Bergen: Viking Village, Nærøyfjorden Cruise and Flåm Railway

This comprehensive Bergen tour offers an exciting blend of history, scenic beauty, and impressive train journeys—all in a single day. For $387 per person, participants enjoy a 12-hour itinerary that includes exploring a Viking Village in Njardarheimr, cruising through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nærøyfjorden, and riding what many consider one of the most beautiful train lines in the world—the Flåm Railway. Starting from Bergen’s Tourist Information, the tour combines cultural insight with breathtaking landscapes, appealing especially to those eager to see Norway’s natural wonders and Viking heritage in one seamless experience.

A key strength of this tour is the variety of activities packed into a manageable schedule, with an English-speaking guide leading each segment. The inclusion of tickets to the Viking Village, Nærøyfjorden cruise, and Flåm Railway adds to its value, while the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long day. However, the tour’s 12-hour duration and lack of food included suggest that participants should plan for some personal snacks or meals. This tour works well for travelers who want a structured, informative journey with plenty of scenic highlights, though those looking for a more relaxed pace might find it busy.

Key Points

• Includes tickets to Viking Village, Nærøyfjorden cruise, and Flåm Railway for a streamlined experience.
• Starts at Bergen Tourist Information with pickup by a luxury Mercedes minibus.
• Highlights include Tvindefossen waterfall, Viking Njardarheimr, and spectacular fjord scenery.
• The Flåm Railway is renowned as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
• The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with a guided visit to the Viking Village and scenic boat cruise.
• Food is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at stops like Flåm.

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Departure and Meeting Details in Bergen

The tour begins at Bergen Tourist Information, where you are picked up by a Mercedes minibus. This set-up offers a comfortable start to a lengthy day of sightseeing, with all transportation included for the entire journey. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point around 9:15 pm, making it a full day of exploration.

Visiting Tvindefossen Waterfall

The journey kicks off with a stop at Tvindefossen, a 116-meter tall waterfall fed by the Kroelvi stream. This natural marvel is more than just its height: it’s surrounded by legends and history that lend it a mystical aura. A photo stop of about 20 minutes allows travelers to capture the stunning cascade and enjoy the raw power of nature. The waterfall’s receding cliffs and thundering water create a dramatic backdrop for photos and reflection.

Break at Dale Village

Before reaching Tvindefossen, there is a 20-minute stop at Dale, providing time for coffee, snacks, and a quick toilet break. This small village offers a chance to stretch your legs and absorb a slice of rural Norway, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Exploring Gudvangen and Njardarheimr Viking Village

Next, the tour heads to Gudvangen, the home of Njardarheimr Viking Village. Here, participants are immersed in Viking culture, stepping into a recreated Viking town that takes you 1000 years back in time. The village features authentic buildings and activities, giving insight into Viking journeying, boat-building, religion, food, and crafts.

Visitors are free to wander and explore at their own pace, engaging with costumed inhabitants who passionately share stories of the Viking Age. There is the option for lunch within the village, allowing attendees to enjoy local fare amid historical settings. The guided tour in Njardarheimr lasts about an hour, providing a rich view of Viking life.

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Cruising Nærøyfjorden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Following the Viking experience, the tour shifts to a scenic electric boat cruise through Nærøyfjorden, a spectacular fjord surrounded by steep valley sides and snow-capped peaks rising 1,800 meters above sea level. The cruise lasts about two hours and showcases thundering waterfalls, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes.

Onboard, a QR code offers narration for those interested in additional context, enhancing the appreciation of Norway’s natural beauty. This segment emphasizes the dramatic scenery that has earned Nærøyfjorden its UNESCO designation, making it a highlight for landscape lovers.

Free Time in Flåm

After the fjord cruise, the journey reaches Flåm, a charming village known as Norway’s most popular tourist destination around the Aurlandsfjord. Attendees have about one hour of free time here to grab lunch, stroll through the village, or visit local shops. Flåm’s compact size and stunning surroundings make it a perfect spot to relax before the next activity.

The Flåm Railway: One of the World’s Most Scenic Train Journeys

From Flåm, participants board the famous Flåm Railway, a 55-minute panoramic train ride that is often described as one of the most beautiful train journeys globally. This steep, standard gauge railway features 80% gradients of 5.5%, passing through 20 tunnels and offering numerous viewpoints.

The train travels alongside the Rallar Road, through mountainous terrain, waterfalls, and spectacular scenery. For many, this ride alone justifies the tour’s price, as it offers a unique perspective on Norway’s rugged landscape. The train departs from Flåm at 17:30, with a transfer in Myrdal, where a change of trains occurs.

Return Journey from Myrdal to Bergen

From Myrdal, the tour continues on a direct train to Bergen, departing at 18:48. This 2 hour and 45-minute train ride takes travelers through scenic mountain passes and tunnels before arriving back in Bergen at around 9:15 pm. The train includes lavatories and snack options, making the return comfortable and convenient.

Practicalities and Accessibility

This tour is designed for comfort, with air-conditioned transportation and a professional driver guiding the journey. However, wheelchair access is not available, and children under 4 years old cannot participate. The tour involves some walking at Viking Village and stops, so travelers should be prepared for a full, active day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery experienced along every segment. The combination of Viking culture, fjord cruises, and scenic train rides creates a well-rounded day that appeals to those interested in both Norway’s history and its landscapes. The small group size and luxury transport add a personal touch, making each stop more engaging.

Limitations to Consider

While the tour provides excellent value, food is not included, so participants should plan accordingly. The long day may be tiring for some, especially with limited free time in Flåm and Viking Village. The schedule is tight but designed to maximize sightseeing within 12 hours.

Final Thoughts on the Bergen Viking Village, Fjord, and Railway Tour

This tour offers an immersive experience of western Norway’s highlights, suitable for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic, and cultural day. The price reflects the inclusions and the multiple iconic attractions, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to see the best of Bergen’s surroundings in one go.

The breathtaking fjord views, Viking history, and spectacular train journey combine to create a memorable adventure. It’s especially ideal for visitors who don’t mind a full schedule and want to capture Norway’s natural beauty and cultural richness in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in this tour?
No, food is not included. Travelers should bring snacks or plan to buy meals during the free time in Flåm.

How long is the Flåm Railway ride?
The Flåm Railway lasts approximately 55 minutes and features some of the most scenic views available by train.

What is the main highlight of the fjord cruise?
The cruise through Nærøyfjorden offers steep valley sides, waterfalls, and snow-covered peaks, making it one of the most striking fjord experiences in Norway.

Can children participate in this tour?
Children under 4 years old cannot join, but the tour is suitable for older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Tvindefossen waterfall, Dale village, Gudvangen Viking Village, Nærøyfjorden cruise, Flåm, and Myrdal for the train transfer.

How is transportation arranged?
All transportation, including the luxury Mercedes minibus and train rides, is included in the package, starting and ending in Bergen.

Is wheelchair access available?
No, the tour does not support wheelchair access.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 12 hours, with pickup in the morning and return in the evening.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, an English-speaking guide accompanies the group to provide narration and assistance throughout the day.

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