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 one of the best 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. We now have traveled Norway a number of occasions, largely in winter, and we’re satisfied a highway journey is one of the simplest 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 propose spending 7 days in Norway, although if finances permits, you must undoubtedly plan for two weeks as a substitute. 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 advice for a 7-day Norway highway journey itinerary. Be part of me as we discover Norway’s diversified landscapes and wealthy tradition, a journey that guarantees to be as enriching as it’s thrilling.
The Final Norway Itinerary
Learn how to Get Round Norway
By Automobile
For this Norway highway journey itinerary, we advocate hiring a automotive. Since most of Norway’s most lovely sights are situated removed from the large cities, a highway journey is certainly one of the simplest ways to expertise them. Norway has outstanding infrastructure and public facilities.
Automobile rental in Norway is surprisingly reasonably priced and it’s cheaper than taking the prepare or bus. A 1-week automotive 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 gasoline and tolls. All autos driving in Norway must pay highway toll fees. The present gasoline costs are round US$1.5 to $2 per litre.
E book Your Automobile Rental!
By Prepare and Bus
Should you don’t drive, Norway has a incredible public transportation system, and it’s completely attainable 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 prepare journey 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 at some point through a prepare, 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 relies on what kind of expertise you’re in search of in Norway. Summer time is the most well-liked time to go to: it has one of the best climate, lengthy hours of daylight, costs are usually cheaper and all the things is open. Every thing turns inexperienced and it’s a wonderful 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. Nonetheless, count on sub-zero temperatures and be sure you are snug driving steep slopes in snowy situations.
Should you’re trying to journey low season in a Norway freed from vacationers, spring and autumn could also be for you.
7 Days in Norway Itinerary
My really useful Norway highway journey itinerary packs one of the best of the nation: from the quintessential Scandinavian cities to probably the most spectacular dramatic fjords and mountains in Norway.
I’ve designed this Norway itinerary to take advantage of out of your time. Count on to drive round 5-6 hours every day. Should you really feel such as you want a slower tempo, be happy to take away the final spot (Trondheim) from the itinerary and area out your time.
- Day 1: Oslo
- Day 2: Bergen
- Day 3: Bergen
- Day 4: Geiranger Fjord
- Day 5: Ålesund
- Day 6: Trondheim
- Day 7: House
Norway Itinerary Map
Right here’s a map of my Norway itinerary. Click on to see it on Google Maps.
Learn how to 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 info. To open a bigger model in a brand new tab, click on on the highest proper nook of the map. You can too 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 superb start line because it’s inside a brief driving distance to one of the best elements of Norway. The town provides you an incredible overview of Norwegian historical past; it’s additionally one of the lovely cities in Europe.
The guts of Oslo’s metropolis heart lies at Principal Quare (Stortorvet), the principle 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 fortress, take within the gorgeous views of the Oslofjord, capturing photos that carry 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 vitality and affords a wide range of cuisines. The colourful streets listed below are excellent for images, with their full of life colours and numerous scenes.
See the Fashionable Aspect of Oslo
Subsequent, the Oslo Opera Home awaits within the Bjørvika district. Its uncommon, iceberg-like structure in opposition to the Oslo skyline makes for gorgeous images. Strolling on its roof offers a singular perspective, capturing the mix of the town’s historic and fashionable parts. E book tickets upfront right here. For photographers, its stark white colours make it an ideal place to experiment with photograph saturation, enhancing the already gorgeous scenes you’ll encounter.
Close by, the Barcode Challenge’s fashionable structure affords a distinction to the morning’s historic websites. Its smooth, futuristic design is a testomony to Oslo’s architectural evolution and one other nice topic on your digital camera.
As night units in, Aker Brygge’s bustling waterfront is good for a leisurely dinner. The world’s full of life environment and harbor views are quintessentially Oslo, providing extra photograph alternatives.
The place to Keep in Oslo
Funds: Anker Lodge
Anker Lodge is thought for offering reasonably priced lodging with out compromising on high quality. It’s situated within the metropolis heart, making it handy for exploring Oslo’s sights. The resort affords fundamental facilities, clear rooms, and is an effective selection for budget-conscious vacationers. Verify charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Thon Lodge Slottsparken
We stayed at Thon Lodge Slottsparken situated in a quiet nook proper subsequent to the Royal Palace. It’s only a five-minute stroll from the guts of the town. The aparthotel has 253 rooms, most of that are flats with their very own kitchenette. Verify the most recent costs right here.
Luxurious: The Thief
This modern resort is situated on Tjuvholmen, a peninsula in Oslo recognized for its modern artwork galleries. The Thief affords 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 resort. Verify charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 2: Drive to Bergen
Length of drive: 7 hours
The following day, rise vivid 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 way in which. Whereas in your means out of Oslo, make a cease at Holmenkollen, the ski recreation space 588 meters above sea degree 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 one of the best 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.
When you’ve got a while, go to the Flam Railway Museum and hop on a scenic fjord cruise, passing via slender 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 gorgeous 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 quality. Restaurante Cornelius is one among 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
Funds: Metropolis Hostel Bergen
Metropolis Hostel Bergen is a budget-friendly possibility situated within the metropolis heart of Bergen. It affords a wide range of room choices, together with dormitory-style rooms and personal rooms. Verify charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Zander Ok Lodge
Zander Ok Lodge is a trendy mid-range resort located close to Bergen’s central prepare station. The resort options fashionable and cozy rooms, and its central location makes it simple to entry common sights. Verify charges right here.
Luxurious: Lodge Norge by Scandic
On our final journey, we stayed on the Lodge Norge by Scandic (pictured), a luxurious resort situated within the coronary heart of Bergen. The resort encompasses a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the town, a health heart, and an on-site restaurant. It’s inside strolling distance of Bryggen and different main sights. Verify charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 3: Discover Bergen
Begin your day in Bergen’s historic heart, often called Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage web site and a distinguished image of the town’s wealthy historical past. It’s made up of a collection of colourful, iconic wood 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 effective spot to take a look at.
One other spotlight is the Bergenhus Fortress, one among Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortifications. The fortress space is just not solely traditionally important but additionally affords 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 on your comfort. You can too e-book your tickets on-line right here. The funicular takes you as much as Mount Fløyen, offering a shocking overview of the town, the encompassing mountains, and the ocean. It is a excellent spot for capturing memorable images of Bergen’s scenic magnificence.
Norway Itinerary Day 4: Head to Geiranger
Length: 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 under, in addition to throughout to the mountains and Blåbreen glacier. This viewpoint is situated 1550 meters above sea degree. It prices 140 NOK (US$18) to drive up, however on a transparent day it should undoubtedly be value 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 web site. This fjord is amongst Norway’s most well-known, and for good motive. Its deep blue waters, surrounded by steep mountains and luxurious greenery, create unparalleled pure magnificence. The Eagle Highway, 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
Funds: Vinje Tenting
Vinje Tenting offers reasonably priced lodging within the type of log cabin. It’s a distance from the village heart, however the space surrounding the property is common for climbing. It affords dormitory-style rooms and cookingamenities, making it an acceptable possibility for budget-conscious vacationers. Verify charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Lodge Union Geiranger
We stayed on the Lodge Union Geiranger and completely cherished it. The mid-range possibility is thought for its scenic location and cozy facilities. The resort overlooks the Geirangerfjord and options well-appointed rooms, a spa, and a restaurant. Verify charges right here.
Luxurious: Grand Fjord Lodge
For an opulent keep, take a look at Grand Fjord Lodge (pictured) situated on the shores of the fjord. This upscale resort offers elegant rooms, a spa with an indoor and out of doors pool, a number of eating choices, and gorgeous views. Verify charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 5: Proceed to Ålesund
Length of drive: 3.5 hours
With only a day to spend in Geiranger, you’ll need to benefit 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 displays and multimedia shows showcase the geological formation and cultural significance of the fjords. Achieve insights into the UNESCO-listed standing of the world and its distinctive pure options.
Take a Fjord Cruise in Geiranger
The easiest way to see the fjord in its full glory is on a fjord cruise is a wonderful possibility. These boat excursions usually cross 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 affords a collection of eateries serving contemporary seafood and conventional Norwegian dishes.
Drive to Ålesund
Right now is a brief driving day. As you allow Geiranger, you’ll traverse winding roads that provide 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 model after a devastating hearth in 1904, leading to a visually putting 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, situated in a former pharmacy constructing. This museum affords exhibitions and guided excursions that delve into the historical past and significance of Ålesund’s distinctive architectural model.
The place to Keep in Ålesund
Funds: Alesund New Guesthouse
It is a budget-friendly possibility situated on the hilltops surrounding Ålesund. It offers reasonably priced dormitory-style lodging and fundamental facilities. Be ready to climb steps to get to this hostel. Verify charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Scandic Parken
We stayed at Scandic Parken, a cushty, mid-range resort located in a central location, providing snug rooms and fashionable facilities. The resort is inside strolling distance of Ålesund’s predominant sights, making it a handy selection for these in search of a steadiness between consolation and affordability. Verify charges right here.
Luxurious: Lodge Brosundet
That includes sea views, this fashionable resort (pictured) is about in a renovated Artwork Nouveau-style warehouse by the Ålesund Strait. The resort combines fashionable luxurious with historic allure, providing elegantly designed rooms, upscale facilities, and scenic views of the harbor. Verify charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 6: Drive to Trondheim
Length 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 affords breathtaking views of the city, the archipelago, and the Sunnmøre Alps.
Drive the Atlantic Ocean Highway
The drive from Ålesund to Trondheim affords a journey via numerous landscapes, showcasing Norway’s coastal and inland magnificence. You’ll be driving on elements of the well-known Atlantic Ocean Highway, one of the 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 diversified, that includes hills and forests. Contemplate making a cease on the Trollstigen Customer Centre should you’re eager about 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 among Norway’s most lovely cities wealthy in historical past and cultural landmarks. Begin your exploration at Nidaros Cathedral, an impressive Gothic masterpiece and Norway’s nationwide sanctuary. Wander via the charming streets of Bakklandet, recognized for its colourful wood homes and riverside ambiance. The Previous City Bridge affords panoramic views of the town and is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
The place to Keep in Trondheim
Funds: Trondheim Vandrerhjem
Trondheim Vandrerhjem is a budget-friendly possibility, centrally situated close to sights like Nidaros Cathedral. This hostel affords reasonably priced dormitory and personal rooms, making it appropriate for budget-conscious vacationers. Verify charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Scandic Bakklandet
Scandic Bakklandet is a mid-range resort located within the charming Bakklandet district, recognized for its historic wood buildings. The resort affords snug rooms, fashionable facilities, and a central location. It’s inside strolling distance of common websites just like the Previous City Bridge and Nidaros Cathedral. Verify charges right here.
Luxurious: Britannia Lodge
We cherished our keep on the Britannia Lodge, an opulent historic resort within the coronary heart of Trondheim. The resort offers luxurious rooms, high-quality eating choices, a spa, and personalised service. It’s situated close to sights just like the Archbishop’s Palace and is a prestigious selection for these in search of a high-end keep in Trondheim. Verify charges right here.
Norway Itinerary Day 7: Time to Head Again!
Length of drive: 6.5 hours
On the ultimate day of your Norway highway journey, I counsel leaving early to be sure you get again to Oslo in time on your flight house.
Should you do have loads of time, one noteworthy cease is Lillehammer, recognized for internet hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics. Right here, you may go to the Olympic Museum and discover the charming city with its wood structure and lakeside setting.
The drive additionally passes via picturesque landscapes, together with elements of the scenic Gudbrandsdalen valley and Lake Mjøsa, Norway’s largest lake. The character reserves and viewpoints alongside the way in which present alternatives for brief breaks to understand the pure fantastic thing about the Norwegian countryside.
Packing for this Norway Highway Journey
What you pack relies on whenever you’re planning on doing your Norway highway journey. If you’re touring Norway in winter, you’ll want to carry heat garments together with a top quality ski jacket, hat, thermals, gloves, and thick pants. It’s vital to put money into a very good pair of winter boots or sturdy climbing sneakers for snow situations.
As well as, keep in mind to get snow chains on your automotive/rental should you’re planning to drive in winter. They aren’t required by regulation, however they’ll hold 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 carry 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 way in which to the top. We’ve undoubtedly packed loads into this 7-day Norway highway journey. This itinerary gives you a style of the nation and present you one of the best elements of the nation, whether or not you’re visiting in winter or summer season. When you’ve got any query, be happy to go away me a remark under!
Learn my articles on Norway under:
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