With only 480 kilometers (just under 300 miles) separating Oslo and Bergen in Norway, many travelers choose to visit both cities during their stay. Not only will you find that both Oslo and Bergen offer world-class museums, beautiful public spaces, and rich local culture, but the journey in between can be as enjoyable as taking in spectacular views of some of Norway’s most scenic spots. countryside
There are four main options for traveling between the two cities. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, such as costs, time commitment, and flexibility offered. No matter which means of transport you choose, keep in mind that depending on the season, you may face an onslaught of tourists, particularly in the summer, which can lead to a price increase or even total sale.
Air
Flying from Oslo to Bergen is a quick 50 minute trip. The airlines serving the Oslo-Bergen route are Scandinavian Airlines, Norwegian Airlines and Wideroe Airlines, which offer flights several times a day. Flying can be a quick and relatively easy option, but it’s not always a great option for budget travelers. However, if you are flexible with your schedule, you may be able to find a flight that is cheaper than taking the train.
Train
No other train journey in Europe is as scenic or enjoyable as the train connection between Oslo and Bergen, also called ‘The world’s finest train journey’. There are several daily departures on the Bergen railway, and the journey from Oslo to Bergen takes approximately seven hours. You’ll save money by choosing a set date and time, but more expensive and flexible ticket options are also available.
Car
If you plan to rent a car in Oslo (or Bergen) and want to drive to the other city, the fastest way to do so is to take the E16 west road for seven hours. Not only will you save time with this route, but you will have the opportunity to drive through the longest tunnel in the world.
However, if you’re short on time and views are a priority, consider driving on Route E134, followed by Routes 40 and 7. This option will take half an hour longer than Route E16, but is much more scenic. You’ll also be able to stop at any of the towns along the way, including Kongsberg, Nore og Uvdal, and Eidfjord.
If traveling from Oslo, head west towards Hardangervidda National Park, and if coming from Bergen, head east on Route 7, followed by Route 40 and Route E134.
Bus
Nor-Way Bussekspress, which is an intercity bus service, operates between Oslo and Bergen with regular departures in both cities. Your best option is to buy your tickets at the main bus station in the city centers on the day of your trip, or online a few days before you leave. The journey takes about 10 hours, so while it is certainly not the fastest option, it is probably the cheapest way to travel between Oslo and Bergen.
Popular attractions in Oslo
Once you reach your destination, you will definitely want to start exploring. In Norway’s capital Oslo, museums of all kinds, including the Norwegian Maritime Museum and the Viking Ship Museum top the list of must-sees.
Other important tourist attractions within the city include Vigeland Park which is one of the largest sculpture parks in the world, the medieval castle, Akershus Fortress, for which a famous Disney attraction was named, the Nobel Center. de la Paz, the Kon-Tiki Museum that honors the most famous explorers in history, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, the Royal Palace, which was the former residence of King Carlos III, and the Fram Museum, which details the role of Norway in polar exploration.
Popular attractions in Bergen
Although smaller than Olso, Bergen still has a lot to offer its visitors. Most surprisingly, it is surrounded by Norway’s largest fjord, the Sognefjord, home to the UNESCO World Heritage List site Bryggen, and many unspoiled natural wonders.
The Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene, housed in one of the oldest wooden buildings in the city, the adorable Gingerbread Village and the Bergen Aquarium make this city a wonderful place for families.
History buffs will enjoy a trip to Bergenhus Fortress, which is one of Norway’s best-preserved fortresses, and for those with a taste for the macabre, the Leprosy Museum at St. Jørgen Hospital offers to visitors a look at the treatment center. which had the highest concentration of patients in all of Europe.
