These itineraries are all for Southern Norway – you can find a Northern Norway itinerary here and an itinerary for Northern Norway in winter here!
It seems like just about every day I get the same email from visitors to Norway, telling me that they only have one week in Norway and asking what the perfect Norway itinerary for that amount of time would be.
Usually, I say something annoyingly vague about how it really depends on how they want to spend their time, as the country is enormous and there are so many different things you could see in Norway in a week. And it’s true! I can think of so many different ways to spend a week in Norway that would make for the best vacation ever.
But I also get that all the options can be sort of overwhelming, and sometimes you just want someone in the know to tell you what to do. So that’s what I’m going to do.
I’ve come up with three different Norway itineraries for seeing as much as possible in one week. All of them can be adjusted, so you could probably make a five-day itinerary or 10-day itinerary from these as well – or you could combine them for a two-week itinerary. Lots of options here!
The first itinerary really does require a car, the second is best as a road trip but can also (sort of) be done by public transport with some modifications, and the third solely uses public transport (though you could totally do it by car as well and see a lot more). When it comes to renting a car in Norway, I always recommend using Sixt.
Now, these itineraries are packed and include a lot of driving – they’re designed for people who want to see as much as they possibly can in their short time in Norway. So depending on how much time you want on the road you might need to cut out a day or two and do less each day instead. But I will say that driving in Norway is an experience in itself – you won’t be on any boring highways here, and I’ve made sure to take you along the most scenic routes.
Also, I’ve included the most scenic routes here, which often are mountain roads that unfortunately can be closed in the winter. If Google Maps doesn’t want to route you through one of these roads it usually means that the road is closed (but if you’re planning your trip in the winter and want to see the road, just change your departure time to a summer date and it should pop up).
Norway road trip itinerary #1: Cultural Heritage
I’m calling this one the cultural heritage itinerary because it takes you through several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historic cities, and there’s even a stop at an old stave church!
Day 1: Oslo – Notodden – Rjukan
The drive from Oslo to Notodden takes about an hour and 45 minutes, and ideally, you’ll want to leave in the morning so you can fit in more time in Rjukan later in the day.
Notodden is an Industrial Heritage Site, where you can see some of the industrial buildings from the early 20th century, including where the workers used to live. Notodden is also home to the Notodden Blues Festival, the largest blues festival in Scandinavia – hence the enormous microphone statue in the center of the city.
The main reason you’re here, however, is to see the Heddal Stave Church right outside of town. Built at the start of the 13th century, the Heddal Stave Church is Norway’s largest stave church, and it’s definitely worth a stop for some photos.
And then you’re going to turn off onto Fv651 for one of my favorite drives in all of Norway. If the road is closed take Fv361 to Fv37 instead – also a beautiful route!
Gaustatoppen is probably my favorite mountain in Norway, and if it’s not too foggy you should be in for some gorgeous views.
And Rjukan is also an Industrial Heritage Site, as well as simply a really interesting town in a very dramatic landscape. You can read more about things to do in Rjukan here.
ACCOMMODATION
Luxury
If it fits in your budget, I would definitely recommend staying at Gaustablikk Høyfjellshotell. You can read more about it in my post about Rjukan, but basically it’s beautifully decorated, has amazing views of Gaustatoppen, and is very Norwegian. Wins all around. Check current rates and availability here
Mid-range/budget
Kvitåvatn Fjellstue also has great views over Gaustatoppen and it’s much easier on your budget! Check current rates and availability here
Airbnbs
There are also quite a few Airbnb options in Rjukan, such as this idyllic cabin, this charming apartment, and this beautiful chalet. And if this is your first time using Airbnb you can get a discount by [signing up here].
Day 2: Rjukan – Haukeli – Odda
The drive today is SO beautiful – like, I’m feeling a little jealous just writing about it because I want to do this drive again and again.
Driving from Rjukan to Odda takes just a little over three hours, so if you didn’t have time yesterday you could take a couple of hours in the morning to explore Rjukan a bit more.
Then you’re going to start the hair pinned climb up towards Rauland, passing the Vemork Heavy Water Museum on your left as you’re driving out of town.
You’ll then drive through Rauland (where I live!), and over Haukeli pass before descending towards Odda. You can read more about this drive in this post about driving from Rauland to Hardangerfjord.
When you get to Odda I’d recommend driving farther down Hardangerfjord, as it really is so beautiful.
