Bergen: Viking Village, Nærøyfjorden Cruise and Flåm Railway

Planning a trip to Norway and craving a day packed with culture, jaw-dropping scenery, and iconic train journeys? This multi-faceted tour promises just that, taking you from Bergen’s charming streets to some of Norway’s most spectacular natural sights.

What we love about this experience is how it combines culture with breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned train rides. The Viking Village at Njardarheimr offers an engaging peek into Norse life, while the cruise through Nærøyfjorden delivers some of Europe’s most stunning scenery. Plus, the Flåm Railway—one of the most beautiful train routes in the world—is a highlight that many travelers cherish.

A possible consideration? The entire day is quite packed, with a long travel itinerary that can leave some feeling a little rushed, especially around the sightseeing stops. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, this might be a full day you’ll need to prepare for. Still, for those who love variety and adventure, this trip suits travelers eager to see a broad slice of Western Norway in one go.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of Bergen’s highlights—combining culture, nature, and iconic train journeys—all within one day.

Good To Know

• Diverse Experience: Combines Viking history, fjord scenery, and scenic train travel.
• Value for Money: Covers multiple major attractions for a competitive price.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit the Viking Village and learn from passionate guides.
• Spectacular Views: Witness UNESCO-listed fjords, waterfalls, and mountain vistas.
• Well-Organized: Efficient itinerary with clear timings and transfers.
• Long Day: Be prepared for a full 12-hour adventure with some travel time.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Bergen: Viking Village, Nærøyfjorden, and Flåm Railway Tour

This full-day excursion offers a fantastic way to experience some of Norway’s most iconic sights, all while traveling comfortably in a private Mercedes minibus. Let’s break down what makes each part of the day special and why it might just be your perfect Norwegian adventure.

Starting in Bergen: Convenient Pickup and Early Insights

The tour kicks off at Bergen Tourist Information, where a luxury Mercedes minibus picks you up. From the outset, it’s clear this is a well-organized experience, with a driver and an English-speaking guide who is praised for their punctuality and detailed explanations—like Srikantha’s review noted, “Mr. Thomas gave a detailed description of all the attractions.”

This initial meet-and-greet sets the tone, making you feel confident that your guide knows the route and the highlights inside and out. Expect an overview of the day’s schedule, some friendly chat, and maybe even a few jokes to get everyone relaxed before the big day ahead.

Stop at Tvindefossen: Norway’s Majestic Waterfall

The first sightseeing highlight is the Tvindefossen waterfall, which soars 116 meters (381 feet) over the Kroelvi stream. This isn’t just another tourist stop; it’s a natural spectacle where you’ll probably find yourself trying to capture the perfect shot of the cascading water tumbling over the rocky cliff. Reviewers like Sonia have praised the “spectacular views,” and the waterfall’s legend-laden aura adds a layer of mystique to this spot.

At about 20 minutes, it’s a quick photo op but enough time to absorb the power of nature and snap some shots to impress your friends back home.

Dale Village: A Charming Coffee and Snack Break

Before heading deeper into the fjord region, there’s a 20-minute stop at Dale village. This gives you a chance for a quick coffee or snack, stretch your legs, or visit the toilets. It’s a small, quiet place that offers a taste of rural Norway, with traditional architecture and peaceful views—ideal for a quick breather.

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Gudvangen and the Viking Village: Stepping Back in Time

Next, the journey takes you to Gudvangen, home to Njardarheimr, the Viking Village. Here, you step into a recreated Viking community that makes history feel surprisingly tangible. The guides—passionate locals—bring the Viking Age alive by sharing stories about ships, daily life, religion, and crafts.

Reviewer Sonia mentions, “At the Viking Village, our bus driver and tour guide left us with our train tickets for the rest of the day,” highlighting how efficient and seamless the transition is. You’re free to wander, explore the buildings, try on Viking costumes, or learn about traditional crafts. Many find this site surprisingly engaging, especially if you’re a history buff or traveling with children.

Optional lunch in the Viking Village offers an authentic experience, though it’s not included in the tour price. This part of the day delivers a genuine cultural insight that’s richer than a simple museum visit.

Cruising Nærøyfjorden: One of the World’s Most Beautiful Fjords

After the Viking experience, your highlight is the electric boat cruise through Nærøyfjorden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fjord is renowned for its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The scenery is so dramatic that it feels like being inside a postcard.

Travelers like Elaine noted, “The cruise was breathtaking,” and the onboard QR code narration makes it easy to learn about the fjord’s geology and history. The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views, snap photos, and simply marvel at nature’s grandeur.

Lunch and Free Time in Flåm

The cruise concludes in the village of Flåm, a hub for travelers exploring Norway’s fjord region. You’ll have about an hour here for lunch or sightseeing. Many visitors take this chance to visit the Flåm Museum, wander along the waterfront, or just relax at a café.

Reviewers have taken note of Flåm’s charm, pointing out that it’s “the most popular village around Aurlandsfjord” and a major destination. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite—perhaps seafood with a view—or souvenir shopping.

The Flåm Railway: One of the World’s Steepest and Most Scenic Train Routes

From Flåm, your journey continues aboard the famous Flåm Railway, hailed for its stunning scenery. This approximately 55-minute train ride takes you through a series of breathtaking landscapes: towering mountains, thundering waterfalls, and tunnels carved through mountainsides.

According to reviews, many travelers find that “the train ride back to Bergen was beautiful, with scenery and nap time,” so be sure to bring your camera and perhaps a blanket. The train runs on an incredible gradient of 5.5%, making it one of the steepest standard gauge railways in the world.

The train makes a brief stop at Myrdal, where you can stretch your legs and grab a snack. You’ll then switch to the Bergen-bound train, which offers more stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere after a busy day.

Return to Bergen: End of a Full Day

The journey wraps up around 21:15, back at your starting point in Bergen. Many reviews, like Srikantha’s, emphasize how well-coordinated the entire trip is, from transportation to sightseeing and train connections.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This experience stands out because it combines so many facets of Norway’s natural beauty and cultural history in one day. From the vibrant Viking village to the spectacular fjord cruise, each element offers authentic insights that deepen your appreciation of this unique country.

The transportation is modern, comfortable, and efficient, with an air-conditioned vehicle that makes the long day manageable. The guides are praised for their knowledge and punctuality, ensuring that each stop is meaningful and that you’re well taken care of.

The cost of $387 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering it covers multiple major attractions, tickets, and guided commentary, it’s a solid value. The tour also offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours and the option to reserve now and pay later, adding peace of mind for your planning.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive glimpse of Western Norway in one day. It suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and train aficionados alike—anyone eager to see UNESCO sites, stunning fjords, and experience authentic Viking culture.

However, travelers who prefer a slower pace or have mobility challenges may find the packed schedule quite demanding. It’s best for those ready for a full day of sightseeing, with lots of walking, boat cruising, and train riding.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes minibus for all transfers and sightseeing stops.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included, but there are opportunities to buy snacks or lunch during the free time in Flåm and at the Viking Village.

How long is the fjord cruise?
The cruise through Nærøyfjorden lasts approximately 2 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What’s the duration of the Flåm Railway ride?
The panoramic train ride from Flåm to Bergen takes around 55 minutes, passing through some of Norway’s most spectacular landscapes.

Can children participate?
Children under 4 years old cannot join, but older kids will enjoy the Viking Village and scenic train rides.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, wheelchair access is not possible on this tour, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

Final Thoughts

This Bergen-based tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see Norway’s highlights in a single day. The combination of culture at the Viking Village, awe-inspiring fjord scenery, and one of the world’s most scenic train rides makes it a fantastic choice, especially for first-time visitors.

While it involves a lot of traveling in one day, the seamless organization and knowledgeable guides make the journey enjoyable rather than exhausting. It’s a smart pick for travelers wanting to maximize their time and see the best of what Western Norway has to offer.

Whether you’re a fan of history, nature, or train journeys, this tour delivers genuine value and memorable experiences that will stay with you long after you return home.

You can check if your dates are available here: