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Ahh, Norway. This country is one of the world’s most naturally beautiful locations, with a unique geography that has changed dramatically over thousands of years. Norway sights can be enjoyed in a combination of cruising and on-foot excursions, with its fjords and mountains balanced by inviting cities and villages. The best Norway cruises will offer a way to enjoy both sides of the country’s experiences.
Join us on a journey in your mind through some of the best sights of Norway to see via a cruise, so you can start planning properly for your next adventure.
Seeing the fjords by cruise
If we’re talking about the best sights of Norway, we have to start by mentioning the Norwegian Fjords. These are passages carved over thousands of years by glacial erosion, offering narrow inlets for cruise ships to pass through. Within these fjords, you’ll be surrounded by glorious waterfalls, vertical cliffs and some of the world’s most serene waters.
The most essential fjords to visit include:
- Geirangerfjord. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for good reason. It’s packed with famous waterfalls and home to the gorgeous village of Geiranger.
- Sognefjord. Also known as the King of the Fjords, this is the longest, deepest of its kind in Norway, with plenty of smaller arms like Nærøyfjord.
- Trollfjord. This is a very narrow fjord, known for its tight entrances and high jagged peaks – perfect for adventure lovers!
Along with the fjords themselves, travelers to these areas might also be allowed to witness the reality-defying Midnight Sun or Northern Lights – depending on when you choose to visit.
Must-see sights in Norway’s towns & cities
The fjords are by far the main event for Norway sights, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a lot out of visiting the country’s cities and towns. Port days aren’t to be wasted when cruising through Norway – they offer a uniquely charming slice of society to enjoy.
Oslo
Oslo is the capital of Norway, with a vibrant mix of modern infrastructure and historic sites to enjoy. The Viking Ship Museum is a highlight for many visitors, while the Oslo Opera House is a sight to behold without even going inside. There’s plenty to enjoy in the city, so make the most if it’s a stop or starting point on your Norway cruise.
Bergen
Norway’s second city is known by many as the “Gateway to the Fjords”, making it a common stop on cruise itineraries. The city is complete with the expressive Bryggen Wharf, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen and marvel at all the natural wonders surrounding you.
Flåm
Home to the legendary Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana), this popular cruise stop offers the opportunity to experience one of the world’s steepest railway lines. The 12-mile journey takes travellers through tunnels and past waterfalls as they go.
Ålesund
This is a city known for gorgeous Art Nouveau architecture, along with its long staircase to the top of Mount Aksla for a stunning view of the city’s historical military infrastructure. It’s surrounded by a stunning backdrop of distant snow-capped mountains.
Other Norway sights to enjoy
If you’re staying a little longer in Norway on either end of the cruise, there are plenty of other exciting things to see in the country.
- The iconic Pulpit Rock
- Trolltunga, one of Norway’s great rock formations
- Briksdal Glacier, the largest mainland glacier in Europe
The country is full of natural beauty and manmade marvels, so don’t waste any more time and book a Norway cruise today! You can tick off plenty of bucket list sights all in one go.
Briksdal Glacier: Near the village of Olden, you can take a trip to see one of the arms of the Jostedalsbreen, Europe’s largest mainland glacier. It’s a testament to the immense power of the ice that has shaped Norway’s landscape.
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