The HowTo NetworkTravel

How to Plan a Week in Norway

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

Seven days gives you enough time to see Oslo, Bergen, and one fjord region. Fly into Oslo, take the train to Bergen via the scenic route, and dedicate 2-3 days to fjord exploration around Geiranger or Flam. Book accommodations early, especially in summer.

Budget
$100-150 per day estimate
Duration
7 days recommended
Best Time
June through August for warmest weather and longest days
Visa Required
No visa required for most Western passport holders under 90 days

Step by step

  1. Book your flights to Oslo

    Oslo Airport (OSL) has the most international connections. Book 2-3 months ahead for summer travel. Consider flying into Oslo and out of Bergen if you want to avoid backtracking.

  2. Secure accommodations immediately

    Norway fills up fast, especially June-August. Book hostels for $40-60/night, mid-range hotels for $120-180/night. Consider staying outside city centers to save 30-40%.

  3. Buy train tickets in advance

    The Oslo-Bergen railway is one of the world's most scenic. Book seats for the 7-hour journey. Choose morning departure to see the mountains in daylight.

  4. Plan your fjord base

    Pick either Geiranger (for dramatic waterfalls) or Flam (easier access, more tours). Both need 2-3 days minimum. Book fjord cruises online before arrival - they sell out.

  5. Prepare for high costs

    Budget $80-120 per day for food and activities. Download grocery store apps (Rema 1000, Kiwi) for cheaper meals. Pack snacks from home to offset restaurant prices.

Questions people ask

Is it worth going to Norway in winter?

Yes, but it's a different trip. You'll get Northern Lights possibility and winter activities, but many fjord tours don't run and daylight is limited. Best for Northern Lights is November-March in northern regions.

Can I do Norway cheaply?

Relatively, yes. Stay in hostels, cook your own meals, and use public transport. Wild camping is legal in most areas. Still expect $60-80/day minimum even with budget strategies.

Do I need to rent a car?

No for this itinerary. Trains and buses connect major sights well. Cars are helpful for remote areas and give more flexibility, but parking in cities is expensive and stressful.

How many days do I need for the fjords?

Minimum 2 days, ideally 3-4. One day to get there and see basics, additional days for hiking, kayaking, or visiting multiple fjord arms. Day trips from Bergen are rushed but possible.

Budget

Expect to spend $100-150 per day total. Accommodation runs $40-180/night depending on type. Meals cost $15-25 for lunch, $30-50 for dinner. The Norway in a Nutshell tour package costs around $300. City transport is $3-5 per ride, but day passes are better value at $10-15.

Packing

  • Waterproof jacket - Norwegian weather changes quickly
  • Warm layers for mountain train journey - temperatures drop significantly
  • Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for cobblestones and hiking
  • Portable phone charger - you'll use maps and cameras extensively
  • Snacks from home - food costs add up fast

Itinerary

  • 1 — Dinner in Grünerløkka district — Arrive in Oslo, check into accommodation — Walk Karl Johans Gate to the Royal Palace, visit Vigeland Sculpture Park — Store luggage at Oslo Central Station if arriving early. The airport express train takes 20 minutes to city center.
  • 2 — Take the ferry to see Oslo from the water — Visit the Norwegian Folk Museum on Bygdøy — Explore the Opera House - walk on the roof for city views — Buy the Oslo Pass for museum entries and public transport. Ferry from pier 3 at City Hall.
  • 3 — Arrive in Bergen, walk around Bryggen harbor — Board the Bergen Railway at Oslo Central Station — Scenic train journey through Hardangervidda plateau — Sit on the right side of the train for best mountain views. Bring snacks - café car is expensive.
  • 4 — Day trip preparation - book fjord tour for tomorrow — Take the funicular up Mount Fløyen for Bergen city views — Explore Bergen Fish Market and historic Bryggen — The funicular runs every 15 minutes. Fish market is touristy but good for trying local seafood.
  • 5 — Fjord cruise on Aurlandsfjord — Travel to Flam (2.5 hours by train and bus) — Take the Flam Railway down to the fjord — The train-bus combination is called 'Norway in a Nutshell.' Book the full package online for easier logistics.
  • 6 — Return journey to Bergen begins — Kayaking or hiking in the fjord region — Visit Stegastein viewpoint (30-minute drive from Flam) — Rent a car for viewpoint access, or join a bus tour. The viewpoint platform extends over the fjord.
  • 7 — Travel day — Final Bergen exploration or shopping — Departure from Bergen Airport — Bergen Airport is 30 minutes from city center. Allow extra time for souvenir shopping - Norwegian wool products are high quality.

Planning the route: Europe, high-speed rail in Europe and open-jaw tickets.