Picturesque and magical landscapes awaiting Norway’s fjords are known throughout the world for their dramatic scenery and epic views. And your best way to see them? While a cruise could be nice, you won’t get much time to really explore; choose a road trip instead to find the coolest viewpoints and the best natural features!

At first glance, it’ll be tough to pack it all in. After all, the landscape means there aren’t many motorways and dual carriageways; twisty mountain passes and roads built into islands can add time onto your trip. We’re here to help you!

Leave us to plan your road trip to Norway so you can focus on packing. We’ve found the best routes so you can see the most gorgeous fjords and islands, stop off at the best places to eat and stay comfy and warm at night. Get ready to be swept off your feet!

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    Why Roadtrip in Norway?

    Norway
    Mirror Lake for the win.

    If you’re not already seduced by Norway’s spectacular natural beauty, we might have to twist your arm a bit to plan your road trip. Let’s take a look at the top five reasons to drive in this Scandinavian gem.

    1. Fjords and Glaciers: Norway’s landscapes are almost completely unique in the Northern hemisphere. The coast is met by impossibly steep fjords, rubbing shoulders with some of the largest glaciers in Europe.
    2. Epic Roads: Assuming you’re not on a road trip just to see as much as you can and you really enjoy driving, you’ll love Norway. The Atlantic and Eagle Roads are some of the most challenging in Europe. And they’re pretty, too!
    3. Cool Design: You might think the Scandinavian design is reserved for indoors, but the clean and crisp lines are blended with nature throughout Norway – you’ll see what we mean at rest stops, services, and viewpoints.
    4. Outdoor Activities: You’ll only be in your car for a few hours a day. Once you get out, take advantage of incredible hiking and cycling in summer or skiing and dog-sledging in winter.
    5. 24-hour Sunlight: Summer travellers to Norway can drive safely at any time of day the further north they go. If only there was something to see during 24-hour darkness in the winter? Well, we suppose the Northern Lights will do! 😉

    The only reason you won’t be convinced to embark on a road trip in Norway now is that you can’t drive… But before we get into these incredible trips, let’s get the boring stuff out of the way.

    Norway - mountains
    Reine, just a fishing village in Norway…

    Now that we’ve got all the boring (but essential) stuff out of the way, let’s jump right into the three best Norway road trips!

    Kystriksveien Coastal Route – 5 days

    West Norway Scenic Fjords and Glaciers – 7 days

    Hardangerfjord Scenic Route â€“ 4 days

    Norway Road Trip Route 1: Kystriksveien Coastal Route

    • From: Steinkjer
    • To: Bodø
    • Total Distance: 922km
    • Days: 5
    • Top Road Trips Stops: Leka Island, Torghatten, The Seven Sisters Range, Saltstraumen
    Norway Route1 Map

    While this road trip can be done in 650km, there are a few detours you won’t want to miss. Kystriksveien is the ultimate Norwegian coastal drive, and it’s also one of 18 National Scenic Routes in the country.

    It could be a good idea to bring your bike along with you. The best way to travel along Kystriksveien is slowly, so that you can stop off at any of the 14,000 remote islands on the coast, as well as see some of Norway’s favourite backpacking spots.

    Glacier walks and best Norway mountain hikes are all on the menu before stopping at a lovely village inn for the night. By the time you end your trip, you’ll be in the Arctic Circle!

    Road Trip Highlights:

    • Hiking on Leka Island
    • Torghatten Mountain
    • Syv Søstre (Seven Sisters) Mountain Range
    • Svaristen National Park
    • Saltstraumen Maelstrom
    • 24-hour sun (summer)/Northern Lights (winter)

    Day 1: Steinkjer to Leka (3 hours)

    Norway - Steinkjer
    Calm and serene..

    Before leaving Steinkjer, check out the Egge Museum – an open-air farm north of the town. Then, set your satnav for Leka Island. Assuming you leave early, you’ll have the whole afternoon to enjoy Leka’s hiking trails. There are more than fifty! Thanks to flat roads, it’s a lovely place for cycling. You will need to get a ferry over to Leka Island, and it won’t be the last ferry you take on this Norwegian road trip. Consider picking up a Nordland Pass that guarantees free travel on ferries and buses for NOK 995 (around $112USD/£85GBP).

    Day 2: Leka to Brønnøysund (2.5 hours)

    Norway - Leka
    Space isn’t an issue in Norway…

    Leave Leka on the Gutvik Ferry. Admire the landscape of the Helgeland Coast (often regarded as the most beautiful coastline in Europe) as you head north to Holm.

    It’s another ferry across the Vennesund before your final target of the day – Brønnøysund. Here, you’ll come across one of the most iconic landmarks in Norway – Torghatten Mountain. This is a mountain where people come for the middle, not the peak; that’s because there’s a hole in it!

    Day 3: Brønnøysund to Sandnessjøen (3 hours)

    Norway - Bronnoysund
    The granite mountain on the island of Torget

    It’s north again on day three of your trip. You’ll be travelling mostly along the coast with a couple of ferry rides. Before the second ferry ride from Forvik to Tjøtta, be sure to stop off for a coffee.

    The coffee roasting factory is right by the ferry – just lookout for a sign saying Kaffebrenneriet. The highlight of day three is just before you reach Sandnessjøen – the Seven Sisters Mountain Range.

    The seven mountains are all between 900 and 1,100 metres tall. If you’re really fit and active, you can get to the peaks of all in one loooong day. The views are spectacular!

    Day 4: Sandnessjøen to Glomfjord (5 hours)

    Norway - Sandnessjoen

    Today is the biggest driving day – five whole hours! But don’t worry, it’ll pass by quickly as you skirt along fjords on the smooth and well maintained FV17 road. And it won’t be all in the car: you’ll be taking three ferries!

    You can skip one of the ferries, however, and take a journey along the coast to Mo i Rana – also known as the Arctic Circle Town. You’re now officially in the Arctic! If you’re travelling during the summer, that means 24-hour sunlight.

    The standouts here are not places to stop at – rather, what you see from the ferries. The Svartisen National Park viewed from Ã…gskardet to Forøy will truly take your breath away.

    Day 5: Glomfjord to Bodø (2 hours)

    Norway - Glomfjord
    Fishing is a national sport in Norway!

    If you’ve arrived at Glomfjord late, you can afford to spend some more time at the Svartisen Glacier on the final day of your trip. With just two hours to drive, take it easy and enjoy.

    Stop off at stunning Storvika, where there’s a sandy bay and blue waters. You’d be brave to swim in them, though! The last thing to check out before reaching Bodø is the Saltstraumen Maelstrom – the strongest whirlpool in the world – from afar, obviously.

    If you have more time after reaching Bodø, we’d definitely suggest carrying on to the Lofoten Islands – it’ll be quicker if you take a ferry.

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    Norway Road Trip Route 2: West Norway Scenic Fjords and Glaciers

    • From: Bergen
    • To: Kristiansund
    • Total Distance: 679km
    • Days: 7
    • Top Road Trips Stops: Bergen, Sogndal, Geirangerfjord, Ã…ndalsnes, Alesund, Atlantic Ocean Road, Kristiansund
    Norway Route2 Map

    If you want to drive on the most epic roads in Norway while seeing jaw-droppingly beautiful natural sights, then this winding route through western Norway is the perfect place for your road trip.

    Pass through the Jostedalsbreen National Park and ride on two of the best-known roads in the country – The Eagle Road to Eidsdal, the Troll Ladder (Trollstigen) and the Atlantic Ocean Road – one of the most impressive feats of engineering in the country.

    Fjords and driving are the two cornerstones of a Norway road trip – and this offers both in abundance!

    Road Trip Highlights:

    • Bergen Wharf
    • FlÃ¥m Railway
    • Sogndal FjordLoen Skylift
    • Geirangerfjord
    • Eagle’s Road
    • Trollstiga
    • Atlantic Ocean Road

    Day 1: Bergen to Flam (2.5 hours)

    Norway - Bergen
    As Norwegian as it gets!

    Begin your trip in one of Norway’s prettiest cities. Before getting in your car, be sure to have a coffee and breakfast at the brightly coloured what of Bergen – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Don’t spend too long here, though – it can get expensive. Then, head east to Voss and the Tvindefossen Waterfall. Make a stop at Flam and swap your car for the train to experience one of the most stunning railway rides in the world.

    If you have more than a day to spend in Bergen, consider taking the funicular up Mount Fløyen or visiting the Grieg Museum.

    Day 2: Flam to Sogndal (1.5 hours)

    Norway - Flam
    Paying a visit to a neighbour be like…

    One of the shorter driving days, day two is all about enjoying your surroundings. If you’ve ever seen an advertisement for Norway, you’ve probably been looking at Sogndal – the longest and deepest fjord in the country.

    If you don’t mind making the drive a little longer, head past Sogndal to the Gaularfjellet Utsikten. The mountain has a lookout point which incorporates Norwegian design into the gorgeous landscape.

    If you’d prefer to stay closer to sea level, there are lots of opportunities around Sogndal for swimming and/or kayaking.

    Day 3: Sogndal to Loen (2 hours)

    Norway - Sogndal
    Beautiful Sogndal…

    Another short drive today; you’ll be driving along the edge of the Jostedalsbreen National Park to Loen. Stop off in Fjærland for the Norwegian Glacier Museum, where you can learn about the surrounding national park.

    Another place to stop off in Fjærland is Bokbyen. Known as Norwegian Booktown, it’s quite possibly the most beautiful bookstore in the world. Pick up something to read when you’re a passenger, or for the evening.

    On arriving in Loen, take a walk around the town. You can leave a bracing hike up Mount Skåla until tomorrow morning!

    Day 4: Loen to Geirangerfjord (1.75 hours)

    Norway - Loen
    BANG!

    Another short journey today – it’s not a good idea to just skip Geirangerfjord. This part of Norway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beautiful fjord is known for its snow-capped mountains, green forests, and some of the most amazing waterfalls in the world. One you can’t miss is the Seven Sisters Waterfall (not to be confused with the mountains we wrote about in the first road trip).

    Seven separate streams fall more than 250 metres into the fjord below. Other notable falls include the Suitor and Bridal Veil waterfalls.

    Day 5: Geirangerfjord to Ã…ndalsnes (2 hours)

    Norway - Geirangerfjord
    Fjords everywhere.

    If you knew anything about road trips in Norway before you read this article, chances are you’ve already heard of (or seen) the ribbon that cuts its way from Geiranger to Ã…ndalsnes. The Eagle’s Road to Eidsdal and the Trollstiga (troll’s ladder) are two of the most dramatic roads in the world.

    Packed with hairpin bends, each opens onto a new completely spectacular view. While we’ve said the drive today is two hours, that’s not factoring in stops. Be sure to stop off at Ørnesvingen viewing platform, and those at Flydalsjuvet and Gudbransjuvet Gorges.

    There are some waterfalls to look out for too!

    Day 6: Ã…ndalsnes to Alesund (2 hours)

    Norway - Andalsnes
    A bath in heaven!

    We’ve been keeping the driving to a minimum so you can make the most of your surroundings so far, and that’s no different as you come to the end of your trip.

    Don’t be in too much of a hurry to leave Ã…ndalsnes, because the hiking in Romsdalen is absolutely incredible. Spend the morning exploring the hiking trails or taking the Via Ferrata. Or perhaps, check out the Rampestreken viewpoint and look out over the town.

    Before your legs give out, make your way to your car for a chilled out drive to Ã…lesund. The coastal city is famed for its Art Nouveau architecture.

    Day 7: Alesund to Kristiansund (3.5 hours)

    Norway - Alesund
    Where’s everyone?

    We’ve saved the best for last. One the final day of your road trip in Norway, you’ll be travelling on one of the most incredible roads ever constructed. As you travel from Alesund, you’ll notice more pretty fjords, but once you get to Vevang, things change.

    The road that connects Vevang and KÃ¥rvÃ¥g is said to be Norway Engineering’s feat of the century. Built in 1989, bridges connect a number of islets and islands for 8km. The bridges seem to hang in the air, and the roads really blend into the land.

    The area looks truly spectacular from above, so it may be an idea to get out of the car and take photos with your drone, should you have one. If not, you can always admire the view from Askevågen Viewpoint.

    The only downside? If there’s a storm, the road can seem dangerous and intimidating. A truly spectacular end to your Norwegian road trip before you end in Kristiansund.

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    Norway Road Trip Route 3: Hardangerfjord Scenic Route

    • From: Bergen
    • To: Bergen
    • Total Distance: 428km
    • Days: 4
    • Top Road Trips Stops:
    Norway Route3 Map

    Our third and final road trip is a lot shorter, so it’ll suit travellers who don’t have as much time in Norway. It’s no less beautiful though – and it’ll be following the path of the Hardangerfjord Scenic Route. It encapsulates what Western Norway is all about – stunning fjords and scenery, but with the chance to hike, bike, and even enjoy a spot of white-water rafting.

    You’ll conquer one of the most famous sites in the country, too, the Trolltunga Mountain. For those looking for something a little more chilled out, check out some of the local traditions. These include boat building and growing fruit. This beautiful part of Norway certainly won’t disappoint!

    Road Trip Highlights:

    Day 1: Bergen to Vossevangen (1.5 hours)

    Norway - Bergen2
    Don’t miss the fish market!

    Day one won’t see you reaching the Hardangerfjord just yet. Instead, start off in pretty Bergen; it is one of the biggest cities in Norway and an easy place to pick up a car.

    Spend the morning exploring town, perhaps dropping into the shops and coffee houses on the colourful wharf. Hikers will be pleased to know that there are seven hills surrounding the city you can hike on! Once you’re ready to head off, point your vehicle towards Vossevangen.

    No matter what time of year it is, there’s something to get involved with. In summer, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from birdwatching to white water rafting, while winter visitors can make the most of skiing and snowboarding.

    • Best Stops: Bergen Wharf (Bryggen), Fløyen Funicular and hiking paths, Voss Gondola, Voss Folk Museum
    • Where to Eat: Horn of Africa, Løvetann Kaffebar (Bergen), Vossevangen Bodega, Ringheim Kafe
    • Where to Stay: Voss Lodge Rongastovo, Voss Apartment, Cosy Cabin in Voss

    Day 2: Vossevangen to Jondal (2 hours)

    Norway - Vossevangen
    Loneliness.

    Continue on from Vossevangen to Granvin at the northeast side of Hardangerfjord. However, before you reach Granvin, you’ll come across Skjervsfossen.

    These twin waterfalls gush from a height of 150 metres, and there is a network of paths, stairs, and viewpoints from which you can enjoy the waterfalls. Carry on towards another waterfall, Steinsdalsfossen – but not before you stop off at Steinstøberget rest.

    There are places to fish and BBQ, and you can enjoy views of both Hardangerfjord and the Folgefonna Glacier. Be sure to stop off at Steindalsfossen, which you can walk underneath without getting wet. Stop here for the evening or continue to Jondal by ferry.

    Day 3: Jondal to Odda (1.5 hours)

    Norway - Jondal
    Out of a fantasy book!

    You can get from Jondal to Odda in around half an hour if you take the mountain road. However, why not drive along the side of the Hardangerfjord past Utne.

    The views are much more spectacular, though the road can get busy at times. If you can, try and get a late checkout at your accommodation from the night before – you’re going to need the energy for the evening’s activity – beginning your climb up one of the most famous sights in Norway, Trolltunga!

    This is one of the most photographed sites in Norway; while the lip which juts out above Lake Ringedalsvatnet is not the peak of the mountain, it takes a brave person to sit on the end!

    Day 4: Odda to Bergen

    Norway - Odda
    It’s all about perspective.

    Your final day will start off early, but the nighttime hike to watch the sunrise from Trolltunga is something not to be missed! You can then choose between heading back down to Hardangerfjord if you have time, or just doing the journey all the way back to Bergen.

    Of course, if you’ve stayed in Odda the night before, hike up during the day instead. It’s still utterly spectacular. Trolltunga is one of Norway’s most strenuous hikes, so don’t drive back if you’re feeling exhausted!

    Driving in Norway

    Though Norway is full of mountain roads that would turn a rally driver’s stomach at first glance, you may be surprised that it’s the safest place in the world to drive. With only two road traffic deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, accidents are almost non-existent!

