Katie and Pierce
Norway’s coastline is carved by some of the most dramatic fjords on Earth, where glaciers spent millennia sculpting deep valleys that now fill with crystal-clear waters. These natural wonders offer visitors everything from towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls to charming villages and endless adventure opportunities.
Let’s take a look at the best ones for you to visit!
1. Geirangerfjord
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Geirangerfjord stands as a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. Towering mountains plunge into pristine waters, while cascading waterfalls create veils of mist along emerald-green cliffs.
The famous Seven Sisters waterfall puts on a constant show, with its seven separate streams dancing down the mountainside. According to legend, the lone waterfall across the fjord, known as the Suitor, tries eternally to woo the sisters.
Scenic boat tours provide the perfect vantage point for photographing this natural wonder, while hiking trails offer breathtaking panoramic views for those willing to climb above the fjord.
2. Sognefjord
Known as the “King of the Fjords,” Sognefjord commands attention as Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Stretching over 200 kilometers inland, this majestic waterway tells a story of geological wonder at every turn.
The fjord’s massive scale becomes apparent as you travel along its length, passing towering cliffs and discovering charming villages like Flåm and Balestrand tucked along its shores. The famous Flamsbana railway offers a unique perspective, climbing through the surrounding mountains to reveal spectacular views.
Whether you’re kayaking on its serene waters or hiking the surrounding trails, Sognefjord’s beauty never fails to impress.
3. Aurlandsfjord
This stunning 17-kilometer branch of Sognefjord offers some of Norway’s most dramatic scenery. Mountains rise more than 1,500 meters straight from the water, creating an amphitheater of natural beauty.
The famous Stegastein Viewpoint provides a heart-stopping perspective, extending 30 meters from the cliff edge to offer panoramic views of the fjord below. Small villages dot the shoreline, providing perfect launching points for kayaking adventures or peaceful spots to soak in the scenery.
The fjord’s tranquil waters reflect the surrounding peaks like a mirror, creating perfect photo opportunities at every turn.
4. Nærøyfjord
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nærøyfjord amazes visitors with its narrow passage, measuring just 250 meters wide at certain points. Steep mountainsides rise dramatically to heights of more than 1,800 meters, creating an intimate corridor of natural wonder.
Ancient glaciers carved this spectacular landscape, leaving behind a pristine fjord where waterfalls cascade down steep cliffs and small farms cling impossibly to mountain ledges. Boat cruises through the fjord offer an unforgettable perspective of this natural marvel.
The combination of steep mountains, waterfalls, and traditional farms makes Nærøyfjord one of Norway’s most photographed and visited fjords.
5. Hardangerfjord
Often called the ‘Queen of the Fjords,’ Hardangerfjord enchants visitors with its diverse beauty. In spring, thousands of fruit trees burst into bloom along its shores, creating a spectacular display of color against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Adventure seekers flock to iconic spots like Trolltunga, a dramatic rock formation hovering 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The thundering Vøringfossen waterfall provides another must-see attraction, while the region’s famous apple orchards produce award-winning cider.
The fjord’s accessibility from Bergen makes it a perfect destination for both day trips and extended stays.
6. Lysefjord
True to its name as the “light fjord,” Lysefjord’s light-colored granite cliffs create a unique and striking landscape. The fjord stretches 42 kilometers inland, with cliffs rising more than 1,000 meters above the water.
Two of Norway’s most famous attractions call Lysefjord home: Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), a flat cliff plateau hovering 604 meters above the fjord, and Kjeragbolten, a boulder mysteriously wedged between two cliffs. Both offer incredible hiking opportunities and unforgettable views.
Whether you’re hiking to these iconic viewpoints or taking a relaxing fjord cruise, Lysefjord’s dramatic scenery never disappoints.
7. Hjørundfjord
Located among the majestic Sunnmøre Alps, Hjørundfjord offers a more secluded experience away from the typical tourist routes. This 35-kilometer stretch of pristine water cuts through some of Norway’s most dramatic mountain scenery.
Charming villages like Sæbø and Øye provide comfortable bases for exploration, while the surrounding mountains offer countless opportunities for hiking and adventure. The fjord’s relative obscurity means you can often have its beauty all to yourself.
The combination of dramatic peaks, serene waters, and fewer tourists makes Hjørundfjord a perfect escape for those seeking authentic Norwegian fjord experiences.
8. Romsdalsfjord
Stretching 88 kilometers and reaching depths of 500 meters, Romsdalsfjord impresses with its stunning combination of snowy peaks and rich marine life. The surrounding Romsdalsalpene mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for this natural wonder.
The historic island of Veøya, once an important Viking trading post, adds cultural interest to the natural beauty. The fjord’s waters teem with fish, making it a paradise for fishing enthusiasts.
Whether you’re exploring by boat, hiking the surrounding trails, or visiting charming coastal villages, Romsdalsfjord offers adventures for every type of traveler.
9. Lyngenfjord
In the heart of Northern Norway, Lyngenfjord stretches over 82 kilometers through a landscape dominated by the impressive Lyngen Alps. This remote paradise offers unique experiences in every season, from midnight sun in summer to northern lights in winter.
The region’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by Sami and Kven peoples, adds another layer of interest to its natural beauty. Sharp peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys create a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
The fjord’s pristine waters and surrounding wilderness make it perfect for activities ranging from kayaking to skiing, depending on the season.
10. Trollfjord
This compact wonder in the Lofoten Islands proves that size isn’t everything. Only 100 meters wide at its entrance, Trollfjord creates an intimate experience as visitors cruise between towering cliffs that seem to touch the sky.
The fjord’s pristine blue waters and dramatic rock walls create perfect conditions for viewing white-tailed eagles soaring overhead. Its narrow entrance and steep sides make it accessible only by boat, adding to its mystical atmosphere.
Despite its small size, Trollfjord delivers an outsized experience of Norway’s natural majesty, making it a must-visit destination for any fjord enthusiast.
