Bergen to Gudvangen: Viking Market Tour & Fjord Cruise

Summary

Viking village tales, fjord cruise moments and Bergen’s winding journey

You’ll leave Bergen behind for a day that feels both ancient and alive: wandering Gudvangen’s Viking Market, meeting modern-day Vikings over archery or crafts, tasting simple Norwegian food with locals nearby. With private transport and an optional fjord cruise through UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, this trip is more than sightseeing — it lingers long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Hands full of woolen mittens I didn’t plan to buy, I watched a woman in a linen dress hammer out a brooch — her hair braided like the old Norse sagas. We’d left Bergen early that morning, winding past lakes that caught the sky and farms so neat they looked arranged for postcards. Our driver-guide (Ola — who seemed to know every twist in the road) pointed out Voss’s ancient church and let us stop at Tvindefossen waterfall. The spray was cold on my face, sharper than I expected. Someone behind me laughed when I slipped a little on the wet stones. It felt good to just stand there and breathe it in.

The drive into Nærøydalen valley was quiet except for the soft hum of the car and Ola’s stories about postal riders braving these mountains centuries ago. At Stalheim Hotel, we stepped onto the terrace — honestly, I still think about that view. The valley below looked almost unreal, like something painted with too much green. Then it was down to Gudvangen, tucked under Kjelfossen waterfall (which you hear before you see). Lunch was simple but hearty at the hotel café — brown bread, soup, coffee strong enough to wake up a Viking.

The Viking Market itself was buzzing in this odd way: part festival, part living history. There were real “modern Vikings” everywhere — some from Norway, others from as far as Poland or Iceland — trading leatherwork and honey mead and laughing over archery contests. Our local guide in Njardarheimr village wore chainmail (I tried it; surprisingly heavy) and explained how people actually lived here centuries ago. I got roped into axe throwing — missed every shot but nobody seemed to care. The air smelled like woodsmoke and roasting meat; you could almost forget what century you’re in.

If you want to add a fjord cruise (which we did), it leaves right from Gudvangen through Nærøyfjord to Flåm. The water is so still it mirrors everything — cliffs, clouds, even your own face if you look long enough. Tickets aren’t included by default but Ola helped us sort it out last minute. On the way back through those endless tunnels toward Bergen, everyone got quiet for a while — maybe just tired or maybe letting it all sink in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bergen to Gudvangen Viking Market

• Start tour in Bergen city
• Pass through Voss town
• Stop at Tvindefossen waterfall
• Stop at Stalheim Hotel viewpoint
• Arrive in Gudvangen for lunch
• Visit Njardarheimr Viking Village
• Take guided Viking Village tour
• Browse Viking Market for souvenirs
• Optional fjord cruise from Gudvangen to Flåm
• Meet driver in Flåm for return
• Drive back through long tunnels
• Optional stop in Voss for gondola ride
• Return to Bergen city

Top questions

How long does the Viking Market tour from Bergen take?

The tour lasts 11-12 hours including travel time between Bergen and Gudvangen.

Is pickup included for this day trip from Bergen?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included from Bergen.

Are entry fees for the Viking Village included?

Yes, entrance tickets to Njardarheimr Viking Village are included in your tour price.

Can I join a fjord cruise on this tour?

A fjord cruise from Gudvangen to Flåm is optional; tickets can be purchased separately on the day or booked in advance.

What activities can I try at the Viking Market?

You can watch artisans at work, shop for crafts, try archery or axe throwing, and join guided tours of the village.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No set lunch is included but you’ll have time for lunch at either the local hotel café or inside the Viking Village.

Are there stops along the way from Bergen?

Yes—stops include Voss town center, Tvindefossen waterfall, Stalheim Hotel viewpoint, plus photo breaks as requested.

Is this private tour suitable for families with children?

Yes; infant seats are available and small children can ride in prams or strollers during the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with pickup from Bergen by a professional driver-guide (who knows all the best stops), bottled water along the way, all entry fees for attractions like Njardarheimr Viking Village (with either regular or private guided tour options), taxes covered up front—and plenty of chances to pause wherever you want for photos or just fresh air before returning to Bergen in the evening.