While the magnificent fjords of Western Norway are at their most popular in the summer months, visiting outside of the peak season brings a host of advantages – not least the promise of glorious, snowy scenery and considerably fewer crowds. Begin your adventure in Bergen with time to explore its UNESCO-listed waterfront and take a ride on the Fløibanen funicular, before heading north via a combination of boat and bus to Ålesund, a port town renowned for its elegant Art Nouveau architecture. From here, you’ll enjoy a full day cruise taking in the spectacular landscapes of Geirangerfjord in full winter splendour, including a visit to the Norwegian Fjord Centre. Finally, a bus transfer will bring you to the fjord-side town of Åndalsnes, where you’ll begin your journey south to Oslo via the Rauma and Dovre railway lines, traversing some of Norway’s most striking mountain scenery en route.
Norwegian Fjords Winter Explorer
To book call us on:
At a glance…
Discover Norway’s charming waterfront cities and majestic fjords in full winter splendour and without the crowds.
» 5 day tailor-made holiday
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £1,235 pp incl. flights
Day by day itinerary
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Day 1 » Fly to Bergen
Your Norwegian adventure begins by flying to Bergen, the gateway to the fjords. On arrival, take a short shuttle bus transfer to the city centre and check into your conveniently located hotel. We have included return tickets on the Fløibanen funicular, which offers magnificent views overlooking Bergen from the observation platform at the top of Mount Fløyen. The UNESCO-listed harbour district of Bryggen is also a must-visit, comprising a series of colourfully painted timber wharf buildings that once served as a key trading post of the Hanseatic League during medieval times. Today, Bryggen houses a variety of restaurants, cafes, handicraft stores and art galleries. If you’re visiting during the festive period, be sure to set aside some time to explore the Christmas market at Festplassen and Pepperkakebyen (the world’s largest gingerbread town) on Kong Oscars gate.
If you’d like to extend your stay in Bergen for a further night, giving you time to ride the iconic Flåm Railway, please discuss with our specialists.
Stay: Thon Orion, Bergen
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Day 2 » Bergen to Ålesund
It’s an early start this morning as you begin your journey from Bergen to Ålesund, first by taking an express boat north along the coast to the fishing town of Måløy. You’ll then continue by bus, tracing the shore of the Eidsfjorden towards the picturesque village of Nordfjordeid, surrounded by mountains and within striking distance of mainland Europe’s largest glacier – Jostedalsbreen. Finally, you’ll weave through mountain valleys before arriving in Ålesund, a port town renowned for its elegant Art Nouveau architecture and world-class seafood. It’s a delightful place to explore on foot at a leisurely pace, and it’s also worth climbing the 418 steps up nearby Mount Aksla to view Ålesund from the ultimate vantage point. If you’re visiting between 13-22 February 2026, you may also wish to check out the Geiranger Light Art Festival, which transforms the village of Geiranger into a spectacular outdoor art landscape.
Stay: Thon Hotel Ålesund
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 3 » Cruise on Geirangerfjord
Today, you’ll venture right into the heart of the Norwegian fjords on a scenic cruise that showcases the region’s spellbinding landscapes in full winter splendour. From Ålesund, you’ll sail deep into the UNESCO-listed area of Geirangerfjord – one of Norway’s most beguiling fjords, flanked by towering mountains and waterfalls that freeze over during the winter months. It’s actually the innermost branch of the considerably larger Storfjord, which you’ll pass through en route. Once you reach the village of Geiranger, a bus will take you up to the nearby viewpoint at Flydalsjuvet for fabulous views overlooking the fjord and its namesake village. Also included in your trip is a visit to the Norwegian Fjord Centre, which offers a fascinating insight into the geological history and wildlife of this breathtaking region. From here, you may wish to hike back to the village, following the path of the Geiranger River. Finally, you’ll sail back to Ålesund, filled with awe and wonder after an unforgettable day exploring the fjords.
Stay: Thon Hotel Ålesund
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 4 » Ålesund to Oslo
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic bus ride as you travel from Ålesund to Åndalsnes, a town nestled on the shore of the Romsdalsfjord, framed by dramatic peaks. Here, you’ll join the Rauma Railway for a truly spectacular rail journey, winding through some of Norway’s most majestic mountain scenery. Think soaring mountains, towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and remote villages tucked away in forested valleys. Admire the ever-shifting showreel of stunning landscapes from the train window while listening to the free audio guide which provides a richly informative insight into the destinations along the route. Then, at the tiny mountain station of Dombås, you’ll switch over to the Dovre Railway for the last stretch of your journey to Oslo, sweeping through yet more wilderness landscapes of mountains and forests en route to the capital, where you’ll spend the final night of your trip.
Stay: Thon Hotel Opera, Oslo
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 5 » Return to UK
Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time today to explore Oslo at leisure before heading to the airport. Head down to the waterfront to check out the Oslo Opera House, visit the excellent MUNCH museum (dedicated to the life and work of Norway’s most celebrated artist, Edvard Munch), explore the vibrant Aker Brygge neighbourhood, or even hop on a ferry to one of the nearby islands in the Oslofjord. You could also opt to extend your stay, either by spending an extra night in Oslo or by taking the train back to Bergen, connecting with the famous Flåm Railway en route. Don’t hesitate to speak to our specialists to discuss the various extension options available.
Meals: Breakfast
To book call us on:
At a glance…
Discover Norway’s charming waterfront cities and majestic fjords in full winter splendour and without the crowds.
» 5 day tailor-made holiday
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £1,235 pp incl. flights
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