Cruise stopovers in the Fjords

Welcome aboard this comprehensive guide to “Cruise stopovers in the Fjords”.
I’m Sarah ( or Miss Tatane 😛), passionate about cruising and a cruiser just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and advice with you, so that you can experience each destination to the full 😉

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Cruise stopovers in the Fjords

Cruise stopovers in the Fjords. The Norwegian fjords, with their majestic landscapes and calm waters, are a dream destination for cruise lovers. Costa , MSC , Ponant and others, giants of the cruise industry, offer exceptional voyages through these natural gems. Discover unforgettable stops in enchanting places such as Geiranger, Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger, Ålesund, Honningsvag, Tromsø, Olden, Trondheim, and Leknes.

The jewels of the Norwegian Fjords

This page was created to help you plan your cruise stops more efficiently. You will then know which exits from the port are chargeable and which are free. This will allow you to  maximize your time and budget . Remember that during cruise stopovers, time is of the essence. It is therefore important to know what to do and what to see. For each stopover, the essential activities will be detailed for you.

For the 9 stops that I have listed, I will give you my opinion on the most beautiful ones. This opinion can be subjective because it is the opinion of a tourist (like you) and of some cruise passengers who also give their valuable opinions. I put this symbol 👁 for you  when it’s a stopover to see,👁👁 when you can’t miss it and 👁👁👁 to see it at least once in your life because it’s paradise!

By following these tips, you can maximize your time during each cruise stopover in the Fjords

Have a good cruise and good stopovers! ‍️🥳🛳‍️

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Geiranger

Cruise stopovers in the Fjords

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This picturesque village surrounded by imposing mountains and majestic waterfalls is offered to travelers on cruises with Costa, MSC, Ponant, and other companies. It is a true immersion in natural splendor, with breathtaking views from the ship’s deck.

The Geiranger experience begins as soon as you arrive, whether from the deck of the boat or even from your cabin if it overlooks the outside. These sumptuous landscapes stand out from anything you are used to seeing. When the boat docks in Geiranger, the port, although small, can be shared by several cruise ships. The boat remains at anchor at sea, and we disembark on dry land by rowboat, a pleasant and free experience . However, for a breathtaking view, comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the need to climb.

If the climb seems too ambitious, an excursion can be a suitable alternative, especially for those who prefer a less sporty approach or who have difficulty moving. I particularly recommend the ascent of the Seven Sisters waterfall. On the boat, the excursion is offered from 70/80 euros.

Hop-on Hop-off City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Embark on a guided tour of Dalsnibba, Flydalsjuvet, Eagle Bend and the Fjords , tailor-made for cruise passengers arriving in Geiranger. Relax on board a comfortable bus and listen to live commentary as you admire the landscapes, mountains, waterfalls and lakes.

• Price → 100$

To book in advance and benefit from a special rate, click here!

What to do in Geiranger on a cruise stopover?

• Explore the Fjord by Boat
  Experience the Geiranger Fjord from a different perspective by taking a boat tour. You’ll get up close to iconic waterfalls, such as the Seven Sisters, the Bridal Vail and the Bachelor, and admire the sheer cliffs that frame the fjord.

Price – 60$ . For more information about this boat trip, click here

• Hiking to Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint
  For hiking enthusiasts, Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint offers a spectacular view of the fjord. The trail is well marked and accessible to most walkers. Remember to wear suitable walking shoes and bring water.
• Visit the Norwegian Fjord Museum
  Learn more about the history and geology of the region by visiting the Norwegian Fjord Museum in Geiranger. The museum offers interactive exhibits that will appeal to both young and old.
• Seven Sisters Waterfall Tour
  This spectacular waterfall is one of Geiranger’s main attractions. You can get there on an organized tour or by hiking for the more adventurous.
• Tasting local specialties
  Take advantage of your stopover to sample local culinary delights. From fresh seafood to Norwegian pastries, Geiranger offers a variety of specialties to discover.

Practical tips for your stopover in Geiranger

• Wear layers of clothing to accommodate changing temperatures.
• Comfortable walking shoes are essential for excursions and hikes.
• Book your excursions in advance to benefit from advantageous rates.

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Activities to do in Geiranger

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Bergen

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Bergen, Norway’s second largest city, combines historic charm with contemporary vibrancy. Cruises offer passengers the opportunity to stroll through the Hanseatic Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while exploring bustling markets and colorful alleyways.

