Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Natalia
Due to the location of the village on the shore of Geirangerfjord, many of the best things to do in Geiranger are based around the fjord. The best way to spend your time here is getting outside and discovering the beautiful nature, particularly from the various viewpoints of the fjord. On top of that, there are some lovely waterfalls to hike to as well as the Norwegian Fjord Centre, where you can learn all about the history of Geirangerfjord. Read on to find out the best things to do in Geiranger, Norway!
Wondering where else to visit in Norway? Check out our One Week Norway Itinerary for inspiration!
Best things to do in Geiranger, Norway
Scenic cruise along Geirangerfjord
One of the best things to do in Geiranger is take a scenic fjord cruise along Geirangerfjord. The fjord is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its spectacular scenery consisting of numerous waterfalls, mountainous landscape and more!
Geirangerfjord is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful fjords in the world, so it’s hardly surprising that it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway. It’s so stunning that Disney used the fjord as inspiration for the fictional kingdom of Arendelle in the film Frozen – so if you want to build a snowman it’s the place to be!*
*chance to build a snowman not included on the boat trip and dependent on weather.
Carved out by glaciers, Geirangerfjord is 15 kilometres long and branches off from Sunnylvsfjord, which itself branches off from Storfjord – the 5th longest fjord in Norway! Along the fjord you’re able to see a number of deserted farms, almost inexplicably situated on the steep mountain sides.
A boat trip along fjord is one of the best ways to see Geirgangerfjord, and is the easiest way to see its two most famous waterfalls, ‘the Suitor’ and the ‘Seven Sisters Falls’. The waterfalls are located opposite each other, but are hard to reach unless you travel by boat.
There is an interesting story behind how the waterfalls were named, but we won’t spoil it for you here so be sure to listen out for that on your trip!
Geiranger Skywalk
The Geiranger Skywalk at Dalsnibba offers a truly breathtaking view of the Geirangerfjord from 1,500 metres above sea level and is one of the best things to do here. From this high up you’re able to appreciate the beauty of the fjord from a different perspective with a panoramic view of the incredible mountains and scenery. As well as the views of the fjord itself, the skywalk also provides a wonderful view of the nearby Blåbreen glacier.
Located around a 45-minute drive from the village of Geiranger, the skywalk is only accessible by car or coach trip. The viewpoint is normally only open between May and October, but exact dates vary depending on the weather.
If you decide to rent a car then it costs 330 NOK to visit the Geiranger Skywalk, which is reasonable for up to 5 people. Tickets can be booked in advance via the Skywalk’s official website.
Make sure to bring some warm clothes with you, as it can get very cold up at the skywalk. Even if you hate the cold, it’s well worth the trip to enjoy the spectacular views and one of Geiranger’s best things to do!
Norwegian Fjord Centre
Find out more about the West Norwegian Fjords and Geirangerfjord at the fascinating Norwegian Fjord Centre. The centre provides a brilliant opportunity to learn how the breathtaking landscape was formed, as well as how animals and plants have adapted to survive in the area.
There are a number of exhibitions and interactive stations at the centre, including a children’s activity room and a cinema showcasing images of the fjord throughout different seasons of the year.
The centre is open from 10am-4pm from May to September, which is the peak tourism season in Geiranger. Outside of these months the centre is open from 10am to 3pm.
Entrance to the Norwegian Fjord Centre costs 150 NOK for adults and just 75 NOK for children. There is a cafe and shop at the centre too, so it’s a lovely place to visit if you just want a cup of tea or to pick up some souvenirs to take home! Click here to find out more about visiting the centre!
Storseterfossen Waterfall
If you want to walk through some of Geiranger’s stunning nature then hike to the wonderful Storseterfossen waterfall. The trail provides beautiful views along the way and gives you the chance to walk directly behind the waterfall itself – like how you can walk between Seljalandsfoss in South Iceland! Walking behind a waterfall is a unique and special experience that is bound to be a highlight of your trip!
The walk to Storseterfossen waterfall begins from the Westeras Gard farm, also known as Vesterås farm. There are 2 trails to the waterfall from the farm, one of which is shorter but steeper.
To access the easier trail, follow the road back away from the car park and then take the signposted route. Alternatively, the harder, steeper trail is directly accessible from the car park.
Although the hike is manageable, it can be quite steep and tough at times so be prepared for a bit of a workout! In total, the hike should take around 45-60 minutes each way. Click here for more information about the hike!
Storfossen Waterfall Walk
Not to be confused with the above walk, the Storfossen Waterfall Walk is a much easier walk from Geiranger village to nearby the Norwegian Fjord Centre, or vice versa.
The path involves 327 steps, and gets you up close to the lovely Storfossen waterfall. If you’re looking for a nice and relatively easy walk through Geiranger’s nature, then this is the trail for you! Find out more about the Storfossen Waterfall Walk on Visit Norway’s website!
Flydalsjuvet Rock Viewpoint
Enjoy more spectacular views of Geirangerfjord from the Flydalsjuvet Rock Viewpoint, one of the best things to do in Geiranger. Although the viewpoint isn’t as high as the Geiranger Skywalk, the views of the fjord are still breathtaking and one of the best things you can do when visiting Geiranger!.
If you’re pushed for time it’s definitely a great alternative to the skywalk, and the best part is it’s completely free!
The easiest way to access the viewpoint is by road, but if you haven’t rented a car then you can also walk there. It takes around 75-90 minutes to walk to the viewpoint from the village itself.
Be warned that the viewpoint can get extremely busy during peak season, as it’s a popular photo stop for tours from cruise ships visiting Geiranger.
Best time to visit Geiranger, Norway
The best time to visit Geiranger is between May and September, as the weather is generally at its best during these months. Understandably, these are the peak months for tourism in the area, with June to August being particularly busy.
If you would prefer to avoid the crowds then consider visiting in either May or September, as hopefully the weather will still be good enough and it won’t be too busy!
Geiranger is a lot quieter from October until April, as cruise ships don’t visit the area during these months. If you’re happy to deal with windy, rainy and even snowy weather, then this is a good time of year to visit.
The ferry from Hellesylt to Geiranger only runs from April to October, so bear this in mind if you want to get the best views of Geirangerfjord.
If you want to see the waterfalls at their strongest then visiting in early April is perhaps best as the recent winter rainfall should mean the waterfalls are still have a relatively good flow. It’s easiest to view the waterfalls from the ferry, so if you visit earlier than April you won’t really get to see them.
How to get to Geirangerfjord, Norway
Unfortunately, getting to Geiranger isn’t that easy, but it’s definitely worth the effort once you’re there! The nearest airport is Ålesund International Airport, which is around 120 kilometres away from the village. Åndalsnes railway station, the closest train station to Geiranger, is just over 130 kilometres away.
Realistically, the easiest way to get to Geiranger is by car. Depending on your exact itinerary, you may be best renting a car for your entire time in Norway.
Car rental prices can be surprisingly affordable, and having a car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and stop to enjoy the scenery whenever you wish!
Click here to find great car rental deals for your trip to Norway!
Where to stay in Geiranger, Norway
There are some great accommodation options in Geiranger considering it’s such a small village, although many hotels shut down during the off-season. As Norway is a relatively expensive country to travel around, there aren’t really any budget accommodation options available in the village. Check out our recommendations of the best places to stay in Geiranger below!
Mid-Range
Lunheim Accommodation
Located on a farm above Geiranger village, Lunheim Accommodation is a brilliant place to stay. The property offers amazing panoramic views of Geirangerfjord, as well as a lovely terrace and garden. Rooms at the property are comfortable and clean to ensure a pleasant stay.
There are shared kitchen and barbecue facilities available for all guests if you want to save money by cooking for yourself. The property owners are incredibly friendly and will do what they can to help during your stay.
Click here to take a look at the wonderful Lunheim Accommodation on Booking.com!
Treat yourself!
Hotel Geiranger
Brilliantly located by the shore of Geirangerfjord, Hotel Geiranger is one of the best hotels in the area. The hotel boasts a number of rooms with stunning fjord views, as well as a terrace overlooking the fjord. Rooms at the hotel are stylish and equipped with all the facilities to ensure a comfortable stay.
There are 2 restaurants at the hotel, as well as a number of other options nearby if you want to eat elsewhere. To top if off, the hotel offers free parking – which is ideal if you’re travelling around Norway by car!
Click here to book a stay at the brilliant Hotel Geiranger on Booking.com!
Hotel Union Geiranger
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay then the Hotel Union Geiranger is a wonderful choice. This family run hotel offers a range of spa facilities, including a sauna and hot tub, as well as both indoor and outdoor pools.
The hotel’s location means you’re able to get lovely views over both Geiranger village and the fjord. If you really want to treat yourself then opt for one of the brilliant fjord view rooms.
Hotel Union has two restaurants on site, with both buffet and a la carte options available. On top of that, there’s even a small vintage car museum at the hotel!
Click here to view the amazing Hotel Union Geiranger on Booking.com!
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