Norway road trip - create unforgettable memories

Beautiful Norway boasts a wealth of breathtaking landscapes and picturesque roads. The blend of well-constructed modern highways alongside towering mountain peaks, vast fjords, majestic glaciers, and rugged coastlines is truly unparalleled. The ideal time for a Norway road trip is summer, when daylight stretches longer and you can drive for more hours.

So, where should you go? I’m sharing a two-week itinerary that perfectly encapsulates the essence of 'the best of Norway.'

What’s the best way to reach Norway?

At the airport, you can pick up your rental car for the road trip and kick off your adventure. After completing your Norway road trip in Lofoten, you’ll need to take a domestic flight back to Oslo before returning home.

Ideal time for a road trip in Norway

Summer is the prime season for a road trip in Norway. From June to August, you'll enjoy the warmest weather and the longest days. Road visibility is also improved during these months. Moreover, several of Norway's most scenic routes are closed in winter, particularly those traversing the mountains.

However, the ideal time for your Norwegian road trip ultimately depends on your desired experiences. If skiing or witnessing the northern lights is your goal, consider visiting in February or March. Spring and autumn offer distinct advantages too, as there are fewer travelers, resulting in less traffic near tourist hotspots and often lower hotel rates.

By utilizing Weatherbase and Numbeo, I’ve gathered insights on weather, fuel prices, and local conditions to help you plan your ultimate trip.

The perfect vehicle for your road trip in Norway

It's wise to leave some extra room in the car for longer journeys spanning several days. Choose a car rental type that is spacious enough and ideally has an extra seat, depending on your group size. Being cramped with luggage in your lap is far from enjoyable! Fortunately, finding a reliable rental car in Norway is quite easy.

Here you can discover some driving tips for Europe along with road trip advice specifically for your Norwegian adventure.

Plan your road trip budget

Budgeting is often the least enjoyable aspect of planning a Norway road trip. Given that Norway is quite an expensive destination, creating a budget helps you monitor your expenses and avoid unpleasant surprises later on.

Car rental services

The typical daily rate for a rental car is based on data from Dinogo comparisons.

Lodging options

Thirteen nights in hotels

The average costs for hotel rooms and hostels are derived from Dinogo comparison data.

Fuel

A road trip itinerary through Norway covering approximately 870 miles would require about 41 gallons of fuel for a midsize vehicle.

Overall expenses

Norway road trip itinerary: from urban centers to scenic islands

Day 1: Oslo (1 night stay)

Oslo, Norway's capital, has experienced significant growth over the past 15 years and is now home to over 700,000 residents. Today, it’s a vibrant city filled with diverse dining and entertainment options, making it an ideal place to recharge before starting your road trip through Norway.

Major attractions include The Opera House, Vigeland Park, Akershus Fortress, Holmenkollen, and the Viking ships at the Viking Shipyard (currently closed but expected to reopen in 2026).

Oslo boasts world-class museums, including the Munch Museum and the Norsk Folkemuseum, which features numerous historic buildings.

If time permits, you can enjoy both downhill and cross-country skiing year-round at the SNØ indoor stadium. Additionally, a boat tour in the Oslo Fjord provides a unique view of the city from the water.

Recommended accommodation in Oslo: Hotel Verdandi offers a central location and is budget-friendly.

Day 2 & 3: Bergen (2-night stay)

Distance from Oslo: 298 miles, approximately 8 hours of driving

Your journey begins by taking the E134 across Hardangervidda National Park, Europe’s largest high mountain plateau, where vast expanses stretch above the tree line. While the Valtatie 7 highway offers more scenic views of Hardangervidda, the E134 leads you past Heddal Stavkyrka, Norway’s largest and best-preserved stave church, a remarkable medieval wooden cathedral adorned with Old Norse-inspired decorations.

En route to Bergen, you'll be treated to breathtaking fjord landscapes. The Hardangerfjord is arguably Norway's most renowned fjord, famous for its stunning orchards and exceptional cider production. If you venture left along the Sørfjord after passing the town of Odda, you’ll find the Aga Sider manufacturer, situated beside the historic Agatunet, which features wooden houses dating back to the 13th century.

After taking the ferry across the fjord at Jondal, don't miss the chance to visit the Steindalsfossen waterfall, where you can walk along a path behind the thundering water curtain.

Your destination for today is Bergen, a city rich in culture, history, and remarkable scenery. The Bryggen district is famous for its colorful waterfront facades and its deep-rooted connection to the Hanseatic era, earning it a place as a World Heritage site and one of Norway's top tourist attractions. Håkonshallen is an impressive royal banquet hall from the 13th century, and the Fløyenbanan cable car takes you to the nearest mountain in just five minutes, providing stunning views of the entire city.

Where to stay in Bergen: Radisson Blue Royal is situated in the historic Bryggen area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by cultural landmarks. It features comfortable accommodations and a delightful breakfast buffet.

Day 4: Sogndal (1 night stay)

Distance from Bergen: 173 miles, approximately 4 hours of driving

Begin your journey by heading north on road E16 from Bergen. You'll pass the Voss ski resort and soon arrive at the breathtaking Nærøyfjord. This fjord is arguably the most stunning of all Norwegian fjords, where several smaller, narrow fjords meet. The entire region is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its extraordinary beauty.

You will drive through the Laerdal tunnel, the longest road tunnel in the world at over 15 miles, which is often regarded as a tourist attraction in its own right. After Laerdal, you’ll board a ferry and then pass by the Kaupanger stave church. You’ll spend the night in Sogndal, nestled in the heart of the fjord landscape.

