Exploring the majestic fjords of Norway by car is an interesting adventure, especially if you are searching for concepts that produce incredible activity holidays for teenage households. With their tranquil waters, towering cliffs, and attractive towns, the Norwegian fjords use a spectacular background for a journey through Norway. However to maximize it, a well-planned route, child-friendly activities, and a reputable car are essential.
Preparation your route: Your itinerary to the Norwegian fjords
When planning your path through Norway’s fjords, it’s smart to balance picturesque beauty with manageable driving time for the kids. The most popular Nordic fjords– Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, and Nærøyfjord– lie in Western Norway and can be covered in 10 days beginning with Bergen, with drives no longer than just over 2 hours.
Here is a suggested itinerary for your Norway trip with kids:
- Bergen, the “heart of the fjords”: Start your journey through Norway in the lovely seaside city of Bergen, quickly reached by direct flight from London. The city is located between the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord however likewise has its own fjord, the Byfjorden. Explore Bryggen, Bergen’s historic harbour district, with its pleasant fish market, and take the Fløibanen, a funicular, from the city up the mountain of Fløyen, where you can choose a hike and take in the panoramic views across the city.
- Voss: From Bergen, drive inland for simply under two hours to reach Voss, in your area known as Vossevangen, a lovely town in the heart of Norway. Located between the Hardangerfjord and the Sognefjord– the longest and deepest fjord in Norway– it is famous for its spectacular landscapes and thrill-seeking adventures on offer, such as household rafting– the best destination if you are a teenage household trying to find activity vacations. Do not miss the wonderful waterfall of Tvindefossen when going to.
- Flåm/ Aurlandsfjord: Continue your Norway road trip by taking the E16 freeway through the scenic Nærøydalen valley. You will pass Stalheimskleiva, among the steepest roads in Northern Europe. It was closed for motorised lorries in October 2023 however can still be used by pedestrians and cyclists. You should reach the village of Flåm in 1 h 15. Here you can hop on the beautiful Flåm Railway, hike to the Brekkefossen Waterfall, take a fjord cruise on the Aurlandsfjord, or find out about the Vikings.
- Gudvangen/ Nærøyfjord: Circle back for 20 minutes, stopping in Gudvangen on the southern pointer of Nærøyfjord, a narrow fjord branching off from the large Sognefjord. It is among only two Norwegian fjords stated a UNESCO heritage site due to its distinct natural and cultural landscape. Take a ferry cruise through Nærøyfjord. You could even book a cruise to Flam and back if you expensive a break from driving. A Nærøyfjord cruise from Gudvangen to Flåm takes around 2 hours one way. You might even shuttle bus back to Gudvangen if you don’t expensive the boat trip back.
- Sogndal/Sognefjord: Drive on to the town of Balestrand in the municipality of Sogndal in approx. 2h 10. Here in the heart of the Norwegian fjords, you can enjoy breathtaking views and an unwinded environment. Take a dip in the cold water followed by a hot sauna, walk through fragrant apple orchards, go on a picturesque walking, or take your teens on a kayaking adventure on the Sognefjord.
- Jostedalsbreen: The national park of Jostedalsbreen is en route to another Norwegian fjord, the Geirangerfjord. This stop separates the long drive and gives you a distinct chance to admire the biggest glacier in continental Europe. You could take the kids for a glacier walk and even hike on snowshoes approximately the frozen lake and check out the ice cave.
- Geiranger/Geirangerfjord: Cap your Nordic fjords adventure off with a journey north to Geiranger, another UNESCO-listed fjord. If you exclude the glacier, it’s a straight 4.5 to 5 hours to get to Geiranger. It’s well worth the trip to see what may well be the most magnificent fjord on the planet. Majestic snow-covered peaks, high cliffs, and wild waterfalls use a truly spectacular panorama. Drive around to take pleasure in the views or take a waterfall trail or boat journey to appreciate the sensational scenery.
- Ålesund through Trollstigen: Drive the popular Trollstigen road from Åndalsnes/ Isterdalen to the Trollstigen plateau. The serpentine roadway is due to re-open on 14 July 2025. You will travel through Valldal, understood for its sweet strawberries and experience activities such as rafting, climbing up, kayaking, snowshoeing, and ski touring. After 2 hours 15 you will reach Ålesund, famous for its distinct Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) architecture. Surrounded by mountains and fjords, this lovely port town is well worth a go to. The vibrant city is a magical place with narrow alleyways dotted with lovely seafood dining establishments. Lease an e-bike to explore or raise to Mount Aksla for the best views. You can likewise hire kayaks and SUPs and admire the city from the Brosundet canal that goes through its centre.
From Ålesund you can fly back to Bergen or directly back to London.
Estimated overall driving distance: 1,200 to 1,500 km, finest topped 10-14 days.
