Gudvangen

TL;DR: Gudvangen is Norway’s hidden gem where ancient Viking culture meets breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage fjords. This tiny village of 100 residents offers world-class fjord cruises, an authentic Viking village experience, and some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth – all accessible via the famous Norway in a Nutshell route.

Why Gudvangen Should Be Your Next Norwegian Adventure

Picture this: you’re standing at the edge of one of the world’s narrowest fjords, surrounded by towering 1,400-meter cliffs, while Vikings in authentic garb teach you to throw axes and share stories that date back over 1,000 years. Welcome to Gudvangen, where the name literally translates to “field of the gods by the water” – and honestly, it lives up to that divine billing.

This isn’t your typical tourist trap. Gudvangen is where Norway’s dramatic natural beauty collides with its most fascinating historical period, creating an experience that’s both Instagram-worthy and genuinely educational.

Getting There: Your Journey to the Gods’ Field

Coordinates: 60.8777°N 6.8379°E

By Train & Bus (The Classic Route)

The most scenic way to reach Gudvangen is via the Norway in a Nutshell route:

• Take the Bergen Railway from Oslo to Myrdal (about 4.5 hours)
• Switch to the famous Flåm Railway down to Flåm (45 minutes of pure scenic bliss)
• Catch a bus or boat from Flåm to Gudvangen (20 minutes by bus, 2 hours by fjord cruise)

Pro tip: Book the fjord cruise one-way and return by bus to maximize your fjord time without breaking the bank.

By Car

Driving offers flexibility, but heads up – you’ll navigate the Gudvangen Tunnel, Norway’s second-longest tunnel at 11.5 kilometers. It’s an adventure in itself, burrowing through mountains to reach this hidden valley.

Accessibility

The village and Viking Village are wheelchair accessible, with designated parking and facilities designed for visitors with mobility needs.

The Crown Jewel: Nærøyfjord Cruise

Why This Fjord is Special

The Nærøyfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most breathtaking fjords in Norway. The fjord cruise leaves from Gudvangen several times a day in the summer, and twice in the winter half of the year.

This isn’t just any boat ride – you’re gliding through one of the world’s narrowest fjords, where thousand-meter cliffs rise dramatically from crystal-clear waters. The scenery is so incredible that you’ll understand why this route has been attracting visitors since the 1850s.

Cruise Options

• Standard fjord cruise: 2-2.5 hours between Gudvangen and Flåm
• Extended route: Kaupanger to Gudvangen (summer only)
• Winter cruises: Limited schedule but absolutely magical with snow-capped peaks

Insider tip: If you are travelling in the winter, get on an earlier departure, as there is limited daylight during that time of year.

Viking Valley Njardarheimr: Step Into Living History

What Makes This Special

Viking Valley is located in Gudvangen – in the heart of the unique fjord landscape of Nærøyfjorden, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here we find the Viking town of Njardarheimr, which breathes new life into the history and culture of the Viking Age.

This isn’t your typical museum with roped-off exhibits. Here are no dressed up actors, but real Vikings of all ages who have the Viking era as a lifestyle. These passionate reenactors from around the world have made Gudvangen their home, creating an authentic Viking community.

Activities & Experiences

The Viking Experience (included with admission)

• 45 minutes guided tours starting every hour on the hour in English (April-October)
• 30 minutes guided tours in English starting 10:55, 11:45, 12:15 and 13:00 (November-March)

Free Activities

• Axe throwing: Channel your inner Viking warrior
• Archery: Test your medieval marksmanship
• Traditional crafts: Watch blacksmithing, wool spinning, and woodworking
• Combat demonstrations: Witness (or participate in) Viking fighting techniques

Food & Drink

• Viking lunch in the food house inside the Village (summer season)
• Traditional recipes using authentic Viking-era ingredients
• Mead and other period-appropriate beverages

Practical Info

• Opening hours: Daily 10:00-18:00 (Apr-Oct), 10:30-14:00 (Nov-Mar)
• Duration: Plan 2-3 hours minimum
• Cost: Entry includes guided tour and access to all activities
• Wheelchair accessible: Most areas and activities are accessible

Adventure Activities: Beyond the Beaten Path

Water Sports

Stand-Up Paddleboarding Unique and exclusive stand up paddling adventures in the most magnificent nature Norway has to offer. The best equipment, the most experienced guides in the most beautiful UNESCO protected areas in the world.

Hydrobikes We hired hydrobikes from Grethe-Iren in June 2024, and it was one of our favourite Norway holiday adventures! Communication and booking was excellent and really easy.

Kayaking Multi-day adventures through the narrowest parts of Nærøyfjord, accessing areas only reachable by small boats.

Hiking Adventures

Rimstigen Trail: A challenging hike with dramatic fjord views Bakkanosi: Bakkanosi is a must for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures Heritage Fjord Walk: Gentle paths showcasing the area’s natural beauty

Distance tip: As Gudvangen is quite small, you’ll find that this list is not as long as the list of things to do in Aurland or Flåm. However, that doesn’t mean that you should skip it!

Unique Experiences

The Magic White Caves One of the most popular things to do in Gudvangen is a tour through the Magical White Caves, which leads you through a cave-labyrinth full of exciting shadows, lightening with Aurora (Nothern light), colors and sounds.