    Norwegian drivers are generally quite chill, and most of the roads aren’t that busy anyway. It can be quite expensive though; the reason these roads look so good is that motorists pay tolls to maintain them. The biggest challenge of driving in Norway is the distances. It can take 30 hours to get from north to south!

    Renting a Vehicle in Norway

    You should be able to pick one up from most cities, towns, and airports. However, if you’re travelling at a busy time, you should book in advance to avoid disappointment. You should also have had your license for at least one year.

    Here are some other things to take into consideration:

    • Age Surcharge: Though you can drive a car at 18 in Norway, the minimum age for rental is 19. There is an extra charge if you’re under 25, starting from around 120NOK per day ($13USD)
    • Bond/Deposit: The deposit on hold is the amount of the excess to rent a car in Norway. That’s normally around 10,000 – 12,000NOK ($1,125USD – $1,350USD).
    • Additional Driver Charge: Don’t want to be the designated driver? Consider adding another driver to your policy. It can cost as little as 40NOK ($5USD). Drivers under 25 will pay more.

    Be sure to remember insurance, too. You must have at least third party insurance to drive in Norway, but it’s better to have fully comprehensive. Because it’s mandatory, rental companies often charge over the odds. Check out RentalCover.com, who can give you the best deal on car rental car insurance in Norway.

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    Road Rules in Norway

    You can drive in Norway if you have a driving license issued in an EU/EEA country for as long as it is valid. Licenses from outside the continent can be used for three months.

    The first thing to remember is to switch on your lights. No matter what time of day it is, drivers must have them on. Right-hand drive cars must have black triangles fitted so as not to dazzle oncoming motorists. Cars must also be equipped with at least one high-visibility vest and a warning triangle in case of an accident.

    Drinking and driving is a big no here. With severe penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol, it’s best not to take any risks. The legal limit is 0.02% blood alcohol. You should also refrain from using your mobile phone; the penalties for doing that while driving are pretty serious too!

    Last of all, one of the unofficial Norwegian road rules. There are lots of long downhill stretches when you’re driving here. When appropriate, drive in a low gear rather than constantly using the brakes. You’ll have less risk of them overheating that way. Be sure to keep an eye on your temperature gauge whenever you’re driving – the engine can overheat going uphill!

    Insurance in Norway

    All drivers in Norway must be equipped with third party insurance. However, this only covers damage caused by fire and/or theft.

    If you feel happy taking this, go for it. However, the more cautious driver out there may want to take out fully comprehensive insurance.

    That way, you’ll be protected in any accidents or collisions (though hopefully, you won’t need it). RentalCover.com offers a range of insurance options, including super collision damage waivers and roadside assistance cover. It’s best to be prepared so you can save your NOK for a tasty pickled herring!

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    What To Pack for a Road Trip in Norway

    If you’re not careful, Norway wilderness will smack ya to next Monday. There are six road trip essentials I never go traveling without:

    Mini FIrst Aid Kit

    1. First Aid Kit: Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

    aux cord

    2. Aux Cord: One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxillary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

    3. Phone mountIt’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and what-not, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

    Headlamp

    4. Headtorch: Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

    roadside emergency kit

    5. Roadside Emergency Kit: Just like you never know what could happen to yourself, one never knows what can happen to their car. A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and then some. Most emergency kit include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

    6. Toiletry Bag: I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

    For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full road trip packing list.

    Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trips in Norway

    Norway - Lofoten Islands
    Picturesque and magical landscapes awaiting visitors like you!

    Now that you know exactly how to plan your road trip in Norway, you’re probably already looking up rental cars or putting pins in your map. We don’t blame you!

    Norway’s epic roads offer the opportunity not only to challenge yourself as a driver but also to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe – if not the world. Sit on Trolltunga viewpoint, tackle the Great Atlantic Road, or just park up in Bergen’s pretty old town and enjoy a coffee.

    With so much variety across this magnificent country, you can tailor your road trip completely to your travel style. Whether it’s Oslo, Tromso, or Geirangerfjord, there’s NORWAY you’ll forget your epic trip here.


    And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!