ACCOMMODATION NEAR ODDA
To be honest, Odda doesn’t have great accommodation options (plus hotels in town book up really quickly because Trolltunga is such a popular hike), so I’d recommend staying somewhere along Hardangerfjord instead.
Luxury
Utne Hotel dates back to 1722 and is perfect for anyone who enjoys unique, historical accommodation. Check current rates and availability here
Mid-range
Ullensvang is my favorite spot along Hardangerfjord, and Ullensvang Gjesteheim is a lovely little farm offering simple, budget-friendly accommodation. Check current rates and availability here
Budget
Hardanger Rom & Harmonium is in a lovely quiet town and run by the nicest owners. It’s not super budget, but it is an incredible value for how nice it is. Check current rates and availability here
If you’re on a tighter budget, Odda Camping is your best bet, with basic rooms and little cabins. Check current rates and availability here
Airbnbs
There are a few Airbnb options around Odda, like this ground floor apartment with stunning views, this apartment near Trolltunga, or this apartment near Trolltunga
Day 3: Odda – Bergen
The drive to Bergen is long but beautiful. You will have to take a ferry but don’t worry, they run often and you can pay for your ticket as you drive onto the boat – super easy (and yes, they accept card). I’ve done this journey a lot by bus, and it’s always so exciting when you start getting closer to Bergen!
ACCOMMODATION IN BERGEN
You can find a list of the best accommodation in Bergen for different budgets here, and the best hostels in Bergen here.
There are also plenty of Airbnbs in Bergen, like this comfy studio in Danmarksplass, this central basement apartment, or this one near the train station.
Day 4: Bergen
No driving today! Instead, take the day to explore Bergen. You can find some things to do in Bergen in here.
If you’d like, you can also do some tours around Bergen, like this 2-hour Segway tour, this 3-hour self-guided tour, or this private tour with a local.
Day 5: Bergen – Flåm – Gaupne – Lom
Okay, this drive is crazy long and you don’t have to do it all in one day as Day 6 is a much shorter day. However, I’d recommend trying to get as far as possible today because then you’ll have more time to explore the fjords tomorrow. Plus, this will be one of the most spectacular drives of the trip, I promise.
In fact, you’ll be driving along two of Norway’s National Tourist Routes, first over Aurlandsfjellet and then over Sognefjellet from Gaupne to Lom. You can read about this drive here: The Prettiest Road Trip from Bergen.
You could also break up this day by overnighting somewhere along Sognefjord. Check out options on Airbnb, like this apartment in Aurlandsvangen, this one in Aurland, or this one on the north side of the fjord. See more accommodation options near Sognefjord here.
ACCOMMODATION NEAR LOM
Luxury
Fossheim Hotel is a historic hotel from 1897 in Lom, with a restaurant featuring gourmet dishes with local produce. Check availability and current rates here
The Elveseter Hotel is a family-run mountain lodge in Boverdalen full of traditional Norwegian art, wood carvings, and cozy fireplaces in the lobby area. Check here for availability and prices
Mid-range
Døsen Gård is an excellent option if you can’t make it all the way to Lom by the end of the day – plus you’ll get views of the fjord! Check availability and current rates here
And if you’re up for driving farther, Sjåk Turistheim is the perfect option just past Lom. You can either book a room here or if you’re traveling with several people the cabins are excellent value. Check availability and current rates here
Budget
If you drive just past Lom you’ll find Furuly Camping, where you can get a cozy little cabin for surprisingly cheap – it’s an especially great deal if there are several of you traveling together! The cabins are basic and you do have to pay to use the shower, but your wallet will thank you. Check availability and current rates here
Airbnbs
There are quite a few Airbnbs near Lom, like this 2-bed apartment, this cozy cottage, or this charming holiday home.
Day 6: Lom – Geirangerfjord (optional: Trollstigen)
Today you have a much shorter drive to Geirangerfjord, and then you can choose yourself where you want to explore.
But on your way, there be sure to take a small detour down Gamle Strynefjellsvegen, another National Tourist Route. I haven’t been able to mark it on the map because the road is still closed for the winter, but you just need to take a left onto route 258 for Strynefjellet. You can read why this road is so amazing here: The One Norwegian Road Trip You HAVE To Take.
Then you might want to head to Trollstigen (you can read about the drive to Trollstigen here), or you can head straight to your accommodation for the night to relax on the fjord.
