Fjords near Bergen, Norway

Bergen is one of the best places to stay if you’re visiting Norway to experience the fjords. It’s the perfect base, where you can spend your days exploring the city’s colourful streets and historic harbour before heading out on day trips to see some of the country’s most famous fjords, including Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord.

But you don’t have to travel too far to find fjords. Bergen has its own, though they may not soar quite as high as those further away. The city sits beside Byfjorden, which shapes the harbour and the coastline, with water, islands and mountain slopes always in view.

Cobbled streets, historic lanes and the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf give Bergen its unmistakable charm. Whether you’re here for a short break or as part of a longer holiday, the city is a beautiful starting point for exploring Norway’s natural landscapes.

If you’d like to experience both the city and the fjords more fully, consider a multi-centre holiday. Split your stay between Bergen and the Sognefjord. Enjoy city charm and fjord calm in one trip.

Keep reading to find out which fjords you can explore from Bergen.

Osterfjord is the closest fjord to Bergen. It is smaller than the big-name fjords, but it is ideal if you want to explore without travelling too far. 

Step aboard from Bergen’s harbour and you’ll be surrounded by calm water, small villages and gentle mountain slopes within minutes. It’s a relaxed and scenic introduction to fjord landscapes. 

Hardangerfjord is the closest of the large fjords to Bergen. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach by car or bus. The journey passes small villages, orchards and rolling green slopes. 

This is Norway’s second-longest fjord and a real favourite for its gentle beauty. Waterfalls tumble down the cliffs in spring, and fruit trees bloom along the shoreline in summer.