Bergen: Hardangerfjord, Voss Gondola & 3 Great Waterfalls

If you’re visiting Bergen and craving a snapshot of Norway’s most iconic landscapes, this guided tour covering Hardangerfjord, the Voss Gondola, and three spectacular waterfalls might just be your best bet. Clocking in at around nine hours, this full-day adventure promises plenty of jaw-dropping views, local charm, and a chance to get off the beaten path without sacrificing comfort. What really sets this experience apart is the combination of lush fjord scenery, thrilling cable car rides, and the chance to walk safely behind a waterfall — quite the memorable mix.

A highlight for many travelers is the Voss Gondola, which offers a quick and exhilarating ride to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The visits to waterfalls like Vøringsfoss and Steinsdalsfoss are equally captivating, with one offering a chance to walk behind the cascade — a rare treat. The tour’s knowledgeable guide, Evan, receives high praise for adding insights and making the journey engaging.

However, a potential consideration is the full itinerary packed into a single day; if you prefer a more relaxed pace, some stops might feel rushed. Still, this tour is ideal for those looking to cram in as much of Norway’s natural beauty as possible, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights.

In essence, this experience is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Norway’s stunning landscapes, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate guided commentary that enriches their understanding. It’s especially suited for those wanting a balanced mix of active sightseeing, breathtaking vistas, and cultural insights, all conveniently organized in one day.

Key Points

• Scenic Journey: Travel along Norway’s second-longest fjord with views of mountains, waterfalls, and lush gardens.
• Waterfalls: Visit 3 major waterfalls, including the famous Vøringsfoss, with opportunities for memorable photos.
• Voss Gondola: Experience a quick cable car ride to mountain vistas near Voss, with panoramic views of surrounding peaks.
• Authentic Experiences: Walk behind Steinsdalsfoss, one of Norway’s most popular waterfalls, for a unique perspective.
• Efficient Tour: Well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing and free time, with a comfortable mini-bus and a knowledgeable guide.
• Value: At $263, you get a full-day adventure packed with highlights, guided insights, and exclusive experiences like the gondola ride.

You can check availability for your dates here:

First Impressions and What You Can Expect

This tour begins bright and early at Strandkaien 16 in Bergen, where a comfortable mini-bus awaits to whisk you away into some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes. The journey is designed to maximize scenery, with the guide providing context about each stop, making the entire day both visually spectacular and educational.

What immediately stands out is the way the trip manages to incorporate a variety of experiences — from cruising past fjord villages to hiking behind waterfalls, and ascending mountain peaks via gondola. The guided commentary adds richness, sharing stories about the local area, geological features, and the significance of each sight.

A key highlight is the Voss Gondola, known for its quick yet breathtaking ride from the train station to Mount Hanguren. This gondola isn’t just a fun ride; it’s a window into the rugged beauty of the mountains surrounding Voss, with panoramic views that make for perfect photo opportunities.

While the itinerary is fairly packed, the stops are thoughtfully spaced to prevent fatigue. A one-hour break in Eidfjord allows for meal breaks and sightseeing on your own, giving some breathing room amid the sightseeing frenzy.

The Route and Key Stops

Starting Point – Bergen

The tour kicks off at the Strandkaien meeting point, where a small group gathers. The guide, known for being friendly and extremely knowledgeable, sets the tone for the day. Expect a mix of storytelling, local tips, and practical info about what’s ahead.

The Scenic Drive along Hardangerfjord

Traveling along Norway’s second-longest fjord, you’ll pass tidy villages like Norheimsund, Øystese, and Eidfjord. These spots are charming and give you a glimpse of everyday Norwegian life amid stunning natural backdrops. The views are so impressive that many guests comment on how the landscape shifts from snow-capped mountains to lush orchards, depending on the season.

More Great Tours Nearby

Voss Gondola

This is one of the tour’s standout moments. The gondola ride is brief but sweet — less than nine minutes — taking you from the train station in Voss up to Mount Hanguren. At the top, the panoramic vistas stretch for miles, revealing jagged peaks, deep valleys, and, on clear days, distant glaciers. Reviewers consistently mention how this part of the trip feels like a highlight, with some calling it “spectacular” and praising the friendly gondola staff.

