Olden Cruise Port
Olden Cruise Terminal
Olden, Norway Port
UN/LOCODE NOOLD Port of call Homeport
Olden Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Norway |
| UN/LOCODE | NOOLD |
| Contact | |
| Address | Cruisekaia, 6788 Olden, Norway |
| Port phone | +47 57 87 31 06 |
| Website | www.nordfjordhavn.no |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 61.93330, 6.63330 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The cruise pier in Olden is positioned at the very end of the Nordfjord, placing you within a 400-metre walk of the village’s main service centre and the local supermarket. Located in the Vestland region of Western Norway, this port serves as the primary gateway to the Jostedalsbreen National Park and its most famous outlet, the Briksdal Glacier. While the terminal itself is conveniently located, you must realize that the headline attractions are not in the village; the glacier is a 22 km (13.6 miles) drive away, and the Loen Skylift is 6 km (3.7 miles) to the north. The village of Olden can be explored in 30 minutes, but the surrounding valleys require a disciplined schedule. You are roughly 10 minutes from the village of Loen and 20 minutes from the administrative hub of Stryn. This is an ocean cruise port that rewards those who book transportation early and punishes those who wait until disembarkation to find a taxi, as the local fleet is extremely limited. The turquoise waters of the Nordfjord provide a stunning backdrop, but the deep valley walls mean the sun disappears early in the afternoon. Olden rewards the active explorer but can feel isolating for those who remain purely on foot near the pier.
Olden — Port Overview
History
Olden first rose to prominence in the late 19th century as a frontier for European mountaineers and royalty seeking the 'unspoiled' Alps of the North. While the area had been a quiet farming community for centuries, the arrival of the first cruise ships in the 1890s transformed the local economy. Farmers realized that guiding wealthy tourists to the Briksdal Glacier provided a more lucrative income than livestock alone. They began using 'Stolkjerre' (two-wheeled horse carriages) to transport passengers up the valley, a tradition that lasted until the early 2000s when modern 'Troll Cars' replaced the horses for animal welfare reasons. A pivotal moment occurred in 1759 with the construction of the Olden Old Church (Olde Kyrkje), which replaced a medieval stave church that had stood on the same site; this white-painted wooden structure remains one of the few historical landmarks within walking distance of the pier. The strategic significance of Olden shifted during the 20th century as hydroelectric power and improved road tunnels integrated the valley with the rest of Norway. Today, the village maintains a delicate balance between its agricultural roots and its status as a premier cruise destination. When you look at the steep mountain farms flanking the Nordfjord, you are seeing the result of 300 years of stubborn perseverance against the threat of avalanches and rockslides that have historically shaped this landscape.
The Verdict
Olden is a destination that rewards the prepared traveler. While the village itself is small, the surrounding valleys of the Nordfjord offer some of the most spectacular glacial landscapes in Norway. The guide reflects extensive research and has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise team to ensure accuracy for the 2026 season. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day in the fjords.
Things to Do & See in Olden
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loen Skylift | Tourist Attraction | 6789 Loen, Norway | +47 57 87 59 00 | 09:00 - 19:00 (May-Sept) | loenskylift.no | USD 595 NOK |
| Briksdal Glacier (Briksdalsbreen) | Natural Feature | Briksdalsvegen 1530, 6791 Oldedalen | +47 57 87 68 00 | Open 24 hours (Path), Troll Cars 09:00 - 17:00 | briksdalsbre.no | Free |
| Olden Old Church (Olde Kyrkje) | Historical Site | Fv60 162, 6788 Olden, Norway | 10:00 - 16:00 (When ships are in) | Not available | USD 50 NOK | |
| Lake Lovatnet | Natural Feature | Lodalsvegen, 6789 Loen | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| Singerheimen | Historical Site | Singervegen 24, 6788 Olden | +47 95 91 10 70 | 11:00 - 15:00 (Seasonal - check locally) | singerheimen.no | USD 150 NOK |
Loen Skylift · Tourist Attraction
USD 595 NOKThe Loen Skylift is a marvel of Norwegian engineering that transports you from the shores of the Nordfjord to the summit of Mt. Hoven in exactly five minutes. The ascent is one of the steepest cable car rides in existence, but the movement is remarkably smooth. Once at the top, the 360-degree panorama includes the Skåla mountain to the east and the winding fjord toward the Atlantic in the west. Most visitors hug the railing near the restaurant, but it is best to follow the wide, level gravel path that leads away from the station for about 300 metres. This gives you a perspective of the Lovatnet Lake, famous for its intense turquoise hue caused by glacial silt. This experience delivers a high-altitude mountain feeling without the need for a strenuous hike. The Hoven restaurant at the top is surprisingly good, serving local ingredients like fjord trout and mountain lamb. It is the most reliable way to capture that 'top of the world' photograph that defines a Norwegian cruise. While expensive, the quality of the facility and the reliability of the view (on clear days) make it the most efficient use of time in the Loen area.
