Twelve days to two weeks is a great length for a Norway trip with stops in Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom. Travelers with less time can hit the route’s highlights in 8 to 11 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Skei or Bergen. Get inspired with our Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom trip ideas below.
“`html
Planning Your Trip: How Many Days Do You Need in Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger & Lom?
- Most travelers find that 12-14 days offers a well-paced experience when visiting Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom combined. This allows for sufficient time to explore each location without feeling overly rushed.
- Visiting Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom in a shorter timeframe of 8 to 11 days is certainly possible, but it will likely feel rushed, potentially sacrificing deeper exploration and relaxation. Careful planning is crucial.
- With 15 or more days at your disposal, most travelers choose to enhance their Norwegian adventure by adding more captivating stops to their itinerary, allowing for a more comprehensive exploration of the region.
- The most common extensions to these itineraries often include the scenic beauty of Skei and the vibrant city of Bergen, both offering unique experiences and attractions.
Planning a trip to Norway requires careful consideration of how much time to dedicate to each destination. This guide focuses on crafting an itinerary that balances the urban charm of Oslo with the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip, tailoring it to your specific interests and preferences.
Delving Deeper: Recommended Itineraries for Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger & Lom
Option 1: A Carefully Curated 12-Day Itinerary
This 12-day itinerary provides a balanced taste of Norway, allowing you to immerse yourself in both the cultural attractions of the cities and the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscapes. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a mix of activities and relaxation.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Oslo, settle in, and begin exploring the vibrant city center. | Oslo |
| Day 2 | Oslo City Tour, visiting iconic landmarks and museums. Immerse yourself in Norwegian history and culture. | Oslo |
| Day 3 | Drive to Lom via the Valdresflye National Scenic Route, a breathtaking journey through stunning landscapes. | Lom |
| Day 4 | Hiking in Lom & Jotunheimen National Park. Discover the majestic mountains and pristine wilderness. | Lom |
| Day 5 | Lom – Scenic Drive to Ålesund. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you approach the coast. | Ålesund |
| Day 6 | Explore Ålesund, admiring its unique Art Nouveau architecture and enjoying the coastal atmosphere. | Ålesund |
| Day 7 | Ålesund – Drive to Geiranger, a journey to one of Norway’s most iconic fjords. | Geiranger |
| Day 8 | Outdoor Activities in Geiranger. Consider a boat trip on the fjord, hiking, or kayaking. | Geiranger |
| Day 9 | Geiranger – Drive to Aurland (via Loen), experiencing the diverse landscapes along the way. | Aurland |
| Day 10 | Fjordcruise in the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning natural beauty. | Aurland |
| Day 11 | Aurland – Drive back to Oslo, reflecting on the incredible journey. | Oslo |
| Day 12 | Depart Oslo, taking with you unforgettable memories of Norway. |
This itinerary is designed to provide a rich and rewarding experience, balancing activity and relaxation. It allows you to soak in the beauty of the Norwegian landscape while enjoying the cultural offerings of its cities. The drive from Oslo to Lom, and then onto Ålesund and Geiranger, is truly spectacular and provides access to amazing outdoor experiences. The journey ends in Aurland, before returning to Oslo.
Option 2: An Immersive 2-Week Experience
For those with a bit more time, this two-week itinerary offers a more leisurely pace, allowing for deeper exploration and more opportunities for spontaneous adventures. You’ll have ample time to hike, cruise the fjords, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Oslo, get settled, and explore the city’s waterfront area. | Oslo |
| Day 2 | Oslo City Tour, with a focus on museums, parks, and local neighborhoods. | Oslo |
| Day 3 | Drive to Lom (Valdresflye National Scenic Route), stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. | Lom |
| Days 4-5 | Hiking in Lom & Jotunheimen National Park. Enjoy multiple trails and breathtaking mountain scenery. | Lom |
| Day 6 | Lom – Drive to Ålesund, taking in the diverse landscapes of central Norway. | Ålesund |
| Day 7 | Explore Ålesund, visiting the Aksla viewpoint and the Atlantic Sea Park. | Ålesund |
| Day 8 | Ålesund – Drive to Geiranger, perhaps stopping at scenic spots for photo opportunities. | Geiranger |
| Days 9-10 | Outdoor Activities in Geiranger. A longer stay allows for more diverse activities, such as kayaking and hiking to waterfalls. | Geiranger |
| Day 11 | Geiranger – Drive to Aurland (via Loen), enjoying the scenic route and charming villages. | Aurland |
| Day 12 | Fjordcruise in the Nærøyfjord, allowing ample time to appreciate the stunning natural surroundings. | Aurland |
| Day 13 | Aurland – Drive to Oslo, with options to stop at interesting sites along the route. | Oslo |
| Day 14 | Depart Oslo, filled with memories of Norway’s natural beauty and cultural experiences. |
A two-week itinerary gives you time to truly savor each location, indulge in more activities, and create lasting memories. The freedom to spend more time hiking in Jotunheimen National Park or exploring the fjords around Geiranger makes this a truly immersive experience.
Navigating Norway: How to Travel Between Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger & Lom
Planning your transportation between these incredible locations is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here’s a brief overview of the best options for traveling between Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom.
Getting from Oslo to Ålesund
Traveling the distance from Oslo to Ålesund offers several options, including flights, trains, and scenic drives. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your budget and preferences. Consider the time of year, as weather conditions can impact travel.
Getting from Ålesund to Geiranger
The journey from Ålesund to Geiranger is relatively short, but incredibly scenic. Consider renting a car to explore the area at your own pace, or opt for a bus tour that includes stops at key viewpoints. Ferry options are also available, providing a unique perspective on the fjords.
Reaching Aurland from Oslo
The route from Oslo to Aurland is known for its stunning scenery. While the drive itself is beautiful, many travelers prefer to take the train to Flåm and then connect to Aurland, allowing them to experience the famous Flåm Railway, one of the steepest railway lines in the world.
“`
**Word Count of New Content:** 978 words.
B-1848