How to Get from Oslo to Bergen

Traveling 288 miles (464 km) from Oslo to Bergen is very straightforward. Oslo and Bergen are the biggest cities in Norway, and traveling between the two destinations is quick and easy by plane. The flight is less than an hour. Going by train or taking a road trip is considerably longer—six to seven hours without stops—but this is a scenic journey that travelers should consider if time isn't a limiting factor.

This relaxed seven-day itinerary serves up the best of Bergen, Oslo, and Aurland. It features a sunset walk along Oslo's Havnepromenaden, a scenic train ride on the Flam Railway, and a ferry adventure in the country's longest fjord to Bergen.

By Plane

Duration: 50 minutes

This is by far the quickest way to get to Bergen from Oslo. The only thing that you must worry about when you take the plane is booking a window seat. The views from above on a clear day are ones you cannot replicate from the ground. When flying to Bergen, you'll have a bird's-eye view of Hardangervidda Nasjonalpark and the Hardangerfjord, the fourth-largest fjord in the world.

By Train

Duration: 6.5 hours

If you're not in a hurry and want to see some of the sights Norway has, taking the train from Oslo to Bergen is ideal. Because Bergen and Oslo are the two biggest cities in Norway, they are easy to access via transit. You can take a train right from Oslo Central Station to the center of Bergen.

Although it's easy to take the train, it will feature multiple stops in smaller villages and towns along the way, like Voss. That means you'll get a chance to see places you wouldn't if you bought an airplane ticket.

As you travel, you'll have views of the Oslofjord, Drammensfjord, and Tyrifjorden Lake. In a plane, you get to fly over the Hardangervidda Nasjonalpark, but on the train, you'll get to travel right beside it. This will offer you exceptional views of Norway's largest national park.

You'll also be in Hordaland County, known for its lakes and mountain views.   

By Car or Private Transfer

Duration: 7 hours

This is the longest and trickiest way to get to Bergen, though incredibly scenic. Note that this is not an ideal option during winter months because of the conditions on the E16 highway.

When leaving Oslo, take the E18 to the E16, which runs alongside Tyrifjorden Lake, giving you spectacular views of the lake itself. Just past the exit for Tolpinrud, you will merge onto the Rv7—known as one of Norway's most scenic routes. It's nestled between beautiful mountains and natural bodies of water. On the Rv7, you'll also pass by the municipality of Eidfjord, which sits on the innermost part of the Hardanger Fjord. It's an interesting small town that is a great place to pull over and explore.

Continue on the Rv13 and pass by the breathtaking lake Granvinsvatnet. After reaching Vossevangen, switch highways again to the E16. The E16 is the main road between Bergen and Oslo. Depending on the time of year, you need to plan accordingly, as winter conditions are not ideal on this highway. The E16 will take you through Hordaland County, which again is known for its beautiful lakes and mountain views, eventually ending on E39.

Keep in mind that this trek does include toll roads, so ensure you know how to pay your tolls by checking with your rental company. If you'd rather, you can hire a private transfer, and you can focus on relaxing on the drive.