Olden Cruise Port Guide: What to See and Do

Visiting Olden on a Norwegian Fjords cruise? Here’s my guide to what to see and do, plus a few tips to help you plan your day in port.

I’ve visited Olden twice now on Norwegian Fjords cruises and it’s quickly become one of my favourite ports. There’s just something about this tiny village that captures your heart.

I’m not sure if it’s the scenery, the fresh mountain air or the friendly locals that make it such a special place to visit. Maybe it’s a mix of all three.

Your day here starts long before you even arrive. The sail into Olden is spectacular, with your cruise ship winding its way through calm fjords surrounded by snow-capped mountains and small villages clinging to the water’s edge. Once you’re ashore, there’s plenty to fill your day, whether that’s taking the Loen Skylift for some incredible views, heading out to the Briksdal Glacier, or just enjoying a slow walk along the waterfront and soaking up the scenery.

In this guide I’ll go through some of the best things to do in Olden and share a few tips from my visits to help you make the most of your time in port.

A colorful village scene in Olden with red-roofed buildings, a winding road along the water, and lush green hills rising to snowy peaks. Tour buses and tents line the waterfront, welcoming cruise passengers.

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

Not got time to read the whole post? Here is a quick overview of what you can expect in Olden.

Location: End of the Nordfjord, Western Norway
Population: Around 500
Cruise port: Most ships use the cruise pier; if more than one ship is in port you may need to tender
Currency: Norwegian Krone (cards widely accepted)
Known for: Briksdal Glacier, Loen Skylift, mountain scenery and turquoise lakes
Good to know: Get up early for the sail in, you won’t regret it. Weather changes quickly, so pack for all eventualities.

Exploring Olden – highlights you shouldn’t miss

The sail in (and out)

If your cruise includes Olden, set your alarm early. Watching the day break as the ship glides through calm fjord waters is magical. Snow-dusted mountains, rolling farmland and tiny red houses dot the shoreline as the scenery slowly unfolds around you. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.

Olden sits at the southern end of one of the branches of the Nordfjord. It’s the sixth longest fjord in Norway and stretches roughly 66 miles inland.

Tip | You might see cruise lines describe the approach to Olden as a “cruise by.” It might be a bit confusing, but all it means is that you sail through a series of fjords, including the smaller Innvikfjorden, before reaching the port.

I set my alarm for 4.30am on both of my visits which was roughly the time we entered fjord network. The weather couldn’t have been more different each time, but I didn’t regret getting up early on either cruise. On my first trip, the sun rose over the mountains, giving a golden glow to the landscape and water. On my second, it was rainy and misty, but somehow just as beautiful. Rain or shine, it’s an incredible journey.

If early mornings aren’t your thing, the sail-out is just as beautiful. Just be ready for more people on deck and the prime viewing spots to be more crowded. I still recommend the sail-in if you can manage the early hour. It’s peaceful, calm and feels like you’re watching the fjords wake up.

Golden morning light reflects off the curved railing of a cruise ship as it sails through calm fjord waters, with layers of forested mountains fading into the distance. The stillness of the scene captures the quiet beauty of approaching Olden by sea.

Taken from a cruise ship, this photo captures the gentle wake trailing behind the vessel as it glides past rugged islands under a moody, overcast sky. Distant hills are partially veiled in mist.

Loen Skylift

A modern cable car ascends from a snowy mountaintop platform, suspended on thick cables above a deep blue fjord. Snow-covered peaks and rolling green hills spread across the background under a streaky blue sky.

If you only do one thing in Olden, make it the Loen Skylift. It’s one of the steepest cable cars in the world and in just seven minutes it whisks you to the top of Mount Hoven, where you’re rewarded with spectacular panoramic views over Lovatnet Lake, the Jostedalsbreen National Park, Olden itself and the Nordfjord.

If you hit the weather jackpot and get a clear day, it’s absolutely stunning. When I went the second time it was cloudy, but the views were still dramatic and moody. Even if the weather isn’t on your side, it’s still worth it. Below are some photos from both my visits so you can see what I mean.

A panoramic view from the Loen Skylift shows a steel cable car tower on a mountaintop overlooking two winding fjords. Thick clouds hang low over the mountains, letting streaks of sunlight shine through in the distance.

If you can tear yourself away from the viewpoints (not easy, trust me), there are hiking trails to explore. For the less adventurous, there’s a café inside where you can grab a drink and enjoy the views in comfort.

