13 Best Fjords in Norway to See and Visit

Best time to see the fjords in Norway

The summer season offers travellers mild and pleasant weather, extended daylight — including the magical midnight sun in the north — and full access to roads and hiking trails, making it arguably the best time to see the fjords in Norway. However, visitors should be prepared for potential crowds, particularly in popular areas like the Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord regions. Nevertheless, this article about the best fjords of Norway also unveils many hidden gems, allowing you to explore stunning landscapes away from the main tourist flow.

The shoulder seasons and winter each possess their own unique allure. In winter, travellers can combine a breathtaking fjord cruise with the enchanting experience of chasing the Northern Lights, while spring and autumn showcase truly picturesque landscapes, adorned with either vibrant blossoms or a stunning array of autumnal colours.

And just below, we invite you to explore itineraries for some of the best Norway fjord tours, suitable for any time of year.

13 most beautiful fjords in Norway

For those wondering what is the most beautiful fjord in Norway, the following sections offer a guide to some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders, allowing you to judge for yourself. Here, you will find not only an overview of the best fjords in Norway but also the top things to do in each area, how to reach them, and suggestions for where to stay. So, let’s get to business and discover where are the most beautiful fjords in Norway.

Geirangerfjord

The nearest large town: Ålesund.

Best destinations in the Geirangerfjord area: Geiranger.

Best things to do in the Geirangerfjord area:

• Take a fjord cruise and admire the renowned Seven Sisters waterfall from up close.
• Hike to the historic fjord farms, such as Knivsflå, Blomberg, and the especially famous Skageflå.
• Savour the iconic vista of Geiranger from various viewpoints — from the popular Flydalsjuvet to Ørnesvingen and the lofty Dalsnibba.
• Explore the idyllic village of Geiranger itself and visit the immersive Geiranger Centre to learn about the fjord’s geology, history, and UNESCO status.

Geirangerfjord, a stunning 15-kilometre branch of the larger Storfjord and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undoubtedly among the best fjords to visit in Norway. Renowned for its dramatic natural beauty and often recognised as the most beautiful fjord in Norway, Geirangerfjord boasts several majestic waterfalls, including the Suitor, the Bridal Veil, and the iconic Seven Sisters waterfall. Travellers can choose to experience the fjord’s splendour from a variety of options, including an unforgettable fjord cruise, an exhilarating RIB boat safari (for thrill-seekers), or a leisurely kayak excursion.

Geiranger, an idyllic village nestled at the head of the fjord, is a primary destination in the area. Its beauty has earned it a spot on our list of 17 best towns and villages in Norway. Serving as a hub for exploring the wider region, Geiranger offers visitors cosy restaurants, charming souvenir shops, and wonderful accommodation options, most notably the historic Union Hotel. Guests are also welcome to discover the fjord’s history and geology at the local Geiranger Centre, housed in a truly spectacular building.

In the Geirangerfjord area, travellers will find a wealth of captivating activities. Firstly, the iconic scenery can be admired from several viewpoints accessible by car: the Eagle Road (Ørnesvingen), the popular Flydalsjuvet viewpoint, and the high-altitude Dalsnibba viewpoint. The Geiranger region also offers excellent hiking opportunities, particularly to the historic fjord farms, with Skageflå being a major highlight.

Regardless of whether you plan to stay in Geiranger for a few days or simply take a short return cruise from Ålesund, Geirangerfjord undoubtedly ranks as one of the most beautiful fjords of Western Norway.

Sognefjord

The historic town of Balestrand on the shore of Sognefjord.

The nearest large town: Bergen.

Best destinations in the Sognefjord area: Flåm, Undredal, Gudvangen, Balestrand, Fjærland, Skjolden.

Best things to do in the Sognefjord area:

• Take a majestic cruise across the dramatic and narrow, UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.
• Experience the world’s most scenic train journey from Flåm to Myrdal.
• Go hiking in the Jotunheimen National Park and witness Scandinavia’s highest peaks.
• Take a trip to Bøyabreen from Fjærland and observe this glacial arm of the mighty Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in continental Europe.
• Visit the UNESCO-listed Urnes Stave Church in the village of Ornes.

Sognefjord, often hailed as Norway’s “King of Fjords” due to its immense scale, is regarded by many as the most beautiful fjord in Norway. Its vastness encompasses a remarkable variety of landscapes — from picturesque coastal areas to dramatic inner reaches framed by towering mountains and majestic glaciers, all within expansive national parks.

This colossal fjord features several significant and beautiful branches, including Aurlandsfjord, Fjærlandsfjord, Lustrafjord, and the undeniable highlight — the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. The most captivating way to experience this mighty fjord is by taking a majestic cruise along its most stunning stretch, Nærøyfjord, from Gudvangen to Flåm.

Easily accessible from Bergen, Sognefjord boasts a rich cultural heritage, evident in its traditional farming communities and charming fishing villages. Indeed, the sheer number of remarkable destinations in this area is unparalleled — visitors are truly spoilt for choice.

Our list of the country’s 17 most charming towns and villages includes four located in the Sognefjord area, underscoring why the “King of Fjords” is ranked among the most beautiful fjords in Norway. Flåm, a charming mountain village nestled at the end of Aurlandsfjord, is renowned for the scenic Flåmsbana train journey and its beautiful namesake valley, enticing visitors to admire the fjord’s beauty from the Stegastein viewpoint. By the way, you can discover more about this captivating destination in our dedicated travel guide to Flåm.

Undredal, a tiny, picturesque village near Flåm, is known for its ancient cheese-making traditions and a fascinating 3:1 goat-to-human population ratio. Gudvangen, situated at the other end of the fjord, draws travellers as the gateway to the Nærøyfjord cruise and the location of the recreated Viking Village.

Fjærland, nestled on the shore of its namesake fjord branch, houses the fascinating Norwegian Glacier Museum and serves as a starting point for trips to the Bøyabreen glacier, while Skjolden is a popular departure point for adventurers heading into Jotunheimen National Park, literally translated as the “Home of the Giants.” Balestrand, arguably the best place to visit fjords in Norway, is a picturesque village on the shores of Sognefjord itself, boasting a rich artistic history, Swiss-style architecture, and the historic Kviknes Hotel that captures every visitor’s attention.

And this is just a glimpse of destinations and top things to do in the Sognefjord area. Thanks to its immense size and breathtaking natural beauty, Sognefjord is undoubtedly among the best fjords in Norway to visit and deserves a prominent place on your itinerary.

Hardangerfjord

The nearest large town: Bergen.

Best destinations in the Hardangerfjord area: Odda, Jondal, Rosendal, Lofthus, Eidfjord, Ulvik.

Best things to do in the Hardangerfjord area:

• Take a leisurely fjord cruise or explore the majestic “Queen of the Fjords” at your own pace by kayak.
• Discover some of Norway’s most popular waterfalls, including the iconic Vøringsfossen and the enchanting Steinsdalsfossen.
• Embark on some of the best fjord hikes in Norway, with the spectacular Trolltunga hike standing out as a true highlight.
• Venture into the region’s expansive national parks brimming with wilderness — Folgefonna and Hardangervidda — ideal for Norway fjords summer exploration.
• Visit one of the many local cider farms and witness the beautiful apple orchards up close, which is a quintessential Hardanger experience.

Bergen is arguably the best place to stay in Norway for fjords, offering easy access not only to the grandiose Sognefjord but also to the spectacular Hardangerfjord. Renowned as the “Queen of Fjords,” Hardangerfjord is the country’s second-longest fjord and boasts a softer, more cultivated feel in some areas, thanks to the abundant, lush apple orchards that line its shores.

The entire Hardanger region is renowned for some of the best fjord hikes in Norway, with the iconic Trolltunga hike, starting from Odda, being a major draw (explore the best things to do in Odda on our website). Its vast national parks — the expansive wilderness of Hardangervidda and the glacial landscapes of Folgefonna — also abound with countless hiking options, from gentle strolls to challenging multi-day treks. The demanding Queen Sonja’s trail from Lofthus to Kinsarvik and the picturesque hike to Bondhusdalen with its fantastic glacier views further enhance the richness of choices, perfect for creating a fantastic Norway fjords itinerary.

Hardangerfjord, best experienced on a tranquil fjord cruise or an intimate kayaking trip, is also among the best fjords to see in Norway for its stunning waterfalls that dot the region’s landscapes. Tvindefossen, one of the country’s most popular and easily accessible waterfalls, attracts numerous visitors each summer, while Skjervsfossen (near Voss) and Låtefoss (near Odda) offer their own unique appeal.

However, it’s the iconic Steinsdalsfossen and Vøringsfossen that draw the most visitors. Located in the Måbødalen valley (near Eidfjord), the magnificial Vøringsfossen boasts a free fall of 182 metres, which can be admired from several scenic viewpoints. And the enchanting Steinsdalsfossen allows visitors to walk behind its cascading streams of water without getting wet.

Finally, it is worth adding Hardanger to your Norway fjords itinerary for its lush apple orchards and authentic cider farms — a defining characteristic of this region, which is especially appealing during the blossoming season in spring. With such a wealth of spectacular natural attractions and authentic cultural experiences, Hardangerfjord undoubtedly deserves a prominent spot on your itinerary as one of the best fjords to visit in Norway.

Nordfjord

Innvikfjord, a branch of Nordfjord, as seen from Mount Skredfjellet, located between Loen and Stryn.

The nearest large town: Ålesund.

Best destinations in the Nordfjord area: Stryn, Loen, Olden.

Best things to do in the Nordfjord area:

• Travel on a troll car to the majestic Briksdal Glacier.
• Find solitude and relaxation on the scenic turquoise lakes with a kayaking or canoeing trip.
• Embrace outdoor adventures in Loen and take the breathtaking Loen Skylift ride.
• Venture hiking into the nearby mountains, witnessing the spectacular landscapes of fjords, valleys, and glaciers.
• Treat yourself to a world of winter activities amidst the warm sunny season at the Stryn Summer Ski Centre.

While perhaps not as widely acclaimed as the Geirangerfjord or Sognefjord, Nordfjord is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway, offering an understated yet equally stunning experience. Nestled between its more famous neighbours to the north and south, Nordfjord boasts fewer crowds and a more authentic, intimate feel. Stretching 106 kilometres inland from the Atlantic Ocean, this impressive fjord presents diverse scenery featuring towering peaks, majestic glaciers, and dramatic valleys. Although the title of best fjord in Norway is often debated, Nordfjord’s unique charm and authentic experiences certainly place it high in the ranking.

A significant portion of the fjord runs alongside the impressive Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in continental Europe. Travellers can witness the fascinating glacial arms of this natural wonder with visits to Kjenndalsbreen from Loen and Briksdalsbreen from Olden. Regarding destinations, the region boasts three picturesque main towns — Stryn (the largest), Loen, and Olden — all surrounded by unforgettable scenery showcasing impressive glaciers and turquoise lakes.

Lovatnet, a stunning lake near Loen, is particularly remarkable and often referred to as “Norway’s most beautiful lake,” providing excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Surrounded by such scenic landscapes, the area is understandably popular among hikers. The most favoured hikes in the region include the popular route to Rakssetra and the incredibly accessible ascent of Mount Hoven via the Loen Skylift cable car. And for a taste of winter amidst the hot summer, visit Stryn and try skiing or snowboarding during the season when the sun doesn’t set at all.

Overall, if you are seeking to avoid crowds during your Scandi adventure, Nordfjord offers excellent opportunities for some of the best fjord trips in Norway. With its wealth of outdoor adventures and majestic glaciers feeding into turquoise lakes, Nordfjord definitely deserves a prominent spot on the list of the most beautiful fjords in Norway to see.

Lysefjord

The nearest large town: Stavanger.

Best destinations in the Lysefjord area: Flørli, Lysebotn.

Best things to do in the Lysefjord area:

• Join a thrilling adventure to the iconic Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten, which are some of the best fjord hikes in Norway.
• Enjoy a relaxing fjord cruise or explore the majestic Lysefjord at your own pace by kayak.
• Descend to the fjord by driving along the picturesque Lysebotn Road, featuring 27 thrilling hairpin bends.
• Visit the unique, car-free village of Flørli, accessible only by boat or via an extraordinarily long staircase up the mountainside, amounting to 4,444 steps.

Lysefjord, which rightly claims a top spot among the best fjords in southern Norway, is primarily renowned for its remarkable hikes — Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten. Preikestolen, or the Pulpit Rock, is a colossal cliff rising 604 metres above Lysefjord. This iconic hike, which has gained international recognition after its appearance in several films, including the Mission: Impossible – Fallout with Tom Cruise, is so popular that we have even included it in our top 15 places to visit during the summer holidays in Norway.

Kjeragbolten, in contrast, is a more demanding, full-day adventure that rewards hikers with the dizzying experience of standing on a boulder wedged between two sheer cliffs and marvelling at unforgettable vistas over Lysefjord. The hike, lasting between 6 and 10 hours, is strenuous and traverses the rugged and barren landscapes of the Kjerag plateau, further enhancing the otherworldly feel.

For a less strenuous exploration of this beautiful fjord, travellers can take a relaxing cruise or navigate its calm waters by kayak or canoe, enjoying a different perspective of the towering cliffs. Driving along the impressive Lysebotn Road is another highlight, allowing visitors to admire fantastic fjord views while descending via 27 thrilling hairpin bends. The namesake village at the road’s end is a popular base for outdoor adventures, including BASE jumping from the very Kjerag boulder.

For a truly unique experience, visitors can ascend the 4,444 steps to the remote, car-free village of Flørli, a quiet and peaceful settlement offering a chance to escape the everyday hustle and bustle. Undoubtedly, Lysefjord’s rewarding and scenic hikes firmly place it on the list of the most beautiful fjords in Norway.

Trollfjord

The nearest large town: Bodø.

Best destinations in the Trollfjord area: Svolvær, Henningsvær.

Best things to do in the Trollfjord area:

• Take a silent cruise into the enigmatic Trollfjord and experience the dramatic passage through its remarkably narrow mouth.
• Observe the abundant wildlife—including majestic eagles—on a thrilling RIB boat safari across the fjord.

Nestled in the Raftsundet strait that separates the Lofoten Islands and Vesterålen archipelago in the country’s north, Trollfjord — renowned for its dramatically narrow entrance, barely 100 metres wide — offers arguably the best fjord cruise in Norway. This captivating fjord boasts an especially wild and untouched feel, primarily due to its constricted access and the surrounding rugged terrain, making Trollfjord accessible only by boat.

Svolvær, Lofoten’s largest town, is an ideal base and a popular departure point for Trollfjord cruises. Travellers can opt for a relaxing, silent cruise or observe the local wildlife up close on an exhilarating RIB boat safari, both readily available from Svolvær. Overall, Trollfjord, with its distinctive narrow entrance and surrounding towering peaks, is undoubtedly among the most beautiful fjords in Norway and deserves a prominent spot on the itinerary of every visitor to the spectacular Lofoten Islands.

Romsdalsfjord

Romsdalsfjord and the mountain town of Åndalsnes, as viewed from the cabin of the Romsdalen gondola.

The nearest large town: Trondheim.

Best destinations in the Romsdalsfjord area: Åndalsnes, Molde.

Best things to do in the Romsdalsfjord area:

• Explore the remarkable Romsdalsfjord from the water on a delightful fjord cruise.
• Drive along the renowned Trollstigen, a dramatic serpentine amidst stunning scenery, or admire the vistas from the viewpoint.
• Take in the grandeur of the soaring Trollveggen rock wall and learn about its history at the Trollveggen Visitor Centre.
• Experience a scenic train journey along the Rauma Railway and enjoy the profound beauty of Romsdalen valley.
• Drive along the famous Atlantic Ocean Road, one of the 18 designated Norwegian National Tourist Routes.
• Go hiking in the surrounding region, taking a relatively gentle trail to Rampestreken viewpoint or a more challenging route along the Romsdalseggen ridge.

