Final Up to date on November 17, 2023 by Nellie Huang
Planning on doing an epic Norway highway journey? I’m sharing my 7-day Norway itinerary which reveals you the most effective of Norway from the gorgeous fjords of Geiranger and Flam to the beautiful Artwork Deco metropolis of Trondheim.
Spectacular fjords, dramatic waterfalls, imposing mountains and pristine glaciers — Norway is a rustic brimming with pure landscapes of epic proportions. Now we have traveled Norway a number of instances, largely in winter, and we’re satisfied a highway journey is one of the best ways to see this lovely nation.
Norway is a HUGE nation with loads to see, nevertheless it’s additionally one 0f the most costly international locations we’ve visited. We advise spending 7 days in Norway, although if funds permits, it’s best to undoubtedly plan for two weeks as an alternative. With 7 days in Norway, you’ll barely scratch the floor however you’ll nonetheless get to see some highlights of the nation.
From the postcard-perfect fantastic thing about the Geirangerfjord to the cultural riches of Trondheim, right here’s my suggestion for a 7-day Norway highway journey itinerary. Be part of me as we discover Norway’s different landscapes and wealthy tradition, a journey that guarantees to be as enriching as it’s thrilling.
The Final Norway Itinerary
Get Round Norway
By Automobile
For this Norway highway journey itinerary, we advocate hiring a automobile. Since most of Norway’s most lovely sights are positioned removed from the massive cities, a highway journey is certainly one of the best ways to expertise them. Norway has outstanding infrastructure and public facilities.
Automobile rental in Norway is surprisingly inexpensive and it’s cheaper than taking the practice or bus. A 1-week automobile rental in Norway prices round US$200 to $250, not together with insurance coverage. Thoughts you although, Norway is an costly nation so attempt to think about the price of fuel and tolls. All automobiles driving in Norway have to pay highway toll costs. The present fuel costs are round US$1.5 to $2 per litre.
E book Your Automobile Rental!
By Practice and Bus
Should you don’t drive, Norway has a incredible public transportation system, and it’s completely potential to comply with this Norway itinerary by taking trains and buses. Trains in Norway are wonderful – they’re snug, punctual and even supply WiFi on board. No different practice experience between two cities in Europe goes at increased altitude than the Bergen Railway.
Among the finest journeys to expertise Norway is the ‘Norway in A Nutshell’ journey, which takes you from Oslo to Bergen in sooner or later through a practice, bus and boat. It was voted one of many 20 greatest railway experiences on the earth in 1999.
Finest Time to Go to Norway
It actually depends upon what kind of expertise you’re looking for in Norway. Summer time is the preferred time to go to: it has the most effective climate, lengthy hours of daylight, costs are usually cheaper and all the things is open. All the things turns inexperienced and it’s a superb time to go on boat journeys via the fjord, swim within the lake and hike the mountains.
Winter (October to February) is our favourite time to discover Norway’s snow-covered mountains, gorgeous fjords and charming alpine villages. It is a magical time to go to to see the Northern Lights, go ice fishing and snowmobiling particularly in Lapland. Nevertheless, anticipate sub-zero temperatures and be sure to are snug driving steep slopes in snowy situations.
Should you’re seeking to journey low season in a Norway freed from vacationers, spring and autumn could also be for you.
7 Days in Norway Itinerary
My advisable Norway highway journey itinerary packs the most effective of the nation: from the quintessential Scandinavian cities to essentially the most spectacular dramatic fjords and mountains in Norway.
I’ve designed this Norway itinerary to take advantage of out of your time. Anticipate to drive round 5-6 hours every day. Should you really feel such as you want a slower tempo, be at liberty to take away the final spot (Trondheim) from the itinerary and house out your time.
- Day 1: Oslo
- Day 2: Bergen
- Day 3: Bergen
- Day 4: Geiranger Fjord
- Day 5: Ålesund
- Day 6: Trondheim
- Day 7: Residence
Norway Itinerary Map
Right here’s a map of my Norway itinerary. Click on to see it on Google Maps.
use this map: Click on on the highest left of the map to show the listing of areas, then click on on the areas to show additional data. To open a bigger model in a brand new tab, click on on the highest proper nook of the map. It’s also possible to click on on the star to avoid wasting to your Google Maps.
Norway Itinerary Day 1: Discover Oslo
The capital metropolis of Oslo is a good start line because it’s inside a brief driving distance to the most effective components of Norway. Town offers you an awesome overview of Norwegian historical past; it’s additionally one of the crucial lovely cities in Europe.
The center of Oslo’s metropolis heart lies at Most important Quare (Stortorvet), the primary sq. in entrance of Oslo Cathedral. The sq. is bordered on the east by Kirkegata,on the south by a row of homes, on the west by the roadway linking Kongens gate and Møllergata and on the north by the japanese extension of Grensen.
After getting your bearings, head to the Akershus Fortress. From the citadel, take within the gorgeous views of the Oslofjord, capturing pictures that deliver historical past to life. Afterward, visiting the Nationwide Gallery to see Edvard Munch’s iconic ‘The Scream’ is a should. For a style of native life, head to Grønland for lunch. This district buzzes with multicultural power and gives a wide range of cuisines. The colourful streets listed below are good for pictures, with their full of life colours and various scenes.
See the Fashionable Facet of Oslo
Subsequent, the Oslo Opera Home awaits within the Bjørvika district. Its uncommon, iceberg-like structure towards the Oslo skyline makes for gorgeous pictures. Strolling on its roof offers a novel perspective, capturing the mix of town’s historic and fashionable components. E book tickets upfront right here. For photographers, its stark white colours make it an ideal place to experiment with picture saturation, enhancing the already gorgeous scenes you’ll encounter.
Close by, the Barcode Undertaking’s fashionable structure gives a distinction to the morning’s historic websites. Its glossy, futuristic design is a testomony to Oslo’s architectural evolution and one other nice topic to your digicam.
As night units in, Aker Brygge’s bustling waterfront is right for a leisurely dinner. The realm’s full of life environment and harbor views are quintessentially Oslo, providing extra picture alternatives.
The place to Keep in Oslo
Price range: Anker Lodge
Anker Lodge is understood for offering inexpensive lodging with out compromising on high quality. It’s positioned within the metropolis heart, making it handy for exploring Oslo’s points of interest. The lodge gives primary facilities, clear rooms, and is an efficient alternative for budget-conscious vacationers. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Thon Lodge Slottsparken
We stayed at Thon Lodge Slottsparken positioned in a quiet nook proper subsequent to the Royal Palace. It’s only a five-minute stroll from the guts of town. The aparthotel has 253 rooms, most of that are flats with their very own kitchenette. Test the newest costs right here.
Luxurious: The Thief
This up to date lodge is positioned on Tjuvholmen, a peninsula in Oslo identified for its up to date artwork galleries. The Thief gives luxurious rooms with distinctive designs, gorgeous views of the Oslo Fjord, and top-notch facilities, together with an on-site spa, a high quality eating restaurant, and a powerful artwork assortment all through the lodge. Test charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 2: Drive to Bergen
Period of drive: 7 hours
The subsequent day, rise brilliant and early because it’s time to set off in your Norway highway journey! Our vacation spot for the day is Bergen, the second-largest metropolis in Norway, however we’ll make loads of stops alongside the best way. Whereas in your means out of Oslo, make a cease at Holmenkollen, the ski recreation space 588 meters above sea stage simply west of Oslo. Should you’re right here in winter, this spot will get crowded with locals sledding and frolicking within the snow. From right here you get the most effective view of Oslo.
Cease for a Fjord Cruise in Flåm
Your subsequent cease is a 5-hour drive away. The picturesque village of Flåm, nestled on the innermost a part of the Aurlandsfjord, has a spectacular setting surrounded by steep mountains and waterfalls. Flåm is a well-liked cease for vacationers touring on the Flåm Railway, one of many steepest standard-gauge railway traces on the earth.
