Experiences
Geirangerfjord and Trollstigen: fjord cruises, waterfalls and hairpin bends
The Seven Sisters falling into the fjord, the view from Dalsnibba and eleven hairpin bends up Trollstigen. How to experience the Geirangerfjord and Trollstigen, and where to stay.
The boat glides into the fjord, and the mountain walls rise almost vertically on both sides. Then come the Seven Sisters, seven waterfalls side by side tumbling towards the water, and opposite them the Suitor, who according to legend is courting them. It goes quiet on board. Even those who have been here before reach for their phones.
The Geirangerfjord is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and together with Trollstigen it is one of Norway’s most famous routes. Here are the experiences, the order to do them in and the hotels along the way.
The links to the hotels and experiences are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The best things to do in Geiranger
Book the experience: See fjord cruises and tours in Geiranger
Cruise the Geirangerfjord
The classic way to see the fjord is on the ferry or sightseeing boat between Geiranger and Hellesylt, past the Seven Sisters, the Suitor and the old mountain farms of Skageflå and Knivsflå. You can also kayak or take a RIB boat close to the waterfalls.
Dalsnibba
The view from Dalsnibba down to Geiranger.
Dalsnibba and the Eagle Road
Dalsnibba is billed as Europe’s highest fjord view from a road, with a glass platform hanging over the edge and Geiranger far below. On the other side of the fjord the Eagle Road winds up from Geiranger, and from the Eagle Bend you get the most famous picture of the fjord.
Trollstigen
Trollstigen is eleven hairpin bends up a steep mountainside between Valldal and Åndalsnes, with the Stigfossen waterfall tumbling beside the road. At the top there is a viewpoint with platforms over the drop. The road is only open in summer, usually from late May to October.
Combine Geiranger and Trollstigen in one day via the Eagle Road and Valldal, or split the trip and stay a night on the way.
Where to stay in Geiranger and near Trollstigen
Hotel Union Geiranger
Breakfast with a fjord view.
Hotel Union Geiranger
Hotel Union sits on the hillside above Geiranger, with fjord views from many of the rooms. It has an indoor pool and a restaurant, and has welcomed travellers since 1891.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Union Geiranger
Havila Hotel Geiranger
The view from Havila Hotel over Geiranger.
Havila Hotel Geiranger
Havila Hotel sits by the fjord in the centre of Geiranger, with two bars, a restaurant and a marina. From here you walk to the cruise boats and the cafés.
Book your stay: See rooms at Havila Hotel Geiranger
Grand Hotel Åndalsnes
Mountain views from the restaurant in Åndalsnes.
Grand Hotel, Åndalsnes
In Åndalsnes, on the northern side of Trollstigen, Grand Hotel sits near the Norwegian Mountaineering Centre and the Romsdalen Gondola. Breakfast and parking are included, and the staff are much praised.
Book your stay: See rooms at Grand Hotel Åndalsnes
Hotel Union Øye
The lounge at Hotel Union Øye.
Hotel Union Øye
Union Øye is a historic hotel by the Norangsfjord, an arm of the Hjørundfjord, a little over an hour from Geiranger. It is known for its old salons, royal guests and rooms that each have their own story. Breakfast is included.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Union Øye
When is the best time to visit Geiranger and Trollstigen?
June: the waterfalls are at their most powerful after the snowmelt, and Trollstigen has just opened.
July and August: the warmest months with all roads open, but the most people and cruise ships.
September: fewer people, autumn colours and mountain roads still open.
Geirangerfjord and Trollstigen FAQ
When is Trollstigen open?
Trollstigen is usually open from late May to October, depending on the snow. Check the road status before you travel.
How do you see the Seven Sisters waterfall?
From the fjord cruise or ferry between Geiranger and Hellesylt, or by kayak or RIB. From land, the Knivsflå viewpoint gives the best view.
How much time do you need in Geiranger?
A full day gives time for a fjord cruise and the viewpoints. With Trollstigen, allow two days.
Is the Geirangerfjord a UNESCO site?
Yes, the Geirangerfjord and the Nærøyfjord were inscribed together as the West Norwegian Fjords in 2005.
Where should I stay in Geiranger?
Hotel Union Geiranger has views and a pool, and Havila Hotel is by the fjord in the centre. Near Trollstigen, Grand Hotel in Åndalsnes is a good choice, and Union Øye is perfect for a historic night.