Sognefjord, often called the “King of the Fjords,” is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, stretching more than 200 kilometers inland from the North Sea. Towering cliffs rise dramatically on both sides of the water, some reaching over 1,000 meters high. Its size alone makes it a natural wonder, but what truly sets it apart is how the landscape changes along its length from wide, tranquil stretches to narrow passages where waterfalls plunge down sheer rock walls. One of the most stunning sections is Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the fjord narrows to just 250 meters across.

History runs deep along these waters. Viking settlements once lined the fjord’s shores, and several local museums showcase ancient artifacts that reveal how the fjord served as a vital trade route. In the small village of Kaupanger, a 12th-century stave church still stands, built entirely of wood and decorated with intricate carvings. Nearby, the Flåm Railway, one of the steepest standard-gauge train lines in the world, carries travelers through tunnels, mountains, and past waterfalls that seem close enough to touch.

Norwegian culture thrives in the villages that dot Sognefjord. Aurland is well known for traditional shoe-making, with workshops continuing techniques passed down through generations. In Undredal, visitors can meet local cheesemakers who produce a rare brown goat cheese called geitost, made using recipes dating back hundreds of years. These communities embrace their traditions while welcoming visitors to learn, taste, and take part in everyday fjord life.