How to Get from Ålesund to Geiranger

Traveling the 67 miles (108 km) from Ålesund to Geiranger is straightforward, and there are a few routes to choose from. Renting a car or hiring a private transfer before taking a ferry along the way are the quickest and easiest ways. You can opt for the bus and ferry alternative, but it involves multiple transfers.

This eight-day Western Norway fjord road trip itinerary shows off the best of the best when it comes to Norway’s fjords. You'll get the chance to check out the Aurlandsfjord from the Stegastein Viewpoint, enjoy art galleries and music venues in Ålesund, and take a fjord cruise in Geiranger.

By Car or Private Transfer / Ferry

Duration: 2 hours

Whether you rent a car or hire a private transfer, driving is the best way to get to Geiranger. Taking the E136 out of Ålesund, you'll pass by the Nørvevika marina on the right-hand side, which has great views of the water. After Lerstad, keep an eye out for stunning views of Brusdalsvatnet lake to the right. Though it's not too far from Ålesund, the lake is a great place for a rest stop (and to take a few pictures).

As the road winds toward Geiranger, about a half-hour outside of Ålesund, you'll be gifted with full views of the Storfjorden on the right-hand side. You will have to exit off the E39/E136 but fear not—you won't miss the views of Storfjorden. Turning onto the Fv650, follow this highway until you take the ferry at Linge ferjekai (Linge Ferry Pier). Take the Eisdal-Linge ferry to cross over the Storfjorden and take in the panoramic views from the water.

After the ferry ride, you'll start the climb up the mountainside from Eisdal to Geiranger. Make sure to stop at Ørnesvingen at the very top of the steepest stretch of road, as you will get one of the best views on the trip. After Ørnesvingen, be aware that the road becomes quite windy as you descend into Geiranger.

When you reach the end of the windy portion of the roadway, you will have an unforgettable view of the Geirangerfjord and Geiranger.

By Bus / Ferry

Duration: 4.5 hours

Starting from Ålesund rutebilstasjon, take the 631 EKSPRESS Magerholm via Moa before transferring to the Moa trafikkterminal and 250 Stryn via Sykkylven-Stranda. Along the drive, make sure to sit on the right side of the bus so you'll be able to see the Storfjorden. Catch a glimpse of it from the highways as you get closer to the ferry in Hellesylt ferjekai. Sitting on the outside of the bus will also give you stunning views of Fitjavatnet.

The best part of the journey is the ferry ride to Geiranger on the Geirangerfjorden. While floating along the Geirangerfjorden, if it's warm enough, the outside of the cabin will grant you the many mountain views that give Norway its natural beauty. After the 60-minute ferry ride, you'll arrive in Geiranger.