Welcome to Montatanetour (MTT) and your “Fjords cruise ports excursions” page.
I’m Sarah (or Miss Tatane 😛), a cruise enthusiast and fellow cruiser just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and tips so you can fully enjoy your port call or embarkation in the fjords.
Don’t forget to bookmark us if you’re planning your next cruise! Our MTT site (your site) is updated weekly with new articles and destinations as we travel.
On this page, I recommend two of the most budget-friendly partners. You can book with Civitatis 🔴 or GetYourGuide 🔵, whichever you prefer. I’ve compared the prices for you and selected the best value options.
Happy reading, have an excellent cruise… and most importantly: enjoy every minute! ONE LIFE!!!
Fjords cruise ports excursions
Complete guide
For all the Fjords port calls I’ve listed for you, I give you my opinion on the most beautiful ones. This opinion may be subjective as it is only the view of one tourist (like you) and a few cruisers who also share their valuable feedback.
I’ve used this symbol 👁 for the must-sees 👁👁 and 👁👁👁 for the spots you must see at least once in your life because they’re paradise!
Ports, excursions, and practical tips
Fjords cruise ports excursions
The Norwegian Fjords offer a natural spectacle of breathtaking magnificence! As soon as your ship enters these calm waters, surrounded by dizzying cliffs and roaring waterfalls, you immediately feel the power and beauty of this unique landscape. Together, we’ll discover how to turn this port call into an unforgettable adventure.
To make reading more enjoyable and avoid large blocks of text that I dislike as much as you do, I’ve tried to use clear and synthetic tables. They will allow you to quickly find essential information, practical tips, and the highlights of each activity.
In this guide, we cover all the practical aspects of your trip: how to easily get out of the main cruise ports, which excursions to choose to maximize your time, and what to see and do to fully immerse yourself in Norwegian culture and nature.
One essential tip: shore excursions sold onboard often come with very high price tags. To pay the right price and save significantly, book your shore activities in advance! You’ll reach the same incredible places for a fraction of the cost.
Geiranger
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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Your arrival in Geiranger is a magical moment! The ship always remains at anchor, as it cannot dock at the pier. Therefore, disembarkation is systematically done by tender boat (tender). Take advantage of this, as this short crossing already offers you a breathtaking view of the village and the surrounding waterfalls, such as the famous Seven Sisters.
Upon arrival on land, you will discover a small village that lives mainly from tourism. It is essential to plan your day, as the main activities are located at a higher elevation.
What to do in Geiranger during your cruise stop?
| Point of interest | ℹ️ details |
|---|---|
| Mount Dalsnibba | The absolute must-see! A bus excursion takes you to the summit of Mount Dalsnibba (about 1,500 m — roughly 4,920 ft / ≈ 0.93 miles) for a breathtaking view over the Geirangerfjord. The winding road leading to the top is an impressive experience in itself. |
| Eagle Road (Ørnesvingen) | This famous viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the fjord, the village, and the Seven Sisters waterfalls. Accessible by bus, it’s a perfect spot for unforgettable photos and to admire the entire Geiranger valley. |
| Kayaking and fjord safari | For adventure lovers, go kayaking or take a fast RIB boat safari. You’ll get close to the cliffs, waterfalls, and the old farms perched on the fjord slopes. |
| Fjordcenter | For a quieter experience, walk up (about 20 minutes) to the Fjordcenter. This interactive museum tells the story of the region, its unique geology, and the daily life of fjord residents. |
| Money-saving tip | Bus excursions and transfers usually cost nearly twice as much when booked on board. To save money and secure your seat for Mount Dalsnibba or Eagle Road, book your activities online in advance. |
ℹ️ practical information
- Currency – the Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.
- Disembarkation – the ship anchors in the fjord; disembarkation is by tender boat.
- Climate – dress in layers (windbreaker, fleece), as the weather changes quickly, even in summer.
The best activities in Geiranger
Book your spots now with GetYourGuide! Don’t wait until you’re on the ship and pay 5 times more.
Geiranger, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger,… the best activities sell out quickly. Enjoy your stress-free port call: your skip-the-line tickets are waiting for you on GetYourGuide.
Bergen
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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Your arrival in Bergen is ideal, as the ship docks very close to the city center. However, the exact mooring location may vary depending on your ship, since the port area is quite large.
Good news the port exit is free! A convenient shuttle will take you to the port gate, about 700 meters away (roughly 0.43 miles). From there, you can start exploring the city on foot. If you prefer, options such as taxis, hop-on-hop-off buses, or guided excursions are easily available right from the port.
Nicknamed the “gateway to the fjords,” Bergen offers a unique mix of historic charm, spectacular nature, and lively urban atmosphere. Unlike Geiranger, you can easily explore most of the main sights on foot.
What to do in Bergen during your cruise stop?
| Highlight | ℹ️ details |
|---|---|
| Bryggen and the Hanseatic wharf | This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the iconic image of Bergen. Stroll through the narrow lanes to admire the colorful wooden houses and discover the history of the Hanseatic merchants. |
| Fløibanen funicular (Mount Fløyen) | The funicular takes you to the top of Mount Fløyen in just a few minutes. Enjoy panoramic views over the city, the harbor, and the surrounding islands. Many hiking trails also start from here. |
| Fish market (Fisketorget) | Located on the waterfront, this market is perfect for tasting Norwegian specialties such as fresh salmon, king crab, or even whale for the more adventurous visitors. |
| Mostraumen fjord cruise | To experience the magic of the fjords without spending a full day, this 3–4 hour cruise takes you deep into a narrow and spectacular fjord. |
| Practical tip | Wait times for the Fløibanen funicular can be very long in summer, and boat excursions fill up quickly. Book your tickets online in advance to skip the lines and get the best prices. |
ℹ️ practical information
- Currency – the Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.
- Disembarkation – the free shuttle takes you to the port exit, from where you can easily reach the city center.
- Climate – Bergen is famous for its rain, so always bring a waterproof jacket.
Top activities in Bergen
Book your spots now with GetYourGuide! Don’t wait until you’re on the ship and end up paying five times more.
Geiranger, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger… the best tours sell out fast. Enjoy a stress-free stopover: your skip-the-line tickets are waiting on GetYourGuide.
Flåm
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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When arriving at the port, the entrance is spectacular. As the ship enters the fjord, it feels like the mountains are so close you wonder, “Are we going in there?” Then you realise they are still far off… The ship docks directly in the centre. So the village is immediately accessible on foot. You got it—free exit, friends!
Your arrival in Flåm places you in the heart of the Sognefjord, the “fjord of fjords.” The true star of this stopover is the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana), an attraction drawing visitors from all over the world.
For that reason, crowds focus mainly on train excursions and cruises on the Nærøyfjord. Plan your day carefully, because tickets sell very quickly.
What to do in Flåm during your cruise stop?
| Activity | ℹ️ details |
|---|---|
| Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) | A masterpiece of engineering, the Flåm Railway climbs 12.4 miles (20 kilometres) and 2,845 feet (867 metres) in elevation up to Myrdal station. The ride provides spectacular views of waterfalls, mountains, and lush valleys. For something different, do the one-way ride and return by bike for a unique experience. |
| Nærøyfjord cruise | Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this narrow fjord is one of Norway’s most beautiful. A short cruise offers views of cliffs, waterfalls, and typical villages from the sea. Departures are made directly from Flåm port. |
| Flåm Zipline | For thrill seekers, try the longest zipline in Scandinavia. Located near Myrdal station, it sends you flying over the valley at high speed. After your descent, return to Flåm by bike or on foot along a scenic trail. |
| Flåm Railway Museum | Great for a short visit or while waiting for your train, this museum traces the construction and fascinating history of the Flåm line. Admission is free and the interactive exhibits appeal to both children and adults. |
| Pro tip | The Flåm Railway is very popular during high season. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid queues and secure your departure. Combine your train ticket with a cruise for an unforgettable full day. |
ℹ️ practical information
- Rail travel: reserve the Flåm Railway in advance! It’s golden rule in Flåm port.
- Note: the village is very small; it can be walked through quickly.
- Currency: the Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.
Top activities at Flåm port, Norway
Book your tickets now with GetYourGuide — don’t wait until you’re on the ship and end up paying five times more!
Flåm, Bergen, Geiranger, Stavanger… the most popular tours sell out fast. Enjoy your stopover without stress — your skip-the-line tickets are ready for you on GetYourGuide.