Åndalsnes, nestled in the dramatic Romsdalen valley, is famous not only as a gateway to the majestic mountains nearby but also as one of the best fjord towns in Norway. It lies on the shore of the Romsdalsfjord, an 88-kilometre-long waterway stretching inland from the Atlantic Ocean and attracting numerous visitors thanks to the towering peaks that rise steeply from the fjord, creating an unforgettable panorama. This phenomenal scenery is also best admired from the town of Molde, where visitors can observe the famous “Molde panorama” of 222 peaks towering over the Romsdalsfjord.

However, the must-visit destination in the area remains Åndalsnes, where travellers can take in the grandeur of the skyscraping Trollveggen, walk to the viewpoint overlooking the spectacular Trollstigen serpentine road, or join a hiking adventure. Popular trails include the strenuous hike along the astounding Romsdalseggen ridge or a trail to Rampestreken, a 20-metre-long steel ramp offering fabulous vistas of the Romsdalsfjord.

To summarise, both Åndalsnes and Molde are ideal destinations for a scenic road trip, offering a plethora of unforgettable experiences and natural sites. After all, visitors can hop on a Rauma Railway train and enjoy one of Europe’s most picturesque train journeys. Given the surrounding natural beauty, Romsdalsfjord undoubtedly deserves a place on the list of Norway’s most beautiful fjords.

Hjørundfjord

The nearest large town: Ålesund.

Best destinations in the Hjørundfjord area: Øye, Trandal, and Sæbø.

Best things to do in the Hjørundfjord area:

• Explore Hjørundfjord by boat on a relaxing fjord cruise from Ålesund or nearby towns.
• Drive through the picturesque Norangsdalen valley and pause at Lygnstøylvatnet to see the submerged village in the lake.
• Experience authentic Norwegian culture and the tranquility of nature at the local villages of Øye and Trandal.
• Choose from a variety of hiking trails that offer panoramic vistas of the narrow fjord and towering peaks.

By Norwegian standards, Hjørundfjord is a relatively short fjord, stretching 35 kilometres inland south of Ålesund. Largely overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, Hjørundfjord attracts far fewer crowds and definitely deserves its place among the best Norway’s fjords. Characterised by a narrow waterway and steep, jagged mountains rising on all sides, Hjørundfjord bears a striking resemblance to the fjords of Patagonia, offering a distinct feel from the rest of Norway.

Travellers can effortlessly appreciate the beauty of this captivating fjord on a majestic cruise from nearby Ålesund. The charming local villages of Øye and Trandal provide perfect destinations for a tranquil escape, while Sæbø, located on the fjord’s western shore, is a popular base for hiking adventures. The impressive variety of trails around Hjørundfjord ranges from an easy walk around Lyngstøylvatnet lake to challenging climbs to the peaks of Slogen and Skårasalen.

Furthermore, visitors can enjoy a scenic drive along the majestic Norangsdalen valley, making a poignant stop near the submerged village in Lake Lyngstøylvatnet to admire the untouched beauty of this isolated corner of Norway. For those seeking to avoid large crowds and embrace the country’s wilderness, Hjørundfjord is undoubtedly among the best fjords to see in Norway.

Lyngenfjord

The nearest large town: Tromsø.

Best destinations in the Lyngenfjord area: Lyngseidet, Gildetun.

Best things to do in the Lyngenfjord area:

• Take a relaxing fjord cruise and enjoy the expansive beauty of this wider fjord compared to those in Western Norway.
• Hike the majestic Lyngen Alps, which offer a variety of trails — from gentle strolls to challenging ascents of mountain peaks.
• Explore the tranquil waters of the fjord on a kayaking or canoeing trip.
• Try your luck at catching fish in the fjord’s serene and abundant waters.
• Immerse yourself in the unique Sami culture by visiting the cultural centre in Gildetun and learning about the people’s authentic traditions.

While Tromsø, the country’s Arctic capital, might not be the quintessential best place in Norway to see fjords, the dramatic Lyngenfjord certainly deserves recognition from travellers. Stretching 115 kilometres inland and boasting a broader waterway than many fjords further south, Lyngenfjord is regarded as one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway for the majestic Lyngen Alps that rise dramatically along its shores.

