Norway by train and boat: an eco-friendly adventure through the fjords

Norway is a beautiful country that attracts millions of visitors every year. Between fjords, glaciers, national parks, historic cities and extraordinary landscapes, Norway is a dream destination for travelers in search of beauty and adventure. And if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and comfortable way to experience Norway, why not opt for the combination of train and boat? Traveling between Oslo and Bergen, you’ll be able to explore Norway’s most beautiful fjords while reducing your carbon footprint. In this article, we’ll give you all the details you need to plan your train and boat trip, as well as the best attractions you shouldn’t miss. Let’s go!

Discover Oslo and Bergen by train

Your adventure begins in Oslo, the Norwegian capital. The city has a rich history and vibrant culture, with modern buildings and fascinating museums. We recommend spending at least two days here to explore sights such as the Oslo Opera House, Ekeberg Park, the Munch Museum, and the Royal Palace. But the real jewel of Oslo is its Central Station, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. From there, you can take the train to Bergen and begin your breathtaking journey along Norway’s west coast.

Choose your itinerary and embark on an extraordinary adventure

The train journey is just amazing. You can choose between two routes: the classic Bergen line or the Flåm line. If you choose the Bergen Line, you’ll travel 494 km of railway track through spectacular mountains and fjords. It’s best to take the train early in the morning to see the sunrise over the mountains and sparkling lakes.

On the other hand, if you choose the Flåm line, you will experience one of the most famous and beautiful train journeys in Norway. The train follows steep slopes, waterfalls and breathtaking panoramas for a distance of 20 km, and takes you to the village of Flåm on the edge of the Aurlandsfjord.

Sail the Norwegian fjords

After exploring the wonders of the railroad tracks, your journey continues on the water. Bergen is your next stop, and here you can hop aboard the Bergen-Kirkenes Coastal Cruise. This cruise is very popular with travelers and locals alike and crosses Norway’s most scenic fjords. We recommend choosing an itinerary that includes visits to Ålesund and Trondheim. As you visit these cities, you’ll learn about Viking history, Art Nouveau architecture, and fascinating exhibits in museums.

Architectural and historic cities

Ålesund is a city famous for its unique Art Nouveau architecture. It was rebuilt after a fire in 1904 and is now one of the most photographed cities in Norway. Stroll through the cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses and stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants for a refreshing break. Trondheim, on the other hand, is the third largest city in Norway and was founded by the Vikings over 1000 years ago. Be sure to visit Nidaros Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Ringve Museum.

Stroll through the city of Bergen

Your trip ends in Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city. Bergen is a historic UNESCO World Heritage city, famous for its colorful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and fish market. We recommend taking some time to wander around the Bryggen district, where you can discover museums, art galleries and restaurants offering fresh seafood. You can also take the funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen and enjoy panoramic views of Bergen.