Stavanger
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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Stavanger reveals picturesque streets and a lively maritime atmosphere. During your stopover, there’s no need to spend a cent — the port exit is completely free! The ship arrives right in the city center. I recommend getting lost in the narrow lanes of the old town, where the white wooden houses tell a charming story.
Don’t miss the chance to try a delicious local fruit juice, known as one of the best. Personally, I’m not a fan of lamb or mutton, but if those flavors appeal to you, they’re part of the local specialties — give them a try and let me know what you think!
When it comes to excursions, most cruise passengers choose to book either on board or directly at the port. Stavanger offers a variety of activities, whether you’re into history, breathtaking scenery, or culinary adventures.
What to do in Stavanger during your cruise stop?
Stavanger offers both historical charm and stunning nature. Depending on the length of your stop, choose between a relaxing city walk or an impressive adventure to the Lysefjord and Preikestolen:
| Option | ℹ️ details and highlights |
|---|---|
| Option 1: City center discovery (easy and quick) |
The city center is compact and ideal for a short stop or a relaxed day. • Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger) – 170 white wooden houses from the 18th century, peaceful and photogenic atmosphere. • Fargegaten – the famous colorful street, perfect for coffee and photos. • Norwegian Petroleum Museum – a modern exhibition about Norway’s offshore oil industry. • Stavanger Cathedral (Domkirke) – one of the oldest religious buildings in Norway. |
| Option 2: Excursion to Lysefjord and Preikestolen (active and planned) |
For adventure lovers and those seeking breathtaking views: • Lysefjord cruise – duration 2 to 4 hours, departing from the port, sailing beneath Preikestolen for a spectacular view without hiking. • Preikestolen hike – about 4 hours round trip (+ 1.5 hours transport). Requires good fitness and a full day. |
Tip: for a short stopover, the fjord cruise is ideal. If you plan to hike, book your express bus in advance to guarantee a timely return.
ℹ️ practical information
- Transport: the city can be explored entirely on foot. For Lysefjord, ferries and express buses depart directly from the port.
- Note: the weather can change quickly. If you plan to hike, bring warm and waterproof clothing.
- Currency: the Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.
Top activities in Stavanger
Book your spots now with GetYourGuide! Don’t wait until you’re on the ship and pay five times more.
Geiranger, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger… the best tours sell out quickly. Enjoy your stopover without stress — your skip-the-line tickets are waiting for you on GetYourGuide.
Ålesund
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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Your arrival in Ålesund places you right at the heart of the action. The ship docks directly in the city center, giving you instant access to the pedestrian streets. There’s no shuttle or tender disembarkation is completely free and done on foot.
Ålesund is world-famous for its unique Art Nouveau architecture (Jugendstil). After a devastating fire in 1904, the city was entirely rebuilt with spires, towers, and ornate facades, creating a fairytale-like urban landscape.
This port stop is one of the easiest to explore independently since all major attractions are within walking distance.
What to do in Ålesund during your cruise stop?
For a typical 4–5 hour stop, you can easily combine a city walk with panoramic views:
| Activity | ℹ️ Details |
|---|---|
| Mount Aksla and Fjellstua Viewpoint | Climb 418 steps from the city park (Byparken) for a breathtaking view of the town, nearby islands, and the Sunnmøre Alps. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. Alternative: take the small tourist train or a taxi to skip the stairs. |
| Art Nouveau Architecture and Jugendstilsenteret Center | Stroll along the Brosundet canal and through the shopping streets. The center tells the story of the 1904 fire and how Ålesund was rebuilt in this unique architectural style. |
| Molja Lighthouse | A small yellow lighthouse transformed into a hotel suite — charming for a short seaside walk. Located close to the city center. |
| Atlantic Sea-Park (Atlanterhavsparken) | Located 10–15 minutes away by bus or taxi. One of the largest aquariums in Norway, perfect if you have a long stop (6 hours or more). |
| Pro tip | Start with Mount Aksla (on foot, by train, or by taxi) to enjoy the view before the crowds. Then, explore downtown and the Art Nouveau Center to fully appreciate Ålesund’s unique architecture. |
ℹ️ practical information
- Note: the weather can change quickly. If you plan to hike, bring warm and waterproof clothing.
- Currency: the Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.
Top activities in Ålesund
Book your tickets now with GetYourGuide don’t wait until you’re on the ship and pay five times more!
Geiranger, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger… the best tours sell out fast. Enjoy your stopover without stress — your skip-the-line tickets are ready on GetYourGuide.
