A Perfect Norway Fjords Itinerary: One Week

Norway’s fjords are the stuff of dreams. Jagged cliffs plunging into deep blue water, snow-capped peaks, and waterfalls that seem to tumble from the heavens. So when we decided to explore this magical land last summer, flying into Ålesund and making our way through the fjords, it felt like stepping into a postcard.

Norway is obviously full of fjords, but after much research, I landed on this itinerary given that we only had a week to explore. Here’s everything we did during our amazing fjord trip:

Day 1-2/3: Ålesund to Åndalsnes

We flew into Ålesund, a charming coastal town with beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. Spend some time exploring the streets, then hit the road for the drive to Åndalsnes—a small town nestled at the foot of towering mountains, and the jumping-off point for one of Norway’s most famous hikes: Romsdalseggen.

I’ll be honest—Romsdalseggen had been on my bucket list for years, but with a two-year-old in tow, hiking one of the most challenging ridges in the country was just a little too much to swing. So, we took the cable car instead, and you know what? It was still incredible. The views stretched on for miles, with rivers snaking through the valley and peaks that looked like something out of a fantasy novel.

We also hoped to see the famous Trollveggen (Troll Wall), Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, but a rockslide had closed off access. A bit of a bummer, but it’s just an excuse to come back, right?

If you are here to hike, make sure you prepare for any kind of weather, as Norway’s weather is notorious for switching on a dime. Here’s everything I bring for hikes that could experience rain and my perfect Norway packing list for any time of year.

• Eat: Sødahlhuset for fresh, local food. Try their fish dishes!
• Hike: If you’re up for it, tackle Romsdalseggen; if not, the cable car still delivers jaw-dropping views.

How to Get Around and Where to Stay

We did this as a road trip and exclusively stayed in vacation rentals, whether it was historical cabins or vacation homes. It was nice being able to cook, as restaurants are small and expensive in Norway.

Many guests opt to do cruises through the fjords, which after doing a couple in Iceland and Alaska, I have to admit are a convenient way to travel, as they reduce your logistics and moving around, however you’ll always be amongst the crowd. I’m a travel advisor and can help make recommendations on the best ones to take. Email me here.

Day 3-4: Geiranger – Fjordside Beauty (and Crowds)

From Åndalsnes, we headed to Geiranger, which is known for its jaw-dropping fjord views and crazy popularity in the summer months (we visited at the end of June). The secret to enjoying Geiranger without losing your mind from the crowds? Embrace the midnight sun. Stay up later when most people are winding down. Since it never really gets dark, we found ourselves wandering along quiet fjordside paths in the golden light, feeling like we had the place to ourselves.

Geiranger has some fantastic hikes, but again, with a toddler in tow, we opted for easier walks. The Waterfall Walk is a short, family-friendly hike that takes you past cascading waterfalls and gives you great views of the fjord. For the more adventurous, Skageflå is a popular hike that rewards you with sweeping views, though you’ll need to take a boat to reach the trailhead.

The fjord itself is breathtaking—deep blue water, towering cliffs, and waterfalls that seem to fall straight from the clouds. On our way out, we took the car ferry, which gives you another perspective of this stunning landscape. It’s a must-do, even if you’ve already hiked or driven through the area.

• Stay: Flo Bellevue has fantastic views and a pool to unwind after a long day.
• Eat: Brasserie Posten for fresh local cuisine or grab a quick bite at Café Olé for good coffee and sandwiches.
• Hike: Try the Waterfall Walk for an easy option or tackle Skageflå for more of a challenge.

Day 5-7: Stryn – Waterfalls and Skylifts

Next, we made our way to Stryn, home to Tvinnefossen—a waterfall you can actually hike behind. It’s a fun, family-friendly experience, especially with a little one who thinks water is the coolest thing ever (mine certainly does).

But the real highlight in Stryn? The Loen Skylift. It takes you straight up to the top of Mount Hoven, and the views are just stunning. We loved it so much, we went twice—once for lunch and once for dinner at the restaurant at the top. There are several hiking trails with gorgeous views of what, even after traveling to 65 countries, I must admit is one of the most stunning views I’ve ever seen.

If you’re up for more adventure, Via Ferrata Loen offers a thrilling climbing experience, but if you’re like me and prefer a mix of thrill and comfort, stick to the Skylift. It’s got all the views with none of the sweating.

• Eat: Hoven Restaurant at the top of the Loen Skylift is a must for dinner with a view, or head to Stryn Kaffebar & Vertshus for a cozy meal in town.
• Hike: Behind Tvinnefossen for a unique experience or take the Loen Skylift and explore the walking paths at the top.

How About Lofoten?

We also visited Lofoten, which was an amazing road trip, in May of the same year. The crowds were much smaller, but it was cooler and many hikes were still under snow. Check out my Lofoten itinerary here in case you’re thinking of combining trips (which you should!).

Wrapping Up

After a week of hiking, taking in fjord views, and exploring the best of Norway with a two-year-old by my side, I felt both exhausted and completely alive. Norway’s fjords have a way of reminding you just how small you are in the grand scheme of things, but also how beautiful the world can be when you take the time to see it. Whether you’re hiking up mountains or taking a cable car to the top, this is a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

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