Where to stay in Sogndal: Hofslund Fjordhotell features a spacious garden with a pool adjacent to the Sognefjord.

Day 5: Molde (1 night stay)

Distance from Sogndal: 264 miles, approximately 8 hours of driving

The road across Sognefjellet is one of Norway's highest routes and offers breathtaking views when the weather cooperates. You'll pass near Galdöpiggen, Norway's tallest peak at 8,100 feet. After Sognefjället, the road winds through stunning landscapes of deep valleys and rugged mountains, resembling a scene from a fantasy film! The adventure continues on the Ørnevegen, a winding road that climbs steeply with nearly a mile of twists and turns.

Between Sylte and Åndalsnes, you’ll encounter another renowned stretch through the picturesque Valldal, famous for its strawberries. Afterward, prepare to descend the legendary Trollstigen, an extreme serpentine road that winds down into the enchanting Isterdalen valley.

Trollstigen is safe to drive as long as you take your time. If you have extra time, consider driving a bit on the E136 into Romsdalen, where you'll find Europe’s tallest vertical rock face. Your day concludes with a ferry ride from Vestnes to the charming town of Molde.

Where to stay in Molde: Molde Fjordhotell is located on the quay in central Molde and offers bright, inviting rooms with views of the Romdalsfjord.

Day 6 to 8: Trondheim (3-night stay)

Distance from Molde: 157 miles, approximately hours of driving

A must-do on your Norway road trip is heading north from Molde to the quaint coastal village of Bud. From there, follow the coastline to Kårvåg via the renowned Atlanthavsvägen, which The Guardian has dubbed 'the world's most beautiful road.' This stunning route features eight bridges and a series of treeless islands and has appeared in numerous commercials, particularly for cars. It may feel surprisingly familiar, even if it's your first time driving it!

Your day concludes in Trondheim, a city established by Vikings in the 9th century. It's rich with historical landmarks like the Nidarosdomen Cathedral, Kristianssten fortress—Norway's best-preserved historical stronghold—and Munkholmen, a small island that once housed a medieval monastery turned prison. Don't miss the Bakklandet district, known for its charming wooden houses and inviting cafes.

Where to stay in Trondheim: Clarion Hotel Trondheim is a stunning architectural gem offering magnificent views of the fjord and the city.

Day 9: Journey along the Helgeland coast to Brønnøysund (1 night)

Distance from Trondheim: 232 miles, approximately 6 hours of driving

The adventure only gets better! North of Trondheim lies the Helgeland coast, an area in Norway you might not be familiar with, but it will surely stand out as one of the most memorable highlights of your trip. This coastline provides some of the finest driving experiences.

The coastal route along National Highway 17 is a captivating journey that begins in Steinkjer and concludes 40 miles later in Bodö, just above the Arctic Circle. As you drive, you'll encounter towering mountain ranges inland, charming fishing villages, and pristine white sandy beaches, all while the landscape transforms around you. This segment leads you to the seaside town of Brønnøysund, an ideal spot for an overnight stay.

Be sure to visit the island of Leka; it's truly unique. Its striking red-yellow hues set it apart from its surroundings, making it feel like a slice of North America nestled in Europe!

Where to stay in Brønnøysund: Corner Hotell is a delightful family-run hotel that offers affordability and a central location in Brønnøysund.

Day 10 & 11: Explore the Helgeland coast on your way to Bodö (2 nights)

Driving distance from Brønnøysund: 331 miles, approximately 8 hours of driving time

The northern stretch of the Helgeland coast is rich with experiences, so I recommend adding at least an extra day to your stay. For instance, you can embark on a boat trip to the 6,500 Vega islands for hiking and Mytouring amidst stunning natural beauty, with thousands of puffins as your companions. Boats leave from Horn, just north of Brønnøysund, where you spent the night.

A highlight is the impressive Mount Torghatten, located near Brønnøysund. This mountain features a unique hole through its center, allowing you to witness the sunset through it. Additionally, don’t overlook Svartisen National Park, home to a stunning and rare glacier.

Where to stay in Bodö: Scandic Havet is a contemporary and comfortable hotel offering panoramic views and the ability to arrange various day trips.

Day 12 & 13: Lofoten (2 nights)

Driving distance from Moskenes to Svolvær on Lofoten: 77 miles, approximately 2 hours of driving time

To save yourself considerable driving, take the ferry directly from Bodø to Moskenes in Lofoten. This archipelago is a unique world unto itself, featuring an extraordinarily dramatic mountain range. The many jagged peaks rise out of the North Atlantic, forming a series of islands at the horizon.

Lofoten attracts visitors not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for the array of activities available and the rich traditional culture that persists in its quaint fishing villages. For road trippers in Norway, the joy of driving along these winding roads flanked by mountains and the sea is unparalleled.

Where to stay on Lofoten: Thon Hotel Lofoten in Svolvær provides lovely views of both the harbor and the town.

How can Dinogo assure that all information in this guide is accurate?

The foundation of this guide is built on experience and research. As the author, I have spent over 20 years as a travel writer, published several travel books, and contributed articles to major newspapers across Sweden, covering over 100 countries. My passion for travel fuels my commitment to staying informed about various destinations and providing my readers with accurate, accessible information.

Final Thoughts

Navigating through Norway's breathtaking landscapes is truly a unique experience. A road trip here transcends the ordinary, taking you through fjords, majestic mountains, rich history, vibrant culture, and meeting wonderful people along the way. While Norway can be a bit on the expensive side, setting a budget in advance makes it manageable. Although this guide offers plenty of insights, there's still much more to uncover in Norway—you might find yourself booking your next flight right away!