6789 Loen, Norway ·+47 57 87 59 00 ·09:00 - 19:00 (May-Sept) ·www.loenskylift.no
Briksdal Glacier (Briksdalsbreen) · Natural Feature
FreeBriksdal Glacier is an arm of the Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in continental Europe. The journey from Olden up the Oldedalen valley is a highlight in itself, passing through a landscape of vertical cliffs and waterfalls that feel cinematic in scale. Upon arrival at the mountain lodge, you have the choice of a 3 km (1.8 miles) uphill walk or the electric Troll Cars. The walk is strenuous but rewarding, taking you directly beside the Kleivafossen waterfall where the mist provides a cooling reprieve. A fit traveler can expect this walk to take 45 minutes up and 30 minutes down. Once you reach the glacial lake at the top, the silence is punctuated only by the sound of calving ice or distant waterfalls. The ice itself is a brilliant, compressed blue, a result of centuries of weight squeezing out the air bubbles. You will find that the water in the lake is safe to touch, but it is dangerously cold. This site is the 'must-do' of Olden, providing the most direct connection to Norway’s ice age history. Even with the recession of the ice, the surrounding amphitheater of rock is one of the most powerful natural sights in the fjords.
Briksdalsvegen 1530, 6791 Oldedalen ·+47 57 87 68 00 ·Open 24 hours (Path), Troll Cars 09:00 - 17:00 ·www.briksdalsbre.no
Olden Old Church (Olde Kyrkje) · Historical Site
USD 50 NOKBuilt in 1759, the Olden Old Church is a quintessential example of the 'Korskirke' (cross-church) style that dominated rural Norway. It was constructed on the site of a much older stave church, using local timber that has been preserved by the cool, dry climate. The exterior is a crisp, brilliant white that stands out against the dark green mountain backdrop of the Nordfjord. Inside, the church is a time capsule of 18th-century Norwegian life. The pews still bear the names and numbers of the local farms, indicating where each family was required to sit during services. The atmosphere is one of austere beauty, far removed from the commercial bustle near the cruise pier. Visitors should take the 12-minute walk here to experience the 'real' Olden. The graveyard surrounding the church contains the remains of the mountain guides who first opened this valley to tourism, as well as the tomb of William Henry Singer. It is a place of profound peace. For the 50 NOK entry fee, it is the best value historical experience in the port. It provides a necessary counterpoint to the massive scale of the glaciers, focusing instead on the human history of those who have called this fjord home for centuries.
Fv60 162, 6788 Olden, Norway ·10:00 - 16:00 (When ships are in) ·Not available
Lake Lovatnet · Natural Feature
FreeLake Lovatnet is widely considered the most beautiful lake in Norway, largely due to its startling turquoise color. This hue is created by 'glacier flour'—fine particles of rock ground down by the Kjenndalen glacier and suspended in the water. The lake sits in a deep, narrow valley with mountains rising nearly vertically on both sides. While stunning, Lovatnet has a tragic history. In 1905 and 1936, massive chunks of the Ramnefjell mountain broke off and crashed into the lake, creating tsunamis that wiped out entire farming villages on the shore. Today, it is a place of serene beauty and a popular spot for kayaking and boat trips. It is well established that a boat trip on the MS Kjenndal is the best way to see the waterfalls that are inaccessible by road. For cruise passengers, a quick taxi ride to the beginning of the lake offers a spectacular photo opportunity without the crowds of Briksdal. It is a hauntingly beautiful place that rewards those who look beyond the surface beauty to understand the geological power of the Norwegian landscape. If you have already seen Briksdal, Lovatnet is the logical next step for a deeper understanding of the region.