Arriving in Bergen is an exceptional experience. The harbour offers remarkable views, and the charming colourful houses welcome you warmly. However, please note that the mooring location may vary per ship, given the large size of the harbour.

I would like to reassure you that the exit from the port is free . A convenient shuttle will take you to the exit, about 700 meters away. From there, you can start exploring the city on foot. If you prefer, options such as taxi, hop-on-hop-off service or even excursions are available, all easily accessible from the port. The tourist office is also nearby for any further information.

I highly recommend taking the cable car, which offers stunning views from the heights of Bergen.

What to do in Bergen on a Fjord Cruise?

• Explore the Hanseatic Quarter of Bryggen
  The UNESCO-listed Hanseatic Quarter of Bryggen is a must-see. Stroll among the colourful buildings and soak up the fascinating history of this area.
• Price →27$
• For a guided tour that will reveal all the secrets of Bergen and Bryggen, click here .

• Take the cable car up Mount Fløyen
  The Fløibanen cable car takes you to the top of Mount Fløyen, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Bergen and the surrounding area.
• Price → 36 $
• This tour is perfect for photography and nature lovers. To book your tickets in advance, click here .
• Visit the Fish Market
  The Bergen Fish Market is a lively place where you can enjoy fresh seafood and discover local specialties. It is a great place for a gourmet break.
• Discover the Bryggen Museum
  To learn more about the history of Bergen, a visit to the Bryggen Museum is a must. The museum offers a dive into the city’s past with fascinating exhibitions.
• Take a boat trip on the fjords
  Explore the beautiful fjords surrounding Bergen with a boat trip. You will be amazed by the natural beauty of the area, with its majestic mountains and crystal clear waters.

Practical tips for your stopover in Bergen

Book your excursions and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.

Wear clothing appropriate for Bergen’s changing weather conditions.

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Activities in Bergen during your cruise stopover

When you arrive in Bergen, there are plenty of activities and breathtaking landscapes. Here I offer you the highest-rated activities, while leaving room for you to explore at your own pace.

Here are the two excursions below. However, note that the first is the most popular and popular.

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Flåm

The extreme railway

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Flåm, this charming little village, is known for its incredible people. No matter where you choose to stop for food, coffee or just a stroll, the people of this village are amazing!😍

When you arrive at the port, the entrance is spectacular. When the boat enters the port, you have the impression that the mountains are so close that you say to yourself: “Are we going to enter there?” Then, you realize that they are still far away… The boat docks in the center, and the descent is done by rowboat, it is offered by the company, as always. You will have understood, free exit , my friends!

Stroll through this picturesque setting on foot, and if you want to add a touch of adventure, don’t miss the famous Flåm train. This world-famous train offers a breathtaking journey through the mountains and valleys. And of course, for those who love excursions, know that on board, these are generally offered between 90 and 220 euros. I’ll leave you with the activities to do and there are many, really enjoy this stopover because it is worth the detour.

What to do in Flåm on a Fjord Cruise?

• Ride the Flåm Train
  The Flåm Train is a must-see experience. This spectacular ride through mountains and valleys offers breathtaking views.
• Visit the Flåm Railway Museum
  Learn about the fascinating history of the Flåm Railway and the impressive engineering behind its construction. The museum is a great activity for the whole family.
• Hiking in the Flåm Valley
  Enjoy the many hiking trails around Flåm. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, there is a trail for you.
• Explore the fjord by kayak
  Experience the Flåm fjord up close by renting a kayak. It’s a unique and peaceful way to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
• Taste local specialties
  Take advantage of your stopover to taste Flåm’s culinary specialties. From fresh seafood to local cheeses, there’s something to delight your taste buds.

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The best activities in Flåm on a cruise

For those who want to experience the unique train experience, I recommend a lovely round trip Flåm-Myrdal-Flåm . This one-hour journey takes you from Flåm to the Myrdal mountain station, perched at 867 meters above sea level.

Myrdal is also a junction point for the Bergen Railway, providing a convenient connection between these iconic destinations. This scenic experience costs NOK 500 per person (approximately €42.50), allowing you to quickly enjoy Norway’s beautiful scenery without compromising your layover time.

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Stavanger

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Stavanger reveals picturesque streets and a lively maritime life. During your stopover, no need to spend, the exit to the port is completely free ! Arrival is directly in the city center! I suggest you get lost in the alleys of the old town, where the wooden houses tell a charming story.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a delicious local fruit juice, renowned as one of the best. Personally, I am not a fan of mutton or lamb, but if these flavors are part of your preferences, know that these are the local specialties. Let me know what you think!

When it comes to excursions, most cruise lines opt for this option, either on board your ship or directly at the port. Stavanger offers a variety of activities, whether you are interested in history, breathtaking views, or culinary adventures.

What to do in Stavanger during a cruise stopover?

• Explore Stavanger Old Town
  Stroll through the cobbled streets of Gamle Stavanger, the Old Town. Admire the well-preserved wooden houses and soak up the historic atmosphere of this charming neighborhood.
• Visit the Oil Museum
  Discover the fascinating history of the Norwegian oil industry at the Oil Museum. It’s an educational and interactive visit that will be fun for the whole family.
• Climbing the Preikestolen
  For hiking enthusiasts, climbing the Preikestolen is a must. This rocky plateau offers a breathtaking view of the Lysefjord. Duration 6.5 hours. Price → 150 $. To book this guided excursion, click here .
• Taste local specialties
  Take advantage of your stopover to taste Stavanger’s culinary specialties, such as mutton or lamb, if you like these flavors. Don’t forget to enjoy a local fruit juice.
• Take a cruise on the Lysefjord
  Explore the beautiful Lysefjord by boat. This tour will allow you to see breathtaking landscapes and unique rock formations. To book your cruise, 80 $ click here .

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Activities in Stavanger

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Ålesund

Discovering the Fjords – Unforgettable stopovers

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During this stopover in Ålesund, I sincerely appreciated the unique atmosphere of the city. At the foot of the boat, the port offers a free exit , allowing easy exploration on foot or even aboard the little train, although the cost can be a little high (around 30 euros from memory). Tickets are available at the kiosks at the foot of the boat, facilitating access. For my part, I recommend the tourist bus, you pay once and get off whenever you want, it’s a must!

For the more athletic, climbing the 400 steps is quite possible, but personally, after a busy day the day before, I preferred to abstain. The city can be discovered on foot, thanks to a central pedestrian street.

For a more relaxing option, a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus service is also available when the cruise ship is docked.

Ålesund offers a day full of discoveries, but if you have the opportunity to visit the Viking Islands, some cruise lines claim that the experience is definitely worth it. Personally, I have not had the opportunity to do it due to high prices, but from the valuable feedback, it seems to be a wonderful excursion.

What to do in Ålesund on a cruise?

Take a Viking Islands Tour
If you have the time and budget, a Viking Islands tour is highly recommended. These islands offer a fascinating insight into Viking history and culture.

Climbing to the top of Aksla
For a spectacular panoramic view of the city and its surroundings, climbing the 400 steps to the top of Aksla Hill is a must. If you prefer a less strenuous option, you can take the tourist bus.

Explore Art Nouveau Architecture
Stroll through the city center to admire the Art Nouveau buildings. Ålesund is famous for its unique architecture, a result of the city’s reconstruction after a fire in 1904.

Visit Ålesund Aquarium (Atlanterhavsparken)
One of the largest saltwater aquariums in Europe, Atlanterhavsparken offers a fascinating experience for the whole family, where you can discover local marine life in a spectacular setting.

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The best things to do in Ålesund

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Honningsvag and Tromsø

Conquering the North

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Cruises often venture to Honningsvag, the starting point for exploring the North Cape, and Tromsø, the city of the Northern Lights. These stops offer a unique Arctic experience, with breathtaking polar landscapes. For Honningsvag, disembarkation is by rowboat and it is the stopover that I liked the least, the exit is free, friends.

The city tour itself ( Tromsø ) is incredible. Cross the bridge to explore the magnificent Arctic Cathedral, an experience that is definitely worth the detour. Also, don’t hesitate to take the cable car to enjoy a panoramic view of the area. Crossing the bridge on foot is easy and offers a unique perspective on the city.

What to do in Tromsø on a cruise stopover?

Tromsø, the city of the Northern Lights, is full of exciting activities to explore during your cruise port of call.

• Meet the reindeer of Norwegian Lapland on a sleigh ride
  Take the opportunity to have a unique experience by meeting the reindeer of Norwegian Lapland and taking a sleigh ride. It is a fascinating activity (really) that will bring you closer to the local culture and traditions.
• Visit the Arctic Cathedral
  Cross the bridge to discover the magnificent Arctic Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that is definitely worth a visit.
• Take the Fjellheisen Cable Car
  Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the area from the top of the Fjellheisen Cable Car. An unforgettable experience for lovers of spectacular scenery. Duration 3 hours. €99.75 per person. To buy your tickets in advance, click here .
• Explore the Old Town
  Stroll through the picturesque streets of Tromsø’s Old Town, steeped in history and Nordic charm. This walking tour will allow you to discover the authenticity of Tromsø.
• Take a whale watching tour
  Take the opportunity to go out to sea and observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. This activity is ideal for nature lovers.

