Discover the beauty of Geirangerfjord with my guide to what to do in one of the most beautiful cruise ports in the world.
Home to some of the most dramatic scenery in Norway, Geiranger cruise port is a popular destination for cruise ships in the Norwegian Fjords.
The tiny village sits at the end of the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Norway’s most visited tourist sites. The 15-kilometre (9 1/2 mile) long fjord is flanked by steep mountains with snow capped peaks. Waterfalls cascade down the rock face while abandoned mountain farms cling to the hillsides.
Everywhere you look you are surrounded by awe-inspiring views of what is said to be one of the most beautiful fjords in the world.
My cruise port guides are designed to help you make the most of your time in port, whether that is a few hours, a day or an overnight stay. I share some of the highlights and must-see attractions along with practical information so you can easily plan your visit.
At a Glance: Geiranger Cruise Port
Geiranger sits at the end of the Geirangerfjord which is part of a fjord network that begins at Alesund on the coast and winds its way inland. Passing through the Storfjord and the Sunnylvsfjord the sail in shows off much of Norway’s natural beauty.
From gazing at panoramic views to exploring the fjord on the water, it’s all about getting out and enjoying breathtaking scenery in Geiranger. The village itself is easily explored foot, although you may wish to take an excursion to see some of the nearby view points. All cruise lines will offer scenic tours or you can pick up a local hop on hop off bus which includes a stop at the village’s most famous view point.
Some of the popular things to do in Geiranger from a cruise ship include
- Touring Geiranger’s scenic viewpoints
- Cruising along Geirangerfjord to see the Seven Sisters Waterfall
- Kayaking or taking a RIB ride along the fjord
- Testing your nerves on the Geiranger Skywalk
- Hiring an electric car to explore the area in your own timeframe
- Learning more about how fjords are formed at the Norwegian Fjord Centre
- Strolling around the village
The cruise lines that visit here spend the best part of a day in port so there is plenty of time to explore this area of incredible beauty, both from the water and on land.
Must-See
The sail in (or out) of Geirangerfjord
It doesn’t matter how many Instagram photos or travel guides you’ve looked at, nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of Geirangerfjord. With its towering mountains and impressive waterfalls, it is the jewel, in the already heavy crown, of the Norwegian Fjords.
It is a magical experience sailing into the Norwegian Fjords early in the morning as the sun is rising. Geiranger is more than 100 kilometres inland so there is plenty of time to enjoy the splendour of the scenery. Although, if you can get up early it is well worth it.
The Geirangerfjord is the last section of the sail-in, so if you want to be on deck just for that part, check onboard for expected timings. The two famous waterfalls, the Seven Sisters and The Suitor, are just before the last bend into Geiranger.
You will of course see all this again as you sail out of the fjord in the evening but there is something quite special being out there as the day dawns. It is also much quieter on deck early in the morning!
Eagle Road and Ørnesvingen viewpoint
Geirangerfjord has a kind of S shape to it. For an incredible view from one of the bends, head to the Ørnesvingen viewpoint. It really is one of those views that has to be seen to be believed. And even then you can’t quite believe the beauty of it.
To reach the viewpoint you have to navigate Eagle Road, a narrow mountain road with 11 hairpin bends. It is not for the faint-hearted
Once you reach the viewing platform, 620 meters or so above sea level, you are rewarded with a jaw-dropping view whichever way you look.
Looking to the right, you see how the fjord starts to bend and get a glimpse of the famous Seven Sisters waterfall. To the left you look back over Geiranger tucked in between the towering mountains.
You really begin to appreciate the scale of the fjords from up here. Even cruise ships look tiny, they are dwarfed by the mountainous landscape.
One other thing not to miss here is the waterfall over the other side of the road to the viewing platform. It cascades down the rock face and is a rare opportunity to get up close to a waterfall. Just watch out for the spray.
Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint
Flydalsjuvet is Norway’s most famous view. Yes, its the one you’ve seen many times in tourism campaigns, travel brochures and social media posts.
Snow-capped mountains, green hillsides and sparkling blue water stretch out as far as the eye can see. The tiny village of Geiranger beneath you gives a bit of perspective as to how majestic the towering mountains are.
There are two viewing areas here with a short walk apart. It is worth visiting both while if you can.
When I visited Geiranger, I took a scenic tour of Geirangerjford with the cruise line I was travelling with. The tour took around three hours or so and we visited both these viewpoints and an inland lake. While it did feel we spent a lot of time on a coach, there was plenty of opportunity to enjoy the scenery and take photos at each stop.