Lodalsvegen, 6789 Loen ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Singerheimen · Historical Site
USD 150 NOKSingerheimen was the home of the American millionaire painter William Henry Singer and his wife Anna, who moved to Olden in 1913. Singer was the son of a steel magnate but chose the quiet life of an artist in the Norwegian fjords over the industrial hustle of Pittsburgh. The house is a fascinating blend of traditional Norwegian architecture and American comfort from the early 20th century. Inside, you will find Singer’s original art collection, antique furniture, and personal items that tell the story of a couple who became major philanthropists in the region—they even funded the construction of the local hospital and the main road. The view from the veranda overlooking the Nordfjord is one of the finest in Olden. It is worth noting that many cruise passengers walk right past the driveway without realizing this historical gem exists. It provides a unique perspective on how the beauty of the fjords captured the international imagination a century ago. Even if the house is closed, the walk up the hill offers a superior vantage point of the cruise ship docked at the pier. It is a quiet, intellectual retreat from the more nature-focused attractions of the port.
Singervegen 24, 6788 Olden ·+47 95 91 10 70 ·11:00 - 15:00 (Seasonal - check locally) ·www.singerheimen.no
Eating & Drinking in Olden
The culinary identity of Olden and the Nordfjord is rooted in preservation and mountain grazing. Because the winters are long and harsh, traditional foods like 'Spekemat' (cured meats) and 'Fenalår' (cured leg of lamb) are staples. What makes this region different from coastal Norway is the focus on mountain lamb and game rather than just seafood. You must try the local 'Guden' juice, made from berries grown in the nearby valleys. For a local spirit, look for Linie Aquavit, which is aged in oak casks that have crossed the equator on ships. A common tourist expectation is that every restaurant will serve fresh fjord shrimp; however, the deep, cold waters of the inner Nordfjord are actually better known for trout and salmon. You will find the most genuine versions of these dishes at the small guest houses in the valleys rather than the kiosks at the pier. If you see 'Lefse' (a potato-based flatbread with butter and cinnamon) at a market stall, buy it—it is the quintessential Norwegian comfort snack.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mølla Gjestehus | 6788 Olden, Norway | +47 57 87 31 11 | 11:00 - 20:00 | molla-gjestehus.no | 250-400 NOK (~$22.50-$35.50 USD) |
| Briksdalsbre Mountain Lodge (Fjellstove) | Briksdalsvegen 1530, 6791 Oldedalen | +47 57 87 68 00 | 10:00 - 17:00 | briksdalsbre.no | 300-500 NOK (~$27.00-$44.50 USD) |
| Alex Bar | Hotel Alexandra, 6789 Loen | +47 57 87 50 00 | 12:00 - 00:00 | alexandra.no | 160-220 NOK (~$14.50-$19.50 USD) |
Mølla Gjestehus
250-400 NOK (~$22.50-$35.50 USD)Located in a former mill building in the center of Olden, Mølla Gjestehus offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere with wood-beamed ceilings and fjord views. The menu focuses on 'Husmannskost' (traditional farmer's fare). Order the Rømmegrøt; it is rich, heavy, and exactly what locals eat for celebrations. The outdoor terrace is the best spot in town to watch the village life go by. One honest limitation: service can be slow when multiple buses arrive, so allow at least 75 minutes for lunch.
6788 Olden, Norway ·+47 57 87 31 11 ·11:00 - 20:00
Briksdalsbre Mountain Lodge (Fjellstove)
300-500 NOK (~$27.00-$44.50 USD)This is a massive operation designed for volume, but they manage to keep the quality high. The lamb stew is the standout dish, utilizing meat from the sheep you likely saw on the drive up. The large windows overlook the river. It’s the perfect place to refuel after the 6 km hike. Honest limitation: it can feel like a cafeteria during peak hours (12:00-1:30 PM), so aim for an early or late lunch.
Briksdalsvegen 1530, 6791 Oldedalen ·+47 57 87 68 00 ·10:00 - 17:00
Alex Bar
160-220 NOK (~$14.50-$19.50 USD)Located inside the prestigious Hotel Alexandra in Loen, this is the most sophisticated spot for a drink in the region. The bar staff are experts in Norwegian spirits. It’s the place where the 'well-to-do' of the valley meet. The view of the Nordfjord from the large windows is spectacular. It's a 10-minute taxi from the pier but feels a world away from the cruise terminal crowds.
Hotel Alexandra, 6789 Loen ·+47 57 87 50 00 ·12:00 - 00:00
Getting There & Around
Once you disembark in Olden, walking is the primary method for the village itself. To reach the Briksdal Glacier or Loen, the 'Glacier Bus' is the most reliable independent option; it usually departs about 30–60 minutes after the ship docks. A round-trip ticket costs 350 NOK (~$31.00 USD). Taxis are extremely limited in this region—often fewer than five cars serve the entire valley—so do not rely on finding one at the curb. Uber does not operate here. For those heading to Loen, local bus 110 is a cheap alternative but runs infrequently; check the Entur.no app for real-time schedules. Bike rentals are available near the pier for approximately 400 NOK (~$35.50 USD) for a half-day. The road to the glacier is scenic but involves a steady incline and sharing the road with heavy bus traffic; only experienced cyclists should attempt the full 22 km (13.6 miles) ride. It is worth knowing that the most common navigation error is mistaking the 'New' red church for the historic 'Old' church, which is further down the road.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Olden
Briksdal Glacier (Briksdalsbreen)
08:30 AM (150 min)
The highlight of the region. You have the choice of a 3 km (1.8 miles) hike each way or the Troll Car. The path takes you past the thunderous Kleivafossen waterfall. Once at the lake, you see the glacier ice plunging into the water.
- Take the Glacier Bus or a pre-booked taxi from the pier. 25-minute drive. (350 NOK (~$31.00 USD) Bus)
- Entry: Free (Walking) / 290 NOK Troll Car (Free (Walking) / ~$26.00 USD Troll Car)
- If you are walking, stay to the left of the Troll Car track. Most visitors miss the small 'glacier gauges' along the path that show where the ice stood in 1900 vs today—it's a sobering visual.
Lunch Recommendation
Hoven Restaurant
The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a 1000-metre drop view of the fjord. It is significantly higher quality than the buffet-style food at the glacier lodges.
Order: Creamy Fish Soup (Fiskesuppe), Reindeer burger with lingonberries
Top of Loen Skylift, 6789 Loen
Cost: 450 NOK (~$40.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Olden
Briksdal Glacier
08:15 AM (180 min)
Early arrival is key to avoid the 11:00 AM rush. Walk up to the glacier lake to see the deep blue ice.
- Glacier Bus from the pier. (350 NOK (~$31.00 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The spray at Kleivafossen will soak you; put your camera in a plastic bag for this 30-second stretch of the walk.
Loen Skylift
12:30 PM (120 min)
One of the steepest cable cars in the world. Ascends to 1,011 metres in 5 minutes. The views over Nordfjord are unparalleled.
- Taxi or local bus from Olden center to Loen. (150 NOK (~$13.50 USD))
- Entry: 595 NOK (~$53.00 USD)
- Don't just stay on the platform. Walk 200 metres along the graveled path to the right for a view that includes the Lovatnet lake.
Olden Old Church
03:00 PM (40 min)
A beautiful 1759 wooden church. The interior remains remarkably original with hand-painted pews.
- Walk from Olden village center. (Free)
- Entry: 50 NOK (~$4.50 USD)
- Look for the numbered pews; historically, families were assigned seats based on their social standing in the valley.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure time from the Briksdal Glacier area is 90 minutes before your ship's 'All Aboard' time. While the drive is only 25 minutes, the single-lane road (Fv60) can be blocked by livestock or slow-moving caravans. If you are in Loen, a 10-minute taxi ride is usually sufficient, but it is a good idea to leave 45 minutes of buffer. A taxi to the pier from Loen will cost approximately 150-200 NOK (~$13.50-$18.00 USD). If you are running late, contact the Port Authority at +47 57 87 31 06. The ship will generally not hold for independent passengers. If you miss the ship, the next port is typically Hellesylt or Geiranger, which requires a 2.5-hour mountain drive at a cost of roughly 4,000 NOK (~$355.00 USD).
Weather & Best Time to Visit Olden
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: May through September
10°C to 18°C (50°F–64°F). Rainfall is high, occurring roughly 15 days per month even in summer.
What to wear: Layering is essential. Start with a moisture-wicking base, add a fleece, and top with a high-quality windproof and waterproof jacket. Do not use umbrellas on the glacier path; the wind will destroy them. Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes or boots with good ankle support are required for the glacier walk, as the gravel can be loose. Sunscreen is still needed on the glacier due to UV reflection off the ice.
Weather risks: Low-lying clouds and fog in the Nordfjord can occasionally delay docking. High winds may close the Loen Skylift temporarily for safety.
Early season (May) features spectacular waterfalls due to snowmelt, while September offers autumn colors but much shorter daylight hours.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (May–June) | Crisp air with significant snow melt from the peaks. Temperatures range from 6°C to 12°C (43°F–54°F). | The walking path to Briksdal Glacier can have lingering ice patches or become extremely muddy due to meltwater runoff. Waterfall spray on the Kleivafossen bridge creates slick surfaces. | The 3 km hiking trail to Briksdal Glacier and the steep road to the Olden Old Church. | Wear waterproof hiking boots with deep treads. This is the best time for waterfalls, but do not attempt the high mountain trails as they remain snow-covered. |
| Summer (July–August) | Relatively mild with temperatures between 14°C and 20°C (57°F–68°F), though rain is frequent. | Exposed granite surfaces at the top of the Loen Skylift become surprisingly slippery when wet. The village road experiences heavy congestion with tour buses and livestock. | Loen Skylift viewing platforms and the Fv60 road between Olden and Loen. | Always carry a lightweight waterproof shell. The 'Troll Cars' at Briksdal book out weeks in advance in July; book your independent slot by 8:30 AM. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals in Olden are generally reserved but polite. A simple 'Hei' (pronounced like 'hi') is the standard greeting. In Norway, personal space is highly valued; do not stand too close to people in queues or initiate physical contact with strangers. Dining customs are informal; however, when you are finished, place your knife and fork parallel on the right side of the plate. Tipping is not mandatory as service is included, but rounding up to the nearest 50 or 100 NOK is a common gesture of goodwill for good service. Photography is generally welcome, but always ask permission before photographing locals, especially those in traditional dress. One common misunderstanding is the concept of 'Allemannsretten' or the right to roam. While you are free to walk in the mountains, this does not apply to private gardens or cultivated farmland in the valley—stay on marked paths to avoid causing offense to the farmers who are working the land.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Waiting until arrival to book a 'Troll Car' at the glacier. |
Wearing sneakers or fashion boots for the glacier hike. |
Staying in the village of Olden for the whole day. |
Assuming the Loen Skylift is always worth the money. |
Practical tips
Norway is a cashless society; you will need a credit or debit card for everything from the public bus to a bottle of water. While most places accept Visa and Mastercard, some smaller vendors may not accept American Express. Tipping is entirely optional but 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants. Five useful words are 'Takk' (Thank you), 'Vær så snill' (Please), 'Unnskyld' (Excuse me), 'Ja' (Yes), and 'Nei' (No). Be aware of the 'looky-loo' scam at the pier, where unofficial 'tour guides' offer cheap glacier trips that often result in missing the return ship; only use reputable operators or the official Glacier Bus. There is no strict dress code for churches, but modest attire is appreciated. The best time to visit the Briksdal Glacier is as early as possible—ideally, be off the ship within 15 minutes of clearance. If you are hiking, start your walk before 9:30 AM to avoid the 'wall of people' that descends from the large tour buses later in the morning.
Why Book With Waterways Cruise?
Four decades of expertise, one dedicated advisor, and every detail handled, from your front door to the gangway and back.
Personal Service — Your Own Cruise Concierge
Tailor-Made — 100% Custom-Built
Expertise — 40+ Years in Travel
Price Watch — Book With Total Confidence
Signature Sailings
All Cruise Lines at Olden (A–Z)
Nearby Ports
FAQ — Olden
Can I walk from the Olden cruise pier to the Briksdal Glacier?
No, you cannot realistically walk to the glacier from the pier. The distance is 22 km (13.6 miles) each way along a winding mountain road with no continuous sidewalk. A round-trip walk would take over 8 hours and would leave no time to actually see the glacier. Instead, take the Glacier Bus for 350 NOK (~$31.00 USD) or a taxi. Once at the glacier parking lot, there is a further 3 km (1.8 miles) walk to the ice itself. Private transport if you wish to avoid the crowded public bus can be arranged in advance.
Is it better to visit Briksdal Glacier or Loen Skylift if I only have 4 hours?
Choose the Briksdal Glacier if you want a classic, ground-level Norwegian nature experience with waterfalls and hiking. Choose the Loen Skylift if you prefer a 1,000-metre aerial view and complete accessibility. The glacier is the 'iconic' choice, but the Skylift is more efficient for those with limited time or mobility. The glacier requires a minimum of 3 hours, while the Skylift can be completed in 90 minutes. For a guaranteed back-to-ship experience, check the excursion options.
How much does a taxi cost from Olden to the glacier?
A taxi from Olden to Briksdal Glacier typically costs between 800 and 1,000 NOK (~$71.50–$89.50 USD) for a one-way trip, including a short wait time. Because there are so few taxis, drivers often insist on a round-trip booking. You should budget at least 1,800 NOK (~$160.00 USD) for a private round trip. For most solo travelers or couples, the 350 NOK (~$31.00 USD) Glacier Bus is a significantly more cost-effective option.
Are there any grocery stores near the Olden pier?
Yes, there is a Coop Prix supermarket located in the center of Olden, approximately 400 metres (5 minutes) walk from the cruise pier. It is the best place to buy local Norwegian snacks, bottled water, or basic supplies at local prices rather than tourist rates. Most ships dock within sight of the store. It is generally open from 08:00 to 22:00, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.
What is a Troll Car and do I need to book it?
A Troll Car is an open-sided electric vehicle that transports passengers from the Briksdal Mountain Lodge up the 3 km steep path to the glacier. It is essential for those who cannot manage a 45-minute uphill hike on gravel. It costs 290 NOK (~$26.00 USD) round trip. You must book this in advance at Briksdalsbre.no, as cruise lines often block out the entire fleet for their organized tours during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Is there free Wi-Fi at the Olden cruise port?
Free Wi-Fi is available at the Tourist Information building located at the exit of the cruise pier. However, the signal is often weak when a large ship is in port and hundreds of passengers are trying to connect simultaneously. For more reliable internet, many passengers use the Wi-Fi at Mølla Gjestehus in the village center while purchasing a coffee or lunch.
Is the water in the Nordfjord safe for swimming?
The water is safe but exceptionally cold, usually staying below 12°C (54°F) even in August due to the glacial melt. There are no dedicated swimming beaches in Olden. You will occasionally see locals swimming near the pier in Loen, but for cruise passengers, it is generally not recommended unless you are prepared for a 'polar plunge' experience.
Can I use US Dollars or Euros in Olden?
No, US Dollars and Euros are not widely accepted in Olden. While a few large souvenir shops may take them at a very poor exchange rate, you will receive change in Norwegian Krone (NOK). Norway is almost entirely cashless; visitors should use a credit card for all transactions. Even the smallest payments, like the 50 NOK entry fee for the Old Church, are handled via card.
How far is it from Olden to the Geirangerfjord?
Geiranger is approximately 110 km (68 miles) from Olden. While it looks close on a map, the drive takes at least 2.5 hours due to steep mountain passes and tunnels. This is not a realistic day trip for a standard port call. If your ship is visiting Geiranger the next day, wait until then to see it. Focus your time in Olden on the Nordfjord and Briksdal Glacier.
What should I do if it's raining in Olden?
Rain is very common in Olden. If it's a light drizzle, still head to the Briksdal Glacier—the waterfalls actually look more impressive in wet weather. If the rain is heavy and clouds are low, skip the Loen Skylift (as you will see nothing) and instead visit the Olden Old Church or the Singerheimen museum for an indoor historical experience. Always bring a waterproof jacket; do not let the rain cancel your day.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.