Waterfalls and Photo Stops

• Skjervsfossen Waterfall: A quick photo stop where you can capture the cascading water from a safe distance, with plenty of opportunities for memorable shots.
• Vøringsfoss: Perhaps the most famous waterfall in Norway, Vøringsfoss plunges 182 meters. Here, a 30-minute stop allows you to take in the view from various angles. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to walk closer and get a sense of the water’s power — a truly impressive sight.
• Steinsdalsfoss: Unique for its walk-behind experience, this waterfall allows visitors to stand behind the cascading water, surrounded by a safe, well-maintained trail. Reviewers frequently mention how this stop provides a fun, almost adventurous perspective on Norway’s waterfalls.

The Hardanger Bridge & Final Stops

Passing over the Hardanger Bridge, we get a sense of the scale of Norwegian engineering amidst natural beauty. The final major stop is Eidfjord, where you have an hour to explore or enjoy a quick lunch. The free time is a welcomed breather, and many travelers use this to buy souvenirs or stroll along the waterfront.

Last Waterfall – Steinsdalsfossen

The journey wraps up with a revisit to Steinsdalsfossen for more photos and a last chance to soak in the scenery before heading back to Bergen.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Reviewers consistently praise Evan, the tour guide, for being friendly, engaging, and well-informed. His storytelling makes the experience richer, and his enthusiasm elevates the day. Guests particularly note his ability to share insider tips and keep the group entertained and comfortable, creating a friendly atmosphere.

The transportation is comfortable, and the small-group format ensures everyone has a good view and a chance to ask questions. The tour’s timing is efficient, with well-planned stops that balance sightseeing with enough free time to explore independently.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $263 per person, this tour offers substantial value. It includes a guided day with transportation, the Voss Gondola ride, and visits to multiple iconic waterfalls — all combined into a single, well-organized experience. The optional free time in Eidfjord allows for a personalized touch, whether you want to grab lunch, shop, or simply relax.

While food and drinks are not included, the one-hour stop provides ample opportunity to buy a meal or snacks. The guided commentary, scenic stops, and exclusive experiences like walking behind Steinsdalsfoss make this a worthwhile investment for those wanting a full immersion in Norway’s natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, waterfalls, mountain views, and guided insights. It’s suited for those comfortable with a full day on the go, and it’s especially ideal if you want to see a variety of highlights without the hassle of planning each stop individually. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues might want to consider alternatives.

It appeals to nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to experience Norway’s iconic landscapes in a single day. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the fjord region, this tour hits the mark.

This Bergen day trip offers a fantastic snapshot of Norway’s natural grandeur. It combines scenic fjord vistas, thrilling mountain rides, and iconic waterfalls into a manageable, well-paced itinerary. The inclusion of the Voss Gondola and the chance to walk behind a waterfall make it stand out as a memorable experience. If you’re looking for a guided journey that balances breathtaking scenery with insightful commentary, this tour is a solid choice.

The value lies in the variety of locations visited, the convenience of organized transportation, and the chance to learn about the area from a friendly, knowledgeable guide. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see the highlights in one day, especially if they enjoy active sightseeing and stunning landscapes.

However, keep in mind the packed schedule — if you prefer a more leisurely approach or have mobility constraints, you might want to explore other options. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive, picturesque Norwegian adventure, this tour delivers on its promise.

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at the Guided Fjord Tours Office located at Strandkaien 16 in Bergen.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with specific starting times available depending on the day.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a one-hour stop in Eidfjord for sightseeing and lunch.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a comfortable mini-bus, with a small group for better views and personal attention.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While most travelers find it enjoyable, it’s not explicitly designed for very young children or those with mobility issues, especially since it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour available in different languages?
The tour is conducted in English, with a live guide providing commentary throughout the day.

This experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Norway’s stunning natural scenes, guided by friendly experts who enhance every stop. Whether you’re a lover of waterfalls, mountain vistas, or fjord cruising, this tour covers all the bases for an unforgettable day in Norway.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby