Transportation Guide for Norway: How to Get Around Smoothly & Scenic

Introduction

Traveling across Norway is a breathtaking journey in itself. With some of the most scenic transportation routes in the world, including panoramic train lines, fjord-hugging highways, and ferry crossings through icy waters, getting around the country isn’t just functional—it’s an experience.

Thanks to Norway’s well-developed infrastructure, even remote areas like the Lofoten Islands or Arctic towns like Tromsø are surprisingly accessible. Whether you're planning a cross-country rail trip, a rental car road trip, or simply want to know the best way to get from Oslo to Bergen, this guide covers everything you need to navigate Norway with confidence.

1. 🚄 Trains in Norway: Comfortable & Scenic

Norway’s train system is run by Vy (formerly NSB), offering clean, punctual, and incredibly scenic services.

Key Routes:

• Oslo – Bergen (Bergen Line): One of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world.
• Oslo – Trondheim (Dovre Line): Passes through valleys, lakes, and forested terrain.
• Trondheim – Bodø (Nordland Line): The only train route that crosses the Arctic Circle.
• Flåm Railway: A steep, spectacular 20 km branch line with fjord views.

Why Choose Trains:

• Spacious seating, often with free Wi-Fi
• Clean toilets and food carts
• Great for solo and family travelers alike

🎟️ Book early on vy.no for the best prices.

👉 Pair your rail itinerary with Top Destinations in Norway

2. ✈️ Domestic Flights: Fast & Necessary for Long Distances

Given Norway’s size and terrain, domestic flights are sometimes the most practical choice.

Key Routes:

• Oslo to Tromsø (~2 hrs)
• Oslo to Bodø / Ålesund / Kristiansand
• Bergen to Svalbard (via Tromsø)

Airlines:

• SAS and Norwegian Air dominate domestic routes.
• Widerøe services smaller towns with short-hop flights.

💡 Domestic airports are efficient and usually well-connected by public transport.

👉 For remote destinations like Svalbard or Alta, combine flight with Things to Do in Norway

3. 🚍 Buses: Reliable & Comprehensive

Buses fill in the gaps where trains don’t go—especially in rural and fjord regions.

Operators to Know:

• NOR-WAY Bussekspress: Long-distance coach services
• Vy Buss: Companion to the rail network
• Tide, Lavprisekspressen, Nettbuss: Regional services

🚌 Booking platforms like Entur or Nor-Way.no consolidate all public transport schedules.

📌 Tip: In cities, download local transit apps (e.g., Ruter for Oslo, Skyss for Bergen)

4. 🚗 Car Rental & Driving: Ultimate Flexibility

Norway’s roads are smooth, well-marked, and jaw-droppingly scenic. A rental car lets you explore at your own pace.

Ideal for:

• Exploring Lofoten Islands
• Driving the Atlantic Ocean Road
• Visiting remote national parks

Things to Know:

• Drive on the right
• Headlights must be on at all times
• Speed limits are strictly enforced (even with cameras in tunnels!)
• Winter tires are mandatory Nov–April

🧊 Prepare for narrow fjord roads and tunnels—many are one-lane with passing points.

👉 Combine with Adventure & Activities in Norway

5. 🚢 Ferries & Boats: An Essential Part of the Journey

In a country carved by fjords and dotted with islands, ferries are often not optional—they're part of the highway.

Types of Ferries:

• Short Fjord Crossings: Car ferries like Lote–Anda or Vangsnes–Dragsvik
• Passenger-Only Express Boats: Along the coast and island chains
• Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage: Legendary cruise-style ferry from Bergen to Kirkenes

Booking:

• Most short-distance ferries don’t require advance booking
• Long-distance or scenic tours can be booked on Hurtigruten.no or Norled.no

🌊 Some routes even accept public transport passes in places like Tromsø or Nordland.

👉 Learn more in Beaches in Norway

6. 🚲 Cycling in Norway: For the Adventurous Traveler

For those who like to travel slow and earn the views, Norway’s cycling routes are breathtaking.

Top Cycling Routes:

• Rallarvegen: From Finse to Flåm—gravel road with mountain passes and lakes.
• Lofoten Islands (E10): Gentle roads, postcard views, and ocean air.
• National Cycle Route 1: Runs from the Swedish border down Norway’s coast.

Good to Know:

• Helmets are strongly recommended
• Many buses/trains allow bike transport with extra ticket

🚲 Electric bikes available in major cities and tourist areas.

7. 🚖 Taxis, Ride Shares & Local Transport

In Cities:

• Taxis are clean and safe, but expensive.
• Apps: Bolt, Oslo Taxi, Norgestaxi
• Uber operates minimally and is limited.

Public Transport:

• Oslo: Metro (T-bane), tram, bus, ferry—download Ruter app
• Bergen: Light rail (Bybanen) and Skyss buses
• Trondheim: Bus and tram network via AtB

🎟️ Use apps or purchase 24-hr / 7-day passes for best value.

👉 For help navigating your stay, see Accommodation in Norway

8. 🧭 Apps & Tools to Make It Easier

• Entur (nationwide trip planner)
• Ruter (Oslo region)
• Skyss (Bergen area)
• AtB (Trondheim)
• Hurtigruten (coastal cruise and ferry)
• Vy (trains & regional buses)
• Google Maps works well in most areas

📲 Save routes offline if traveling through rural or mountain areas with spotty signal.

9. 🧳 Accessibility & Tips for Families

• Public transport is stroller and wheelchair-friendly in most cities.
• Discounted youth/senior/student fares available.
• Most major routes have English signage and announcements.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Consider renting a car if traveling with kids for flexibility.

10. 🗺️ Sample Itineraries Using Public Transport

Oslo → Bergen:

• Train via Flåm Railway + ferry across Aurlandsfjord
• Stunning 8-hour journey: book as "Norway in a Nutshell"

Bergen → Ålesund:

• Bus + ferry via coastal roads—bring a camera!

Oslo → Tromsø:

• Quick flight, then rent a car to explore fjords and northern towns

👉 Great additions to Things to Do in Norway

Final Thoughts

Getting around Norway is not only easy—it’s part of the experience. Whether you're watching glaciers slide past your train window, cruising through the fjords, or navigating a cliffside road, transportation in Norway is built for efficiency, safety, and awe.

Plan smart, book key journeys in advance, and leave room for detours—because in Norway, even getting lost can be beautiful.