Guided tour – Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway

An In-Depth Look at the Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise, and Flåm Railway Tour

If you’re visiting Bergen and craving a full day of Norway’s most iconic sights—think fjords, mountains, and Viking history—this guided tour offers an impressive way to see it all. For around $405 per person, you’ll spend roughly 10.5 hours traveling through some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes, with expert guides making the journey both educational and entertaining. The tour covers a scenic bus ride from Bergen to Gudvangen, where you’ll explore a reconstructed Viking village, cruise along the world’s most beautiful fjords, and ride two legendary railways.

One of the things we love about this tour is how seamlessly it combines different modes of transportation—bus, boat, and train—allowing you to experience Norway’s diversity in a single day. Plus, the guided Viking village step back into history with a living history experience that’s perfect for families or history buffs. Another highlight is the electric fjord cruise, offering serene waters and towering cliffs that make you feel like you’re in a nature documentary.

A potential consideration is the long day, which might be tiring for travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace or want to linger longer at each stop. Also, since it’s a busy, all-in-one trip, the experience is tightly scheduled, so if you’re seeking a slow, unhurried exploration, this might feel like a whistle-stop tour.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Norway’s natural beauty and Viking culture without the hassle of planning multiple trips themselves. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a snapshot of Norway’s fjords, mountains, and history—all in a single, well-organized day.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Transport: The tour includes bus, boat, and train tickets, simplifying logistics and maximizing sightseeing time.
• Breathtaking Landscapes: Expect waterfalls, fjords, mountains, and forests that showcase Norway’s rugged beauty.
• Iconic Train Rides: Experience one of the world’s most scenic railways—the Flåm Railway—and the Bergen Railway, with stunning views at every turn.
• Authentic Viking Experience: Explore Njardarheimr, a lively Viking village where history feels surprisingly real.
• Flexible Schedule: The tour is tightly packed, so you’ll see a lot, but it’s a full-on day that might feel rushed for some.
• Highly Rated Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides like Michael and Maria for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Early Morning

The adventure begins at Strandkaien 16 in Bergen at 8:00 am. From here, a comfortable bus whisks you away from the city’s streets into the Norwegian countryside. The early start is crucial because the day is packed, but it also means you can beat some of the crowds and enjoy the scenery in quieter moments.

Tvindefossen Waterfall

The first stop is Tvindefossen, a stunning 110-meter-high waterfall near Voss. The cascade over a receding cliff is striking, especially with the lush greenery and rainbows that often form in the mist. Historically, this spot gained fame for purported rejuvenating properties, attracting visitors from all over the world—up to 200,000 annually at one point. While that may be less relevant today, it remains a popular photo stop and a reminder of Norway’s natural wonders.

Stalheim Village and Viewpoints

Next, the tour takes you to Stalheim, a scenic village perched high in the Voss municipality. The views from the Stalheim Hotel are famous—they’ve appeared in numerous paintings—and for good reason. The steep mountain slopes and waterfalls here highlight Norway’s dramatic geography. It’s a brief stop, but one packed with photo opportunities, especially with the Stalheimsfossen waterfall nearby.

Njardarheimr Viking Village in Gudvangen

One of the tour’s main highlights is a guided visit to Njardarheimr, a living Viking village that taps into Norway’s Viking past. Here, the gates are open, and visitors become part of a lively community where people demonstrate traditional crafts, archery, axe throwing, and Viking cooking. The admission ticket is included, and reviewers rave about how much they learned about Viking life—one even noted it was “better than expected.”

Walking through authentic houses and meeting costumed hosts makes history feel surprisingly real. The village’s location in Gudvangen offers a glimpse into the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, the world’s number-one natural heritage site according to National Geographic. The guide will share stories that make you appreciate how Vikings navigated and influenced the world centuries ago.

Cruising Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord

From Gudvangen, you hop aboard a premium electric boat cruising through Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 1-hour cruise feels almost surreal—calm waters surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. It’s easy to see why this fjord is rated as one of the most beautiful places on earth. Reviewers mention the magnificent views and the peacefulness of the cruise, which allows for a relaxed appreciation of nature’s grandeur.