ACCOMMODATION
There are a lot of great Airbnb options near Geirangerfjord, like this rustic villa with mountain views, this apartment within walking distance of the fjord, or this beautiful place in Bjorke.
You can also take a look through this list of Geirangerfjord accommodation and find something that suits your interest and budget.
Optional extra detour: Ålesund & The Atlantic Road
At this point you’ll need to head back to Oslo if you only have time for a seven-day road trip, but if you have extra time you could go on to Ålesund, and then even up to Norway’s famous Atlantic Road. You can read about things to do in Ålesund and the surrounding area here.
Day 7: Hjelle – Oslo
This is a long last drive and the end bit is quite boring, but it would be a lot more expensive to drop off your rental car in a different location than you got it, so if you don’t want to pay the extra fee you’ll need to get back to Oslo! Otherwise, you can try to drop off your car in Ålesund and fly back to Oslo.
If you’re driving in the summer try to take the route through Beitostølen, as it’s the most scenic. It’s not showing up on the map now because the road is still closed for the winter, but it’s 431 kilometers and takes about 6 hours and 40 minutes.
ACCOMMODATION IN OSLO
If you’re planning to stay the night in Oslo, Airbnb also has a lot of great options, like this cozy flat only a 7-minute walk away, this chic downtown studio, or this seaside apartment. You can see more of my recommendations for the best hotels and hostels in Oslo here.
Norway Itinerary #2: Southwestern Coast
While incredibly popular amongst Norwegians, foreign tourists often aren’t too interested in Norway’s southern coast. In fact, I remember being so excited to take my English boyfriend and his friend to Grimstad and Arendal, but they were totally unimpressed.
I think the reason is that the south has really nice weather to Norwegians, but for most foreigners, it’s still fairly cold and they’d much rather see Norway’s famous mountains and fjords than cottages and sailing boats.
But there was one area of southern Norway that impressed my English friends – in fact, I’d say it’s one of the nicest parts of all of Norway. And that’s where you’ll be heading this week!
Day 1: Kristiansand – Mandal – Flekkefjord – Brufjell
Kristiansand is a favorite amongst Norwegians, especially in the summer. It also makes the perfect starting off point for your trip, as you can either fly here directly or get the train down from Oslo before renting a car here.
Mandal is one of my favorite towns in Norway – again, especially in the summer. It’s just so picturesque!
And then the driving from Flekkefjord to Brufjell in Åna-Sira is amazing. You can read more about Åna-Sira and climbing Brufjell here.
ACCOMMODATION NEAR BRUFJELL
Luxury:
If you want to be in a cute, quiet town, stay at the lovely Sogndalstrand Kulturhotell. Check current rates and availability here
If you’d rather be in a bigger town, stay at the very elegant Grand Hotel Flekkefjord. Check current rates and availability here
Mid-range
The Maritime Fjordhotel is right by the Grand Hotel and a bit cheaper (but still very nice!). Check current rates and availability here
Budget
Egenes Camping is right on the beach and especially good value if you’re traveling with several people. Check current rates and availability
Airbnb
You could also stay at this holiday cottage with four beds and a half bath. Check current rates and availability
Day 2: Brufjell – Stavanger
The start of this drive has possibly the most epic scenery I’ve seen in all of Norway.
Then the road from Ogna to Bore is a National Tourist Road, and it’s worth stopping at the Kvassheim lighthouse and the beautiful Orrestranda beach.
I find the last bit into Stavanger sort of depressing as it’s basically the oil suburbs, but then Stavanger itself is a really lovely city worth wandering around – especially in the old town.
ACCOMMODATION IN STAVANGER
Luxury
If you like modern design hotels, you’ll love the newly renovated Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel, right by the central station. Check current rates and availability here
Thon Hotel Stavanger is another beautiful modern choice, again right by the central station. Check current rates and availability here
Mid-range
Myhregaarden Hotel is on the higher end of mid-range, but I think this lovely boutique hotel is worth a bit of a splurge. Check current rates and availability here
Budget
Hotel Centrum Box offers basic rooms for amazing value considering how close it is to the city center. Check current rates and availability here
Stavanger St Svithun Vandrerhjem is a bit outside of the city center and not quite as good value as Hotel Centrum Box, but here you can have a private bathroom. It’s in a hospital, which makes for an interesting experience as well. Check current rates and availability here
Airbnbs
There are also quite a few Airbnb options in Stavanger, like this dreamy seaside apartment, this modern studio downtown, and this beautifully renovated home.