Picture: The Norwegian seaside city of Ålesund Child-friendly stops
and activities The Norwegian fjords offer numerous kid-approved activities. In Flåm, ride the high mountain train and visit the Flåm Railway Museum. In Geiranger, the Norwegian Fjord Centre provides interactive displays. Farms in Balestrand let children pet goats and discover local fruit and vegetables. For households with thrill-seeking or outdoorsy teenagers, there are a lot of activities on offer, from kayaking and rafting to glacier walks and snowshoe hikes.
To separate long drives, plan routine stops at picnic areas, waterfalls, and picturesque lookouts. Norwegian rest stops are tidy and often scenic themselves.
Leading Kid-Friendly Fjord Destinations:
| Location | Attraction | Activity Type |
| Flåm | Flåmsbana Railway | Train ride |
| Gudvangen | Viking Valley | Historical re-enactment |
| Geiranger | Norwegian Fjord Centre | Educational museum |
| Balestrand | Fjord farms | Animal interaction |
| Voss | Outside family rafting | Experience |
Image: Kayaking in the Norwegian fjords is a popular activity. Getting ready for your Norway journey: Tips for solo parents Preparation a journey with kids as a single parent might sound complicated, but Norway’s family-friendly facilities assists relieve the difficulty. Schedule accommodation in advance, preferably with kitchen centers and area for kids and teenagers to unwind. Numerous fjord towns have family-run B&B s and cabins that welcome kids of all ages.
Guarantee you have a range of car-friendly snacks, recyclable water bottles, and home entertainment like audiobooks and travel toys. Download films, games, and audiobooks, along with maps and apps like the “Norway Travel Assistant” for ferry schedules and weather condition updates.
Weather condition and clothing
Fjord weather condition can be unpredictable. Summer (June to August) is the most family-friendly season, with typical temperatures varying from 13 ° C to 22 ° C. Bring layers, water resistant coats, and durable shoes. For kids, pack backup clothes and fleece-lined rain equipment.
Preparing the cars and truck for a long journey
A trusted car is important. Before you set off, make sure your rental cars and truck has been serviced. According to autodoc.co.uk, the brake pads need to be checked and replaced if worn, especially before dealing with steep mountain roads like Trollstigen.
Make sure tires are suitable for varying roadway conditions and inflate them to the advised pressure. Examine all fluids– oil, brake, and windscreen washer. Norway has rigorous road safety laws, so ensure your lights, child seats, and documentation are in order.
Another key point is to avoid issues with cooling. Fjord valleys can heat up in summertime, particularly with the sun reflecting off water and rock. A faulty AC system can rapidly turn a beautiful drive into a difficult experience, especially for kids vulnerable to motion sickness or heat level of sensitivity.
Picture: Norway’s landscapes provide
many scenic paths perfect for a trip. Car prep checklist for a Norwegian fjords road trip Part Action Needed Notes Brake pads Inspect/replace Steep
descents ahead Tyres Check pressure and tread Think about all-weather tyres AIR CONDITIONER
system Test
cooling efficiency Important for summertime travel Engine fluids Leading up
or replace Consist of coolant and oil Wipers Replace
if streaking Rain is regular in
fjord zones GPS/maps
Update or download offline Coverage can be irregular Budgeting for
a fjord
experience Norway is known for
its high cost of living, however clever preparation
can keep costs manageable. Staying in cabins
or self-catering lodges
lowers food expenses. Fuel costs in Norway average around ₤ 1.50 per litre in 2025, so budgeting for petrol is essential, specifically offered mountain driving. Automobile ferries prevail and frequently unavoidable. Most expense in between ₤ 10 and ₤ 30 per crossing, with online payment or automated number plate recognition at many websites.
Interstate are likewise extensive but efficient. The” AutoPASS”system enables seamless payment for the majority of tolls. Utilize the Norway in a Nutshell coordinator or regional travel passes for integrated rail, ferryboat, and bus discounts. Security and emergency situation suggestions Here is how to stay safe on the roadway when driving with kids, specifically when Always bring a roadside emergency set: cautioning triangle, reflective vests, emergency treatment
materials, torch, and spare tire and
repair work set. Norway’s emergency situation number is 112. Mobile protection is generally good but might drop in deep valleys or tunnels. Notify someone of your path and anticipated arrival times, particularly if you plan hiking journeys or ferry transfers. Finally, keep kids taken part in the travel
experience. Include them in navigation, finding things en path, or keeping a travel journal.< img src="https://singleparentsonholiday.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Norwegian-Fjords-road-trip-12_999x666.jpg" alt="Norwegian fjords: glacier"width="999"height="666 "/ > Picture: Nigardsbreen, which is part of the big Jostedalsbreen glacier.
Making the most of your Norway trip A journey through the Norwegian fjords offers more than simply scenic appeal. It teaches children strength, gratitude for nature, and the delight of discovery. For single moms and dads, it offers empowering experiences and priceless shared minutes. With proper planning and preparation, you’ll return home with not just photos, however a head filled with stories and laughter echoing from the fjords. So, buckle up, download some Nordic folk tunes, and struck the roadway– the Norwegian fjords await.