Apple Store Button
  • White icon of Facebook
  • White icon of YouTube
  • White icon of Instagram
  • White icon of Pinterest
  • Site Map
  • Careers
  • Passenger Bill of Rights
  • Cruise Contract
  • Privacy & Cookies
  • Consumer Health Data Privacy Notice
  • Your Privacy Choices