Day 3: Stavanger – Ryfylke – Odda
This is one of the most famous drives in all of Norway, and for good reason. You’ll be passing by two of Norway’s most popular hikes, Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) and Kjeragbolten, and then ending up near Norway’s third most famous hike, Trolltunga, which happens to be near one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords, Hardangerfjord.
See below if you want to add an extra day to hike Preikestolen or Kjeragbolten.
ACCOMMODATION NEAR ODDA
Odda doesn’t have great accommodation options (plus hotels in town book up really quickly because Trolltunga is such a popular hike), so I’d recommend staying somewhere along Hardangerfjord instead.
Luxury
Utne Hotel dates back to 1722 and is perfect for anyone who enjoys unique, historical accommodation. Check current rates and availability here
Mid-range
Ullensvang is my favorite spot along Hardangerfjord, and Ullensvang Gjesteheim is a lovely little farm offering simple, budget-friendly accommodation. Check current rates and availability here
Budget
Hardanger Rom & Harmonium is in a lovely quiet town and run by the nicest owners. It’s not super budget, but it is incredible value for how nice it is. Check current rates and availability here
If you’re on a tighter budget, Odda Camping is your best bet, with basic rooms and little cabins. Check current rates and availability here
Airbnbs
There are a few Airbnb options around Odda, like this ground floor apartment with stunning views, this apartment near Trolltunga, or this apartment near Trolltunga
Optional extra day: hiking Preikestolen, Kjeragbolten, etc.
Instead of heading straight to Odda on Day 3, you could instead stay somewhere along the Ryfylke route and do some hiking.
The two most famous hikes in the area (and in all of Norway) are Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, and Kjeragbolten – the giant boulder wedged between two mountains. Check here for all hiking options to Preikestolen
ACCOMMODATION NEAR LYSEFJORD
If you want to stay near the hikes, I’d choose Wathne Camping for budget accommodation, Verkshotellet Jørpeland for mid-range accommodation, or Preikestolen fjellstue, right by Pulpit Rock, for luxury accommodation.
You can also check out the many options on Airbnb, like this guesthouse with views of the fjord, this apartment near Preikestolen, or this apartment near Preikestolen
Day 4: Odda – Bergen
The drive to Bergen is long but beautiful. You will have to take a ferry but don’t worry, they run often and you can pay for your ticket as you drive onto the boat – super easy (and yes, they accept card). I’ve done this journey a lot by bus, and it’s always so exciting when you start getting closer to Bergen!
ACCOMMODATION IN BERGEN
You can find a list of the best accommodation in Bergen for different budgets here, and the best hostels in Bergen here.
There are also plenty of Airbnbs in Bergen, like this comfy studio in Danmarksplass, this central basement apartment, or this one near the train station.
Day 5: Bergen
Leave the car in the car park and take the day to explore Bergen! You can find some things to do in Bergen in here.
Day 6: Bergen – Hardangervidda – Rjukan
Okay, so the fastest way back to Kristiansand would be to get the highway back down the coast, overnighting in Haugesund or Stavanger. But if you really want to cram as much as you possibly can into your week in Norway, consider taking this longer, but oh so stunning route back to Kristiansand.
Today you’ll drive from Bergen over Hardangervidda, the largest plateau of its kind in Europe, which also happens to be home to one of the largest wild reindeer herds in the world. Part of this route is also a National Tourist Route in Norway. If you want to split this day into two, you could camp up on Hardangervidda.
And then you’ll finish the day in Rjukan, one of my favorite towns in Norway. You can read about Rjukan here.
ACCOMMODATION
Luxury
If it fits in your budget, I would definitely recommend staying at Gaustablikk Høyfjellshotell. You can read more about it in my post about Rjukan, but basically it’s beautifully decorated, has amazing views of Gaustatoppen, and is very Norwegian. Wins all around. Check current rates and availability here
Mid-range/budget
Kvitåvatn Fjellstue also has great views over Gaustatoppen and it’s much easier on your budget! Check current rates and availability here
Airbnbs
There are also quite a few Airbnb options in Rjukan, such as this idyllic cabin, this charming apartment, and this beautiful chalet.
Day 7: Rjukan – Kristiansand
This is another beautiful drive.