Travellers can readily appreciate the grandeur of this wide fjord on a captivating cruise from Tromsø or combine it with a relaxing fishing excursion. The local village of Gildetun offers an opportunity to embrace the extraordinary Sami culture, while Lyngseidet, a charming settlement on the fjord’s western side, serves as a popular base for exploring the towering Lyngen Alps. This spectacular mountain range is a major attraction in its own right, spoiling outdoor enthusiasts with an impressive variety of hikes — from leisurely strolls to strenuous climbs.

Overall, Lyngenfjord absolutely deserves its place on this list of the best fjords to see in Norway, enticing travellers with its wider waterway, dramatic mountain peaks, and unique cultural experiences.

Saltfjorden

The nearest large town: Bodø.

Best destinations in the Saltfjorden area: Bodø, Gildeskål.

Best things to do in the Saltfjorden area:

• Witness the spectacular Saltstraumen strait, where incredibly strong tidal currents create powerful and mesmerising whirlpools.
• Experience an unforgettable RIB boat tour through the dynamic Saltstraumen strait.
• Seize excellent opportunities for boat or shore fishing in the abundant waters of Saltfjorden.
• Embrace invigorating hiking adventures in the picturesque area surrounding Saltstraumen.
• Consider taking rewarding bird-watching excursions in late spring or early summer.

While Bodø, the gateway to Norway’s Arctic, might not be traditionally considered one of the best fjord towns in Norway, it offers a truly unique experience — a memorable trip to the dynamic Saltstraumen strait. Located approximately 30 kilometres southeast of Bodø, this narrow strait connects the outer Saltfjord with the large Skjerstadfjord behind it, resulting in powerful and often immense whirlpools, known as maelstroms — a genuinely dramatic and captivating natural spectacle. Thrill-seekers can experience this incredible phenomenon at its most intense on an exhilarating RIB boat tour, venturing directly into the heart of the currents and whirlpools.

Beyond the strait, visitors can enjoy boat fishing in the fjord or try their luck from the shore, with Saltstraumen renowned as a particularly abundant fishing spot. The nearby town of Gildeskål provides excellent hiking opportunities, including the moderate ascent of Mount Nonshaugen and a relatively gentle trail on the island of Sandhornøya.

Furthermore, the region attracts numerous birdwatchers, as the strong tidal currents create ideal feeding conditions for both resident and migratory birds. The perfect time for birdwatching near Bodø is late spring (early May), offering visitors the chance to observe various seabirds, waders, and raptors — don’t forget to bring binoculars with you.

So, while Saltfjorden’s primary draw isn’t its classic fjord scenery and barely anyone would name it among the most beautiful fjords in Norway, its dramatic Saltstraumen strait and surrounding natural beauty offer a unique and compelling experience.

Oslofjord

The nearest large town: Oslo.

Best destinations in the Oslofjord area: Oslo, Drøbak, Tønsberg, Fredrikstad.

Best things to do in the Oslofjord area:

• Take a ferry to the charming inner islands of the Oslofjord, perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnicking.
• Kayak in the tranquil waters of the Oslofjord.
• Take a scenic drive along the fjord and visit the picturesque local coastal communities.

Every traveller visiting Norway’s vibrant capital will have the opportunity to explore the Oslofjord. While not a classic fjord and perhaps not ranking among the best fjords in Norway in the traditional sense, Oslofjord provides visitors with a wealth of memorable experiences — from a quick ferry to the museums on Bygdøy and cruises to the city’s inner islands to relaxing kayaking trips.

Travellers can also appreciate the beauty of this fjord and the surrounding area on a picturesque drive, discovering several scenic towns along the way. Drøbak, a small town exuding a relaxed and idyllic charm with its well-preserved wooden houses, is renowned as “Norway’s Christmas town” and boasts the historic Oscarsborg Fortress, situated on a separate island. Tønsberg, the country’s oldest town, entices visitors with fascinating museums and a lively waterfront. And Fredrikstad, located further south where the Glomma River meets the outer Oslofjord, is renowned as one of the best-preserved military towns in Northern Europe.

Overall, Oslofjord is undoubtedly among the best fjords in Southern Norway to visit, offering travellers a plethora of memorable experiences. And those spending more than two days in the Norwegian capital may consider taking a trip to the West Norwegian fjords from Oslo.

Balsfjord

Tromsø, the country’s Arctic capital, is surrounded by the wider and more spacious Lyngenfjord and Balsfjord than the other fjords in Norway.

The nearest large town: Tromsø.

Best destinations in the Balsfjord area: Tromsø, Storsteinnes, Nordkjosbotn.

Best things to do in the Balsfjord area:

• Enjoy a relaxing fjord cruise, which can be combined with immersive fishing or fascinating wildlife-watching excursions.
• Embrace the unique Sami culture in the local villages.
• Explore the vibrant city of Tromsø and discover its unique attractions.
• Witness the mesmerising Northern Lights in winter or the radiating midnight sun in summer.

While perhaps not the first that comes to mind for the best fjord tours in Norway, Balsfjord is another remarkable fjord near Tromsø, distinguished by its broader waterways and the striking contrast of gentle western slopes with the towering Lyngen Alps to the east. Travellers can readily appreciate this beautiful fjord on a relaxing cruise, easily combined with fishing or wildlife-watching adventures.

The shores along Balsfjord are home to charming villages, including Storsteinnes and Nordkjosbotn, where visitors can soak up the local atmosphere and immerse themselves in the extraordinary culture of the Sami people. Exploring Tromsø, Norway’s Arctic capital, is also a must during a trip to Balsfjord. This vibrant city not only boasts exceptional attractions but also serves as a popular gateway to exhilarating winter adventures in the Arctic. Understandably, Balsfjord is regarded as one of the beautiful fjords in Norway, boasting a wider, yet equally stunning waterway and authentic cultural experiences.

Laksefjord

The nearest large town: Lakselv.

Best destinations in the Laksefjord area: Lakselv, Lebesby, Karasjok.

Best things to do in the Laksefjord area:

• Indulge in salmon fishing in the fjord or the renowned nearby Lakselva river.
• Immerse yourself in the unique Sámi culture in the major cultural centre of Karasjok.
• Witness the mesmerising Northern Lights during the Arctic winter or the captivating midnight sun in summer.

Located in one of the most remote areas of Northern Norway, Laksefjord earns its place among the best fjords in Norway for its exceptional fishing opportunities. As its name suggests — “lakse” meaning salmon in Norwegian — this fjord is a haven for anglers. Characterised by less dramatic mountains than elsewhere in Norway, Laksefjord offers a distinctive blend of picturesque landscapes, from low-lying coastal areas to vast tundras and rolling hills in its more inland reaches.

The easiest way to access this fjord is via Lakselv, the main settlement in the area, which offers an airport, essential amenities, and access to the Lakselva river. Travellers can embark on a scenic drive to visit the local villages of Lebesby and Karasjok, where they can fully embrace the fascinating Sami culture. While its scenery differs from the more iconic fjords, Laksefjord provides a compelling destination for passionate anglers and those seeking an authentic taste of Sami traditions within a remote and beautiful setting.

Best fjord trips in Norway

As previously mentioned, summer offers the most favourable conditions for exploring the Norwegian fjords. Below, you’ll find itineraries for some of the best fjord tours in Norway, designed to make the most of the summer months.

However, if you are planning a trip to Norway outside of the peak summer season or during the winter, rest assured. There are exceptional itineraries that feature unforgettable experiences in the stunning Norwegian fjords year-round. Discover some of the best Norway fjord tours available during winter and the picturesque shoulder seasons below.

Best fjords in Norway to include in your itinerary

This brings us to the end of our journey. We have travelled through some of the most beautiful fjords in Norway, highlighting their distinctive characteristics and the unique experiences they offer. Ultimately, the choice of which fjord to visit is a personal one, guided by individual preferences and the allure of each landscape. For those still contemplating the best place in Norway to see fjords, sharing this guide with fellow travel enthusiasts might spark inspiration and help in ultimately making that exciting decision.