Åndalsnes Travel Guide 2025 for Families with Kids

Welcome to our Åndalsnes travel guide for families — your starting point to explore one of Norway’s most spectacular fjord regions. Åndalsnes is the gateway to breathtaking sights including the Romsdalsfjord, Rauma River, Romsdalen Gondola, and legendary Troll landmarks like Trollstigen and Trollveggen (Troll Wall). With its mix of kid-friendly adventures and jaw-dropping landscapes, Åndalsnes is the perfect base for exploring northern Norway’s fjords. From here, families can also take day trips to the world-famous Atlantic Ocean Road and the colorful coastal town of Ålesund, making it a must-stop on any Norway family road trip.

Romsdalsfjord, as seen from the top of Nesaksla mountain

Why Visit Åndalsnes with Kids?

• Gateway to Norway’s Fjord Region

Our Åndalsnes travel guide for families wouldn’t be complete without highlighting its unbeatable location. Åndalsnes sits at the gateway to Norway’s fjord region, giving families easy access to world-famous attractions like Romsdalsfjord, Trollstigen, and the Romsdalen Gondola. With short drives between sights and plenty of natural beauty, it’s a perfect introduction to Norway for kids and parents alike.

• Easy Access and Family-Friendly Base

Åndalsnes is easy to reach by car, train, or even cruise, which makes planning a family trip stress-free. This cozy fjord town offers family-friendly stays, restaurants, and activities, all within walking distance. For parents looking for a safe, convenient, and scenic base, Åndalsnes delivers — making it one of the top choices in any Norway family travel guide.

Top Things to Do in Åndalsnes for Families -

• Scenic Views of Romsdalsfjord

Romsdalsfjord is definitely one of the most gorgeous Fjords in Norway. Romsdalsfjord is one of the highlights in any Åndalsnes travel guide for families. Its calm waters and dramatic mountain backdrop make it a great spot for easy strolls, photo stops, and family picnics by the fjord.

Perfect mirror reflection in Romsdalsfjord

• Ride the Romsdalen Gondola

A recent addition to Andalsnes is the Romsdalen gondola. Imagine ascending from the heart of the town to the pinnacle of Nesaksla mountain. As you rise, the panorama unveils itself: the fjord, the meandering Rauma river, and the mountains embrace you. Daredevils can indulge in treks and thrilling escapades. The Eggen restaurant at the peak promises a feast with a view.

Eggen restaurant overlooking the Fjord and Andalsnes town

• Norwegian mountaineering center -

The Norwegian Mountaineering Centre stands as a testament to Norway's adventurous spirit. Its design mirrors a mountain and provides an insight into the mountaineering history of Norway. It also houses the largest indoor climbing wall.

• Andalsnes town -

Stroll through Andalsnes town, a charming haven by the marina. There is a small playground and a car park. The train station is also right across the street. There are multiple restaurants and small souvenir shops in this area. Plan to go before noon to beat the crowds.

Andalsnes train station

• Family Walks along the Rauma River -

Pause by the tranquil Rauma river. Let time slip through your fingers as clouds drift, water dances, and birds compose their melodies. Nature's orchestra plays just for you in this breathtaking landscape.

Rauma river

Spring in Rauma

• Visit Trollveggen (Troll Wall)

Now, let's talk about something grand – the Troll's Wall, or Trollveggen. Standing in awe before this majestic wonder, one can't help but think of legends and fantasy. It's almost as if this wall inspired "the Wall" in Game of Thrones.

The Wall !

• Explore Trollstigen – The Famous Troll’s Road

Trollstigen is perhaps the most famous and photographed roads in Norway! It takes about one hour to reach the top driving through multiple hair pin bends and cascading waterfalls - Trollstigen is surely a must do experience in Norway! Unfortunately it was still closed when we visited in late May. Always check the status of the roads before you plan travel as these mountain roads can close on short notice, especially during shoulder season.

We drove to the base of Trollstigen to get a glimpse of it and decided to return again sometime in summer!

Trollstigen - So near! Yet so far!

• Trolls!

Trollstigen camping is a great place to camp close to the base of Trollstigen. There is a great playground for the young ones to enjoy!

For an ice-cold delight, savor some Troll ice at Trollstigen camping while your young adventurers conquer the playground.

If you are travelling with kids, check out the Norwegian movie - Troll. We saw it on one of the nights in Stryn and it was so much fun for our daughter.

Day Trips from Åndalsnes with Kids -

Drive the Atlantic Ocean Road

A must-add to any Åndalsnes travel guide for families is the stunning Atlantic Ocean Road. Just a couple of hours’ drive from Åndalsnes, this iconic route takes you across winding bridges that leap from island to island. Kids will love the dramatic ocean views, while parents will appreciate the chance to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.

Visit Ålesund – A Colorful Fjord Town

From Åndalsnes, families can easily plan a day trip to Ålesund, known for its fairytale Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant harbor. Stroll through colorful streets, climb up to Aksla viewpoint for panoramic city and fjord views, and enjoy fresh seafood or family-friendly cafés. It’s a perfect mix of culture and kid-friendly exploration, making Ålesund a highlight in this Norway family travel guide.

Troll ice - the best ice-cream in Norway!!

Practical Tips for Families Visiting Åndalsnes -

• Best Time to Visit Åndalsnes with Kids

  The best time to include Åndalsnes in your Norway family travel guide is from May to September, when the weather is mild, roads are open, and attractions like Trollstigen are fully accessible. Summer offers long daylight hours, making sightseeing easier with kids.

  
  

• Where to Stay in Åndalsnes (Family-Friendly Stays)

  Åndalsnes offers cozy hotels, cabins, and campgrounds perfect for families. Many accommodations provide family rooms, kitchen facilities, and easy access to hiking trails and fjord views — essentials for a smooth Åndalsnes travel guide for families.

  
  

• Getting Around – Car, Train, and More

  While Åndalsnes is accessible by train on the scenic Rauma Line, families will find renting a car more convenient for exploring Trollstigen, the Atlantic Ocean Road, and nearby fjords. Driving gives parents flexibility and makes it easier to plan frequent kid-friendly stops.

  
  

• Food Options for Families

  From pizza and bakeries to traditional Norwegian fare, Åndalsnes has several casual, family-friendly dining spots. Supermarkets and takeaway options make mealtimes simple for parents traveling with young kids. It’s easy to balance local flavors with foods that children will enjoy.

FAQs – Åndalsnes Travel Guide for Families

Is Åndalsnes suitable for young kids?

Yes! Åndalsnes is a safe, compact town that works well for families with young children. Gentle walks, scenic gondola rides, and short drives to major attractions make it easy to explore without long, tiring hikes.

How many days should we spend in Åndalsnes?

Most families find that 2–3 days in Åndalsnes is ideal. This allows time to ride the Romsdalen Gondola, visit Trollstigen and Trollveggen, enjoy views of Romsdalsfjord, and even take a short day trip to Ålesund or the Atlantic Ocean Road.

Can you visit Åndalsnes without a car?

Yes, Åndalsnes can be reached by train on the scenic Rauma Line, and local tours cover nearby highlights. However, for families, renting a car provides more flexibility to explore at your own pace and make kid-friendly stops along the way.