You’re going to start the hair pinned climb up towards Rauland, passing the Vemork Heavy Water Museum on your left as you’re driving out of town. And then you’ll then drive through Rauland (where I live!) and up the dramatic valley of Dalen down towards Kristiansand.
Norway Itinerary #3: Public Transport Route
And with this itinerary, you can explore Norway solely by public transport! Of course, if you want more flexibility you could do this route by car instead, with some modifications.
The most popular public transport itinerary for people spending a week in Norway is by far getting the train from Oslo to Bergen, then doing Norway in a Nutshell, and returning to Oslo again by train. It’s a fine route, but personally I don’t think it shows off Norway’s best sights, but instead just its most convenient ones.
This route covers more ground, and personally, I think it would give you a much better introduction to Norway.
Day 1: Oslo – Røros
Today you’ll get the train from Oslo to Røros.
Founded in 1644, Røros is one of the oldest towns of wooden buildings in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This old mining town is definitely on the tourist path, but it’s far enough inland that it still doesn’t get as many visitors as the stops along the fjord cruise route.
ACCOMMODATION
In Røros I’d recommend staying at Vertshuset Røros, which is housed in a beautiful building from 1914 and is conveniently just a 5-minute walk from the train station. Check current rates and availability here
If you want a cheaper option, Solheim Pensjonat is also right downtown, looks really lovely inside, and has excellent reviews. Check current rates and availability here
There are also Airbnb options in Roros, like this tiny room, this guesthouse, or this apartment.
Day 2: Røros – Trondheim
Get the train in the morning so you can have pretty much a full day to explore Trondheim – the first place I lived in Norway! To get started, try booking a customized tour with a local guide. You can check prices and availability here.
For more, you can check out my favorite things to do in Trondheim here.
ACCOMMODATION
You can find plenty of Airbnbs in Trondheim, like this charming flat in Bakklandet, this beautiful apartment near the centre, or this huge place only 10 minutes from the train/bus station.
You can find a list of the best hotels and hostels in Trondheim here.
Day 3: Trondheim – Kristiansund
Today you’ll either get the coastal express ferry from Trondheim to Kristiansund, which takes about 3.5 hours, or the Hurtigruten, which takes 6.5 hours. Coastal express tickets cost 648 NOK and the Hurtigruten costs 533. And you don’t need to book the tickets in advance – you can just buy them on board with either cash or card.
Personally, I’d prefer to save time and take the express ferry, especially as while the Hurtigruten will be full of tourists, the coastal express is primarily used as a commuter service, so you’re unlikely to see any other tourists on board. But the schedule is a bit strange depending on what day you’re leaving, so you might have to get the Hurtigruten instead. You can find the coastal express schedule here and the Hurtigruten here (you’ll need to translate it with Google).
Then take the afternoon/evening to explore Kristiansund!
ACCOMMODATION
There are plenty of Airbnbs in and near Kristiansund, like this charming farmhouse, this gorgeous house by the ocean, and this gorgeous house by the ocean
Day 4: Kristiansund – Ålesund
Today you’ll get Bus 100 from Kristiansund to Ålesund (Kristiansund trafikkterminal platform 2 to Rådhuset i Ålesund). The journey takes just under four hours and goes through some beautiful landscapes.
ACCOMMODATION IN ÅLESUND
Luxury
Hotel Brosundet is in a beautifully restored Art Nouveau warehouse, with views out over the water. This would be my #1 recommendation for a luxury hotel in Ålesund! Check here for current room rates and more details
Scandic Ålesund is also directly on the waterfront and has huge, spacious, modern rooms, many with sea views. Check here for more details and current rates
Heart of Ålesund is a 3-bedroom luxury apartment right in – you guessed it – the heart of Ålesund. I personally love staying at apartments and pretending to be a local, but this place also offers all the luxury aspects of a hotel. It even has a jacuzzi! Check here for more details and current rates
First Hotel Atlantica is a four-star hotel in right on the canal in downtown Ålesund, but it offers surprisingly affordable mid-range hotel rates. Check current rates here
Scandic Scandinavie is located in an old Art Nouveau building from 1905, but its rooms are spacious and modern. Check current rates here
Budget and Airbnb
The first time I visited Ålesund, I stayed at this Airbnb, which was cheaper than a hostel, plus it had a kitchen so I didn’t have to pay for eating out (one of the biggest expenses when traveling in Norway). If that’s booked check other Airbnb options, like this private flat, this bright, top floor apartment, or this retro camper.
