Destinations Norway

Best Norwegian fjords Shore Experiences

One of the biggest considerations when planning a Norwegian fjords cruise is how to spend your time ashore. Enter our curated Shore Experiences programme, brimming with an array of expert-led tours of all activity levels. Read on to see our top picks.

4 min 30 Apr 2026

Emma Perkins

Author

Best shore excursions in Olden, Norway

Best shore excursions in Haugesund, Norway

Best shore excursions in Stavanger, Norway

Best shore excursions in Ålesund, Norway

Unlock the Norwegian fjords with a Shore Experience with Cunard

From soaring above towering glaciers in a helicopter to discovering fascinating Viking heritage, each port of call on a Norwegian fjords cruise is a unique opportunity for adventure. Covering a wide range of activity levels and durations, our Shore Experiences awaken every sense: feel calm wash over you with a yoga class in the Olden mountains; sample locally-made delicacies in Alesund; hear the rush of roaring waterfalls in Haugesund.

By choosing a Cunard Shore Experience, your day in port can be tailored to your needs and wishes, all while having the peace of mind of being reunited with your ship before she sails to the next port. Whether you're looking for a step out of the ordinary or a once in a lifetime opportunity, our program has the perfect enhancement for every holiday.

Best shore excursions in Olden, Norway

Yoga in the Blue Mountains Hall

Marvel as a sense of peace and tranquility envelops you in a spectacular setting. Surrounded by views of a huge waterfall, mountains, and a majestic glacier, you will experience an energizing yoga class in the extraordinary Blue Mountain Hall. Built in harmony with nature, around a large stone-avalanche, this unique ‘shala’ is an exceptional venue in which to practice yoga. Concluding with deep relaxation to the sounds of powerful gongs, this small-group experience is soothing and relaxing on many different levels. As experience isn’t necessary, this is a wonderful opportunity to try something new.

Discover Geirangerfjord by Helicopter

Revel in views that make your jaw drop as you glide effortlessly over the awe-inspiring landscapes of Olden, Geirangerfjord, and the surrounding mountains. This serene yet exhilarating flight, which covers the entire length of the celebrated fjord, offers the ultimate vantage point to admire the dramatic beauty of the rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and enchanting fjord farms. You’ll soar from sea level to spectacular alpine heights, passing the magnificent Mt Dalsnibba, witnessing glaciers with their crevasses and icefalls, and returning to the lush greenery below.

To view our Olden Shore Experiences, log in to My Cunard.

Best shore excursions in Haugesund, Norway

Aakrafjord and Langfoss Waterfall

Revel in wonderful fjord land views, embark on a scenic boat ride, and savor a delicious lunch. Sit back and relax on your scenic coach journey, through a wonderful blend of rugged mountains, lush green hillsides, and idyllic fjords. Traveling through these varied landscapes, your knowledgeable guide will enlighten you with tales about life in this area. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties. Continuing in your coach, you’ll make a photo stop at the dramatic Langfossen Waterfall, which drops over 2,000 feet.

Fjord Cruise and Panoramic Views

Climb aboard the comfortable Feøy Ekspress catamaran and begin your tranquil exploration right at the pier. You’ll glide through the serene waters of Hylsfjorden, framed by soaring mountains and lush valleys, as cascades tumble dramatically into the sea. When you reach Ropeid, you’ll continue your adventure by road, winding through breathtaking scenery dotted with panoramic viewpoints. Discover small villages touched by Viking heritage and immerse yourself in the region’s enduring charm. It’s a day brimming with the allure of Norway’s striking landscapes.

Forresfjord Home Visit

Marvel at scenery on your short ride to Førresfjord, to the beautiful home and garden of Anne and Leif Bjarte. As a garden designer and landscape architect, the duo creates gardens in Southern Norway. They’ve appeared, with their garden, on Norwegian television gardening programs, and have worked on gardens in the Chelsea Flower Show that have won gold medals for several years. Wander through the magical garden, get a glimpse into their stylish house, and discuss the finer points of local life over a fresh herb tea, from their garden.

View cruises to Haugesund, or log in to My Cunard to view Shore Experiences for your voyage.

Best shore excursions in Stavanger, Norway

Hike to Manafossen Waterfall

Take a thrilling hike to Månafossen, or the ‘Moon Waterfall’ – at 302 feet, it’s Norway’s 9th largest. Your extensive hike to Månafossen, which lies in a fairly isolated area, begins at Eikeskog, where the track is combined with stairs. Throughout your ascent, there are lookout points to observe the falls, but once you arrive at the top, the views of the imposing waterfall are simply magical. Continuing up the trail a bit farther, you’ll pass the characterful, ancient 8,000-acre mountain farm of Mån.

Stavanger Highlights & Viking Voyages

Delve into the fascinating Viking heritage of Stavanger. The Ullandshaug Viewpoint provides magnificent views over Hafrsfjord, where the Viking King Hårfagre founded Norway in 872. Nearby in Møllebukta, you’ll stop by the ‘3 Giant Swords’ monument that commemorates his victory. Your next stop will be the Viking House. This is an immersive VR experience sitting in a replica Viking ship, and experiencing the Viking Ages in Virtual Reality. Afterwards, you’ll make a stop at the quaint old town of Gamle Stavanger, with the option of short guided walk, or returning to your ship.

Old Town & Beer Tasting

Set off into the atmospheric cobbles of Stavanger Old Town with your informative local guide and listen to colorful tales and legends from times long gone, along with the city’s interesting beer history and Purity Law. This one-time ‘teetotaller city of Norway’ today serves alcohol in over 200 locations. You’ll call into a local pub that proudly boasts being in the ‘Top 50 beer places in the world’ for the past 13 years. Offering 550 different bottled beers, with 24 on tap, and one real cask, your flight of five samples will take you on a tasty, historical trip around the region’s local beer.

If you've already booked, log in to My Cunard to view Shore Experiences for your voyage. Alternatively, view cruises to Stavanger to book.

Best shore excursions in Ålesund, Norway

A Taste of the Fjords

Savor the essence of Norway, beginning with a picturesque drive brimming with majestic waterfalls and verdant valleys. Your first stop at the charming Trollbryggeriet Brewery, in Liabygda, introduces you to the unique flavors of five small-batch beers and traditional cured meats. Then, embark on a ferry and cross the tranquil waters of Storfjorden to the historic farm, Skarbø Gård. There, you’ll encounter a delicious range of freshly pressed ciders perfectly paired with the farm’s time-honored cheeses. This exclusive experience marries culture, nature, and gastronomy, as you absorb stunning panoramic views and Norway’s timeless beauty between each tasting.

Trolley Train to Mt Aksla with Coffee & Cake

Journey through the town’s charming streets, where ornate Art Nouveau facades whisper tales of Ålesund’s storied architectural history. Pass Voldsdalen Church and the stadium before ascending to the Aksla viewpoint. Here, enjoy a relaxing 45-minute break, complete with coffee or tea and a slice of delicious cake, all while taking in panoramic views of the town, glittering archipelago, and majestic Sunnmøre Alps. Then, meander through the bustling inner harbor, where fishermen sell from their boats, and Molja, Norway's oldest lighthouse, stands proud. You’ll also catch of glimpse of the vibrant blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair in colorful Brunholmen.

Sail into Arctic History

Climb aboard the historic M/S Polarstar, built in 1948 for Arctic hunting and expeditions, and enjoy a unique cruising experience toward Brandal. You’ll be regaled with captivating tales of unsung heroes as you enjoy coffee, tea, and cake, while on this iconic vessel – now a protected piece of Norwegian heritage. When you arrive in Brandal at the Ishavsmuseet Arctic Museum, watch 150 years of polar exploration and hunting come alive, and step aboard Aarvak, Norway’s oldest seal-hunting ship from 1912. Delve into the boat’s pivotal role in polar history and hear about legendary figures that graced her storied decks.

To view our Ålesund Shore Experiences, log in to My Cunard.

Unlock the Norwegian fjords with a Shore Experience with Cunard

The Norwegain fjords are vast, enchanting, and endlessly diverse, defined by once‑in‑a‑lifetime encounters, and our thoughtfully curated Shore Experiences immerse you in its raw beauty, rich heritage, and remarkable scale.

Our on board Shore Experience team can help you choose the best spots to visit when we head ashore, for hiking, eating, drinking, and relaxing, or help you to join one of our organized excursions to the best beauty spots. Alternatively, you can view Shore Experiences available on your voyage by logging on to My Cunard, where you can plan in advance whilst also benefitting from our 10% off pre-cruise saving.

If our Norwegian fjords Shore experiences have inspired you to book your own voyage, our helpful guides can help you decide the best time of year to sail, which fjords to visit, and other tips to make your holiday perfect for you.