Your driver will meet you at your address in Oslo.
You’ll travel in comfort for 7 h 10 min.
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Bergen.
Norway is a breathtaking nation that doesn't need an introduction. Hearing its name, you can imagine breathing in crisp country air while admiring the unspoiled natural beauty and colorful wooden houses sitting in the distance. Luckily, the 288-mile road trip from Oslo to Bergen showcases the best of this state and more than you could ever imagine.
From the onset, alpine roads weaving through the exposed rock formations direct you to Hardangervidda, Norway's most extensive national park. While sweeping its borders, you'll get a sneak peek at its beauty. The crystal-clear waterways, glimmering lakes, rustic woodlands, and wooden cabins nestled in the mountains leave you speechless and wondering how they got there.
Being wedged between lush meadows on the right and seemingly bottomless bodies of water on the left causes the road to narrow. Surreal clouds gently flow along the foothills, surrounding your car, adding to the mystical feeling of this venture. You'll be stuck in wonder and awe as each tunnel cutting through the mountainous terrain portrays postcard vistas of iconic fjords and waterfalls on their exits.
In 7 hours and 10 minutes, you'll stand outside in Bergen's fairytale (and UNESCO-listed) Bryggen district. But you want to arrive feeling refreshed and ready to explore one of the European bucket-list destinations. So keep reading our in-depth Oslo to Bergen guide to uncover how to travel in style and comfort in 2024!
By European standards, Bergen is a small city along Norway's southwestern coast. However, you'll arrive in the nation's second-largest urban center after your Oslo to Bergen transfer. Only 290,000 residents live on its picturesque coastline, surrounded by seven mountains along the Bergen peninsula.
Bergen has a rich history dating back to the Vikings. However, it took until 1070 when King Olav Kyrre declared it a town. It prospered as a trading hub and the gateway between Europe and Scandinavia along the North Sea. It was Norway's capital city until Oslo took over at the end of the 13th century.
For over 400 years, Bergen remained part of the Hanseatic Empire, which helped propel its harbor and establish the famous Bryggen district, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unfortunately, the city's luck ran out when Nazi Germany invaded in April 1940. The town witnessed a significant Allied air raid to neutralize the importance of its port. As a result, they destroyed many historic buildings in the process.
Bergen can thank much of its financial wealth today for discovering oil reserves off its coast. Experts estimated that the nation earned $140 billion in revenues. This helped rebuild and bring the city to new heights with its 21st-century tourism infrastructure.
Today, Bergen welcomes 2.7 million visitors through its gates, where you can immerse yourself in a city that combines its maritime history with modern innovations. Wooden houses decorated in vibrant reds and yellows line the cobbled lane like something from a Charles Dickens novel. Fragrant salty air floating from the coast, mixing with coffee beans and earth aromas from trendy coffee houses, sparks a sense of adventure as you lose yourself in the narrow side streets.
However, Bergen is most famous for its pristine nature. Whether it's fjords, the North Sea, sheer cliffs, or urban gardens, the City Between the Seven Mountains can't escape the outdoors. This town allows you to indulge in its geological wonders, from a scenic boat cruise to the adrenaline-filled funicular ride to Floyens summit, 1050 feet above sea level. City lovers, nature enthusiasts, and everyone in between will appreciate this slice of heaven!
Driving from Oslo to Bergen is a unique road trip. So, if it's your first time traveling on this route, you'll need to learn a few insider travel tips to overcome any hurdles you might encounter!
In 2024, scientists ranked Norway as Europe's greenest country. It's one of the continent's last wildernesses, where majestic waterfalls drop into gaping valleys below. So don't just watch Mother Nature drive by your window; get out and explore!
By stopping at the pretty lakeside town of Eidfjord, you can admire its lake and all the reasons why Norway is on the tourist map. But if you want a truly remote experience, a trip to Voringsfossen is a must. You'll hear its roaring echoes before you see this geological wonder!
Purchasing your tickets today might seem dramatic. But Norway is Europe's third-most expensive country to visit!
Reserve your place early to save hard-earned cash, whether it's for transportation or accommodation. You can even book a seat with Daytrip's private door-to-door service with free cancellation 24 hours before departure!
Locals are a vital reason Norway is a wild paradise, adhering to green incentives and respecting the land. So when you're a guest in the nation, follow in their footsteps and help contribute to sustainable travel.
The "leave no trace" vision is an excellent concept to follow. And be mindful of preserving the tranquility of the locals' oasis. Remember to use your inside voice even in bars and restaurants in Bergen.
Although scenic, the tour from Oslo to Bergen is time-consuming. So choosing the best mode of transportation to suit your needs and budget is essential. Fortunately, four options are available, each with unique advantages!
Since the train is the cheapest way to travel from Oslo to Bergen, it's the most popular mode of transport for locals. It's also sought-after by tourists, especially interrail users in the summer.
Trains with Norwegian State Railway, also known as Vy, offer up to six direct daily services with restrooms, wifi, and onboard catering facilities. You'll travel from Oslo Central Station to Bergen Station while reaching over 4,050 feet above sea level at its peak. It almost feels like flying!
Due to the extensive railway network and infrastructure on the Oslo to Bergen line, the bus is not a common travel method. It's more costly and time-consuming than the alternative public transportation method.
However, catching a bus is still possible and can be a suitable choice if you wish to stop at smaller cities en route. Bus firm Nor Way offers an indirect service that requires a transfer to the idyllic town of Sogndal. From here, you can catch another bus or, the most adventurous option, take a 4.5-hour scenic ferry with Norled to Bergen!
A flight from Oslo to Bergen is best if speed is your only priority. You can fly from Oslo to Bergen in under an hour with one of the numerous daily services. Just remember you also need to account for the time getting to and from the airport, as well as two hours for check-in and security, so the total travel time is more like four hours.
Book tickets online from TORP Sandefjord Airport (73 miles south of Oslo) with Wideroe to travel by plane. Or you can buy a seat from Oslo Gardermoen Airport (31 miles north of Oslo) through Norwegian Air. Once at Bergen Airport, you can travel downtown via the Bergen Light Rail or an airport taxi shuttle.
A private car transfer with Daytrip is by far the most comfortable and convenient way to travel from Oslo to Bergen. Not only will your professional driver collect you directly at your hotel in Oslo and drop you off at your new one in Bergen, but you can also decide the most convenient departure time. You don't need to worry about setting an awful 7:00 AM alarm to reach the station.
As you cruise in a clean, comfortable, and quiet vehicle, admiring the surreal views that flash by, you're free to satisfy your urge to stop and explore. Drammen is one of the busiest cities where you can experience authentic cultures due to the fewer tourists. But for peace and serenity, the charming villages of Ulvik and Vossevangen will appeal to your senses!
You're probably familiar with Bryggen, the city's most photogenic spot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But that's just one of the highlights of Norway's coolest city. You can expect a packed travel schedule after your Oslo to Bergen transfer!
The Floibanen funicular offers a scenic ride from the city center to the top of Mount Floyen, providing stunning views of Bergen and its surroundings. The thrilling journey takes you from ground zero to 1,050 feet in only 8 minutes!
You can enjoy panoramic vistas, hiking trails, and various outdoor activities once you arrive at the peak. The mountaintop also features a restaurant, a souvenir shop, and a playground, perfect for family travel.
Bergenhus Fortress has stood proudly in Bergen since the 13th century, but you'd never have guessed. After its reconstruction in 1514, this stone fortification's pristine condition looks like Norwegians built it this year.
Inside one of Norway's oldest forts, you can take a tour to uncover the fascinating military history of this setting. You can even learn how German forces stormed the building and added a fortified bunker!
Going to Bergen and not seeing the fjords is like going to San Francisco and not visiting Alcatraz Island. These natural wonders are the main reason why almost 3 million visitors flock here from the four corners of the globe. They're so significant that they entered the UNESCO Hall of Fame in 2005.
When staying several days in Bergen, you can book an overnight cruise to these deep glacial valleys. Or you can take a day trip and admire the dramatic landscapes as you speed along the sub-zero waterways!
Bryggen, Bergen’s old wharf, is one of the oldest ports in North Europe, and today, the wooden structures preserve its centuries-old legacy. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site which will draw you in with its lively energy and colorful buildings, no matter where your hotel is in Bergen. The stunning scenery and cozy eateries will ensure you don't leave.