By taking an organised excursion, it took the hassle out of trying to reach these spots independently and ensured we saw the best views in the short amount of time available in port.
More things to do in Geiranger
Mount Dalshibba and Geiranger Skywalk
The Geiranger Skywalk is the highest view of a fjord from a road in Europe. The platform, which is 1500 meters above sea level, gives a panoramic view over the mountain tops and the fjord.
With an iron grid floor and a glass guard rail, you’ll feel like you are floating over the mountain. Just don’t look down, there is a 500 meter drop under the platform.
There is a shop and cafe selling souvenirs and refreshments.
Exploring Geirangerfjord by Boat
One of the best ways to explore Geriangefjord is by boat. While cruises to Geiranger will allow you to experience the fjord and its stunning scenery, it is also worth considering doing a guided Geirangerfjord tour by small boat or maybe even a RIB safari.
Being on a small vessel means you can get up much closer to some of the highlights of the fjord. It also gives you a much better feel for the scale of the mountains. You will feel quite insignificant with them towering over you, I know I did!
Norwegian Fjord Centre
The Norwegian Fjord Centre is the place to go to learn all you need to know about the Norwegian Fjords.
From explaining how fjords are formed to information on the area’s biodiversity, the visitor centre showcases the unique landscape. You can also join hikes with Fjord Rangers and explore some of the waterfalls in the area.
Port Essentials
Geiranger Cruise Port
Geiranger is the second largest cruise port in Norway. A tender port, with four anchor positions, passengers are tendered in via small boats or a floating pier to the shore.
This innovative floating pier, called The Seawalk, comes out to meet the ship. You just disembark as normal and walk along the pier to the land. As well as allowing easy access to the shore, it reduces the environmental impact.
You should be able to find out from your itinerary or by checking with your cruise line which option you will have on your visit to Geiranger.
Cruise Season
Cruise ships call into Geiranger between May and October.
Local Area
The centre of the village is around 100 meters / five minute walk from the tender pier. Here you will find some some souvenir shops, a supermarket and ATM.
Facilities
Tourist office offering information on what you can see and do in the area, a gift shop and a cafe restaurant. Behind the port area you will find a bus stop (for buses to Mount Dalshibba) and taxis.
Food and Drink
In the village you will find a supermarket, cafes and a bakery. Don’t miss Geiranger Sjokolade where you can get some fabulous home chocolate, waffles and ice cream.
Currency
You should be able to use contactless payment in many of the shops and cafes. However, if you prefer to take some cash, the currency is the Norwegian Krone.
Weather in Geiranger
The weather is unpredictable in the Norwegian Fjords so it is best to plan for all eventualities.
Most cruise ships visit between May and September and even though this is summer, the weather can be very changeable. While the summer climate is generally mild and calm, don’t be surprised to see sun, wind and rain all in one day.
On my trip in June, I started the day in Hellesylt cloudy and with a bit of dampness in the air. By the time I had reached Geiranger, it was warm and sunny with clear blue skies. By late afternoon the cloud had returned and it was feeling much chiller.
It really is luck of the draw with the weather. The week I went it was mostly clear, sunny and very hot on two days. Yet the week after had rain for most of the time.
So if you are wondering what to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise, the best advice is to take layers. That way you cover all bases. You can throw a coat, cardigan or hoodie on if you get cold and take off if you get hot.
But at least you have the option unlike me who ended up sweating in a jumper on what probably ended up being one of the hottest days of the year!
Keep an eye on the weather forecast before you leave, pack accordingly and keep your fingers crossed for good weather.
Tips for Visiting Geiranger
- Plan (and book) activities and excursions in advance if you can
- Get on deck for the sail in. Trust me, a cruise to Geiranger is an experience you don’t want to miss
- If you really don’t want to get up early, make sure you don’t miss the sail out
- Make sure your phone and cameras are charged up. You’ll want to take a lot of photos
- Check the weather forecast before leaving the ship. You may want to take a few layers with you just in case
The Last Word
Geiranger cruise port is a wonderful stop on any Norwegian Fjords cruise. The phrase must see is often overused but in this case it is totally justified.
A cruise to Geirangerfjord really is one of those must do things when visiting the Norwegian Fjords. If you have it on your itinerary, you won’t be disappointed!
You may also like…
- Cruising the Norwegian Fjords with P&O Cruises
- Olden cruise port – explore glaciers and mountain views
- What to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise