Norway is among the world’s most jaw-dropping destinations. One of the best ways to experience it is by hitting the road on scenic drives through high mountain passes, along winding fjords, and into coastal landscapes.
There’s so much waiting for you when it comes to Norway road trips. After all, you’ll want to catch sight of the jaw-dropping natural scenes. But you’ll also need time to wind your way through UNESCO-listed Norwegian towns and cities such as Oslo and Bergen.
We chatted with Małgorzata Nowak, one of our Norway travel experts based in Oslo, to get a breakdown of the best driving routes. So, read on to discover these tried and tested Norway itineraries.
- Experience Norway on a self-drive tour
Top driving itineraries in Norway
- 7-day Norway round trip from Bergen
- 5-day tour around the Lofoten Islands
- 7-day trip classic Norway fjord adventure
- 10-day tour from Bergen with fjords and glaciers
- 14-day complete tour of Norway’s natural wonders
1. 7-day Norway round trip from Bergen
Best for:
Adventurers looking to explore plunging fjords, meandering roads, and charming towns on a week-long Norway road trip itinerary.
Distance:
554 kilometres (344 miles).
Duration:
7 days.
What’s the tour like?
Kick off your getaway in Bergen, the gateway to Norway’s fjords, where fascinating history and stunning views collide. Stroll along the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf and breathe in the charm of this characterful city.
From there, you’ll find picturesque towns like Voss and Flåm, all while soaking in epic views of fjords like the Aurlandsfjord.
One of the main highlights of this route is the Flåm Railway. This dramatic train ride takes you on a steep climb through lush forests and rugged peaks.
As you continue along the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, you’ll drive the Eagle Road, past glittering fjords and mighty mountains.
Wrap up your journey with a cruise aboard the Hurtigruten and marvel at panoramic views of the serene coastline. The perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure – this is one trip you won’t forget.
- Experience all of this on the express Norwegian scenic route
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2. 5-day tour around the Lofoten Islands
Best for:
Nature lovers, birdwatchers, and thrill-seekers looking for a taste of the Arctic wilderness on a 5-day Northern Norway escape.
Distance:
158-252 kilometres (98-157 miles).
Duration:
5 days.
What’s the tour like?
The Lofoten Islands are pure magic, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Norway. Your starting point is Svolvær, the vibrant heart of the islands. You can explore the rugged scenery, hike up to Reinebringen for panoramic views, and maybe even spot the northern lights.
The journey continues to the awe-inspiring Trollfjord, a place of wild beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. Here, you can enjoy peaceful boat rides through the fjord or simply take in your spectacular surroundings from the shore.
As you drive along the National Tourist Route, each bend in the road reveals something new. Uncover Viking history at the Lofotr Viking Museum and meander along the pristine beaches of Gimsøya and Haukland.
Head to Reine, also known as the “jewel of Lofoten”. Here, outdoor activities await, whether you’re into kayaking, fishing, or hiking. The area is also rich in cultural experiences, with places like the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum showcasing the unique heritage of this coastal region.
The relatively short driving distances make this tour feel relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the spectacular Arctic landscapes. The loop back to Svolvær brings the journey to a close, with options to extend your escape or head to Oslo to continue exploring Norway.
- Experience all of this and more on a Lofoten road trip
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3. 7-day trip classic Norway fjord adventure
Best for:
Those dreaming of epic fjord landscapes, winding mountain passes, and quaint villages on one unforgettable road trip on Norway’s mainland.
Distance:
572 kilometres (920 miles).
Duration:
7 days.
What’s the tour like?
This 7-day driving tour takes you on a journey into Norway’s most iconic fjords, from the mighty Sognefjord to the stunning Geirangerfjord. Starting and ending in Bergen, you’ll be transported through landscapes that seem straight out of a fairy tale.
Explore charming villages like Voss and Flåm, where towering peaks meet crystal-clear waters, and drive along the Sognefjord, Norway’s deepest fjord. Along the way, you can hop on the famous Flåmsbana railway and ascend mountain valleys past tumbling waterfalls.
Your route continues through the picturesque Lustrafjord before reaching the National Tourist Route. Here, you'll cruise past glaciers, conveniently perched a few minutes' walk from the road.
As you venture deeper, you’ll drive along the iconic Eagle Road in Norway to see panoramic views of the fjords below.
- Explore Norway’s fjords by car on a classic tour
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4. 10-day tour from Bergen with fjords and glaciers
Best for:
One of the most scenic routes in Norway, taking you along famous fjords, rugged mountain passes and lakeside villages.
Distance:
904 kilometres (562 miles).
Duration:
10 days.
What’s the tour like?
This 10-day route is the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation. You’ll get a perfect mix of coastal beauty, mountain grandeur, and cute villages. Starting and ending in Bergen, you’ll explore Bryggen Wharf and the surrounding cityscape before heading off on the road.
Along the way, you'll pass through stunning fjords and quaint villages like Flåm and Loen. Take the exhilarating Flåm railway for a ride on one of the steepest train routes in the world. Deep dive into the Geirangerfjord, where you’ll be spoiled for things to see and do.
The tour also brings you to the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean Road. Here, the road seems to disappear into the sea, giving you a dramatic view that will leave you speechless.
You’ll explore the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund and the historic heart of Trondheim, home to the awe-inspiring Nidaros Cathedral. With 10 days to play with, you’ll see plenty of Norway’s top sights at a relaxed pace.
- Take the wheel and soak up the sights on a Norway driving tour
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5. 14-day complete tour of Norway’s natural wonders
Best for:
Those who want to deep dive into everything Norway has to offer – like thundering waterfalls, coastal cruises and picturesque villages.
Distance:
1,984 kilometres (1,233 miles).
Duration:
14 days.
What’s the tour like?
This epic 14-day road trip is for those who want to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of Norway.
Your adventure begins and ends in Oslo, taking you through Norway’s most renowned fjords. Explore Sognefjord, known as the “King of the Fjords,” with its towering cliffs and glistening waters. Marvel at Geirangerfjord’s dramatic waterfalls, like the Seven Sisters and Suitor.
Then, discover Hardangerfjord, where orchards line the shores, and the iconic Trolltunga hike offers sweeping views. Along the way, enjoy scenic drives through mountain passes and thrilling outdoor activities.
There’s no shortage of beauty when it comes to picturesque hikes and charming villages like Loen and Røros. Some highlights of the tour include the famous Atlantic Ocean Road.
As you’re driving in Norway’s northern reaches, you’ll be amazed by the otherworldly beauty of the landscape. With its jagged peaks and turquoise waters, it’s a true wilderness escape.
The flexibility of this itinerary means you can explore at your own pace, whether you’re taking in the sights, hiking in the mountains, or enjoying local Norwegian cuisine along the way. Plus, the rest areas along these routes provide perfect spots to relax and take in the views.
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Discover Norway with Nordic Visitor
Choose any of these best road trips in Norway, and you won’t be disappointed.
Book a self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor, and a Scandinavia-based travel expert will arrange your accommodation, car rental, itinerary and activities. Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and make spontaneous stops.
Plus, you’ll get a detailed guide to Norway, a hand-marked map and personalised recommendations from your dedicated travel consultant.
So, pack your bags and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Get in touch with us to start planning your dream Norway scenic drive.