Roaming in this neighborhood is like stepping back in time, with narrow alleyways, small stores, and museums that describe life during the Middle Ages. Due to the beautiful surroundings, many travelers overlook the Hanseatic Museum. However, it's a must-visit, offering a deep dive into the history of the Hanseatic merchants who once dominated the trade here.
Summer is the most popular time for visitors to travel from Oslo to Bergen. But there are several reasons why you should consider traveling during the shoulder seasons.
Bergen's daily high spring temperature is 58° Fahrenheit. Although this may not seem warm, it's the ideal climate for exploring the surrounding nature, whether hiking the plateau at Vidden or cycling from the old town along its coast.
April to early June is the second busiest period. So you'll still encounter a lively atmosphere without herds of tourist groups.
Temperatures start to cool in the fall, but it's still warm enough to spend the days outside. However, the best reason to visit from mid-September to the end of October is to get the best bang for your buck. Norway is expensive. But hotels and transportation companies offer enticing deals before the slow winter period.
You'll also increase your chance of spotting the northern lights and contribute to sustainable travel, as local businesses won't rely on just summer revenues.
This vibrant riverside city beautifully incorporates its port and inland waterway, the Drammensfjord, into its lively culture with contemporary flair. Vibrant Waterside
One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Norway awaits in Hordaland county, with cascades dropping from immense heights and a steep valley encased by towering mountains. Norway's Roaring Pride
At the end of a narrow valley and surrounded by steep mountains and cascading waterfalls, Eidfjord beckons you with a unique blend of unparalleled natural beauty and cultural heritage. Gateway to the Fjordlands
One of the longest and most impressive suspension bridges in the world, this spellbinding piece of architecture provides stunning views of the Norwegian fjords. Skyline Connector
Nestled in the heart of Norway’s fjord region, this picturesque and idyllic village will enrapture you with thriving fruit orchards, a poet’s quaint home and outdoor experiences. Orchard of Hardanger
Deriving from the Old Norse word meaning “wave” or “sea”, this Norwegian village is flanked by pristine waters and towering mountains, making it both a sports hotspot and a magical destination to recuperate. Extreme Sports Village
“I was unsure about this company but a few good reviews on Trip Advisor made me take the chance. I am so happy that we did. We needed a ride from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. Our driver Saksun was an excellent driver - it's not a long distance to drive (by Texas standards!) but the road is challenging and there are a lot of places where improvements to the road are being made. It took around 3 hours with a stop at a place with very clean bathrooms, very interesting hot springs and a place to get a snack and cold drinks. Saksun had a vehicle that was fantastic for this type of drive - a very comfortable ride indeed and was obviously well maintained and very clean. I highly recommend this company. I used to post on trip advisor as "lakekariba" but got out of the habit of doing so. This company was so easy to use and the result was so enjoyable that I felt that the company Daytrip and the driver Saksun had earned our trust and a glowing review. Gillian and Ted Pearsall Austin, Texas”
lakekariba
Dec 4, 2024“We used Daytrip to travel between Budapest and Vienna with a 2 hour stop for lunch in Bratislava. Our driver Zsombor arrived on time at our hotel in Budapest and was very friendly and informative throughout our trip. His vehicle was roomy and clean and he was kind enough to provide us with some bottled water for the trip. Our quick visit stop in Bratislava was very nice as well. He gave us plenty of time to explore the city and have lunch before meeting him again when it was time to head for Vienna. Daytrip provided us with a happy and trouble free transfer between Budapest and Vienna. Many thanks to your team and especially to your driver Zsombor!”
pgh1125
Dec 3, 2024“Last minute plan change and Daytrip was our last resort so I chatted with them and had an immediate response from a real person, best situation ever. Never used Daytrip before but the reviews were incredible so we took the chance and booked a driver at like 11-12pm and by 7am the next morning when we woke, they found us a driver and the driver had already texed us making contact! Very impressed and will definitely use them again. We went from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Tivat, Montenegro.”
James B
Nov 9, 2024“Andreas did a great job picking us up from Pireaus Cruise Port and taking us to our rental in Spata. The three of us had been on a long cruise and had 9 pieces of luggage. He arrived in an appropriate vehicle and loaded and unloaded all of it. We are very happy with out decision to book with Daytrip.”
LuckyTraveler01
Nov 1, 2024All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.
We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!
Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!
If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway
Norway