Olden Port Guide

The most popular excursion from Olden is a visit to the magnificent Briksdal Glacier, an accessible arm of the vast Jostedal icefield. Visitors can hike or take a unique 'troll car' for the final approach to the glacier's viewpoint, a journey of about 45 minutes from the port.

For breathtaking panoramic views, the Loen Skylift is a must-do attraction, located just a 15-minute drive away. This cable car whisks you from the fjord to the top of Mt. Hoven in just five minutes, revealing stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Another incredible option is a serene boat trip on Lake Lovatnet to see the Kjenndal Glacier, known for the beautiful turquoise color of its glacial waters.

The neighboring village of Loen, approximately 10 minutes away by road, is a primary destination for many visitors. It is famous for the spectacular Loen Skylift and offers thrilling activities like the Via Ferrata climbing route for the more adventurous.

About 25 minutes from Olden is the larger town of Stryn, which serves as the regional center. Here you can find more extensive shopping, cafes, and a glimpse into the daily life of the region beyond the main tourist hubs.

Both destinations are easily reached via shore excursion buses or local transport and offer different perspectives on the Nordfjord region.

The cruise pier in Olden is perfectly located right in the heart of the small village. When you step off the ship, you are immediately in the center of activity, with no need for shuttles or taxis to explore the village itself.

The pier area is well-equipped for tourists, featuring several souvenir shops, a small supermarket, cafes, and booking offices for local tours and excursions.

Everything within the immediate village is easily accessible on foot. Ships typically dock directly at one of the two main piers, making disembarkation quick and convenient.

The official currency of Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). While some souvenir shops right at the pier may accept Euros or US Dollars, it is not common practice, and the exchange rate will not be favorable.

Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and tour offices.

For cash, an ATM is available in the village center near the pier. It is always recommended to use a credit card for purchases or withdraw local currency from an ATM for the best exchange rates.

Olden is an exceptionally safe destination with virtually no crime targeting tourists. It is perfectly safe to walk around the village and designated hiking paths on your own.

The primary safety considerations are related to the natural environment. The weather can change very rapidly, so always dress in layers and have waterproof gear, even on a sunny day.

When hiking, stick to marked trails, wear sturdy footwear, and never attempt to walk on a glacier without a certified guide and proper equipment.

The cruise season in Olden runs from May to September, coinciding with the Norwegian summer. Weather is famously unpredictable and can change in an instant.

Expect cool to mild temperatures, typically ranging from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C), although sunny days can feel warmer. Rain is common, so packing a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes is essential.

Dressing in layers is the best strategy, allowing you to adapt to shifts between sunshine, clouds, and rain throughout the day. The air will feel noticeably colder near the glaciers.

While the village of Olden is walkable, transportation is necessary to reach the main attractions like the glaciers and skylift. The most common options are the organized shore excursion buses provided by the cruise lines.

Independently, you can use the Glacier Bus which runs between the pier and the Briksdal Glacier. Another popular choice is the Olden Sightseeing open-top bus, which offers a hop-on, hop-off style tour of the local area.

Taxis are very limited and expensive, and ride-sharing services like Uber are not available. For most visitors, booking a tour or using the dedicated tourist buses is the most practical and efficient way to explore.

Shopping in Olden is concentrated in a cluster of shops located directly at the cruise pier and along the main village road. The offerings are primarily geared towards tourists.

The most sought-after souvenirs are high-quality Norwegian wool sweaters from brands like Dale of Norway, as well as traditional troll figurines, local handicrafts, and outdoor apparel.

You will also find jewelry, postcards, and other memorabilia. Prices are fixed and non-negotiable, as is standard throughout Scandinavia. Look for 'Tax-Free' signs if you are eligible to claim a VAT refund on larger purchases.