Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Norway: Planes, Trains, and Ferries

Summary Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Norway:

With fjords sculpted by glaciers and lush green forests, exploring Norway offers a captivating experience, regardless of your chosen means of travel. Supported by a mix of state, private, and municipal entities, Norway’s transportation network is both expansive and effective. Although travel times may be lengthy, the comfort level is generally high across all services. Tickets for nearly all journeys are available for purchase online or through an app, often at reduced rates. A recommended starting point is the national public transit planner EnTur (also accessible via an app). It consolidates routes across the various modes of transport available in the country, although ticket purchases are typically made directly with individual service providers.

Ferries and Boats: The Most Scenic Travel Method

Ferries traversing the fjords accommodate vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists—payment is made directly to the staff onboard. While summer sees increased service frequency, it’s common to encounter lengthy waits to board. The renowned Hurtigruten coastal ferry connects 34 ports from Bergen to Kirkenes. While the primary emphasis is on premium cruise offerings, individual legs may be purchased—check the site for the “port to port” option. It is worth noting that several ports, such as Geiranger, lack service during the low season, as highlighted here. Some express boat routes (such as Bodø to Svolvær) can be tumultuous; for those prone to seasickness, flights may be a more suitable alternative. Alternatively, travelers should ensure they have seasickness tablets on hand.

Norway’s Train Network: Including Sleeper Options

Operated by the government-owned railway company Vy (formerly NSB), the country’s railway system connects major urban areas such as Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Bodø. The service is dependable, featuring spacious carriages with ample luggage space. Sleeper trains are available on certain long routes and present an excellent alternative to air travel. While compartments are compact, they are kept clean and comfortable, with the breathtaking scenery likely to keep you mesmerized. However, passengers should be aware that fares can be quite high. Reservations typically open 90 days in advance, and acquiring tickets a few days prior to travel can result in reduced prices. Timetables and reservations can be accessed via the Vy app or website, or through multilingual ticket machines available at stations. Onboard payments via credit or debit card are also accepted. Travel tip for train journeys: Discounted fares marketed as minipris tickets are a term that originates from NSB and may not appear when purchasing through Vy.

Buses: Essential for Rural Exploration

Buses are generally more economical than trains in Norway, making them an essential component for accessing rural regions. While the bus network operates efficiently, service frequency significantly decreases on weekends and outside the peak travel months (June to August). Long-distance routes are operated by both the state-owned Vy and private companies, including Nor-Way Bussekspress and Lavprisekspressen. Purchasing tickets in advance ensures a guaranteed seat, though walk-ups are usually permitted with payment on the bus. Travel tip for bus routes with ferry connections: Local bus services are managed at the municipal level, and some routes necessitate ferry passage. For long-distance services, the coach generally maneuvers on and off the ferry, but occasionally, passengers need to board the ferry and connect with a different bus upon disembarkation. Typically, these services are synchronized, allowing for smooth transitions from ferry to bus.

Renting a Car in Norway: Budget Considerations

Driving will undeniably offer the most freedom when aiming to explore remote areas. Generally, an international driving license is not required for short stays (verification with the Norwegian Public Roads Administration is advised). However, there are several crucial factors to consider before deciding to rent a vehicle. Driving often necessitates navigating fjords andferries, which can significantly prolong travel times for even short trips. Furthermore, driving during winter months can be challenging for those unfamiliar with icy conditions, and minor roads may be completely closed off. Rental costs can be substantial (although rates tend to decrease for extended periods), and companies frequently charge additional fees for drivers under 25. Fuel prices are relatively high—even by Norwegian standards—and it is essential to account for ferry fees and toll charges, all contributing to a potentially costly road trip.

Domestic Flights: Best for Time Constraints

For those with limited time wishing to visit more isolated cities, domestic flights tend to be the most practical form of travel. In many instances, this option may be less expensive than train travel; however, environmental considerations should be addressed. Airlines such as Norwegian and SAS service the principal urban centers, while Widerøe connects to smaller airports.

Public Transportation in Cities: User-Friendly Options

The organization of local transport across Norway is managed by municipal authorities, each providing its dedicated website or app for timetables and ticketing. While some systems are more modern than others, most are user-friendly. Oslo’s transportation network is managed by Ruter, Bergen employs Skyss, and Trondheim utilizes AtB.

Oslo: A Comprehensive Transport System

Oslo offers a well-coordinated public transit system, overseen by Ruter, covering all metro (T-bane), bus, tram, and ferry services throughout the city. Most popular attractions are situated in zones 1 and 2 (a two-zone ticket covers single, 24-hour, or 7-day travel for 69/209/615kr). Utilize the Ruter app to plan your travels and purchase tickets, or acquire them from self-service kiosks located at stations and stops. Tickets grant access to all modes of transport within the Ruter network. The T-bane operates five color-coded lines, all stopping at Nationaltheatret and Jernbanetorget (home to Oslo S, the primary train station). Six tram lines are also in service, all connecting through Oslo S, while buses cover even more of the city, including museum access at Bygdøy. Travel tip for Oslo: Acquiring an Oslo Pass (options for 24/48/72 hours at 520/760/895kr) grants free entry to many museums and includes complimentary transportation within zones 1 and 2.

Accessible Transportation in Norway

Services for travelers with disabilities are satisfactory in Norway, though there is room for improvement. When planning to travel by intercity bus, train, or boat, it may be necessary to call in advance (at least 24 hours) to arrange for assistance. Local buses generally offer wheelchair accessibility, and newer long-distance coaches are equipped with wheelchair lifts. T-bane stations in Oslo possess lifts or ramps for platform access, although a gap may exist between the platform and the train. All trams in Bergen are wheelchair accessible; however, certain tram lines in Oslo (lines 11, 12, and 19) are not. Metro, tram, and bus stops in larger cities are equipped with digital displays indicating imminent service arrivals. Onboard announcements indicate the next stop, and assistance dogs are generally permitted. For additional information, refer to our accessible travel resource page.