How to plan a family fjords trip in Norway
Plan 7-10 days to see Norway's major fjords with kids. Base yourself in Bergen, then take the Norway in a Nutshell route to Flåm, stay overnight in Geiranger, and end in Ålesund. Book accommodations 3-4 months ahead for summer travel and pack layers for unpredictable weather.
- Choose your season and duration. Visit June through August for warmest weather and longest daylight (nearly 24 hours). Plan minimum 7 days, ideally 10-12 days to avoid rushing with kids. May and September offer fewer crowds but cooler temperatures and shorter days.
- Pick your base locations. Start in Bergen (2 nights) for easy airport access and fjord tour departure point. Stay in Flåm (1-2 nights) for Nærøyfjord access. Book Geiranger (2 nights) for Geirangerfjord and kid-friendly activities. End in Ålesund (2 nights) for Art Nouveau architecture and Sunnmøre Alps.
- Book the Norway in a Nutshell route. Reserve train tickets from Bergen to Flåm via Voss online at vy.no 60-90 days ahead. Book the Nærøyfjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen through visitflam.com. This classic route works well with kids and takes a full day.
- Arrange fjord transportation. Rent a car in Flåm for flexibility with kids and luggage. Drive the scenic route from Flåm to Geiranger via Lom (4-5 hours with stops). Book the Geiranger-Hellesylt ferry in advance at fjord1.no. From Geiranger to Ålesund takes 2.5 hours by car.
- Book family-friendly accommodations. Reserve hotels with family rooms or cabins 3-4 months ahead for summer. Look for properties with breakfast included and kitchen facilities for picky eaters. Geiranger has several family hotels with pools. Flåm offers cabins that sleep 4-6 people.
- Plan kid-friendly activities. Book the Dalsnibba viewpoint road toll online for Geiranger. Reserve spots on the Geiranger Skywalk. In Flåm, visit the railway museum and take the Flåm Railway to Myrdal. Pack hiking gear for easy family trails like Storseterfossen waterfall where you can walk behind the falls.
- What's the minimum age for fjord boat tours?
- Most standard fjord cruises welcome all ages, but RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tours typically require children to be 6-8 years or older and 120cm tall. Always check specific operator requirements when booking.
- Is it better to rent a car or rely on public transport with kids?
- Rent a car after the initial Norway in a Nutshell route. Public transport between fjords involves multiple connections that are challenging with luggage and tired children. A car gives flexibility for stops, naps, and carrying supplies.
- What if it rains during our fjord trip?
- Fjords are beautiful in rain too - waterfalls become more dramatic. Pack good rain gear and have indoor backup plans like Bergen's aquarium, Flåm railway museum, or hotel pools. Many outdoor activities continue unless weather is dangerous.
- How much hiking is appropriate for kids in the fjords?
- Stick to easy marked trails under 2-3km for younger children. Storseterfossen (walk behind waterfall) and short segments of Preikestolen approach work well. Many viewpoints are accessible by car or short walks from parking areas.