The Sognefjord
The longest and deepest of Norway’s fjords, Sognefjord effortlessly earns its nickname: king of the fjords.
The vast waters of Sognefjord stretch over one mile (205 km) from just north of Bergen to the village of Skjolden. Dramatic cliffs rise from the inlet’s edge. Below the often-serene surface, the fjord plummets to a depth of four thousand (1,300 m).
As you sail deep into Sognefjord other fjords branch off, including Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord. You’ll spy charming villages dotting the shores, such as Balestrand, Gudvangen and Flåm.
And you’ll uncover, amid all this natural beauty, a rich history – Viking artefacts and medieval churches are among Sognefjord’s architectural gems.
Deciding to visit Sognefjord is easy. Deciding how to explore it may well be a more difficult decision. Will you cruise, hike, kayak or even ride the famous Flåm Railway?
The geology and history of Sognefjord
Like most of the Norwegian fjords, Sognefjord formed during the last ice age, 10,000 to 15,000 years ago. Giant glaciers carved the deep valley you see today. The fjord remains home to Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier on the European mainland.
People have congregated on Sognefjord’s shores right back to the Stone Age. Archaeological sites and rock carvings found near the fjord indicate that those early inhabitants used this area for hunting, fishing and gathering. By the Iron Age, farming had begun to develop in the fertile valley.
Later, Vikings traveled Sognefjord for travel, trade and raids. Poised at the head of the Nærøyfjord branch of Sognefjord, the village of Gudvangen is a particularly notable site, with burial mounds and other artifacts from the Viking age.
(Image copyright: Øyvind Heen - fjords.com)
Christianity reached Norway around the turn of the first millennium, and several early Christian churches were established along the fjord. One of the oldest is the UNESCO-listed Urnes Stave Church, dating back to the 12th century.
The late-19th century brought tourism. Sognefjord’s breathtaking scenery made it a prime destination for those seeking adventure in nature, and the building of roads and railways – including the Flåm Railway, completed in 1940 – made access to the fjord easier. Locals and international tourists alike began to flock to see the ‘king of the fjords’.
The best things to do in Sognefjord
From kayaking and hiking to scenic cruising, these are our top activities in Sognefjord.
1. Go kayaking
Kayaking in the Norwegian fjords is nothing short of sublime. Gliding low on the waters of Sognefjord is one of the best ways to see the landscape in all its breathtaking grandeur. There are numerous paddling routes, with shorter and longer options. The Nærøyfjord is popular for kayaking due to its narrow, dramatic landscape – it’s a core part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, after all.
For beginners, calmer sections near villages like Flåm and Balestrand are ideal. More experienced kayakers venture to the deeper parts of the fjord.
(Image copyright: Øyvind Heen - fjords.com)
2. Take a Sognefjord cruise
Sit tight: this is one of the steepest railways in the world. Since 1940, it’s run from Flåm, a small village at the end of the Aurlandsfjord branch, up to Myrdal on the Bergen Line, three thousand feet (867 m) above sea level.
As you wind through mountains and valleys, and past cascading waterfalls, the views are nothing short of jaw dropping. The Kjosfossen waterfall cascading down the cliffside is a highlight.
3. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
This valley near Aurland offers spectacular hiking through lush forest, rivers and high mountain terrain. Often called the ‘Grand Canyon of Norway’, this hike has both rugged and accessible trails, with dramatic views rewarding those who venture into the heart of the valley.
Hike through green meadows dotted with wildflowers, and pass crystal-clear streams. As you ascend, take in views of towering alpine peaks and glaciers in the distance – a mesmerizing contrast to the lush valley floor.
(Image copyright: Frithjof Fure - VisitNorway.com)
4. Visit Jostedalsbreen glacier
Crowning the peaks just to the north of Sognefjord is the largest glacier on the European mainland. Jostedalsbreen is a must-see if you want to explore Norway’s rugged, icy wilderness. Surrounded by lush valleys, waterfalls and towering mountains, the glacier is accessible via hiking trails, boat trips and guided walks. Its sweeping ice field is divided into several smaller glaciers, with the most famous being the Nigardsbreen and Briksdalsbreen.
The Nigardsbreen glacier is one of the most popular access points. Here you can walk on the ice or take a boat trip to get closer to the glacier's edge.
5. Ride the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana)
Sit tight: this is one of the steepest railways in the world. Since 1940, this historic train has departed from Flåm, a small village at the end of the Aurlandsfjord branch, and climbed up to Myrdal on the Bergen Line, 867m above sea level.
The 1-hour journey winds through mountains and valleys with nonstop views the entire way. Seeing Kjosfossen (a 93m-high waterfall) up close is a highlight. And it’s only accessible by rail, as the train stops at a viewing platform built for guests to admire the powerful falls.
When is the best time to visit Sognefjord?
From wildflowers to golden leaves, each season brings different scenery and activities to enjoy.
Spring
Though quieter than summer, spring is when the Sognefjord starts to come alive with fresh green foliage and wildflowers. This is a great time for hiking, kayaking and inhaling the peace before summer crowds descend. Experience the tranquillity of springtime on our Inner Fjords Explorer cruise, with sailings in April and May.
Summer
In summer, the weather is more reliable for outdoor activities. The days are long – up to 18 hours of daylight in June – giving you plenty of time to explore the fjord’s verdant landscapes. It’s peak tourist season, so expect plenty of fellow visitors to keep you company.
Autumn
It’s still mild in Sognefjord in early autumn, which sees the leaves of the trees turn shades of copper, red and amber. The quieter pace is a bonus, too. Our Inner Fjords Explorer itinerary sails to Sognefjord in September, showcasing autumn in the fjord before the cold weather draws in. Some tours and activities may start to close in mid-October, but it’s still a beautiful and calm time to visit.
Winter
Predictably, winter can be cold, with temperatures often below freezing – from -5°C to 5°C. Snow and ice are common in the mountains and the fjord itself can freeze, especially in the more remote parts. This the perfect time for winter sports in nearby areas like Sogndal and Gaupne. Look out for the Northern Lights on an inky clear night.
How do I get from Sognefjord from Oslo?
One option is to take the train to Myrdal and then the Flåm Railway down to the fjord. We plan the logistics for you on our Sognefjord in a Nutshell tour, which includes cruising the 17km-arm of Aurlandsfjord.
Alternatively, fly or take the train to Bergen and join a fjord cruise to experience the whole length of Sognefjord. Our Inner Fjords Explorer voyage departs from Bergen in spring and autumn 2027.
Visit Sognefjord with Hurtigruten
Our Signature Limited Collection voyage, the Inner Fjords Explorer, sails to Sognefjord in spring and autumn.
Discover the heart of Norway's fjords
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