Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is widely regarded as one of the country’s major gateways to the West Norwegian fjords, offering you a plethora of options for unforgettable day trips. In this article, we’ll explore eleven of the best day trips from Bergen, Norway, varying from famous day fjord trips to renowned natural attractions and charming smaller towns.
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Best Day Trips from Bergen, Norway
The variety of options for day trips from Bergen is truly astonishing, satisfying even the most discerning travelers. From excursions to the fjords and escapes into nature to visits to charming villages and mountain towns, you are certainly spoiled for choice.
Among these, certain destinations consistently rank as traveler favorites. We’ve listed them here from most to least popular. Naturally, day trips from Bergen to fjords are usually the most sought-after options. Now, let’s explore our list of 11 best day trips from Bergen, Norway, below.
1. Sognefjord
A day trip from Bergen to Sognefjord is the most popular option, featuring several scenic drives, the world’s most picturesque train ride along the Flåm Railway, and a captivating Nærøyfjord cruise.
- A railway ride from Oslo to Myrdal
- A railway ride from Myrdal to Flåm
- A Nærøyfjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen
- A bus ride from Gudvangen to Voss
- A railway ride from Voss to Bergen
Today, you can complete this astonishing journey not only in any direction but also with a return to your original city, rather than continuing to Bergen or Oslo. While the entire day trip from Bergen to Sognefjord is remarkable and guides you through absolutely scenic places, several parts of the route truly stand out: the thrilling Flåm Railway ride (considered by many as the world’s most scenic train journey) and a majestic cruise across the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.
Overall, taking this Bergen to Sognefjord day trip is a must for any traveler visiting Norway’s second-largest city. You can consider booking the private Sognefjord tour from Bergen or the Nærøyfjord group tour from Bergen, both of which offer smooth and effortless ways to experience the beauty of the mighty Sognefjord from Bergen (with a return trip).
2. Hardangerfjord
A day trip from Bergen to Hardangerfjord is an excellent way to experience the beauty of this region, characterized by its lush apple orchards and cider farms, scenic hikes, roaring waterfalls, and charming villages.
How to get to Hardangerfjord from Bergen: no. 930 bus (Bergen-Odda).
Hardangerfjord, also known as “the Queen of the Fjords,” is Norway’s third-largest fjord, renowned for its impressive natural wonders — vast national parks, thundering waterfalls, and abundant fruit orchards that line the shores. This scenic region attracts visitors with myriad charming towns and villages, including Ulvik, Eidfjord, Lofthus, Norheimsund, and Rosendal. And adventurers will undoubtedly enjoy a trip to Odda, a popular hub for exciting, adrenaline-pumping activities.
The Hardanger region also boasts two national parks — Folgefonna and Hardangervidda — spanning vast expanses and providing travelers with an abundance of scenic hikes, from easy walks to strenuous multi-day routes. The Hardangerfjord area is also famous for its remarkable waterfalls. Vøringsfossen, for instance, is located in a picturesque valley near Hardangervidda, while Steinsdalsfossen attracts countless visitors thanks to the unique opportunity it offers to walk behind its curtain of water without getting wet.
The region also offers other immersive experiences, including a local specialty — cider tasting, which makes Hardangerfjord ideal for a Bergen fjord day trip. If you’re seeking an easy and effortless Bergen to Hardangerfjord day trip, you can book this private Hardangerfjord tour from Bergen.
3. Voss
A Bergen to Voss day trip caters to true adventurers at heart, drawing visitors with a plethora of exciting outdoor activities—from the famous Voss Gondola to rafting and kayaking.
Distance: 102 kilometers.
How to get to Voss from Bergen: R40 train (1 hour 20 minutes) or bus Nor-Way Bussekspress Nw162 or Nw420 (1 hour 40 minutes).
Often hailed as “Norway’s adventure capital,” Voss is a year-round paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, the area around Voss offers abundant opportunities for thrilling outdoor adventures, while in winter, the village entices travelers with its two world-class ski resorts — Voss Resort and Myrkdalen Ski Resort. Located just an hour and a half from Norway’s second-largest city, Voss is an amazing option for a day trip from Bergen.
Although in winter Voss becomes a hotspot for skiers and snowboarders, summer is the peak season for visiting this incredible destination. The village offers plenty of exciting outdoor activities, but a few of them stand out. Whitewater rafting is an absolute highlight, as Voss is ideal for both adrenaline junkies and families, offering rapids of varying difficulty. The calm waters of Lake Vangsvatnet are also perfect for leisurely kayaking trips, while canyoning — an exhilarating activity that involves climbing, jumping, and swimming — is another major draw for adventurers.
You can also head to the zipline park for an exhilarating ride or go mountain biking, utilizing the vast network of varied biking trails. For a more relaxed experience, you can try leisurely paddling on the lake. The area around Voss is also a hiker’s paradise, offering scenic trails for every ability.
The village’s major highlight is the modern Voss Gondola, which takes you to the Hangurstoppen mountain, at 820 meters above sea level, in just nine minutes. Another remarkable attraction is VossVind, a state-of-the-art wind tunnel that allows visitors to experience the thrill of freefall in a safe, controlled environment.
Additionally, Voss also boasts outstanding cultural attractions, such as Voss Folk Museum and Voss Church. Overall, you should definitely consider a trip to Voss, whether on the Hardangerfjord Tour from Bergen with Voss Gondola or by organizing one yourself.
4. Flåm
A day trip from Bergen to Flåm promises travelers two unforgettable experiences — the world’s most scenic train ride along the Flåm Railway and a majestic cruise across the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.
How to get to Flåm from Bergen: Vy450 bus from Bergen to Flåm (2 hours 40 minutes); alternatively, train from Bergen to Myrdal and then transfer to Flåmsbana, a scenic train ride from Myrdal to Flåm.
Flåm, a beautiful mountain village on the shore of Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the mighty Sognefjord, is one of Norway’s most popular destinations. This charming settlement is an important leg of the renowned Norway in a Nutshell journey, serving as a transit point between the Nærøyfjord cruise and the train journey along the Flåm Railway. Naturally, these two activities are undoubtedly among the best things to do on a day trip from Bergen to Flåm.
However, this bustling mountain village has so much more to offer. It is home to the Flåm Railway Museum, where you can learn about the creation of the renowned namesake railway — entry is free. The Stegastein viewpoint, located a short drive from the village, is another remarkable attraction, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Aurlandsfjord and the surrounding scenery. Flåm also serves as a gateway to the captivating Flåm Valley, where you can embrace outdoor adventures, including ziplining, hiking, and cycling.
This is why Flåm serves as a popular choice for best day trips from Bergen, Norway. You can easily organize a trip yourself by taking a 3-hour bus ride or hopping on the railway, including the Flåm Railway from Myrdal to Flåm. However, if you prefer a hassle-free day trip from Bergen to Flåm, consider a scenic day cruise from Bergen to Flåm, with a return journey. Alternatively, book a private Bergen to Flåm tour that includes both the Flåm Railway ride and Nærøyfjord cruise, typically following the Norway in a Nutshell route.
Overall, this picturesque mountain village makes for an ideal day adventure from Norway’s second-largest city. Therefore, consider embarking on this amazing day trip from Bergen to Flåm.
5. Trolltunga
Widely recognized as one of Norway’s most iconic hikes, Trolltunga is a strenuous adventure that can be completed on a day trip from Bergen.
Distance: from 150 to 200 kilometers (depending on the route) to Trolltunga car park in Skjeggedal.
How to get to Trolltunga car park from Bergen: bus no. 930 from Bergen to Odda (around 3 hours on road) and take Trolltunga Shuttle (available only from late May to early October) to Skjeggedal, where the hike begins.
Trolltunga, or the “Troll’s Tongue,” is a rock formation that juts out horizontally over Lake Ringedalsvatnet, offering truly astonishing views and perfect opportunities for memorable photos. If you are fit enough to embark on this challenging hike, you can complete in on a quick Trolltunga day trip from Bergen.
While the route is not technically difficult, its length and elevation gain make it a strenuous hike, typically requiring 8 to 12 hours for a round trip. The trail is well-marked and begins on an asphalt road, followed by rocky paths and muddy sections, with the most challenging section being the crossing of Gryteskaret pass. Despite the challenge, Trolltunga becomes very crowded in summer, often resulting in frequent queues for a photo near the rock.
The journey to Trolltunga is an adventure in itself, typically involving a 3-hour bus ride or drive from Bergen to Odda, followed by a drive or a Trolltunga Shuttle from Odda to the parking lot in Skjeggedal. Many hikers choose to stay overnight near Trolltunga, bringing their camping gear. No matter your preference, consider undertaking this Bergen to Trolltunga day trip if you are a passionate outdoor enthusiast.
6. Folgefonna
A day trip to Folgefonna glacier from Bergen offers you a chance to witness Norway’s magnificent natural wonder—one of the three distinctive glaciers comprising the Folgefonna ice cap.
How to get to Folgefonna from Bergen: bus no. 930 to Jondal (2 hours 15 minutes) or the same bus no. 930 to Odda (around 3 hours).
Folgefonna National Park covers 545.2 square kilometers in the Hardanger region, protecting a variety of ecosystems — from icy expanses of the glaciers to the sheltered waters of the surrounding fjords, which provide ideal conditions for diverse plant and animal life. The absolute highlight of any Bergen to Hardangerfjord day trip is a visit to one of the three ice caps of the Folgefonna glacier.
You have several options to witness the Folgefonna glacier from Bergen. One option involves taking a bus to Odda, from which you can embark on a hike in the Buer Valley, following a trail leading to a majestic glacier arm. In our experience, this hike is relatively straightforward, though it requires at least a couple of hours and involves traversing hanging bridges.
Another straightforward way to experience this captivating natural wonder is on a Bergen day tour to Folgefonna National Park, which guides you along one of Norway’s most picturesque hiking trails. During this scenic adventure, you’ll follow a fairly easy route to the breathtaking Bondhus Valley, characterized by a serene glacial lake, lush verdant scenery, and a glimpse of the glacier itself.
Additionally, you can take a bus to Jondal (the same bus as for Odda) and visit Fonna Glacier Ski Resort, one of the few European summer ski resorts, where you can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing on the Folgefonna glacier. If you’re seeking adventure and outdoor activities, this national park is undoubtedly one of the best options for memorable Bergen day trips.
7. Balestrand
Nestled on the shore of Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Balestrand is an ideal, easily accessible destination for a relaxing Sognefjord day trip from Bergen.
Distance: 200 kilometers.
How to get to Balestrand from Bergen: direct ferry no. 890 (by Norled) from Bergen to Balestrand.
Balestrand, often described as a “fjord gem” for its stunning natural beauty and beautiful architecture, is a perfect choice for a day trip from Bergen. Its townscape is defined by the remarkable Kviknes Hotel, located directly on the waterfront, which dates back to 1752 and has been owned and operated by the Kviknes family since 1877. Staying in this boutique hotel is one of the true experiences of a lifetime in the Sognefjord area.
Visitors are welcome to stroll the town’s charming streets. And don’t miss the chance to visit the distinctive St. Olaf’s Church, which, interestingly, belongs to the Church of England and was built in memory of Margaret Sophia Green Kvikne, an Englishwoman who married into the Kviknes Hotel family.
Given Balestrand’s stunning surrounding scenery, you must try some exciting activities — from cider tasting and hiking to kayaking and RIB boat tours. Considering how easy it is to reach this picturesque town (via a 4-hour ferry ride, an exciting experience in itself), you should definitely consider choosing it for your day trip from Bergen.
8. Fjærland
Fjærland, another prominent destination within the Sognefjord region, is one of the best places to witness glaciers, making it an ideal choice for a day trip to fjords from Bergen.
Distance: 250 kilometers.
How to get to Fjærland from Bergen: ferry no. 890 (by Norled) to Sogndal, bus. no. 803 to Fjærland.
Located not far from Balestrand, on the shore of Fjærlandsfjord, this tranquil village is another hidden gem of the larger Sognefjord area. Fjærland’s location is truly impressive, as the village sits where Norway’s longest fjord meets the mighty Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in continental Europe.
Naturally, the primary reason for visiting this scenic village is the opportunity to approach one of the most accessible arms of Jostedalsbreen, Bøyabreen (pictured above). You can easily view the glacier from the road, or get up close with a short walk to a small glacial lake at its base. And while getting to the village may involve some hassle, you can avoid it by booking this fjord and glacier tour to Fjærland from Bergen.
If you have free time in the village, consider visiting the award-winning Norwegian Glacier Museum, housed in a truly remarkable building and offering interactive, immersive experiences. Fjærland is also renowned as Norway’s book town, so dedicate some time to Browse its many quirky bookshops. Of course, outdoor adventures also await you here: from hiking to Flatbrehytta to kayaking and relaxing in a floating sauna.
Overall, this charming village is an amazing destination to consider for a Bergen to Sognefjord day trip. If you prefer the logistics to be handled for you, consider booking this glacier day tour from Bergen.
9. Rosendal
Travelers considering Hardangerfjord day trip from Bergen can take a cruise to Rosendal, which is renowned as “pearl by the fjord” for its scenic surroundings and majestic mountains.
How to get to Rosendal from Bergen: direct ferry no. 2075 (by Rødne) from Bergen to Rosendal.
Rosendal, a picturesque village beautifully located at the head of the Hardangerfjord, boasts several prominent attractions and a stunning natural setting. Perhaps most famously, it is home to the Barony, Scandinavia’s smallest castle, dating back to 1665. You can explore this fascinating attraction and stroll through its adjacent Renaissance gardens, boasting over 1,700 flowering roses. Additionally, Rosendal also houses the Folgefonn Center, an interactive visitor center that features many engaging exhibitions.
With such a picturesque setting, Rosendal is also ideal for outdoor adventures. You can head to the Bondhusvatnet Lake trailhead, located just a 30-minute drive from the village. It also serves as an excellent base for exploring the nearby Folgefonna glacier, allowing you to embrace activities like guided glacier hikes and kayaking on a glacier-fed lake. The variety of hikes near the village is also impressive, ranging from short strolls to challenging ascents, such as Melderskin, which rewards you with spectacular views.
The easiest way to reach the village on a day trip from Bergen to Rosendal is by booking a Rosendal tour from Bergen or boarding a ferry independently. Regardless of your choice, if you’re looking for a peaceful day on a Bergen to Hardangerfjord day trip, you should consider Rosendal as a primary travel destination.
10. The Waterfalls of Western Norway
Famous as the “kingdom of waterfalls,” Hardanger region, easily accessible from Bergen, boasts some of the most spectacular and accessible cascades in the country.
Vøringsfossen, often considered Norway’s most popular waterfall, is a spectacular cascade with a dramatic vertical drop of 145 meters into the Måbødalen valley. Located near Eidfjord, it’s easily accessible from Norwegian Scenic Route 7 and features a network of impressive viewing platforms.
Steinsdalsfossen (pictured above), another remarkable waterfall near Norheimsund, is famously known for its paved path, allowing you to walk safely behind its curtain of water without getting wet. Låtefossen, located a short drive from Odda, is a twin waterfall that cascades down to an old, arched bridge dating back to 1859.
Tvindefossen, one of the country’s most accessible cascades, is a multi-tiered waterfall where the Kroelvi stream tumbles down a series of rocky shelves. A major draw is its accessibility, as it is located alongside European Route E16, approximately 12 kilometers north of Voss. In addition to these remarkable cascades, you’ll find plenty of lesser-known natural wonders, including the cascades of Husedalen Valley, Furebergsfossen, and Skjervsfossen.
You can easily explore several of these iconic waterfalls on a Bergen waterfall tour, which combines visits to Vøringsfossen, Steinsdalsfossen, Skjervsfossen, and Fossen Bratte. Furthermore, you can combine waterfall-hopping with a Bergen fjords day trip, visiting the charming villages on the shores of the picturesque Hardangerfjord.
11. Preikestolen
While located closer to Stavanger, this remarkable trail can be hiked by travelers eager to set out on a day trip from Bergen to Pulpit Rock with a rental car
Distance: 250 kilometers.
How to get to Preikestolen from Bergen: bus. no 400 from Bergen to Stavanger, buses no. 100 and 101 to from Stavanger to Tau, and GoFjords bus from Tau to Preikestolen parking.
Preikestolen, the iconic cliff that rises an astounding 604 meters above the Lysefjord, is a major tourist attraction in Southern Norway. While it is possible to do a Bergen to Pulpit Rock day trip, the drive from Bergen to the Preikestolen parking lot takes at least five hours, and getting around by public transport would be even more challenging.
Therefore, we recommend including Stavanger in your itinerary. You can reach Stavanger from Bergen via bus or ferry — the latter is preferable due to its price and travel duration.
Hopefully, these trip options — including fjord tours from Bergen day trips — will help you decide where you wish to travel, given your preferences and passions. And this pretty much sums up our list of 11 best day trips from Bergen, Norway.