There are two easy ways to visit the Skylift: book a shore excursion through your cruise line or go independently with Olden Adventure. If you go independently, you can buy tickets and the shuttle bus at the quay on the day, which is handy if you want to check the weather first.

I’ve tried both. On my first visit, I joined a cruise excursion that included a stop at Lovatnet Lake and the Kjenndalen Glacier. It was a great afternoon, but we had limited time at the Skylift. On my second visit, I booked independently and loved being able to spend as long as I wanted at the top of Mount Hoven.

Briksdal Glacier

Another popular thing to do in Olden is visit the Briksdal Glacier. It’s one of the most accessible arms of the mighty Jostedal Glacier, the largest in mainland Europe.

The journey is part of the experience, with a 40-minute drive through the stunning Oldedalen Valley, surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes.

Once you reach the Mountain Lodge at the end of the valley, you can either walk up to the glacier lake or take one of the popular ‘Troll Cars’ that carry visitors most of the way.

When I visited, I decided to walk rather than take the Troll Car and really enjoyed it. The walk itself isn’t too strenuous and takes around 45 minutes each way. The scenery along the trail is beautiful, and for me it was probably more enjoyable than seeing the glacier itself.

Tip | The Troll Cars are very popular and often sell out, so it’s best to book ahead if that’s how you’d like to visit.

Sadly, the glacier has retreated quite a bit in recent years, so it’s not as dramatic as it once was, but it’s still a pretty amazing sight. The icy blue contrasts beautifully with the grey rock and green valley below.

You can visit the Briksdal Glacier on a shore excursion or independently with a local operator. If you go independently, Olden Adventure runs a shuttle bus between the port and the glacier. It’s a great option if you want to go at your own pace. Just leave plenty of time to get back to your ship.

Lovatnet Lake

A serene lake reflects snow-capped peaks and green mountain slopes under a clear blue sky. Dense forest surrounds the lake, with vibrant greenery framing the foreground.

Lovatnet Lake is another beautiful place you can visit from Olden. It is known for its turquoise water and on a clear day the surrounding mountains reflect perfectly in the still surface.

Many excursions to the Loen Skylift or Kjenndalen Glacier include a stop at the lake, but if yours doesn’t, it’s well worth finding time to visit. There are a few viewpoints around the lake that are perfect for photos. You can also take a short boat trip or even hire a kayak if you fancy getting out on the water.

On my visit, I stopped here for a quick photo stop as part of an excursion and it was a beautiful view.

Kjenndalen Glacier

The Kjenndalen Glacier is another arm of the Jostedal Glacier. Less well known than Briksdal, it’s usually a lot quieter here.

Many excursions combine the glacier with a stop at Lovatnet Lake, which makes for a perfect half-day trip. I visited on an excursion, and our first stop was at a bridge over a rushing glacial stream with the glacier visible in the distance. It was only a brief pause to take in the dazzling scenery before we carried on to get a closer look.

When we arrived, there was a short walk from the coach to the viewpoint, around seven minutes each way. Like many glaciers in Norway, Kjenndalen has retreated a lot in recent years, so it no longer reaches as far down the valley as it once did. Even so, it’s still an impressive sight, framed by the steep mountains and water below.

Oldevatnet Lake

A mirror-like lake perfectly reflects snow-covered mountains and green slopes under a cloudless blue sky. The still water creates a near-symmetrical image of the surrounding landscape.

Oldevatnet Lake is another beautiful spot just outside Olden, often included with excursions to the Briksdal Glacier. On a calm day the water looks like glass, reflecting the snow-capped peaks. Even if you only stop briefly (which is what I did), it’s a lovely place to stretch your legs and take in the view.

Olden land train

A fast-flowing river winds through a lush valley surrounded by tall mountains, with clouds scattered across a partly sunny sky. Snow still clings to the higher peaks in the distance.

If you’d rather stay close to the port, the Olden land train is a lovely and easy way to see the area. The 70-minute scenic ride loops around the village and countryside with commentary along the way, sharing stories about local life and history.

There are a couple of short photo stops, including one with fantastic views over the valley. You can also choose to get off in the village centre if you’d like to explore before walking back to the ship whic is an easy 10-15 minute stroll.

I did this on my second visit and really enjoyed it. The scenery is beautiful, and it’s a relaxing way to spend an hour or so without needing to plan anything in advance. Tickets are sold right on the quay when you disembark.

Open-top glacier sightseeing bus

Another option for an easy, scenic outing is the open-top glacier sightseeing bus. The route takes you out to a viewpoint about 12 km from Olden, passing Olden Lake and some of the area’s most stunning landscapes along the way.

It’s ideal if you want to see more of the valley without committing to a full excursion. You’ll get great views of the Briksdal Glacier from a distance, along with plenty of photo opportunities en route.

Just note that this bus doesn’t go all the way to the starting point of the Briksdal Glacier walk, so it’s best for those who want to take in the scenery rather than visit the glacier itself.

RIB boat adventure

If you fancy something a bit more adventurous, you can hop on a RIB boat tour from the port. These high-speed rigid inflatable boats zip along the fjord and give you a completely different perspective of the landscape. You’ll see waterfalls, small farms and villages dotted along the shore, and get close to parts of the fjord the big ships can’t reach.

Waterproof gear is usually provided, so don’t worry if the weather’s a bit unpredictable.

Kayaking on the fjord

For a slower and more peaceful way to explore, you can rent a kayak and paddle along the fjord or nearby lakes. The water is often calm, and it’s a wonderful way to appreciate just how still and quiet this part of Norway can be. Local companies like Olden Adventure can arrange hire or short guided trips from the quay.

How to visit Olden – shore excursions or DIY?

You can explore Olden on an organised shore excursion or do it yourself. Both options are easy here.

Cruise line excursions

Most cruise lines offer a good mix of organised trips that include:

Briksdal Glacier by Troll Car
Loen Skylift and Lovatnet Lake
Kjenndalen Glacier and Lovatnet Lake
RIB Boat Adventure

Booking through your ship is the easiest option if you don’t want to worry about timings. If a ship-organised excursion runs late, the ship will wait.

Independent options

Olden is one of the easiest ports in Norway to explore independently. As soon as you step off the ship, you’ll find Olden Adventure, the local tour operator, right on the quay. They sell tickets for:

The Loen Skylift and return shuttle bus
Briksdal Glacier shuttle
Local sightseeing tours and short transfers

I’ve done both organised excursions and DIY trips here, and it really depends on what you prefer. Exploring independently gives you the freedom to check the weather and decide on the day, and it’s often a bit cheaper than booking through the cruise line. The only downside is that things can sell out quickly, especially if you’re on a large ship.

On my first visit, I joined two organised excursions, while on my second I visited the Skylift independently. I definitely preferred doing things myself, but on my first trip the reassurance of an organised tour took away the worry of timings and getting back to the ship.

If you choose to go independently, just remember to allow plenty of time to get back, as the ship won’t wait if you’re running late.

Read more: Want to do both the glacier and skylift? Discover how you can see both of Olden’s top attractions during your time in port.

When to book what

Some excursions in Olden sell out quickly, while others are best booked on the day once you’ve seen what the weather’s doing. Here’s what I’d suggest based on my own experience:

Briksdal Glacier Troll Car – book in advance. Very popular, especially on larger ships
Loen Skylift – wait until the day if you can so you can check the weather. If it’s a must-do for you, consider booking in advance as it can sell out
Olden Land Train, Sightseeing Bus or RIB Boat – buy on the quay when you arrive. There’s usually good availability
Local tours and shuttles – book with Olden Adventure ashore. Go early or reserve in advance if you have a specific trip in mind.

Suggested itineraries

Most cruise ships stay in Olden for around six to eight hours, which gives you enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Whether you want an action-packed day or something slower-paced, here are a few ideas for how you could spend your time.

1. For adventure lovers

Morning – Head out to the Briksdal Glacier (walk or take the Troll Car)
Lunch – Grab something at the Mountain Lodge café or back on the ship.
Afternoon – Take a RIB boat ride along the fjord

Good for: Travellers who like a bit of adventure and don’t mind getting outdoors.

2. For scenic explorers

Morning – Take the Loen Skylift for those incredible views
Lunch – Enjoy a drink or snack at the summit café
Afternoon – Stop by Lovatnet Lake or take the Olden Land Train for a gentle ride around the valley

Good for: Travellers who want to take it slow and soak up the scenery.

3. For independent travellers

Morning – Take the Loen Skylift or the Briksdal Glacier shuttle, both available to book on the quay through Olden Adventure
Lunch –Grab a snack at the café by the Skylift or at the Mountain Lodge.
Afternoon – Spend extra time at the top of Mount Hoven or explore a lakeside viewpoint before heading back to the ship

Good for: Those who like to plan their own day and keep things flexible.

4.For photography fans

Morning – Visit Lovatnet Lake for mirror-like reflections of the mountains
Afternoon – Take the Loen Skylift for panoramic shots of the fjord
Evening – Be out on deck for the sail-away

Good for: Anyone who loves photography or wants to capture Olden at its best.

Getting around

Olden is very small and easy to get around, which makes it perfect for exploring on foot or joining short local tours.

The cruise pier is about a kilometre from the centre of the village, and it’s an easy 10-15 minute walk along a flat road with lovely views of the valley and fjord.

The Olden Land Train, sightseeing bus and shuttles to the Loen Skylift and Briksdal Glacier all depart from next to the pier. Everything is clearly signposted and the Olden Adventure office is on the quayside if you have questions or want to book tickets.

Tips for visiting Olden

Get up early for the sail-in

I know getting up at 4am isn’t appealing, but trust me, it’s worth it. Standing out on deck as the ship glides quietly through the fjord while the day begins to break is something special. From my experience, not many people make it up that early, so you’ll often have the decks almost to yourself and the soft morning light is perfect for photos.

Pack layers

You never know quite what you are going to get weather wise on a Norwegian Fjords cruise.The weather can change in an instant. One minute it’s warm and sunny, the next you’re in drizzle with a cool breeze. Layers are your friend, and it’s worth bringing a waterproof jacket even in summer, especially if you’re heading up the mountains or visiting a glacier. It can get more chilly than you might think.

Plan ahead

Popular options like Briksdal Troll Cars and the Loen Skylift can book up quickly. If there’s something you really want to do, book it early.

Be considerate to the locals

Olden is tiny and can feel busy when a ship is in. Remember it’s people’s home.

Support local businesses

If you can, pop into a small café for a drink or pick up a souvenir from a local shop. It’s a nice way to give something back.

Don’t miss the sail-away

Try to be on the side of the ship overlooking the port and café/pub when you depart. I won’t give it away, but you don’t want to miss the locals’ send-off.

A calm fjord stretches into the distance, flanked by green hills and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky. Small clusters of houses dot the shoreline on both sides of the water

Port facilities

Olden is a small and very walkable port, so you won’t find a large cruise terminal here. Once you step off the ship, you’re right on the quay and ready to start exploring. If more than one ship is in, you may need to tender.

If you’re on a shore excursion, your transport will be waiting on the dockside. For independent exploring, you’ll find the Olden Adventure ticket office by the ship for local tours, shuttles and the Loen Skylift.

There’s a small café and bar next to the pier and a few souvenir shops selling local gifts and snacks. Public toilets are close by in the village and there should be Wi-Fi in the café/pub next to the pier.

The centre of the village is about one kilometre from the port and it takes around 10 to 15 minutes to walk there. The path is flat and easy, with beautiful views along the way.

Useful resources

If you’d like to check which ships are visiting Olden on your cruise day, the port schedule lists arrivals and departures. It’s handy for planning, especially if more than one ship is in port.

Check the Olden Port Schedule

Knowing how busy the port will be can help you decide whether to book excursions in advance or wait until you arrive.

Cruise lines that visit

Azamara, Celebrity Cruises, Fred Olsen, MSC Cruises, P&O Cruises, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Silversea.

The last word

Cruising into Olden is one of those moments that stays with you long after your trip ends. The scenery seems to change every few minutes, from dramatic cliffs to calm green valleys, and it’s hard to take your eyes off it. I’m still talking about it months (and even years) later.

What makes Olden special is how much you can see and do in a single day. Whether you’re standing at the top of Mount Hoven after the Loen Skylift ride, walking to the Briksdal Glacier, or simply enjoying a quiet coffee by the fjord, it’s a place that captures the best of the Norwegian Fjords.

I loved my first visit so much that I went back again, and it was just as magical the second time. I’m even planning a third visit in 2026. If you see Olden on your cruise itinerary, you’re in for a real treat.

Norway, Port Guides

Olden Cruise Port Guide – What to See and Do on a Cruise Stop