Is Hordaland the same as Vestland?

Hordaland merged with Sogn og Fjordane in 2020 to form Vestland county, but the Hordaland name remains in common use for the region around Bergen and Hardangerfjord.

How do I get to Trolltunga?

From Bergen, drive 2.5 hours to Skjeggedal, then hike 10-12 hours round trip. Only attempt June-September with proper gear. Guided tours are recommended for inexperienced hikers.

What is the Bergen Card?

A tourist card offering free admission to museums, free public transport, and discounts on tours and restaurants. Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours.

Can I see the northern lights in Hordaland?

Possible from October-March in mountain areas away from city lights, but less reliable than northern Norway. Check aurora forecasts and head to high elevations on clear nights.

Are fjord cruises available year-round?

Most operate May-September. Some routes like Bergen to Flåm run year-round but with reduced winter schedules. Hardangerfjord tours typically operate April-October.

Varies by nationality. EU/EEA citizens can enter freely; others may need a Schengen visa.

What currency is used?

Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit cards are widely accepted.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, most Norwegians speak fluent English.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and of high quality.

What is the best way to see the fjords?

By cruise, ferry, or scenic drives. Popular fjords include Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord.

Are there any dangerous animals?

No dangerous predators; be cautious of ticks in wooded areas.

Not required, but rounding up or 5-10% is appreciated.

What is the weather like?

Mild coastal climate; rain is common. Summer 10-20°C, winter -5 to 5°C.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, coverage is excellent. EU roaming works for EU citizens.

Norway is high-cost. Budget $100-150/day for mid-range travel.

Waterproof jacket, layers, sturdy shoes, and a swimsuit for fjord swimming.

Are there any local festivals?

Bergen International Festival (May), Norsk Rakfisk Festival (November).

Hordaland

CountyNorway, Europe

Hordaland is a STATE in Norway, Europe.

Hordaland, now part of Vestland county following a 2020 merger, remains Norway's crown jewel of fjord country. This breathtaking region is home to the UNESCO-listed Hardangerfjord—Norway's second-longest fjord—and the iconic Trolltunga rock formation that draws adventurous hikers from around the world. Bergen, Norway's second-largest city and former Hanseatic trading hub, serves as the cultural heart with its colorful Bryggen wharf, vibrant fish market, and gateway to the fjords. Travelers can experience the dramatic Seven Sisters waterfall in Geirangerfjord, explore the Folgefonna glacier, and witness the spectacular spring blossom of Hardanger's fruit orchards. The region offers everything from sophisticated urban experiences in Bergen to remote mountain cabins accessible only by hiking. Hordaland's unique combination of deep fjords, towering mountains, and coastal charm creates an unforgettable Norwegian adventure where Viking history meets contemporary Scandinavian culture against some of Europe's most dramatic natural backdrops.

Best time to visit Hordaland

May to September offers the best weather with long daylight hours (midnight sun in June). July is peak tourist season with warm temperatures ideal for fjord cruises and hiking. May-June features spectacular fruit blossoms in Hardanger. September offers autumn colors and fewer crowds. Winter (December-March) provides opportunities for skiing and northern lights viewing in mountain areas, though some attractions close and daylight is limited.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Rain
Temperature: 13°
Feels like: 12°
Humidity: 93%
Wind: 9 km/h
Precipitation: 0.5 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 4-9°C, rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Quiet season, cozy cafes

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

BGO

Bergen Airport, Flesland

International

15 km away

HOV

Hovden Airport

Domestic

120 km away

SRP

Stord Airport, Sørstokken

Domestic

80 km away

FDE

Førde Airport, Bringeland

Domestic

150 km away

Getting around

"Bergen has excellent public transit: buses, light rail (Bybanen), and funiculars (Fløibanen). The Bergen Card offers unlimited transit and museum access. For fjord exploration, use the extensive ferry network (Norled, Fjord1) and express boats. Trains connect Bergen to Oslo and other regions. Car rentals are available for exploring remote areas—book ahead in summer. Popular apps: Entur (journey planner), Vy (trains), Kolumbus (local transit). Biking is popular with rental options in Bergen. Taxis are expensive but reliable; use Bergen Taxi app."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

50 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cities and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $10

Calling code

+47

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; main risks are weather and nature.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; main risks are weather and nature.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

2/10

"Hordaland is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in Bergen's city center at night. The primary risks are environmental: weather changes rapidly in mountains and fjords—always check forecasts and be prepared with proper gear when hiking. Trolltunga and other popular hikes require fitness and preparation; follow marked trails. Avoid approaching glacier edges without guides. Road conditions on mountain passes can be challenging; check vegvesen.no. No significant scam risks, but secure valuables in tourist areas. Emergency services are highly responsive throughout the region."

Police

112

Ambulance

113

Fire

110

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Norway has excellent healthcare facilities. In Bergen, Haukeland University Hospital provides comprehensive emergency services. Travelers should carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or equivalent travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine immunizations. Tick-borne encephalitis exists in forested areas—consider vaccination if hiking extensively. Tap water is safe throughout the region. Pharmacies (apotek) are widely available. For minor issues, call 116 117 for medical advice. Emergency dental services are available in Bergen. Mountain rescue is coordinated through 113."

Culture

Local customs

"Norwegians value punctuality, personal space, and equality. Remove shoes when entering homes. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service (round up or 5-10% in restaurants). Casual dress is widely accepted, but bring layers for changing weather. Sauna culture is popular—often mixed gender and sometimes followed by cold plunges. Respect 'allemannsretten' (right to roam)—you can hike anywhere but must leave no trace. Avoid loud conversations in public transport. Sunday is quiet with limited shopping."

NorwegianEnglish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Norwegian Krone (NOK) · kr

Cost level

Luxury

Meals

$25 | a cheap local meal costs around $25

Hotels

$100-200 | budget hotels range $100-200/night

Local transport

$5 | local bus ride ~$5

Cost notes

Norway is expensive; budget travelers can save with hostels and self-catering.

Timezone

Europe/Oslo +01:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

530,000

Area

15,467 km²

Government

County municipality within Vestland county

ISO code

NO-12

Type

County

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Hordaland, Vik, Vik i Helgeland

Major HubFjordsHikingHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyNatureAdventure