Best Things to Do in Voss, Norway

Voss is an outdoor paradise brimming with breathtaking views and thrilling activities. Whether you're visiting for the landscapes, the local food, or the adventure, this guide explores the best things to do in Voss, including scenic rides, cultural stops, and once-in-a-lifetime fjord cruises.
Last updated: 09.07.2025

Ride the Voss Gondola to Hangurstoppen

Start your journey with a ride on the Voss Gondola, one of the most scenic cable cars in Norway. Departing from the town centre and soaring nearly 820 metres up to Mount Hangurstoppen, this modern gondola offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once at the top, you’ll find easy access to family-friendly trails, biking paths, and even snow activities in winter.

Hangurstoppen isn’t just about nature, it’s also home to Voss’ largest restaurant, where farm-to-table dishes celebrate the region’s flavours. The menu changes with the seasons, but always features ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Dining with views of the fjords and peaks? That’s Voss at its finest.

Cruise the Nærøyfjord & Ride the Flåm Railway

If you're wondering what to do in Voss Norway, this full-day fjord adventure is a must. Start with a train ride to Myrdal, where you’ll transfer to the legendary Flåm Railway. This route is one of Europe’s most spectacular, with jaw-dropping scenery at every turn, think waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs, alpine rivers, and picture-perfect hamlets. Upon arrival in Flåm, explore the charming village before boarding a cruise along the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. This narrow fjord offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in Norway, with steep mountains rising straight from the water. After the cruise ends in Gudvangen, a scenic bus ride takes you back to Voss, including a photo stop at the incredible Stalheim viewpoint. For an even more personal experience, join the Precious Norway Tour, designed to offer insight and flexibility throughout the journey.

Explore Outdoor Adventures for All Ages at Hanguren Plateau

The Hanguren Plateau, accessible via the Voss Gondola, is a year-round outdoor playground perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers. In summer, it's a paradise for hiking, paragliding, and trail biking. The gentle terrain is ideal for those new to alpine adventures, while seasoned trekkers can venture farther into the surrounding peaks.

In winter, the plateau transforms into a snowy wonderland. With well-marked cross-country ski trails, beginner slopes, and snowshoe hikes, it’s the kind of place where everyone can embrace the outdoors, no experience required. If you're looking for things to do in Voss Norway, this is the spot where nature, fun, and accessibility meet.

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What is Voss famous for?
Voss is famous for its stunning natural surroundings, world-class adventure sports, and easy access to both fjords and mountains. It’s often called Norway’s adrenaline capital.

Indulge in Local Cuisine at Hangurstoppen Restaurant

Eating at the top of a mountain may sound like a novelty, but in Voss, it’s a culinary highlight. Hangurstoppen Restaurant, located at the summit of the gondola, offers a menu rooted in tradition and local sourcing. The kitchen partners with farms around Voss to create fresh, seasonal dishes with a Norwegian twist. Expect reindeer stew, smoked trout, creamy local cheeses, and cloudberry desserts — all served with incredible views. It's not just about the food, but the entire experience of slowing down and savouring the landscape.

Norwegian cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s natural resources, with a focus on fresh fish, dairy, and meats. A standout is rakfisk, a traditional dish made of fermented fish, typically served with flatbread and sour cream. Norway’s long winters have also made preservation methods like smoking and curing popular.

Take a Leisurely Stroll Through Voss Town Centre

Beyond the mountains and fjords, Voss offers a cosy town centre filled with charm. Stroll along the lakeside promenade, visit quaint cafés, or step inside Voss Church, built in the 13th century and still standing strong.

Pop into local shops for handcrafted souvenirs or stop by the Folk Museum to learn about regional history and architecture. While smaller than Norway’s big cities, Voss has a warm, authentic atmosphere that reflects the heart of rural Norway. Exploring the heart of the town is ideal if you're pondering what to do in Voss, offering a delightful contrast to outdoor adventures.

Hike the Stalheimskleiva Road

One of the most scenic roads in Northern Europe, Stalheimskleiva features 13 hairpin bends and jaw-dropping views at every turn. The road is usually closed to cars, making it a peaceful hike where you can appreciate the beauty of waterfalls and vertical cliffs in silence. At the top lies Stalheim Hotel, with an overlook that offers one of Norway’s most photographed views. Whether you walk the entire path or just part of it, this is a fantastic addition to any outdoor itinerary in Voss.

Discover Thrills at Voss High-Ropes

If you're seeking excitement and an adrenaline-filled experience, head to the Voss High-Ropes and Zipline Park. This adventure park, tucked away among tall trees and lush forest, offers a series of exhilarating aerial courses suitable for various ages and skill levels. Navigate suspended bridges, test your courage on tightropes, and glide through the air on ziplines, taking in breathtaking views of the Norwegian landscape. It's an unforgettable addition to your list of things to do in Voss.

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Is Voss worth visiting?
Absolutely — Voss is worth visiting for travellers who want to experience authentic Norwegian culture blended with outdoor adventure and serene landscapes in one place.

Discover the Peaceful Side of Norway

Voss may be a hub for adventure, but it also offers moments of stillness that capture the quiet beauty of the Norwegian countryside. As part of the Norway in a Nutshell Tour, time spent in Voss provides a welcome pause between the bustling cities and the dramatic fjords. Here, travelers are invited to slow down. After days filled with sightseeing, Voss gives you space to breathe—whether you're enjoying a calm paddle across its mirror-like lake, gazing out from a mountaintop café, or simply watching the clouds drift over forested peaks.

This leg of the journey isn't just a stopover; it's a chapter in the broader story of Norway, where nature’s rhythm sets the pace. The air is crisp, the skies are wide, and life feels wonderfully unhurried. In a country defined by movement—trains, cruises, roads—Voss is where you truly feel still. Whether you're continuing onward or wrapping up your journey, your time in Voss leaves a lasting impression: not just of scenery, but of serenity.

Try Paragliding Over the Valley

For thrill-seekers, Voss is one of Europe’s top paragliding destinations. The open terrain and strong air currents make it an ideal spot for beginners and pros alike. Tandem flights launch from Mount Hanguren, offering incredible views of the valley, lake, and mountains from above. You’ll fly with certified instructors who handle the navigation—your job is simply to enjoy the ride. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to see Voss from a whole new perspective.

Unwind by the Shores of Lake Vangsvatnet

After a day of adventure, take a moment to unwind by Lake Vangsvatnet. This tranquil lake sits right by the town and offers a peaceful setting for swimming, fishing, or just watching the sunset.
Locals gather here in summer to picnic, paddleboard, or enjoy outdoor concerts. For a slower pace of life, the lakeshore offers space to breathe—whether you're with friends, family, or on your own.

From gondola rides to fjord cruises, farm-to-table cuisine to mountain hikes, Voss is where Norway’s dramatic landscapes and rich culture converge. Whether you’re planning a day trip or staying longer, taking part in the Norway Tours will reward you with memories you’ll carry for a lifetime.

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