Starting from the north, Kristiansund and Ålesund are known for split cod, also known as clipfish, and herring. Ålesund is also known for its Jugend architecture. Molde is the city of roses and is known for its international jazz festival. Bergen is known for Bryggen (the Hanseatic wharf), the fish market and the funicular Fløibanen. Stavanger has the largest area of old wooden houses in Europe and is known as the Norwegian capital of oil.
The fjords are water canals that penetrate from the coast and far into the mountain wilderness. Where the plains end, the mountains dive several hundred meters into the ocean, forming the famous Norwegian fjords. Each fjord has its own characteristics.
The tallest waterfalls are in the Geirangerfjord, and the Sognefjord is the world’s second longest fjord. The mountain formations around the Lysefjord are famous; especially Preikestolen (the Pulpit Rock) is fascinating.
The best way to experience the fjords is to join a fjord cruise. Several companies offer half-day and full day cruises and the international cruise lines call on many ports in the fjords. Mountain hiking and guided glacier walks are popular activities.