Guided tour – Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway

Discover an immersive journey through Norway’s breathtaking landscapes and Viking heritage with the Guided tour – Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise, and Flåm Railway. Priced at $404.89 per person, this 10.5-hour adventure departs from Bergen and features a carefully curated mix of transport, sightseeing, and cultural experiences. You’ll ride the renowned Flåm Railway, cruise along the Nærøyfjord, visit a viking village, and enjoy multiple scenic stops, all while being accompanied by expert guides who share insights throughout the day.

This tour is designed for those seeking a comprehensive view of Norway’s natural beauty and history, with all transport tickets included. While the day involves some travel and walking, the experience offers incredible value for the opportunity to see fjords, waterfalls, mountains, forests, and historic Viking sites in one package. It’s perfect for visitors with a full day to dedicate to exploring Norway’s iconic scenery, especially if they appreciate guided commentary and diverse modes of transport.

Key Points

• All transport tickets included: Bus, cruise, and train rides are covered, simplifying logistics.
• Visit a real Viking village: Njardarheimr in Gudvangen offers a live reenactment of Viking life.
• Cruise the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord: Recognized as one of the world’s top natural heritage sites.
• Ride the Flåm Railway: One of the world’s steepest standard-gauge railways, known for stunning views.
• Experience the Kjosfossen Waterfall: A popular spot with a 225-meter cascade and a small power station.
• Scenic stops at Tvindefossen and Stalheim: Waterfalls and mountain views with photo opportunities.

Bergen’s Starting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at Strandkaien 16 in Bergen at 8:00 am, with most of the day spent traveling between stops and enjoying the scenery. The guide leads the group through each attraction, sharing stories and insights about Norway’s fjords, Viking history, and local culture. The tour wraps up back in Bergen in the late afternoon or early evening, making it a seamless experience for travelers based in the city.

Exploring the Viking Village of Njardarheimr

The Viking Village, located in Gudvangen, is a key highlight of the day. The 30-minute guided exploration at Njardarheimr allows visitors to walk through a life-size Viking town. Here, the gates open to a recreated Viking community where activity areas include homes, workshops, and cultural demonstrations. The guides explain how Vikings lived, worked, and influenced the broader world, making it a vivid and tangible experience. Visitors can participate in activities like archery and axe throwing, adding a fun interactive element to the visit.

The Viking village’s authenticity and lively presentation are well appreciated, offering a glimpse into Norway’s ancient past in an engaging setting.

Cruising the UNESCO World Heritage Nærøyfjord

The Nærøyfjord, a narrow fjord measuring just 250 meters wide in places, is a true highlight of this tour. The 1-hour cruise offers stunning views of steep mountains rising directly from serene waters, with dramatic waterfalls and lush greenery surrounding you. Recognized by National Geographic as the world’s number one natural heritage site and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2005, this fjord showcases Norway’s rugged natural beauty.

This cruise is considered a top experience, with many praising the breathtaking scenery and the peaceful waters that allow for unobstructed viewing. As the fjord is quite narrow and surrounded by towering cliffs, the setting feels truly dramatic and unspoiled.

Visiting Aurlandsfjord and Surrounding Mountains

Following the cruise, the tour visits Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord, known for its depth and narrowness. The 1-hour stop provides opportunities for photos of steep mountains and little habitation in the surrounding valleys. The fjord extends about 29 kilometers and is flanked by peaks reaching up to 1,800 meters tall.

The village of Flåm, located at the innermost part of Aurlandsfjord, is a charming spot with a picturesque setting. Visitors get a chance to appreciate the quiet beauty of the fjord and its rugged terrain during this stop.

Watching Kjosfossen Waterfall from the Flåm Railway

The Kjosfossen Waterfall stands out as one of Norway’s most visited natural attractions, dropping approximately 225 meters. The waterfall features a small power station that supplies electricity for the Flåm Railway. The 10-minute stop at Kjosfossen provides an excellent photo opportunity of its cascading water and lush surroundings, surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forest.