Ålesund Hostel offers dorm accommodation downtown. This will still be more expensive than an Airbnb if you’re traveling with more than one person, but the location is excellent. Click here to see current rates and availability
Day 5: Ålesund (Geirangerfjord)
Take the day to explore Ålesund and the surrounding area. You can find a guide to things to do in Ålesund here.
You could also take a fjord cruise/bus into Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords.
Day 6: Ålesund – Åndalsnes
Today you’ll take bus 681 to Åndalsnes – you can simply buy tickets on board the bus.
And then from Åndalsnes you can get the bus to Trollstigen or, if possible, I would actually recommend renting a car for the day to drive to Trollstigen and the surrounding area, as there are some great places to explore here. You could also book a tour, check rates and availability here.
ACCOMMODATION
Luxury
The Grand Hotel Bellevue is right in the town center with beautiful mountain views. Check current rates and availability here
Mid-range/budget
Åndalsnes Hostel is about a 30 minute walk from the station (where the bus drops you off) but it’s the closest budget friendly accommodation. Check current rates and availability here
Airbnbs
There are also plenty of Airbnb options in Åndalsnes, like this townhouse 15-20 minutes from the city center, this house near Isfjord, or this house near Isfjord
Day 7: Åndalsnes – Oslo
Today you can just relax on the train back to Oslo. Be sure to book your train tickets as far in advance as possible (up to 3 months), as the tickets will be much cheaper, starting at just 249 kroner.
ACCOMMODATION
There are a lot of Airbnb options in Oslo, like this cozy flat only a 7-minute walk away, this chic downtown studio, or this seaside apartment. You can see more of my recommendations for the best hotels and hostels in Oslo here.
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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my
Thank you, Silvia! This is the most helpful itinerary I’ve read so far.
Happy you found it helpful!
I’ve discovered your blog about a week ago, when I was looking up tidbits about the Norwegian culture (since I’ve just started learning Norwegian 😊)… and I am absolute IN LOVE with your blog. It’s amazing that you’ve been to over 80 countries, but even more amazing that you’ve documented so many of your travels around the world. I lost myself in your posts about backpacking in Asia and Central Asia, which is what I want to do in my future — perhaps during my gap year after high school?
Anyways, it’s so inspiring to read about your travels and experiences wandering through this globe! I love the mix of storytelling and practical advice you have on this blog, and I can’t wait to read more about your adventures!
Ah that makes me so happy! And a gap year in Asia sounds like an amazing idea – I’m actually always saying that I wish I had taken a little time off between high school and university.
Norway looks like such an incredible place to travel! Thanks so much for sharing your routes! I feel so inspired to plan a trip!
Allegra xx
It really is a dream – I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Love your blog! Thanks! We are doing the exact same route by rented car of Itenary 1, day 3 early Sept, but in the opposite direction: Bergen to Odda. Google maps is giving me 135km and 2hr47min for that stretch on the exact route ( Bergen, Asane, Trengereid, Norbygda, Tysse, Eikedalen, Northeimsund, Torvikbygd, Jondal, gjetingsdalen, eitrheim, Odda).
This is freaking me out now, as according to your google map it is 269km and takes 5hr39mins. I still need to travel up to Voss on the same day for our booked hotel accommodation. Can you please shed some light on what could be the difference in time and distance😱. I’m travelling with a two year old so I really need to plan well. Appreciate any help!
That’s SO weird – I’ve reloaded the map and now it’s displaying correctly – 135 km is correct, and it shouldn’t take longer than 3 hours tops. Have fun!
Fantastic!😅Soooo looking forward to our Norway trip early Sept travelling all the way from very sunny South Africa! I am basically following all your advice on the most scenic routes to take!
Congrats with such an amazing blog! And thank you!
Oh wow that is exciting! And I’m so happy you’ve been enjoying the blog, it’s always great to hear.
Hi Silvia,
Your blog is awesome … It’s so much of information and no one can miss anything .. thanks for the details intenerary .
I am planning to visit Norway in September last week . But I have 5 days . Can you please suggest me the best I can cover in 5 days if I start and end my trip in Oslo?
Previously I had plans to go via tourist operator for Norway in nutshell.. now after reading your blog I have made up my mind that I will be renting a car and driving on my own.
I will expect a reply from you or details in my mail so that I can plan accordingly .
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Deepak
I would do the first itinerary and either return to Oslo on Day 5, or skip Day 4 in Bergen and return to Oslo on Day 6.