Where to Stay: From Budget to Breathtaking

Hotels

Gudvangen Fjordtell – The premium choice The hotel was built with the purpose that you at any time are able to enjoy the fantastic view of the glorious Næøryfjord. One third of the main building is designed in glass.

• Multiple restaurants (à la carte, seafood, Viking-themed)
• Rooms with fjord views
• Full-service facilities

Gudvangen Budget Hotel Gudvangen budget Hotel is the perfect base offering comfortable, simply furnished rooms and the prices to fit most budgets.

• Walking distance to Gudvangen Fjordtell’s restaurants
• Simple but clean accommodations
• Perfect for backpackers and budget travelers

Camping

Gudvangen Camping

• Gudvangen Camping is situated facing the waterfall Kjelsfossen (The kettle waterfall) in the beautiful Nærøy valley
• Cabins available
• Spectacular waterfall views

Vang Camping

• Located in a beautiful landscape in magnificent nature in the middle of the World Heritage Area Nærøyfjorden
• Traditional Norwegian camping experience
• Excellent facilities

Luxury Options Nearby

Stalheim Hotel (15 minutes away) Stalheim Hotel offers a stunning panorama of wild mountains and lush landscapes. Its unique location provides a tranquil retreat, suspended in nature.

Dining: From Viking Feasts to Modern Nordic

In Gudvangen

Viking-Themed Dining

• Viking Veikro: Traditional Norwegian dishes in the Viking Village
• Seafood Restaurant: Gudvangen seafood restaurant is situated right by the fjord under heated glass pavillion with spectacular views of the fjord, mountains and passing boats

Casual Options

• Café Gudvangen: Café Gudvangen is a warm and comfortable café with bakery and pizzeria that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner options –thin-crust pizza, fresh baked goods and sandwiches, local beer and coffee drinks

Nearby

Don’t miss Undredal (15 minutes away), famous for its goat cheese and the annual Goat Cheese Festival.

Planning Your Visit: Seasonal Considerations

Summer (June-August)

• Best for: All activities, warmest weather, midnight sun
• Crowds: Peak season, book accommodations early
• Highlights: Full Viking Village program, all fjord cruises running

Spring/Fall (April-May, September-October)

• Best for: Fewer crowds, dramatic weather, lower prices
• Considerations: Limited fjord cruise schedules
• Highlights: Stunning autumn colors or spring waterfalls

Winter (November-March)

• Best for: Snow-capped fjords, authentic Viking atmosphere
• Challenges: Limited daylight during that time of year
• Magic factor: Northern lights potential, cozy Viking halls

Getting Around & Practical Tips

Transportation

• Shuttle buses run regularly between Flåm and Gudvangen
• Free parking available at most accommodations
• Electric car charging stations near Viking Valley

Money Matters

• Most places accept cards, but bring some Norwegian kroner for small vendors
• Expect Norwegian prices (expensive by international standards)
• Many activities offer combo packages for better value

What to Pack

• Rain gear: Essential year-round
• Layers: Weather changes quickly in the fjords
• Good hiking boots: For exploring trails
• Camera: You’ll want to capture everything

Day Trip Itineraries

Half-Day (4-6 hours)

1. Arrive via fjord cruise from Flåm
2. Explore Viking Village (2-3 hours)
3. Quick village walk and café visit
4. Return by bus

Full Day

1. Morning fjord cruise arrival
2. Viking Village exploration with lunch
3. Afternoon hike (Bakkanosi or Heritage Walk)
4. Evening at waterfront café
5. Overnight in Gudvangen

Multi-Day Adventure

Day 1: Arrive, Viking Village, evening at hotel Day 2: Kayaking or SUP adventure, Magic White Caves Day 3: Hiking, visit nearby Undredal, departure

Beyond Gudvangen: Nearby Must-Sees

Flåm (20 minutes)

• Famous Flåm Railway
• Flåm Marina
• Additional hiking trails

Aurland (30 minutes)

• From Aurland you can grab a shuttle bus to the Stegastein Viewpoint
• Charming fjord village
• More accommodation options

Undredal (15 minutes)

• Smallest stave church in Norway
• Famous goat cheese production
• Traditional Norwegian village life

Sustainable Travel Tips

Gudvangen’s beauty depends on responsible tourism:

• Respect the fjord: No littering, stay on marked trails
• Support local: Choose local guides, buy from village shops
• Travel off-peak: Help distribute tourism impact
• Use public transport: Reduce your carbon footprint

Why Gudvangen Works for Everyone

Adventure Seekers: Kayaking, hiking, and Viking combat training History Buffs: Authentic Viking experiences and archaeological insights
Families: Kid-friendly activities and educational programs Photographers: Some of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes Cultural Travelers: Living history and traditional crafts Budget Travelers: Camping options and free hiking trails Luxury Seekers: High-end accommodations with fjord views

The Bottom Line

Gudvangen isn’t just a destination – it’s a portal to another time and place where dramatic natural beauty meets fascinating human history. Whether you’re cruising through UNESCO-protected fjords, learning Viking crafts from passionate reenactors, or simply soaking in some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, this tiny Norwegian village delivers experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Gudvangen, which roughly translates to “field of the gods by the water”, has been receiving cruise ships in its harbour since the 1850s. Nearly 175 years later, it’s still casting the same spell on visitors – and now you know exactly why.

Ready to answer the call of the Vikings? Gudvangen is waiting to welcome you to the field of the gods.