Norway: Fjords in 8 Days
Norway
Overview
This route uses Norway's 'Norway in a Nutshell' route as its backbone: the Bergen Railway across the mountain plateau, the dramatically steep Flåm Railway down to the fjord, and a boat cruise through Sognefjord's narrow arms, before finishing in Bergen's wharf district. No car needed — trains, ferries and buses cover the entire route.
- Duration
- 8 days
- Pace
- Relaxed
- Transport
- Public transport
- Estimated budget (comfortable)
- €1,700–€2,200
Route
Highlights
- The Flåm Railway's descent through 20 tunnels and waterfalls
- A fjord cruise on Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord
- Bryggen's colourful wharf houses in Bergen
- The Bergen Railway crossing the Hardangervidda plateau
Worth knowing
- Norway is one of the most expensive countries in Europe for food and lodging
- Weather in the fjords is unpredictable even in summer — pack layers
- Book the Flåm Railway and fjord cruise ahead in peak season
Day by day
Day 1
OsloMain activities
- Arrive, settle in
- Opera House and the harbour promenade
Optional additions
- Akershus Fortress
Day 2
OsloMain activities
- Vigeland Sculpture Park
- Viking Ship Museum or Fram Museum
Optional additions
- Holmenkollen ski jump viewpoint
Day 3
Oslo → FlåmMain activities
- Bergen Railway across the mountain plateau (~5h)
- Flåm Railway descent to the fjord (~1h)
Day 4
Flåm → Sognefjord cruise → BergenMain activities
- Fjord cruise through Nærøyfjord and Sognefjord (~2h)
- Bus or train onward to Bergen
This leg is the classic 'Norway in a Nutshell' route — book the connections as a package if possible.
Day 5
BergenMain activities
- Bryggen wharf and the fish market
- Fløibanen funicular for the city viewpoint
Optional additions
- Hanseatic Museum
Day 6
BergenMain activities
- Day trip by boat to a nearby fjord arm or island
Optional additions
- Edvard Grieg's home, Troldhaugen
Day 7
Bergen → OsloMain activities
- Free morning in the old town
- Return flight or scenic train back to Oslo
Day 8
OsloMain activities
- Departure
Alternatives
Fly directly Oslo → Bergen and do the Flåm/Sognefjord day trip as a round-trip from Bergen.
Add Ålesund and the Geirangerfjord for the full fjord-country experience.