What to do in Honningsvag on a cruise stopover?

Honningsvag, although less impressive than other ports of call, also offers some interesting activities for cruise passengers.

• Visit the Viking Museum
  Learn more about Viking history and local culture by visiting the Viking Museum in Honningsvag. It is an educational activity that will enrich your stay.
• Discover the local wildlife
  Go on a hike or tour to observe local wildlife, including reindeer and seabirds. It’s a great way to connect with Arctic nature.

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The best things to do in Tromso

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Trondheim

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When you arrive in Trondheim, your boat docks near the city center. You can take a shuttle bus out of the harbor, which costs about 5-6 euros round trip. This city is amazing and there are so many places to visit!

What to do in Trondheim on a cruise stopover?

Admire the view from Kristiansten Fortress
Climb up to Kristiansten Fortress for a panoramic view of Trondheim and its surroundings. It’s a great place to take pictures and appreciate the beauty of the city.

Enjoy the local markets
Explore the local markets to discover fresh produce, handmade souvenirs and local specialties. Torvet Market, in particular, is a lively place where you can sample Norwegian delicacies.

Visit Nidaros Cathedral
Don’t miss the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Scandinavia. This historic site is a must-see and offers a glimpse into Norway’s medieval past.

Explore the Archbishop’s Palace
Right next to the cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace houses fascinating museums where you can discover archaeological and historical treasures. It’s a perfect place to enrich your knowledge of local history.

Stroll through Bakklandet
Stroll through the charming Bakklandet district with its colorful wooden houses and quaint cafes. It’s a great place for a relaxing stroll and to enjoy Trondheim’s unique atmosphere.

Cross the Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro)
The Old Town Bridge is a symbol of Trondheim and offers a magnificent view of the Bakklandet district and the Nidelva River. Don’t miss this must-see walk.

Explore Sverresborg Museum
Located outside the city center, Sverresborg Museum is an open-air museum featuring historic buildings and exhibits about traditional Norwegian life.

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The best things to do in Trondheim

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Leknes

Cruise stopovers in the Fjords

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In Leknes, the boat stays at sea and the descent is done by rowboat. However, once at the dock, you must choose between the excursion offered by the cruise company or a bus. Another option is to opt for the excursion from Leknes to the Lofoten Islands with transfer. For your information, the companies offer excursions that start at 180 euros per person.

Personally, I found this stopover rather complex and I did not disembark (which is very very rare ). I preferred to ask the opinion of other cruise passengers to gather their feedback. It is important to note that this cruise in the fjords can involve high costs, especially for those accustomed to the more moderate prices of the Mediterranean or the Greek islands. I will let our friends share their impressions of this stopover.

What to do in Leknes during a cruise stopover?

Excursion sur l’île de Lofoten – Lofoten : Reine, Hamnøy and Skariskøya → 150 $

• Relax on a sandy beach with stunning mountain views.
• Admire dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains and lush landscapes.
• Excursion designed for cruise ship passengers.

See availability – Reservation

Discover Uttakleiv Beach
Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Lofoten, Uttakleiv offers breathtaking scenery, perfect for a relaxing walk or a photo shoot.

Visiting Nusfjord Village
Nusfjord is one of the best-preserved fishing villages in Norway. It offers a dive into the maritime history of Lofoten. The charming red and yellow houses lining the quay create a unique atmosphere.

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The best things to do in Leknes

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MTT notice of cruise stopovers in the Fjords

My experience of the fjord cruises was really beautiful and atypical. It is an experience to live at least once. Despite the beauty of the landscapes and the incredible aspect of the fjords, I am definitely a girl from the south and everything is overpriced despite some good deals.

It is essential to be honest about the cost of these cruises, which is quite high. In addition, the costs do not stop there. For someone like me who is used to good deals and affordable excursions in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, the costs of excursions, even with our own means, are very high. When you are traveling in a group of four people, this can represent a significant financial burden.

Despite this, I wish you a very nice cruise. Enjoy this unique adventure and the magnificent landscapes that the fjords have to offer.

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Cruise stopovers in the Mediterranean

Detailed stopovers port by port

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Around the world

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In the Caribbean

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In North America

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Cruise guide

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