Port Guide | Norway | Dive Deep
Laerdal
August C. W. | Editor
Published on 2025-05-20
You've just floated into Laerdal, Norway-population roughly equal to your typical cruise buffet line-and congratulations, you've officially disembarked at a spot so stubbornly scenic you'd swear it was Photoshopped. Nestled snugly between fjords straight from central casting, this charming Western Norway village is famed for two things: exquisite wooden architecture so old and photogenic it puts Instagram filters to shame, and proximity to fjord scenery so majestic UNESCO had no choice but to slap a protective sticker on it. To truly shake off your sea legs, wander the delightfully maze-like streets of Gamle Laerdalsoyri, where every corner seems strategically placed to trap hopelessly romantic photographers and historically curious souls alike. And if you're feeling particularly adventurous-or mildly Viking-grab a tasty local pastry at a quaint cafe, fuel up, and consider a hike or kayak trip into the nearby UNESCO-listed fjords. Because, let's face it, there's only so much fresh air and cultural authenticity one can politely avoid before caving in happily to the charms of Western Norway. Welcome to Laerdal-you glorious, fjord-hopping globe-trotter.
Norway has 7 Travel Advisories
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Notes from the Editor
Laerdal is known for its historic wooden architecture and scenic fjords. It is also close to the UNESCO-listed West Norwegian Fjords. Be sure to explore the charming streets and local museums while visiting.
Where do cruise ships dock in Laerdal?
Port Name Laerdal
Country Norway
Region Western Norway
Ship Terminal Laerdal Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The terminal is located about 1 mile (1.6 km) from the city center, easily accessible by foot or a short taxi ride.
What's the weather like in Laerdal?
Best Season to Visit Late spring to early autumn (May to September)
Climate Temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes Mild summers make it a pleasant time for visiting; however, occasional rainfall can occur throughout the cruise season.
Temperature Range 50F - 70F (10C - 21C)
High Temp 70F
Low Temp 30F
Average Temp 50F
What do I need to know about Laerdal?
Language Norwegian
Currency Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 1,400
Timezone UTC+1 (CET)
How do I get around Laerdal?
Local buses and taxis are available; bicycle rentals may also be offered during the tourist season.
What are The Best Things to do in Laerdal?
Discover what you should do while you're in Laerdal.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Borgund Stave Church
Vindhellavegen 606, 6888 Borgund
A remarkable and ancient stave church exemplifying Norway's medieval wooden architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 17.4 miles
Historic Wooden Houses of Laerdalsoyri
Laerdalsoyri, 6887 Laerdal
Stroll through preserved wooden buildings dating back centuries.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Otternes Farm Museum
Otternesvegen 8, 5745 Aurland
Historic farmstead showcasing traditional agricultural practices.
Distance from Terminal: 32 miles
Hopperstad Stave Church in Vik
6893 Vikoyri
Marvel at medieval wooden artistry in one of Norway's stave churches.
Distance from Terminal: 60 miles
Urnes Stave Church UNESCO Site
Urnes, 6870 Ornes
Visit the oldest stave church in Norway, listed as a UNESCO site.
Distance from Terminal: 40 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
The Norwegian Wild Salmon Centre
Oyraplassen 14, 6887 Laerdal
An informative museum focused on salmon life cycles and river ecosystem.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Laerdal Tunnel
N/A
Drive through the world's longest road tunnel with unique lighting effects.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
The Flam Railway
5743 Flam
Spectacular mountain railway journey offering incredible vistas.
Distance from Terminal: 31 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Vindhellavegen Historical Route
N/A
Walk or cycle this scenic ancient road famed for its beautifully engineered curves.
Distance from Terminal: 17 miles
Laerdalselvi River Salmon Fishing
N/A
World-renowned river known for salmon fishing opportunities.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Stegastein Viewing Platform
N/A
Breathtaking panoramic views over the Aurlandsfjord from an iconic modern platform.
Distance from Terminal: 31 miles
Kayaking in Sognefjord
Various locations
Paddle amidst stunning fjord landscapes during calm summer days.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
FjordSafari from Flam
5743 Flam
Thrilling RIB boat trip experiencing waterfalls, wildlife, and picturesque fjords.
Distance from Terminal: 31 miles
Aurlandsdalen Valley Hiking
N/A
Considered one of Norway's most beautiful hikes, filled with lush views and waterfalls.
Distance from Terminal: 25 miles
Flam Zipline
5742 Flam
Experience Northern Europe's longest zipline with impressive scenery.
Distance from Terminal: 31 miles
Overnight Trips
Jostedalsbreen Glacier Tour
N/A
Explore Europe's largest continental glacier through guided tours.
Distance from Terminal: 70 miles
A Little Extra
Traditional Norwegian Fjord Bathing
N/A
Dive into cold waters for a refreshing and very Norwegian bathing experience.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Norway Regional Tip
gluten-free Look for 'glutenfri' indicators or clearly state 'Jeg tåler ikke gluten' (I cannot tolerate gluten). Most restaurants accommodate gluten-free preferences willingly.