For most travelers, about a week is the perfect amount of time for a Norway trip with stops in Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland. Travelers with less time can hit the route’s highlights in four to six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Geilo, Balestrand, or Ullensvang. Get inspired with the below Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland trip ideas.
## Exploring the Wonders of Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland: A Journey Through Norway’s Heart
Norway, a land of breathtaking fjords, vibrant cities, and charming villages, beckons travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Among the most sought-after destinations in this Scandinavian paradise are Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland, each offering a distinct perspective on the Norwegian experience. Planning a trip to these locations requires careful consideration of the time needed to fully appreciate their offerings.
Generally, most travelers find that spending around 7 days provides a balanced experience of Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland. This timeframe allows for exploring the key attractions of each location without feeling overly rushed. However, the ideal duration can vary depending on individual preferences and travel styles.
Visiting Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland in a shorter timeframe, such as 4 to 6 days, is certainly possible. However, it’s important to acknowledge that such a compressed itinerary will likely feel rushed, requiring sacrifices in terms of depth of exploration and relaxation time. Travelers opting for this shorter duration should prioritize their must-see attractions and be prepared for a more fast-paced travel experience.
Conversely, extending your trip to 8 days or more opens up opportunities to delve deeper into the region and explore additional destinations. Many travelers choose to add stops such as Geilo, Balestrand, and Ullensvang to their itineraries, further enriching their Norwegian adventure. These extensions provide a chance to experience even more of Norway’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.
## Recommended Itineraries for Oslo, Bergen & Aurland: Tailoring Your Trip to Your Interests
To help you plan your perfect Norwegian getaway, here are some recommended itineraries for exploring Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland, catering to different timeframes and travel preferences:
### Recommended Itinerary for 1 Week: A Classic Norwegian Experience
This itinerary offers a balanced introduction to the highlights of Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland, providing a taste of city life, scenic landscapes, and local culture.
**Day 1: Arrival in Oslo – Embracing the Capital City**
Begin your journey in Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital city. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and take some time to familiarize yourself with the city center. Consider a stroll along the iconic Oslofjord, admiring the modern architecture and waterfront views.
**Day 2: Exploring Oslo with a Local – Unveiling Hidden Gems**
Immerse yourself in the local culture with a guided tour of Oslo. A local expert can provide insights into the city’s history, art scene, and hidden gems, offering a more authentic and engaging experience. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Akershus Fortress, and the Oslo Opera House.
**Day 3: Flåm Railway – Riverside Farm Lodge – A Scenic Journey**
Embark on a breathtaking train journey on the Flåm Railway, renowned as one of the steepest railway lines in the world. This scenic route takes you through stunning landscapes of cascading waterfalls, verdant valleys, and towering mountains. Upon arrival in Flåm, transfer to a charming Riverside Farm Lodge nestled in the heart of Aurland.
**Day 4: Aurland Slow Travel – Immersing in Local Culture**
Embrace the slow-paced lifestyle of Aurland, immersing yourself in the local culture and natural beauty. Participate in light hiking excursions, explore the fjord by kayak or canoe, and savor the flavors of organic cuisine at your lodge.
**Day 5: Aurland – Sognefjord – Bergen – Cruising Through Majestic Waters**
Embark on a scenic ferry journey through the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages that line the fjord’s shores. Arrive in Bergen, a charming city surrounded by seven mountains.
**Day 6: Bergen City Tour – Discovering a UNESCO-Listed Gem**
Explore Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage city, with a guided tour. Discover the historic Bryggen wharf, wander through the colorful streets, and ascend Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords.
**Day 7: Departure from Bergen – Farewell to Norway**
Depart from Bergen, cherishing the memories of your weeklong Norwegian adventure.
This itinerary offers a harmonious blend of city exploration, scenic train journeys, fjord cruises, and cultural immersion. The pace is relatively relaxed, allowing you to savor each experience and create lasting memories.
### Extended Itineraries: Delving Deeper into the Norwegian Landscape
For those with more time to spare, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate additional destinations and activities:
### 5-Day Itinerary Including Geilo: Mountains and Fjords in a Nutshell
This itinerary focuses on showcasing the diversity of Norway’s landscapes, from the mountainous interior to the western fjords.
**Day 1: Arrival in Oslo – Setting the Stage for Adventure**
Begin your journey in Oslo, taking time to settle in and explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
**Day 2: Train to Geilo – Hiking in the Mountains**
Take a scenic train journey to Geilo, a charming mountain village known for its hiking trails and outdoor activities. Spend the day exploring the surrounding mountains, enjoying panoramic views and fresh air.