The cruise then proceeds into Aurlandsfjord, a branch of Sognefjord, where steep mountains and tiny villages dot the landscape. The waters here are deep and narrow, sometimes less than 2 km wide, creating a dramatic scene. It’s a highlight for many, with unspoiled scenery that feels untouched.

Kjosfossen Waterfall and Flåm Railway

Next, the bus heads toward the famous Kjosfossen Waterfall, known for its spectacular 225-meter drop and the small power station that cleverly supplies power to the Flåm Railway. The stop here is brief but highly photogenic. The roar of water and the mist in the air make this a memorable moment.

Then, the journey continues on the Myrdal Station, where you’ll switch to the Flåm Railway—a 20.2 km stretch that’s regarded as one of the world’s most scenic train rides. The railway climbs an incredible 866 meters, passing through tunnels, over bridges, and offering sweeping views of mountains and waterfalls. Several reviewers mention how spectacular the ride is—one described it as “unlike anything I’ve ever seen.”

The Flåm Railway Experience

The Flåm Railway is a marvel of engineering and scenery. It’s almost exclusively a tourist line now, with ten stations along the way, each offering a new vantage point. Expect to see waterfalls, lush forests, and steep slopes as the train ascends. The ride is about an hour long and is often called a “must-do” for visitors.

Returning via Bergen Railway and Bus

After descending back to Myrdal, the tour follows the Bergen Railway—Northern Europe’s highest mainline—over the Hardangervidda plateau, crossing at 1,237 meters above sea level. The train trip is another highlight, with panoramic windows revealing Norway’s vast mountain landscapes.

Finally, the bus returns to Bergen, bringing the day full circle. The entire journey is designed to maximize scenery and minimize travel stress, with the transport tickets all included.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At just over $400, this experience packs a full day of sightseeing, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of all transport, plus admission to key stops, means you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics. Travelers repeatedly comment on how well-organized and smooth the experience is, with guides like Michael and Maria earning praise for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.

The fact that the tour covers both active and relaxed elements—from walking through Viking houses to sitting comfortably on a boat or train—caters to a variety of travelers. Many reviewers mention how the transportation is comfortable and the views are breathtaking. Some say it’s a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity to see Norway’s fjords and mountains, especially within a manageable day trip.

One note: because this tour is popular and books well in advance, it’s a good idea to reserve early—on average, travelers book about 71 days ahead. Also, be prepared for a long day, which can be tiring but is often praised for its value and variety.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Norway’s natural beauty and Viking culture without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s excellent for first-time visitors, families, or anyone eager to see Norway’s iconic fjords, mountains, and history in one go. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and appreciate guided insights, you’ll find this tour well worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic marvels, cultural exploration, and memorable transport. The guides are knowledgeable, making the journey engaging, and the stops are carefully chosen to showcase Norway’s top highlights. While it’s a long day, the variety of experiences and stunning vistas make every moment worthwhile.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, value-packed adventure that captures the essence of Norway’s fjords and Viking past, this tour hits the mark. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and see as much as possible in a single day, with the added comfort of expert guiding.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, all transport—bus, boat, and train—is included, making it easy to focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about logistics.

How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately 10.5 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Bergen later in the day.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during a stop.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and those with good mobility will find it easier to manage walking at stops. Be aware it is a full day with some walking involved.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book around 71 days ahead, so early planning is recommended.

What is the highlight of the fjord cruise?
Expect stunning, serene waters surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls—many say it’s the most breathtaking part of the trip.

Can I expect crowded trains and boats?
Yes, especially during peak tourist season or cruise months, but the tour usually provides its own dedicated train car for less crowding.

Is the Viking Village authentic?
Yes, it’s a living history site that offers a hands-on experience of Viking life with demonstrations and activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable layers are best, as weather can vary. Rain gear is advisable in case of showers, especially during the boat cruise.

This tour combines Norway’s spectacular landscapes with a touch of history, making it a rich, enjoyable, and memorable day for anyone eager to experience the country’s essence in one easy package.