In case you have a while, go to the Flam Railway Museum and hop on a scenic fjord cruise, passing via slim waterways surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Proceed onto Bergen
It’s one other 2.5-hour drive to Bergen, a photogenic metropolis surrounded by seven majestic mountains. You’ll most likely be arriving late, so spend the night simply wandering across the iconic harbor. Don’t fear, you’re staying right here for 2 nights so that you’ll have the entire of subsequent day to discover this beautiful metropolis.
After an extended day of driving, deal with your self to some contemporary seafood; the metropolis’s location alongside the coast means the seafood is contemporary and of top of the range. Restaurante Cornelius is one in all Bergen’s greatest seafood eating places. It’s located proper by the ocean on a small island with spectacular views of the fjord, mountains, skerries and passing boats and ships.
The place to Keep in Bergen
Price range: Metropolis Hostel Bergen
Metropolis Hostel Bergen is a budget-friendly possibility positioned within the metropolis heart of Bergen. It gives a wide range of room choices, together with dormitory-style rooms and personal rooms. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Zander Okay Lodge
Zander Okay Lodge is a trendy mid-range lodge located close to Bergen’s central practice station. The lodge options fashionable and comfy rooms, and its central location makes it simple to entry standard points of interest. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Lodge Norge by Scandic
On our final journey, we stayed on the Lodge Norge by Scandic (pictured), a luxurious lodge positioned within the coronary heart of Bergen. The lodge encompasses a rooftop bar with panoramic views of town, a health heart, and an on-site restaurant. It’s inside strolling distance of Bryggen and different main points of interest. Test charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 3: Discover Bergen
Begin your day in Bergen’s historic heart, referred to as Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage website and a distinguished image of town’s wealthy historical past. It’s made up of a collection of colourful, iconic picket buildings lining the japanese aspect of the Vågen harbor in Bergen. A number of buildings alongside Bryggen now home museums and galleries, offering insights into Bergen’s maritime historical past and the lifetime of the Hanseatic retailers. The Hanseatic Museum is an efficient spot to take a look at.
One other spotlight is the Bergenhus Fortress, one in all Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortifications. The fortress space will not be solely traditionally vital but additionally gives lovely views of the harbor and the encompassing areas.
Take the Fløibanen Funicular
To take the Fløibanen funicular, head to the decrease station close to the Fish Market. Ticket machines and a ticket workplace can be found to your comfort. It’s also possible to guide your tickets on-line right here. The funicular takes you as much as Mount Fløyen, offering a surprising overview of town, the encompassing mountains, and the ocean. It is a good spot for capturing memorable pictures of Bergen’s scenic magnificence.
Norway Itinerary Day 4: Head to Geiranger
Period: 7 hours
The fourth day of your Norway highway journey takes you into the breathtaking realm of Norway’s well-known fjords, with Geiranger as your vacation spot. As you allow Bergen, a coastal metropolis embraced by mountains and fjords, the E39 route guides you northeast. This leg of your journey is a hypnotic dive into a few of Norway’s most gorgeous pure landscapes. Persevering with alongside the E39 and later transitioning to the E136, the highway winds via imposing mountains, lakes, and verdant landscapes.
Do the Geiranger Skywalk
As you method Geiranger, make a cease at Dalsnibba, the place the Geiranger Skywalk presents panoramic views of the majestic Geirangerfjord. With a transparent drop of approx. 500 m beneath your toes, you may get pleasure from magnificent views of Geiranger and the fjord beneath, in addition to throughout to the mountains and Blåbreen glacier. This viewpoint is positioned 1550 meters above sea stage. It prices 140 NOK (US$18) to drive up, however on a transparent day it should undoubtedly be price a go to.
See the Viewpoints of Geiranger
Upon reaching Geiranger, you might be greeted by the sheer fantastic thing about the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage website. This fjord is amongst Norway’s most well-known, and for good purpose. Its deep blue waters, surrounded by steep mountains and plush greenery, create unparalleled pure magnificence. The Eagle Street, with its hairpin bends, results in the Ørnesvingen Viewpoint that presents an eagle’s-eye view of the fjord (pictured). One other must-visit spot is the Flydalsjuvet viewpoint, offering a broad perspective of the fjord and its environment.
The place to Keep in Geiranger
Price range: Vinje Tenting
Vinje Tenting offers inexpensive lodging within the type of log cabin. It’s a distance from the village heart, however the space surrounding the property is standard for mountain climbing. It gives dormitory-style rooms and cookingamenities, making it an appropriate possibility for budget-conscious vacationers. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Lodge Union Geiranger
We stayed on the Lodge Union Geiranger and completely liked it. The mid-range possibility is understood for its scenic location and comfy facilities. The lodge overlooks the Geirangerfjord and options well-appointed rooms, a spa, and a restaurant. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Grand Fjord Lodge
For an opulent keep, try Grand Fjord Lodge (pictured) positioned on the shores of the fjord. This upscale lodge offers elegant rooms, a spa with an indoor and out of doors pool, a number of eating choices, and gorgeous views. Test charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 5: Proceed to Ålesund
Period of drive: 3.5 hours
With only a day to spend in Geiranger, you’ll need to profit from this picturesque village nestled on the finish of the gorgeous Geirangerfjord. Start your day by soaking within the serene environment of the village, surrounded by steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Take a leisurely stroll alongside the waterfront, savoring the breathtaking views of the fjord.
Make a cease on the Norsk Fjordsenter, the place interactive reveals and multimedia shows showcase the geological formation and cultural significance of the fjords. Acquire insights into the UNESCO-listed standing of the realm and its distinctive pure options.
Take a Fjord Cruise in Geiranger
One of the simplest ways to see the fjord in its full glory is on a fjord cruise is a superb possibility. These boat excursions usually move by waterfalls such because the Seven Sisters and the Suitor, offering a close-up encounter with the majestic environment. They normally make a cease at Hellesylt, an idyllic village sitting on the head of the Sunnylvsfjorden (a department of the Geirangerfjord).
If time permits, have lunch at Brasserie Posten, one of many village’s eating places providing contemporary seafood with a fjord view. Geiranger gives a collection of eateries serving contemporary seafood and conventional Norwegian dishes.
Drive to Ålesund
Immediately is a brief driving day. As you allow Geiranger, you’ll traverse winding roads that supply gorgeous views of the fjords, mountains, and picturesque villages. Ålesund is a captivating coastal city famend for its Artwork Nouveau structure. The city was rebuilt on this type after a devastating hearth in 1904, leading to a visually placing and harmonious cityscape. Stroll via the streets lined with colourful buildings adorned with intricate particulars, showcasing the city’s inventive and architectural heritage.
Artwork fanatics can go to the Jugendstilsenteret, the Artwork Nouveau Centre, positioned in a former pharmacy constructing. This museum gives exhibitions and guided excursions that delve into the historical past and significance of Ålesund’s distinctive architectural type.
The place to Keep in Ålesund
Price range: Alesund New Guesthouse
It is a budget-friendly possibility positioned on the hilltops surrounding Ålesund. It offers inexpensive dormitory-style lodging and primary facilities. Be ready to climb steps to get to this hostel. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Scandic Parken
We stayed at Scandic Parken, a snug, mid-range lodge located in a central location, providing snug rooms and fashionable facilities. The lodge is inside strolling distance of Ålesund’s principal points of interest, making it a handy alternative for these looking for a stability between consolation and affordability. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Lodge Brosundet
That includes sea views, this fashionable lodge (pictured) is ready in a renovated Artwork Nouveau-style warehouse by the Ålesund Strait. The lodge combines fashionable luxurious with historic appeal, providing elegantly designed rooms, upscale facilities, and scenic views of the harbor. Test charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 6: Drive to Trondheim
Period of drive: 5.5 hours
Rise early and begin your day with some train! Climb the 418 steps to the highest of Aksla MountainFor panoramic views of Ålesund and its surrounding islands. The vantage level at Fjellstua gives breathtaking views of the city, the archipelago, and the Sunnmøre Alps.
