Oslo to Bergen at a Glance: Quick Facts for 2025
Planning your journey across Norway? Here’s everything you need to know in a nutshell before we dive into the details.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~460 km (285 miles) by road |
| Travel Time | 7-14 hours depending on the mode of transport |
| Best Way | Train (The Bergensbanen) for unparalleled scenery & comfort |
| Est. Cost | NOK 400 – 2,500+ per person (one way) |
| Best Time | June – August for the best weather, green landscapes & long days |
The “Day Trip” Dilemma: Why a One-Way Journey is Your Best Bet
Let’s address the main question right away: can you do a day trip from Oslo to Bergen and return on the same day? The short answer is no. With the fastest direct train or car journey taking around 7 hours one-way, you would spend at least 14 hours in transit with no time left to explore beautiful Bergen.
But here’s the secret: you shouldn’t think of it as just getting from A to B. You should reframe it as an epic, one-way scenic travel day. The journey itself, especially by train, is one of Norway’s most spectacular attractions. It’s not a transfer; it’s the main event.
How to Get From Oslo to Bergen: 4 Best Ways Compared
Crossing the rugged spine of Norway is an adventure. Whether you prioritize scenery, speed, or budget, here’s a breakdown of the best ways to make the trip in 2025.
1. The Train: A World-Class Scenic Journey (The Top Choice)
Hands down, the most recommended way to travel between Oslo and Bergen is by train. The Bergensbanen (Bergen Line) is consistently voted one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, and for good reason. Over approximately seven hours, you’ll glide through a breathtaking panorama of Norwegian nature—from the dense forests and placid lakes near Oslo to the stark, lunar-like beauty of the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, Europe’s highest. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
The Classic Bergensbanen (Direct Train)
The standard, direct train operated by Vy is the simplest and most comfortable option. You can relax in your seat and watch the incredible scenery unfold. Booking is straightforward on the Vy website or app. For the best prices, look for “Minipris” (low-fare) tickets, which can be a fraction of the full price if booked weeks or months in advance. Onboard amenities typically include a cafe car, free Wi-Fi (which can be spotty on the plateau), and power outlets at your seat.
The “Norway in a Nutshell®” Experience
If you want to pack even more iconic scenery into your travel day, the “Norway in a Nutshell®” tour is a fantastic, pre-packaged option. It’s not a single train but a seamless combination of different modes of transport designed to showcase the best of Fjord Norway.
- Train (Oslo to Myrdal): You’ll start on the main Bergensbanen line, climbing up to the mountain station of Myrdal.
- Scenic Train (Myrdal to Flåm): Here, you switch to the legendary Flåm Railway, one of the steepest railway lines in the world, which winds its way down a spectacular valley to the fjord below.
- Fjord Cruise (Flåm to Gudvangen): From Flåm, you’ll board a boat for a stunning cruise on the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the narrowest and most dramatic fjords in the world.
- Bus (Gudvangen to Voss): A scenic bus ride takes you up the hairpin bends of Stalheimskleiva (in summer) to the town of Voss.
- Train (Voss to Bergen): The final leg of your journey is a short train ride into Bergen.
This all-in-one ticket takes about 12-14 hours and handles all the logistics for you, making it the ultimate way to see the fjords en route to Bergen.
2. By Car: The Ultimate Road Trip
Driving offers unparalleled freedom to stop wherever you want for photos, hikes, or a coffee. The 460 km journey takes about 7-8 hours of pure driving, but you should realistically budget 9-11 hours to truly enjoy it.
- Route Options: The two main routes are the E16 (faster, more tunnels) and the RV7 (more scenic, crosses the Hardangervidda plateau). Note that the RV7 can be closed in winter due to snow.
- Tolls (Bompenger): Driving in Norway involves automated tolls. Your rental car will have a tag, and the fees will be charged to you later. Expect to pay NOK 300-500 in tolls.
- Ferries: Depending on your exact route, you may need to take a short, scenic car ferry, which adds to the adventure.
- Scenery: A major advantage of driving is the ability to visit attractions right off the road, like the powerful Vøringsfossen waterfall.
3. By Plane: The Fastest Option
If you’re short on time, flying is your quickest bet. The flight itself is only about 55 minutes. However, when you factor in travel to/from airports, security, and boarding, the total door-to-door time is closer to 5 hours. Airlines like SAS and Norwegian operate regular flights between Oslo (OSL) and Bergen (BGO). This is a practical choice, but you will miss all of the magnificent landscapes the country is famous for.
4. By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Choice
For the budget-conscious traveler, the bus is the most economical option. The journey takes 8-9 hours and is comfortable enough, but it lacks the panoramic views and iconic status of the train. It’s a functional way to get from A to B without breaking the bank.
| Mode | Time | Avg. Cost | Scenery Score (1-5) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | ~7 hours | $$-$$$ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Scenery lovers, comfort |
| Car | 8-10 hours | $$$ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Flexibility, road trippers |
| Plane | ~5 hours total | $$-$$$$ | ⭐️ | Speed, business travel |
| Bus | 8-9 hours | $ | ⭐️⭐️ | Budget travelers |
Sample Itinerary: A Perfect One-Day Journey by Train
Here’s how you can turn your travel day into an unforgettable Norwegian experience:
- 8:25 AM: Depart from Oslo Central Station. Grab a coffee and a pastry before boarding, and settle into your pre-booked seat.
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Watch the landscape transform from urban sprawl to rolling green hills, dense forests, and pristine lakes.
- 1:00 PM: The train ascends onto the Hardangervidda plateau. Look out for Finse station at 1,222 meters, the highest point on the line. The landscape here is stark, wild, and beautiful.
- 3:00 PM: Begin the dramatic descent towards the coast. You’ll pass through countless tunnels carved directly into the mountainside.
- 3:30 PM: Arrive at Bergen Station, feeling refreshed and inspired.
- 4:30 PM: Check into your hotel and drop off your bags.
- 5:30 PM: Walk over to the Fløibanen funicular for a quick ride up Mount Fløyen. The panoramic views of the city, mountains, and fjords at sunset are breathtaking.
- 7:30 PM: Head down to the historic Bryggen Wharf for dinner. Grab fresh seafood from a stall at the Fish Market or find a cozy restaurant.
Where to Eat in Bergen on Your First Night
After your epic journey, you’ll be hungry. Bergen’s food scene has something for everyone.
Budget-Friendly ($): Trekroneren
An institution in Bergen! This legendary hot dog stand offers a huge variety of delicious and unique reindeer sausage and other gourmet hot dogs. It’s the perfect cheap, quick, and satisfying meal.
Mid-Range Norwegian Classics ($$): Pingvinen
For a taste of authentic Norwegian home cooking, head to Pingvinen. This cozy, retro-style gastropub serves hearty, traditional dishes like ‘plukkfisk’ (hashed cod) in a warm and lively atmosphere.
Historic Ambiance ($$$): Bryggeloftet & Stuene
Located right on the Bryggen Wharf, this classic restaurant has been serving Bergen locals and visitors since 1910. With its traditional decor and a menu focused on high-quality fish and game, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable first dinner in the city.
Planning Your Journey: Insider Tips & Packing List
A little preparation goes a long way. Here are our top tips for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
- Book in Advance: Book train tickets on the Vy website 2-3 months ahead to secure the cheapest “Minipris” fares. They can sell out quickly!
- Pick the Best Seat: When traveling from Oslo to Bergen, a seat on the left side of the train often provides some of the best initial views, though honestly, the scenery is spectacular from every window.
- Pack Snacks: While there’s a café car on the train, it can be pricey. Save money by bringing your own snacks, sandwiches, and a reusable water bottle.
- Check Road Conditions: If you’re driving in any season outside of summer, check road status on
vegvesen.nobefore you depart. Winter tires are mandatory in winter. - Go Offline: Cellular service is unreliable on the high mountain plateau. Download offline maps and any entertainment you want before you leave.
Packing Checklist for Your Travel Day:
- [ ] Layers of clothing (the weather can change dramatically from Oslo to Bergen)
- [ ] A waterproof and windproof jacket (a Bergen essential, even in summer!)
- [ ] Comfortable walking shoes for exploring upon arrival
- [ ] Camera and a portable power bank to keep it charged
- [ ] Sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun on the snow-covered plateau can be intense)
Budget Breakdown: How Much Does the Journey Cost?
Here’s a sample budget for your one-way travel day and first night in Bergen, per person, for 2025.
| Expense | Budget Estimate (per person) | Mid-Range Estimate (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Transport | NOK 400 (Advance “Minipris” Train) | NOK 1,200 (Last-minute Train) |
| Food | NOK 300 (Packed Lunch/Groceries) | NOK 800 (Café/Restaurant Dinner) |
| 1 Night Hotel | NOK 800 (Hostel/Budget Hotel) | NOK 1,800 (Mid-range Hotel) |
| TOTAL | NOK 1,500 | NOK 3,800 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a train ride from Oslo to Bergen worth it?
Absolutely, 100%. It is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful and scenic train journeys in the world. The spectacular, ever-changing scenery—from forests and fjords to the barren Hardangervidda plateau—makes the trip an unforgettable experience and a true highlight of any vacation in Norway.
How much is a train ride from Oslo to Bergen?
The price varies dramatically based on when you book. If you purchase a “Minipris” (low-fare) ticket several weeks or months in advance, you can find fares as low as NOK 399. However, a last-minute or fully flexible ticket can easily cost over NOK 1000.
What are the best day trips from Oslo?
While Bergen is too far for a return day trip, Oslo has many fantastic closer options. Popular choices include visiting the historic fortress town of Drøbak on the Oslofjord, exploring the famous Viking ships and Fram Museum on the Bygdøy Peninsula, or taking a trip to the Hadeland Glassverk for a unique cultural experience.
Is there a ferry from Oslo to Bergen?
No, there is no direct passenger ferry that operates as a simple transport link between Oslo and Bergen. People often think of the famous coastal voyages like Hurtigruten and Havila, but these are multi-day cruises that begin their northbound journey from Bergen, not Oslo.
How many days in Oslo is enough?
Two to three full days is generally the perfect amount of time to see the main highlights of Oslo without rushing. This gives you enough time to explore the city center, including the Opera House and Munch Museum, and spend a day visiting the cluster of excellent museums on the Bygdøy Peninsula.
TL;DR: The Short Answer
Can you do a return day trip from Oslo to Bergen? No, it’s too far. Should you do it as an epic one-way travel day? Absolutely! The journey across Norway is a destination in itself. For the best experience, take the train—it’s one of the most beautiful rail journeys on Earth.
