13 exciting things to do on a day trip to Eidfjord

Eidfjord is a charming town at the innermost end of the Hardangerfjord, nestled between the massive Hardangervidda Mountain Plateau and the fjord. And while there certainly is enough to do here to spend at least a night, we know that many of our guests only visit for a day.

To help you plan your time here, we have put together this list of 13 great things to do on a day trip to Eidfjord.

What to do with just one day in Eidfjord:

Here are our recommendations for things to do in Eidfjord. We are sure you will find something here, whether you are visiting on a cruise holiday, stopping on a road trip between western and eastern Norway, or simply popping by while staying at a nearby destination.

Most of these activities do not take a full day, so you can choose several of them and do them at the time best suited to you. And if you are staying more than one day, you can just pick more and spread them out.

You can also find all the activities we offer in Eidfjord here.

1. Experience the famous Vøringsfossen Waterfall

One of Norway’s most famous waterfalls, Vøringsfossen, drops 182 metres into the Måbødalen valley and is a must to see. A series of viewpoints along the way offer different perspectives, with the best view from the dramatic viewing platforms near the hotel. A footbridge across the gorge lets you see the falls from above. If you have time, explore the nearby trails for an even closer look at the surrounding landscapes.

Take the Vøringsfossen Waterfall tour or join a small group tour to get there without your own car.

2. Get close to the fjord in a kayak

Paddle through the calm waters of the Hardangerfjord and experience Eidfjord from a different perspective. A guided kayak tour is a great way to take in the towering mountains, waterfalls, and small settlements along the shore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, the fjord’s sheltered waters make for a peaceful and scenic trip.

Find more information about kayaking in Eidfjord here.

3. Let the Troll Train take you around town

Hop on the Troll Train for a relaxed tour of Eidfjord. This small road train takes you through the village, stopping at two key sights along the way, including a viewpoint to the fjord and the old church. It’s a great option for those who want an easy way to see the area without too much walking.

4. Be mesmerized by Kjeåsen Farm

Perched high above the fjord, Kjeåsen Farm is one of Norway’s most dramatic farmsteads. A winding road and tunnel lead up to this isolated spot, where you can take in panoramic views of the Hardangerfjord and surrounding mountains. The farm has a fascinating history, and standing here, it’s easy to see why it’s called “the most inaccessible farm in Norway.”

To get to Kjeåsen, you can either walk the super-steep trail up the mountainside or join a more relaxing small group tour from Eidfjord.

5. Feel your heart beating on a RIB adventure

For those of you who want a bit more speed and adventure, a RIB boat tour is the way to go. These fast, open boats take you racing across the fjord, getting you up close to waterfalls, cliffs, and small islands. Along the way, guides share stories about the landscape and history of the area. It’s a fun and thrilling way to experience the fjord.

There is a high chance of seeing some wildlife along the way, so keep your camera ready!

6. Visit Ulvik – The Pearl in Hardanger

A short journey from Eidfjord, Ulvik is known for its orchards, fjord views, and local cider production. Stroll along the waterfront, visit a family-run cider farm, or take a short hike for a view over the village. Ulvik’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to explore at your own pace before heading back to Eidfjord.

7. Visit the Norwegian Nature Centre

Learn about Norway’s wildlife, landscapes, and climate at the Norwegian Nature Centre. This interactive museum offers engaging exhibits on Hardangervidda National Park, glaciers, and local ecosystems. A highlight is the panoramic film showcasing Hardanger’s nature through the seasons. It’s a great stop for both adults and kids interested in learning more about the region.

The Nature Centre is located in Øvre Eidfjord, and you can get there by your own car, as part of a tour to Vøringsfossen Waterfall or by booking this package that includes bus tickets.

8. Take a scenic walk

Eidfjord has several walking routes that take you through beautiful scenery without needing to go on a long hike. Follow the shoreline for great fjord views, or walk the 6-kilometre-long circuit along the river to the beach by Eidfjordvatnet lake and over Hæreid. It’s an easy way to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air.

You can get maps of Eidfjord in the Tourist Centre.

9. Go on a tour to Hardangervidda National Park

Hardangervidda is Europe’s largest mountain plateau and a paradise for nature lovers. The small group tour takes you through its vast landscapes, home to reindeer, wild rivers, and open plains. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply experiencing the raw beauty of the area, a trip to Hardangervidda offers a real taste of Norwegian wilderness.

10. Cruise along the Hardangerfjord

See the Hardangerfjord from the water on a scenic boat trip. Cruises from Eidfjord take you past steep mountains, fruit farms, and small villages. Whether you choose a short sightseeing trip or a longer fjord cruise, being on the water gives you a unique perspective on the landscape that has shaped life in Hardanger for centuries.

The afternoon cruise takes you to Lofthus where you have time to enjoy some local tastes of cider and snacks before getting on the bus back to Eidfjord.

11. Walk across the Hardangerbrua Bridge

The Hardanger Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, stretching over the fjord between Eidfjord and Ulvik. A pedestrian walkway lets you walk across, offering incredible views of the fjord below and the surrounding landscape. If you’re travelling by car, you’ll drive through tunnels on both ends, but stopping to walk across is worth it.

12. Go back in time at Ravenheart Viking Exhibition

Step into the Viking Age at the Ravenheart Viking Exhibition. This interactive experience gives insight into how the Vikings lived, traded, and travelled. With authentic artefacts, reconstructed items, and storytelling, it’s a fascinating look into the past.

It’s a must-visit for history lovers or anyone curious about the Viking era, and especially popular amongst families.

13. Be cultural at Bergslien Gallery

Bergslien Gallery showcases the work of Norwegian artists, with a focus on Nils Bergslien, known for his paintings of Norwegian folklore and landscapes. The gallery also has temporary exhibits by other local and national artists, making it a great stop for anyone interested in art.

Take your time to browse the collection and learn more about the artistic traditions of Hardanger.