This spot is particularly memorable for the sight of water plunging down in multiple streams, creating a spectacular scene along the railway route.

The Flåm Railway and Myrdal Station

The Flåm Railway, a 20.2-kilometer branch of the Bergen Line, is a highlight of this tour. Known for its steep gradient of 5.5%, the railway connects Flåm to Myrdal and features ten stations, twenty tunnels, and one bridge. The journey offers panoramic views of waterfalls, mountains, and lush valleys, with the train ascending 866 meters above sea level.

The train’s construction, which began in 1924 and opened in 1940, transformed the region by providing access to major cities like Bergen and Oslo. The electric-powered train is now one of Norway’s most visited tourist attractions, appreciated for its picturesque route.

Myrdal Station is the highest point on the Bergen Railway, standing at 1,237 meters. It serves as a transfer point for the next leg of the journey, the Bergen Railway, which continues to Voss.

The Bergen Railway and the Scenic Return

From Myrdal, the tour continues on the Bergen Railway, a 496-kilometer route crossing the Hardangervidda plateau. Electrified in the 1950s, this line offers spectacular views of Norway’s mountainous interior. The journey from Myrdal to Voss lasts about an hour, with the train passing through tunnels and open landscapes.

The final transport segment is a bus from Voss back to Bergen, completing the full-day experience. The entire journey allows travelers to relax and enjoy Norway’s natural scenery without the hassle of planning multiple routes.

What’s Included and What to Consider

All transport tickets are included, covering bus rides, premium Nærøyfjord cruise, Flåm Railway, and Bergen Railway segments. The tour does not include food or drinks, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase on location. The guided commentary enhances the experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing details about each stop and Norway’s history.

The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, and the meeting point is at Strandkaien 16 in Bergen. The activity requires good weather, as the fjord views and outdoor stops depend on clear conditions. Cancellation is free if made more than 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits visitors who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Norway’s fjords, mountains, and Viking history in a single day. It offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, train rides, and cultural exploration, making it ideal for those who appreciate storytelling, spectacular vistas, and culture. The physical demands are moderate, with some walking at stops, but overall accessibility is good.

Viking Village, Fjord and Railway Tour: A Complete Norwegian Experience

This full-day outing delivers stunning scenery and cultural highlights with an efficient schedule. The viking village provides an engaging look into history, while the fjord cruise and scenic railway rides showcase the natural grandeur of Norway. The well-organized logistics and expert guides contribute to a smooth, enjoyable journey.

While the cost of $404.89 reflects the inclusive nature of the tour, it also reflects the extensive transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary. This experience is especially suitable for travelers with a full day available and an interest in Norway’s landscapes and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all transportation tickets, a guided Viking village tour, a premium Nærøyfjord cruise, Flåm Railway, Myrdal Station, and bus transportation back to Bergen.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour. Visitors should bring snacks or plan to purchase at stops.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, Viking Njardarheimr village, the Kjosfossen Waterfall, and the Scenic Flåm and Bergen Railway routes.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
While accessible for most, some walking at stops is involved. Participants should be comfortable with a full day of travel and outdoor scenery.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour operates most days, regardless of season, but good weather enhances the fjord views and outdoor stops. Cancellation is possible in poor weather with alternative arrangements offered.

How many travelers are in each group?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers for a comfortable experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of fjord cruising, railway rides, and Viking history in one day makes this tour a well-rounded Norwegian adventure, praised for its efficient organization and guides’ knowledge.

Are guides’ personalities a factor?
Reviews highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who keep the group engaged and entertained, enhancing the overall experience.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely—the stops at waterfalls, fjords, and mountain views provide ample opportunities for memorable photos.

This guided tour of Norway’s fjords and Viking heritage offers a well-balanced, scenic, and culturally enriching experience suited for those who want a full-day exploration without the hassle of planning multiple transport arrangements. Its combination of natural wonders and historical sites makes it an excellent choice for a first-time visitor to Bergen.