This tour is perfect for those who appreciate the blend of serene fjord cruises, scenic train journeys, and the opportunity to explore vibrant cities and quaint villages. Cultural explorers and photographers looking to capture the essence of Norway's heritage, from historic architecture to panoramic vistas, will find this journey unforgettable.
One-way fjord cruise package to Balestrand from Oslo or Bergen – 4 days
Adventure into the heart of the majestic Sognefjord and experience Norway's two largest cities in the order you want.
Embark on a captivating 4-night journey through the heart of Norway's stunning fjord country, with the flexibility to start your adventure in either Oslo or Bergen. This one-way fjord cruise package offers an intimate exploration of Norway's breathtaking landscapes, combining serene fjord cruises with scenic train rides, and culminating in stays in charming villages and vibrant cities.
Spending your first night in Oslo, you can explore the harmonious blend of modern architecture and historic sites, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Oslofjord. Your adventure continues as you embark on a train journey aboard the renowned Bergen Line. Witness the changing landscapes, from rolling hills to majestic mountains, as you travel towards the heart of Fjord Norway.
Your adventure continues as you embark on a train journey aboard the renowned Bergen Line. Witness the changing landscapes, from rolling hills to majestic mountains, as you travel towards the heart of Fjord Norway. When you reach Myrdal Mountain Station, you'll connect with the famous Flåm Railway. From Flåm, the journey continues by boat to Balestrand, a picturesque fjord village nestled on the shores of the Sognefjord. The following day will be spent on excursions or relaxing in Balestrand.
Leaving Balestrand, the journey continues with a scenic fjord cruise on the Sognefjord, all the way to Bergen. Your voyage concludes with a stay in the historic city of Bergen, known for its UNESCO-listed Bryggen Hanseatic wharf, vibrant fish market and surrounding mountains.
For travelers starting in Bergen, this itinerary offers a reverse exploration. Beginning with the charm and historical richness of Bergen before traveling to Balestrand and the Sognefjord. After spending quality time in Balestrand, the journey continues with the breathtaking train rides on the Flåm Railway and Bergen Line, concluding in the capital city of Oslo.
Trip Highlights
Scenic train rides on the Bergen Line and the Flåm Railway, offering views of mountainous terrain and lush valleys.
Fjord cruises on the majestic Sognefjord with views of Norway's stunning fjord landscapes and serene waters.
A stay in the picturesque fjord village of Balestrand, at the historic Kviknes Hotel.
What’s included in this trip
Accommodations: Comfortable stays in Oslo, Balestrand, and Bergen, with a highlight of fjord views in Balestrand. Breakfast buffet included at all hotels. Please remember to specify dietary restrictions during checkout.
Experiences: Journey through Norway's scenic wonders with the Bergen Line, the Flåm Railway, and cruises on the Aurlandsfjord and Sognefjord, plus exploration time in each city.
Transport: Comprehensive travel arrangements including scenic train rides and express boat cruises connecting Oslo, Balestrand, and Bergen.
Safety: Access to an emergency number exclusive to our customers. Call us for assistance if you are stuck or need help during your trip. See FAQ for details.
Day to day itinerary
Welcome to Oslo!
Welcome to Oslo, the capital of Norway, where your fjord adventure begins. Upon your individual arrival, check into a centrally located hotel, carefully chosen for its proximity to the city's main attractions. Read our guide on how to travel to your hotel.
Your first night in Oslo is an invitation to immerse yourself in the Norwegian way of life. Whether you're exploring the city's museums, admiring the view from Holmenkollen, or strolling through the Vigeland Park, Oslo offers a warm welcome to all who venture through its streets.
Included Meals
Included Transport
Accommodation
1 night in Oslo
Travel on famous railways and fjord boat to Balestrand
Your second day starts with a morning departure on the Bergen Line from Oslo. As you journey towards Myrdal, prepare to be captivated by the scenic Hallingdal valley. The train ascends to the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, offering spectacular views. At 1300 meters above sea level, this is Northern Europe's highest mainline railway.
The adventure continues as you arrive at the quaint Myrdal Station, where you'll transfer to the famous Flåm Railway. This leg of your journey marks a dramatic descent from mountain to fjord, traversing the breathtaking Flåm Valley. Upon reaching the village of Flåm, your adventure takes to the water with a fjord cruise on the spectacular Aurlandsfjord and into the majestic Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord.
The days journey end in the picturesque village of Balestrand, situated along the shores of the Sognefjord. Here, you will check into the historic Kviknes Hotel, known for its distinctive architecture and stunning fjord views. Your stay in Balestrand, spanning two nights, offers a peaceful retreat in one of Norway's most idyllic settings.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Included Transport
Train & Fjord boat
Accommodation
1 night in Balestrand
Full day to enjoy the tranquility of Balestrand
Dedicate your third day to exploring the enchanting village of Balestrand, a gem nestled amidst towering mountains and the serene expanses of the Sognefjord and its Fjærlandsfjord branch. The village itself is important for Norwegian cultural heritage, renowned for its collection of authentic wooden Swiss-style villas. These historic homes, along with the iconic Kviknes Hotel, stand as testaments to Balestrand's appeal to artists and travelers over the centuries.
For those inclined towards exploring the outdoors, Balestrand offers well-marked hiking trails in the surrounding wilderness, offering routes for all levels of experience.
Enhance your stay in Balestrand with our selection of curated add-on excursions, designed to offer unique experiences that showcase the best of the region. Embark on an exhilarating RIB tour of the Sognefjord, or dive into the world of Norwegian cider on a visit to a local farm and producer. This excursion includes a tasting session where you'll sample a variety of ciders, learning about the production process and the unique qualities of the region's fruit.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Included Transport
Accommodation
1 night in Balestrand
Travel by boat on the Sognefjord to Bergen
Embark on the next leg of your journey with a scenic 4-hour express boat cruise from Balestrand to Bergen. This voyage takes you through the outer parts of the Sognefjord and along the picturesque Norwegian coast. The express boat brings you directly to the heart of Bergen, conveniently close to the iconic Fish Market. This bustling hub is not just a place to buy fresh seafood; it's a lively spot where you can experience the local culture, taste various Norwegian delicacies, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Upon arrival in Bergen and check-in at a centrally located hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy. Bergen offers a stunning natural backdrop to its colorful wooden houses and historic waterfront.
To enhance your experience in Bergen, we offer a selection of optional excursions that can be added during the checkout process of your trip. You can enjoy dinner at Cornelius Seafood Restaurant, a culinary gem that ranks among Norway's finest seafood restaurants. Cornelius is perched on the edge of a small island, located just a short boat ride from the city.
The tour ends after breakfast and check-out from the hotel next morning.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Included Transport
Fjord boat
Accommodation
1 night in Bergen
Welcome to Bergen!
Welcome to Bergen, your gateway to the fjords. The beginning of your journey starts with an individual transition from the airport to the hotel. Read our guide on how to travel to your hotel. Check in at your centrally located hotel, carefully selected to place you in the heart of the city.
As you settle in for your first night, prepare to explore the rich history, nature and culinary delights that Bergen has to offer. For a panoramic view of the city, take the funicular up to Mount Fløyen. The journey offers breathtaking vistas of Bergen and its surroundings, making it a perfect spot for photos or a leisurely hike along the mountain trails.
Elevate your Bergen experience with an optional dinner at Cornelius, one of Norway's finest seafood restaurants. Located on a small island just outside the city, Cornelius offers a dining experience like no other. The details and prices for this add-on will be provided during the tour booking process, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your interests.
Included Meals
Included Transport
Accommodation
1 night in Bergen
Scenic boat journey to Balestrand
Begin your day with a morning departure by express boat, setting sail northward along the coast. The boat navigates through narrow straits, past idyllic islands and quaint summer houses.
As you venture further, the landscape unfolds into the grandeur of the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord, known as the "King of the Fjords. The journey into the Sognefjord is a highlight, presenting breathtaking vistas and a sense of peace that only such majestic natural surroundings can provide.
Your destination is the picturesque fjord village of Balestrand. Here, you will check into the historic Kviknes Hotel, an establishment that itself is a part of the region's rich heritage.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Included Transport
Fjord boat
Accommodation
1 night in Balestrand
Relax by the fjord and enjoy Balestrand
Spend your third day immersing yourself in the captivating charm of Balestrand. This village is a cornerstone of Norwegian cultural heritage, celebrated for its distinctive collection of wooden Swiss-style villas. Along with the landmark Kviknes Hotel, these historical buildings underscore Balestrand's long-standing allure for artists and explorers alike.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Balestrand is a haven of exploration, offering a network of well-marked trails that weave through the stunning mountains. These trails cater to adventurers of all skill levels, promising breathtaking vistas and encounters with pristine natural beauty.
To further enrich your Balestrand experience, consider our selection of add-on excursions, each designed to highlight the unique offerings of this remarkable region. Thrill-seekers might opt for a RIB tour along the Sognefjord, providing an adrenaline-fueled perspective of the fjord's grandeur. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local culinary culture with a visit to a nearby farm for a Norwegian cider tasting. This experience not only allows you to taste the diverse flavors of Norwegian ciders, but also offers insight into the craft of cider-making and the exceptional quality of the region's produce.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Included Transport
Accommodation
1 night in Balestrand
Travel by boat and famous railways to Oslo
Your fourth day starts with a serene fjord cruise into the heart of the Sognefjord, leading you to the quaint village of Flåm. Prepare for an unforgettable journey on the Flåm Railway, a marvel of engineering that ascends from the fjord's edge to the mountainous heights. The railway offers a unique vantage point to experience the picturesque Flåm Valley.
The adventure continues as you reach Myrdal mountain station and transfer to the main Bergen Line for your journey to Oslo. A highlight of this leg is the stop at Finse Station, the highest point of the line at an altitude of 1222 meters above sea level. From there, your route across the magnificent Hardangervidda mountain plateau and through the verdant Hallingdal valley is a fitting conclusion to your scenic explorations.
Upon arrival in Oslo, check into your centrally located hotel for a night of rest and reflection. The tour ends after breakfast and check-out from the hotel next morning.
Included Meals
Breakfast
Included Transport
Train & Fjord boat
Accommodation
1 night in Oslo
Sustainable tourism
Our trips are based on our goal of sustainable tourism, with eco-friendly travel that leaves as small an environmental footprint on nature as possible
Regional trains are equipped with a café or bistro car, where you can purchase hot and cold beverages, snacks and light meals. Options may vary depending on the route and the service provider. On certain trains or routes where a café or bistro service might not be available, vending machines stocked with snacks and drinks can be found onboard.
All trains have toilet facilities.
As we don't have the option to choose specific seats on the train, what side you will be placed on varies. There is beautiful scenery to see from both sides of the train.
Myrdal is a small station. You can easily see where to go and don't need to worry about the short transfer time.
We don't have the option to choose seats on the train.
You can bring 1 piece of checked baggage (23 kg), 1 carry-on bag (8 kg), maximum size: 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm, and a bag to fit under the airplane seat, maximum size: (30x20x38cm).