Honningsvåg and Tromsø
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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Cruises often venture as far as Honningsvag, the starting point to explore the North Cape, and Tromsø, the city of the Northern Lights. These stopovers offer a unique Arctic experience with breathtaking polar landscapes. In Honningsvag, disembarkation is by tender, and the stopover was my least favorite but the exit is free, friends.
What to do in Honningsvag during your cruise stopover?
| Activity | ℹ️ Details |
|---|---|
| North Cape (Nordkapp) | Europe’s northernmost point. Admire the famous globe sculpture and enjoy breathtaking views of the Barents Sea. If you return early or have a long stopover, explore the small village of Honningsvåg, accessible on foot from the pier. |
| Walk around the town center | The center is very compact. Souvenir shops and a few cafés make for a quick stroll. |
| Visit Honningsvåg Church | One of the few buildings in the region that survived World War II, offering an interesting historical glimpse. |
| North Cape Museum (Nordkappmuseet) | Small local museum detailing the history of Arctic fishermen, life on Magerøya Island, and the first expeditions to the North Cape. |
| King Crab tasting | Some restaurants or excursions offer tastings of king crab, a local specialty. Check upon arrival at the port. |
ℹ️ Practical information
- Currency – Norwegian krone (NOK). Cards are accepted everywhere.
- Disembarkation – The ship anchors in the fjord; disembarkation is by tender.
- Climate – Bring layered clothing (windbreaker, fleece) as weather changes quickly, even in summer.
What to do in Tromsø during your cruise stopover?
| Activity | ℹ️ Details |
|---|---|
| Fjellheisen (Cable Car) | Main attraction offering spectacular views of the city, fjords, and mountains. |
| Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen) | Bold modern silhouette and symbol of Tromsø. Located on the same side as the cable car. • Access: easy on foot after descending the cable car or from the city center via the bridge. |
| City center on foot | The historic center, located on Tromsøya Island, is fully walkable. Perfect for strolling and discovering local architecture. |
| Tromsø Cathedral (Domkirke) | Norway’s only wooden cathedral, a must-see for religious heritage enthusiasts. |
| Polar Museum (Polarmuseet) | Explores the history of Norwegian polar expeditions, including those of Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen. |
| Harbor and shopping streets | Perfect for wandering, discovering local shops, and shopping. |
Best activities in Tromsø
Book your tickets now with GetYourGuide! Avoid waiting on the ship and paying 5x more.
Geiranger, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger… the best activities sell out fast. Enjoy your stopover stress-free with skip-the-line tickets from GetYourGuide.
Best activities in Honningsvag
Book your tickets now with GetYourGuide! Avoid waiting on the ship and paying 5x more.
Geiranger, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger… the best activities sell out fast. Enjoy your stopover stress-free with skip-the-line tickets from GetYourGuide.
Trondheim
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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Upon arrival in Trondheim, your ship docks near the city centre. You can take a shuttle, which costs around €5–6 round trip. This city is incredible with plenty of places to visit!
Trondheim is Norway’s former capital (once called Nidaros) and a vibrant university town, famous for its majestic medieval cathedral and picturesque wooden houses along the river. The stopover is especially appreciated for the ease of exploring the main sights on foot.
What to do in Trondheim during your cruise stop?
| Activity | ℹ️ Details |
|---|---|
| Nidaros Cathedral (Nidarosdomen) | Masterpiece of Scandinavian Gothic architecture, built over the burial site of Saint Olav, Norway’s patron saint. Impressive west façade and a major historical site. |
| Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro) & Bakklandet | Cross the iconic red bridge for views of the colorful warehouses along the Nidelva River. • Do this: Stroll through the restored Bakklandet district with wooden houses, cobblestone streets, cafés, craft shops, and galleries. |
| Kristiansten Fortress | 17th-century fortress built to defend the city. • Do this: Walk up to the fort (short uphill walk) for panoramic views of Trondheim, its fjord, and surrounding landscape. |
| Trampe Bicycle Lift | Unique local curiosity: the world’s only bicycle lift, helping cyclists ascend a steep street in Bakklandet to the fortress. |
| Museums (optional) | • Rockheim: Norway’s national interactive museum of pop and rock music, near the port. • Archbishop’s Palace Museum (Erkebispegården): Adjacent to the cathedral, showcasing archaeological finds and religious artifacts. |
| Practical tip | Start with Nidaros Cathedral (the farthest landmark from the port), then head to the Old Town Bridge and Bakklandet. If energy allows, climb Kristiansten Fortress for the view, then descend for shopping or a café before returning to the ship. Ideal stopover on foot for a complete, relaxed visit. |
ℹ️ Practical information
- Shuttle / Access: Paid shuttle (~€5–6 round trip) or ~15–20 minutes walk to the city centre.
- On foot: City centre, Bakklandet, Old Town Bridge, and the Cathedral are easily walkable once in town.
- Transport: Gråkallbanen tram (world’s northernmost) can be used if you want to explore further (not necessary for main sites).
- Currency: Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit cards are widely accepted.
Top activities in Trondheim
Book your tickets now with GetYourGuide! Don’t wait until you’re on the ship and pay five times more.
Trondheim, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger… the best tours sell out quickly. Enjoy your stopover stress-free — your skip-the-line tickets are ready on GetYourGuide.
Leknes
Fjords cruise ports excursions
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Leknes is not the final destination, but the perfect central starting point to explore the spectacular landscapes and picturesque fishing villages that make the Lofoten Islands famous. The main attraction of this stop lies in excursions to the coastal villages and surrounding beaches.
Cruise friends: we stay at sea! Disembarkation will be by tender to the dock, but the good news is that it’s free and handled by the cruise company, ensuring a smooth entry to land.
Attention: it is strongly recommended to book your excursion well in advance. Once you leave the port, there is little organized on-site, as most passengers head straight to excursions. Last-minute options are rare and expensive.
What to do in Leknes during your cruise stop?
ℹ️ practical information
- Disembarkation at the dock: at sea, tender provided by the cruise company.
- On foot: exploring major attractions on foot is not possible. Transportation is required.
- Transport: advance booking is crucial (car, taxi, excursion). Public buses are unreliable for short stopovers.
- Currency: Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit cards are accepted everywhere.
Top activities in Leknes
Book your tickets now with GetYourGuide! Don’t wait until you’re on the ship and pay five times more.
Leknes, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger… the best tours sell out fast. Enjoy your stopover stress-free — your skip-the-line tickets are ready on GetYourGuide.
Practical tips
Fjords cruise ports excursions
The Norwegian fjords are a unique environment that requires a bit of preparation. Here are our top tips to make every stopover stress-free and smooth, so you can fully enjoy your experience.
Logistics – disembarkation and transport
| Key point | ℹ️ Details |
|---|---|
| Tender | In small fjords like Geiranger or Olden, ships anchor offshore. Disembarkation is always by tender. Expect a 30–60 minute wait, especially if you haven’t booked an excursion with the cruise company. |
| Essential planning | Villages such as Flåm or Geiranger rely heavily on tourism, and buses to attractions (Mount Dalsnibba, Flåm train) fill up fast. Book your transfers and tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot and save time. |
| Accessibility | Docks are often very close to the city center in Bergen, Ålesund, or Stavanger, making it easy to explore on foot. |
Currency and budget
| Key point | ℹ️ Details |
|---|---|
| Norwegian krone (NOK) | This is the official currency, but Norway is almost cashless. |
| Credit/debit cards | Your card is accepted everywhere, even for a bottle of water or a bus ticket. Cash is not necessary. |
| Excursion budget | Onboard excursions can cost 2–3 times more than booking online directly. For popular activities (Flåm train, Dalsnibba), online booking optimizes your budget. Fjord costs = 1 arm… maybe 2 😂😂 |
Weather and gear
| Key point | ℹ️ Details |
|---|---|
| Changeable weather | Weather in the fjords changes quickly. Bright sunshine can turn into light rain in minutes. |
| Layered clothing | Use the onion method: waterproof windbreaker, fleece or warm sweater, t-shirts. Easier to remove a layer than add one you forgot. |
| Walking shoes | Streets may be cobbled or slippery, and excursions often involve walking (Mount Fjellstua in Ålesund, strolls in Flåm). Comfortable, grippy shoes are essential. |
By following these practical tips and preparing properly, your Norwegian fjord stopovers will be smooth and rewarding. Enjoy every moment discovering spectacular landscapes and local culture.
Cruise stopovers in the fjords
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