Does the buses and trains allow luggage? I am wanting to book my own Norway in a Nutshell and stay over in bergen, but wasn’t sure what if we can bring suitcases.
Yes! I’m not sure if the public bus has a separate luggage compartment, but at least the trains have loads of room for luggage. A lot of people do the route with their suitcases, so you should be fine.
hello there! thank you for all your insights! i’m planning to follow the first itinerary and wonders if there are any downsides to do this in the reverse direction? reason being ill depart from Oslo airport straight away and passing through Oslo on the first day doesn’t seem necessary.
and do you think camping along this route is possible? could you write about camping in norway please?
thank you again!
I don’t see why you couldn’t do this in reverse. Camping along the route should be possible – you’ll just need to stay a bit outside of towns, or pay to stay at campsites. I’ve written a bit about camping here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/plan-road-trip-norway/ and here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/blog/cheap-accommodation-norway-budget/
Hi Silvia.. Will be planning my trip next year to see Aurora borealis.. Any idea the best Month and location that can see this beautiful things. And road trip is more affordable than public transportation?? Is the food really so expensive?? Can Share more insight on yr trip and cost??
You can find more information about seeing the aurora here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/tips-northern-lights-norway/ and here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/blog/best-northern-lights-europe-abisko/ and information about transport here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/budget-travel-transportation/ and food here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/budget-eating-food/
Hi Silvia, Thanks for putting together amazing itineraries . I really like the itinerary #3. Can this be done completely by car and if so what modifications do you recommend?
Definitely! Then you can drive from Trondheim to Kristiansund instead of taking the ferry.
Hi Silvia, first of all thanks for such a great blog. So much helpful information, especially on this page 🙂 we’re coming to Norway during the last week of August and basically will be roughly following your itinerary 1. However we have some doubts on day 5 & 6…as it seems that from Bergen you go to Lom, followed by Lom to Hjelle the next day. Is it possible to go from Bergen straight to Hjelle (via another route?) and then from Hjelle to Lom? We have to go back to Oslo on day 7 in any case, so it seems like this could save us some driving time. Any thoughts? Thanks again!
This is just amazing Silvia , Great blog ! I really hope I have enough time to book and plan the trip accordoing To your itinerary at least for public transport route. Currently I have already booked the usual tour and visiting the tourist crowded hike and towns in this August . Hopefully I could revisit The beautiful Norway another time !
Hi Silvia,
We are a family of five (two parents and three young adult “kids”) and interested in visiting Norway, especially since my paternal grandfather, Richard Grimsrud, was Norwegian. Here’s the thing; we really prefer to stay in one place if possible, and to minimize our car time. We prefer to stay in a very small town or village where we can walk and swim (assuming it gets warm enough to swim in Norway!) and shop and eat at cute cafes and restaurants and get places mostly on foot. Is there any picturesque place that comes to mind that might be good for us? We hope to come from Boston in the summer. We also are really interested in culture and history. So appreciate hearing your thoughts!
Check out this post: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/where-to-go-in-norway/
Hi Silvia
Thank you for the really good tips and details.
We are planning to visit Oslo in 2nd week of November for 3 nights.Initially we wanted to plan the train trip to Bergen and go for cruise explore nature but given its going to be winters maybe its better to decide once there.
Can you suggest if its okay at least for the city break in November if not nature trip? And do you have any suggestions to make the best out of our visit in such weather?
Appreciate all your help on this.
Thanks
Sal
This is very helpful. We plan to take summer trip next year and believe we use one of the route. Thank you so much for put together these useful information.
Hi Silvia,
Thanks for the great post. My family of four will have a one week stopover this June in Norway en route from Doha to Seattle. My ancestors come from around Bergen and it’s always been a dream to visit the Stolen family. My kids will be 3 and 5 at the time. They do not do too great on long road trips, but we definitely want to see the country and get to Bergen. We love the outdoors and are an adventurous family (traveled Albania, 30 days on camino del norte, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Turkey…). What would you recommend for a 6 day journey, getting to Bergen and getting outdoors? Are there perhaps two good spots where we can spend 3 nights in each?
Thanks!
Joe
I don’t really know anything about traveling with kids, but maybe you can fly straight into Bergen and then rent a car and spend a few days somewhere along the fjord, like one of these places: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/best-sognefjord-accommodation/
Have fun!