Sognefjord: Day Trips and Tours from Oslo

Visit Norway’s longest and deepest fjord on a day trip to Sognefjord from Oslo. Known as the ‘king of the fjords,’ Sognefjord stretches for 204 kilometers inland and is more than a kilometer deep in parts.

Along with dramatic scenery, the fjord is home to historic villages and cultural attractions, including two UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The nearby Flåm Railway is known as one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys and can be incorporated into day trips from Oslo.

Here's all you need to know about visiting Sognefjord, one of the most exciting day trips from Oslo.

How to get to Sognefjord from Oslo?

Sognefjord is located at the heart of Fjord Norway. Its mouth lies on Norway’s west coast north of Bergen, and from here it extends more than 200 kilometers inland. Myrdal is a gateway to the area, from here you can board the famous Flåm Railway, then take a fjord cruise from Flåm.

From Oslo to Sognefjord by car

To reach Sognefjord by car head for Myrdal, northeast of Oslo. The best route is via the Rv52 and E16, it covers 350 kilometers and takes around 6 hours one way.

From Oslo to Sognefjord by train

Trains run direct from Oslo to Myrdal on the Bergen Railway and the journey takes 4.5 hours one way.

Guided tour to Sognefjord from Oslo

Private tours include private transport to Myrdal and return to Oslo with early-morning hotel pickup. The tour lasts around 16 hours. If you opt for a self-guided tour, travel will be by train and the meeting point is Oslo Central Station. The return day trip takes 22 hours.

How much does the entrance ticket to Sognefjord cost?

There are no entrance fees to Sognefjord itself, but one-way tickets on the Flåm Railway cost between €30 and €40 per adult and from €8 to €12 per child (from 6 to 17 years old), depending on seasonality. Children under 6 can travel on the Flåm Railway for free.

What is the typical itinerary?

Private tours include hotel pickup in Oslo and self-guided tours meet at Oslo Central Station. You will travel either by car or train to Myrdal, where you will board the famous Flåm Railway and travel for an hour through the breathtaking landscape to the village of Flåm.

From here you will enjoy a 2-hour cruise along Sognefjord, soaking up the scenery and local culture. Cruises visit the Naeroyfjord branch of Sognefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional natural beauty.

The day ends with return travel to Oslo, either by car or night train.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Sognefjord?

When taking a day trip from Oslo to Sognefjord you can opt for a private tour or self-guided tour. Both include return travel to Oslo.

Self-guided tours to Sognefjord from Oslo

On a self-guided tour to Sognefjord all bookings and tickets will be made on your behalf and sent to you digitally. Travel will be by train and bus, and you will be responsible for making the necessary connections.

This is a great choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.

Private tour to Sognefjord from Oslo

Private tours include hotel pickup in Oslo and transfer by car to Myrdal, and back again at the end of the day. You will be accompanied by a guide throughout the trip.

Private tours are perfect for those who want to have everything taken care of for them and to simply relax and enjoy the trip.

How much does a day trip to Sognefjord from Oslo cost?

A self-guided tour to Sognefjord from Oslo costs between €370 and €465 per person, and a private tour costs between €900 and €1,025 per participant.

What will you see and do?

Arriving in Myrdal, you will board the Flåm Railway to take the scenic ride to Flåm, which is regarded as one of the best railway journeys in the world.

The route is both spectacular and steep, beginning at 867 meters above sea level and ending 20 kilometers further north at the head of Aurlandsfjord, just two meters above sea level. A masterpiece of Norwegian engineering, the railway showcases the best of the country’s landscape.

On arrival, you can spend some time enjoying the picturesque village of Flåm, and perhaps take a visit to the Flåm Railway Museum.

From Flåm, you can board a boat for a 2-hour cruise along the fjord, which is the highlight of a day trip to Sognefjord. Explore the historic fjord village of Undredal, or simply enjoy the view from your boat of the colorful buildings clustered together along the water’s edge.

Admire the dramatic landscapes along the fjord of lush mountains and crystal green water, which is fed by melting glaciers and snow.

If you visit in spring or summer, you will be able to marvel at the thundering beauty of the Laegdafossen and Odnesfossen waterfalls as you cruise down the Naeroyfjord, a place described by UNESCO as being “among the most scenically outstanding anywhere.”

Don’t forget to stop by the Viking village Njardarheimr in Gudvangen, which is home to real-life modern Vikings. Here you can join a guided tour of the village and learn about Viking history and modern culture.

What are the opening times?

The first train from Myrdal to Flåm is at 9:25 AM from April to October and 10:15 AM from November to March.

The last train from Flåm to Myrdal is at 5:20 PM in April, May, September and October; 6:35 PM from June to August; and 4:55 PM from November to March.

When is the best time to visit Sognefjord?

The best time to visit Sognefjord depends on your preferences and what activities you want to engage in.

Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit Sognefjord due to the mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.

During winter (November to March), Sognefjord is covered in snow, making it the ideal time for skiing, snowboarding, or take part in other winter activities in the surrounding mountains.

Are there any tours to Sognefjord from other cities in Norway?

Yes, there are day tours to Sognefjord departing from Bergen.

Travel tips

• Begin your day trip early to make the most of your time in Sognefjord.
• Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring rainproof and warm clothing, as weather can be unpredictable.
• Don't forget your camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
• Pack some snacks and consider buying lunch along the way as dining options may be limited.
• Have some Norwegian Krone (NOK) for small purchases, as not all places may accept cards.
• Carry your identification, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the pristine environment of Sognefjord.
• Take the time to savor the breathtaking landscapes and fjord views.