Norwegian Winter: Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø - 8 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo

Welcome to Oslo! Norway's rapidly growing capital is still considered a small city, helped by the fact that it's surrounded by mountains and sea. Not only is the city center made for walking, but outlying neighborhoods—filled with charm and character—are easily accessible by public transportation. Jump on a tram, train, or bus and discover all that Oslo has to offer.

Take a half-day wander around Aker Brygge, an area on the Oslofjord made up of beautiful, modern buildings where you can find bars and abundant nightlife. It acts as a sort of courtyard for the city of Oslo and brings together both tourists and locals to enjoy the great food, atmosphere, and entertainment.

Spend the afternoon visiting the Viking Ship Museum and the Norwegian Open-Air Folk Museum by way of public transportation. Both museums are in the same area, so they pair well together. Afterward, stroll along the Havnepromenaden (harbor promenade)—a new five-and-a-half-mile waterfront park, which combines sightseeing, history, art, architecture, and a little bit of adventure.

For dinner, head to the city's historic core, which buzzes with restaurants and cafés that stay cozy in cold weather and offer outdoor seating during the warmer months.

Day 2: Oslo - Train to Flåm

This morning, you'll have breakfast in Oslo and catch your train west to Flåm.

When you arrive in Myrdal, you will change trains and jump on the Flåm Railway. This is known as one of the steepest railways in the world, with spectacular views of mountainous peaks and fjords. Be sure to watch for the Kjosfossen waterfall (the train will stop here for photographs before departing again for Flåm.)

Once you arrive, you'll have the rest of the afternoon to explore this small village along the Sognefjord. You may want to set out on a nearby hiking trail, visit the Flåm Railway Museum, or tour the Flåm Church—constructed from wood in 1667.

Be sure to sample traditional Norwegian cuisine at one of the many cafes, pubs, or restaurants in town.

Day 3: Fjordcruise on Nærøyfjord -> Voss -> Bergen

After breakfast, get ready for a picturesque two-hour cruise on the fjord. This trip takes you into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nærøyfjord, where the passageways are so narrow, you can practically reach out and touch the mountainsides.

After arriving in Gudvangen, continue your journey on land as you transfer to Voss—a town known for its outdoor adventure activities and traditional culture. Stop by Smalahovetunet for lunch and experience traditional Norwegian fare in an ancient farmhouse, or check out one of the many winter festivals.

From Voss, take the train to Bergen and arrive in the afternoon with time to settle into your accommodation and explore the city's restaurants and nightlife.

Day 4: Explore Bergen with a Local

Today you’ll meet up with a local resident for a custom private tour of Bergen. Your guide, who was born and raised in the city, will help choose the right activity based on your interests. Some suggestions include:

Walk Through History (3 hours): Start from the city center and travel through narrow streets up to the mountainside known as “Sandviksbatteriet” with panoramic views over the city. From here, the trail takes you to a small, hidden cabin rich in World War II history. During the walk, your local guide will offer local stories of Bergen's past and culture.

Explore Bergen's Parks & Architecture (3 hours): This leisurely walking tour visits notable exteriors and city parks, starting with Saint Johannes, the largest church in Bergen. From there, walk through the botanic garden and onwards to the beautiful green spaces of Nygårdsparken. Wander the city's narrow streets lined with traditional Bryggen houses and eventually visit the waterfront Nordnes park. Your guide will share stories of life in Bergen, as well as offer lesser-known activity and restaurant recommendations not frequented by tourists.

Hike Mount Sandviken (2.5 hours): Climb Mount Sandviken, one of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen, and visit Stoltzekliven—a favorite local spot consisting of 900 steps built by sherpas from Nepal. This trail is home to the steepest race in the world and features spectacular views from the top.

Evening Segway Tour (2 hours): This fun guided excursion travels all over Bergen on two-wheeled motorized personal vehicles. You'll visit several key stops, including the top of Mount Fløyen, for a gorgeous view of the sunset.

The rest of the day is yours to continue exploring the city on your own. Consider picking up a 24-Hour Bergen Card, which offers free bus travel and free admittance to most museums (as well as other attractions.)

Day 5: Bergen - Flight to Tromsø

This morning, you'll take a flight to Tromsø, the largest city in northern Norway.

When you arrive, get to know the "Gateway to the Arctic." Surrounded by snowcapped mountains, Tromsø is a lively place with 65,000 inhabitants. The city has a large student population and is famous for its robust music and film culture.  

An excellent place to start is taking a ride on the cable car, which runs up to a mountain ledge in just four minutes. The two gondolas, known as Seal and Polar Bear, each have a capacity of 28 passengers. From the viewing platform at the upper station, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding islands, mountains, and fjords. 

In the evening, get ready to chase the northern lights*! Your guide will pick you up in Tromsø and take you on this fun after-dark excursion as they find the best locations away from the city lights for viewing and photographing this spectacular natural occurrence. Throughout the evening, your guide will offer interesting information about the northern lights, including why and how they occur, as well as legends and folklore of the indigenous Sami people. Your guide will even be able to assist you in adjusting your camera settings for the best photographs. If the weather allows, there will be a campfire with hot chocolate and marshmallows to end your night. 

*The tour provider will check the latest weather update in the early evening. If the likeliness of clear skies is low, the guide will inform you about the situation at pickup time, and you can decide to have your money refunded. If you choose to take your chances, the guide will do his/her best to succeed, but there is no guarantee.

Day 6: Dogsledding in Tromsø

After breakfast, get ready for an active day of dogsledding in the Norwegian countryside. (This is a half-day trip, lasting about 4 hours.)

There's no better way to see the Arctic terrain than by sled. Once you arrive at the dog sledding camp, you'll be briefed on the art of mushing with your partner. Together, you will share a sled and take turns driving and riding along the way. Professional guides will sled alongside you and offer any instruction you may need.

You'll journey along a 2.4 mile (4km) trail and have a meet-and-greet with 300+ huskies and their puppies. Stop for hot coffee, tea, and biscuits along the route and have time to hear more about the history of dog sledding from experienced guides.

At the end of your journey, sit around a campfire and have a traditional Norwegian meal of bidos—a hearty stew of reindeer meat with broth and veggies (vegetarian meals are available upon request.)

Day 7: Explore Tromsø in Winter

After breakfast, the day is free to explore Tromsø at your own speed. With a large university, animated restaurants and nightlife, art galleries and museums, and nearby ski resorts, Tromsø is a notoriously lively city. It also prides itself on having more pubs per capita than any other Norwegian town.

If you'd prefer an arranged excursion with a knowledgable guide, take a walking tour of Tromsø. Explore the largest city in the north—street by street—and take in its rich culture and beautiful architecture, including its colorful 18th-century wooden houses. View relics and buildings from the medieval era, and learn about the city’s extensive fishing culture, which was established when trade in Norway was at its peak. End your day with a tour of the stunning Arctic Cathedral.

Day 8: Depart Norway

After breakfast, head to the airport and catch your departing flight. Although it's time to say goodbye to Norway, the memories from your trip will stay with you forever.