Drive the Atlantic Ocean Street
The drive from Ålesund to Trondheim gives a journey via various landscapes, showcasing Norway’s coastal and inland magnificence. You’ll be driving on components of the well-known Atlantic Ocean Street, one of the crucial scenic roads in Norway. The highway runs via an archipelago, with bridges connecting the islands.
Traverse the Hairpin Bends of the Trollstigen
Additional alongside the drive, the terrain turns into extra different, that includes hills and forests. Contemplate making a cease on the Trollstigen Customer Centre for those who’re focused on dramatic landscapes and panoramic viewpoints. Then traverse the nerve-wrecking Trollstigen, or the Troll’s Path, a well-known mountain highway with hairpin turns and breathtaking surroundings. It’s not fairly as scary because it seems within the image!
Arriving in Trondheim
The final cease on this Norway highway journey, Trondheim, is one in all Norway’s most lovely cities wealthy in historical past and cultural landmarks. Begin your exploration at Nidaros Cathedral, a powerful Gothic masterpiece and Norway’s nationwide sanctuary. Wander via the charming streets of Bakklandet, identified for its colourful picket homes and riverside ambiance. The Outdated City Bridge gives panoramic views of town and is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
The place to Keep in Trondheim
Price range: Trondheim Vandrerhjem
Trondheim Vandrerhjem is a budget-friendly possibility, centrally positioned close to points of interest like Nidaros Cathedral. This hostel gives inexpensive dormitory and personal rooms, making it appropriate for budget-conscious vacationers. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Scandic Bakklandet
Scandic Bakklandet is a mid-range lodge located within the charming Bakklandet district, identified for its historic picket buildings. The lodge gives snug rooms, fashionable facilities, and a central location. It’s inside strolling distance of standard websites just like the Outdated City Bridge and Nidaros Cathedral. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Britannia Lodge
We liked our keep on the Britannia Lodge, an opulent historic lodge within the coronary heart of Trondheim. The lodge offers luxurious rooms, high quality eating choices, a spa, and customized service. It’s positioned close to points of interest just like the Archbishop’s Palace and is a prestigious alternative for these looking for a high-end keep in Trondheim. Test charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 7: Time to Head Again!
Period of drive: 6.5 hours
On the ultimate day of your Norway highway journey, I counsel leaving early to be sure to get again to Oslo in time to your flight residence.
Should you do have loads of time, one noteworthy cease is Lillehammer, identified for internet hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics. Right here, you may go to the Olympic Museum and discover the charming city with its picket structure and lakeside setting.
The drive additionally passes via picturesque landscapes, together with components of the scenic Gudbrandsdalen valley and Lake Mjøsa, Norway’s largest lake. The character reserves and viewpoints alongside the best way present alternatives for brief breaks to understand the pure fantastic thing about the Norwegian countryside.
Packing for this Norway Street Journey
What you pack depends upon once you’re planning on doing your Norway highway journey. If you’re touring Norway in winter, you should definitely deliver heat garments together with a top quality ski jacket, hat, thermals, gloves, and thick pants. It’s vital to put money into a superb pair of winter boots or sturdy mountain climbing sneakers for snow situations.
As well as, keep in mind to get snow chains to your automobile/rental for those who’re planning to drive in winter. They don’t seem to be required by regulation, however they’ll maintain you protected within the snow mountains. We didn’t have winter tires and located the snow chains to be very helpful. It’s additionally helpful to deliver a thermos and pouch hotter to maintain your self heat.
Wish to Learn Extra about Norway?
That’s a wrap! Thanks for studying all the best way to the top. We’ve undoubtedly packed so much into this 7-day Norway highway journey. This itinerary gives you a style of the nation and present you the most effective components of the nation, whether or not you’re visiting in winter or summer season. In case you have any query, be at liberty to go away me a remark beneath!
Learn my articles on Norway beneath:
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