**Day 3: Train to Flåm – Transfer to Aurland – Descending into Fjord Country**
Continue your train journey to Flåm, followed by a transfer to Aurland. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way, transitioning from mountains to fjords.
**Day 4: Aurland – Ferry to Bergen – A Coastal Transition**
Experience a scenic ferry ride from Aurland to Bergen, cruising through the majestic Sognefjord.
**Day 5: City Tour – Departure from Bergen – Farewell from the Coast**
Explore Bergen with a city tour, followed by your departure, concluding your whirlwind adventure.
This itinerary offers a fast-paced but rewarding experience, showcasing the contrasts between Norway’s mountainous interior and its stunning western coastline.
### 8-Day Itinerary Including Balestrand: A Coastal Exploration
This itinerary emphasizes coastal exploration, including a visit to the charming village of Balestrand.
**Day 1: Arrival in Bergen – Embracing the Coastal Charm**
Arrive in Bergen and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
**Day 2: Local Bergen Tour – Fjord Cruise – Discovering Bergen and its Fjords**
Explore Bergen with a local tour, followed by a scenic fjord cruise, offering a comprehensive introduction to the city and its surrounding waters.
**Day 3: Fjord Cruise to Balestrand – A Village Escape**
Embark on a fjord cruise to Balestrand, a picturesque village nestled on the shores of the Sognefjord.
**Day 4: Transfer to Flåm – Journey to the Heart of the Fjords**
Transfer to Flåm, the gateway to the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord.
**Day 5: Slow Travel in Aurland – Immerse Yourself in Nature**
Enjoy a day of slow travel in Aurland, exploring the fjord by kayak, hiking through the countryside, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
**Day 6: Nærøyfjord cruise – Flåm Railway to Oslo – A Scenic Return**
Take a scenic cruise through the Nærøyfjord, followed by a breathtaking train journey on the Flåm Railway to Oslo.
**Day 7: Explore Oslo with a Local – Unveiling Oslo’s Secrets**
Explore Oslo with a local guide, discovering the city’s hidden gems and cultural attractions.
**Day 8: Depart Oslo – Reflecting on Coastal Beauty**
Depart from Oslo, cherishing the memories of your coastal adventure.
This itinerary offers a more in-depth exploration of the western fjords, including a visit to the charming village of Balestrand and a scenic journey on the Flåm Railway.
### 2-Week Itinerary Including Ålesund, Hurtigruten & Trondheim: A Comprehensive Norwegian Odyssey
This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Norway, encompassing its major cities, fjords, and coastal landscapes.
**Day 1: Arrive in Oslo**
**Day 2: Explore Oslo with a Local**
**Day 3: Train to Flåm – Transfer to Aurland**
**Day 4: Hiking & Goat Farm Tour**
**Day 5: Aurland – Ferry to Bergen**
**Day 6: Explore Bergen with a Local**
**Day 7: Fjordcruise to Hardangerfjord**
**Day 8: Free Day in Bergen – Board Hurtigruten**
**Day 9: Hurtigruten Northbound – Overnight in Ålesund**
**Day 10: Ålesund – Hurtigruten – Geirangerfjord**
**Day 11: Hurtigruten – Arrive in Trondheim**
**Day 12: Free Day in Trondheim**
**Day 13: Trondheim – Return to Oslo by Train**
**Day 14: Depart Oslo**
This extensive itinerary allows you to experience the breadth and depth of Norway’s beauty, from its vibrant cities to its majestic fjords and charming coastal towns.
## How to Travel Between Oslo, Bergen & Aurland: Navigating Your Journey
Planning your transportation between Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here’s a guide to the most common transportation options:
**How to get from Bergen to Aurland:**
The fastest way to travel from Bergen to Aurland, a distance of approximately 108 miles (174 km), is by renting a car or hiring a private transfer. This option offers flexibility and allows you to enjoy the scenic mountain views along the way. The drive typically takes around 2.5 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes dotted with lakes and rivers.
**How to get from Oslo to Bergen:**
Traveling the 288 miles (464 km) between Oslo and Bergen is relatively straightforward. As Norway’s two largest cities, Oslo and Bergen are well-connected by various transportation options. Flying is the quickest option, with flights taking less than an hour. However, taking the train or embarking on a road trip offers a more scenic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Norwegian landscape. The train journey or road trip typically takes around six to seven hours, excluding stops.
By carefully planning your itinerary and transportation, you can create an unforgettable journey through the heart of Norway, exploring the captivating cities of Oslo and Bergen and the charming village of Aurland.
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