Norway Self-Drive Tours & Itineraries

Explore 34 self-drive trips designed by local kimkim specialists to get ideas for your trip to Norway.

Stretching about 1,000 miles from north to south, Norway's geography is vast and varied. Mountains and fjords give way to wildlife-rich islands and Arctic snowfields, and its longitude lines are dotted with cultural outposts, too: cosmopolitan Oslo, charming Bergen, and Tromsø (the "Paris of the North"). In other words, it's the perfect place for a road trip.

Try a classic fjord loop that starts in Bergen, exploring fjord-side villages and stopping for outdoorsy activities like hiking, summer skiing, and kayaking. Finish the adventure traveling along Norway's longest and deepest fjord to Jotunheimen National Park.
 
Summer travelers will especially love a road trip through Norway's Arctic. From southern Norway (including Oslo, Bergen and the Sognefjord), fly to the Arctic Circle, head to the rugged island of Senja for two days of cycling and kayaking, and ferry to smaller Andenes Island for whale watching.

Or, head to the Nordfjord region, still somewhat undiscovered by tourists. The west coast of Norway is a maze of waterways, cliffsides, and mile-long views, and along your fjord-laden route, you'll stop for scenic guided hikes and visits to towns including Fjærland and Flåm. 

For more ideas, see our roundup of 5 Norway Road Trips: Villages, Fjords, & Scenic Routes.

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Troll's Road, Mre og Romsdal county, Norway
Map of 5 Top Norway Road Trips: Villages, Fjords, & Scenic Routes
5 Top Norway Road Trips: Villages, Fjords, & Scenic Routes

If you're in Norway and you've got four wheels, throw away your guidebook. You're going to want to visit towns you can't pronounce, places your friends don't know exist, and vistas you won't find on Instagram. With plenty of time — driving through mountains and fjords, hopping on ferries, and navigating single-lane roads is never quick — the entire country should be on your list. Here are five specialist-recommended ideas for an incredible road trip through Norway.

The pretty port city of Ålesund shines at dusk.
Map of Western Norway Fjord Road Trip - 8 Days
Western Norway Fjord Road Trip - 8 Days

Get ready to hit the open road on this self-drive adventure down Norway's stunning west coast. Starting in Bergen, you'll hike, bike, and take one of the world's steepest train rides through the country's villages, mountains, and fjords. Top off your well-rounded trip in charming Ålesund, a fairytale city renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture.

Climb to Preikestolen, or 'Pulpit Rock' – a steep cliff above Lysefjorden
Map of Ultimate Norwegian Fjord Road Trip – 10 Days
Ultimate Norwegian Fjord Road Trip – 10 Days

Experience the best of Norway's spectacular fjords on this active self-drive tour. The trip starts in Norway's second-largest city (Bergen), where you'll pick up a rental car and spend several days exploring charming fjord-side villages and stopping for outdoorsy activities, like hiking, summer skiing, and kayaking. Finish the adventure traveling along Norway's longest and deepest fjord towards Jotunheimen National Park — with more than 250 peaks — to see some glaciers.

A view of Aurora Borealis near Tromsø, Norway.
Map of Norway Northern Lights Road Trip - 7 Days
Norway Northern Lights Road Trip - 7 Days

This scenic winter adventure traverses the Norwegian Arctic and checks off a number of natural and cultural sites starting in the city of Tromsø, nicknamed 'Paris of the North'. From here, hit the road and see rock art in Alta, learn about the indigenous Sami people in Karasjok, and visit a hotel made of snow along the Finnish/Russian border. Each day ends with another opportunity to view the Northern Lights in this beautiful and remote part of the world.

A small harbor in the village of Solvorn.
Map of Western Norway Road Trip - 5 Days
Western Norway Road Trip - 5 Days

This self-drive trip through western Norway offers history, amazing scenery, and even guided hikes—all while staying in some of Norway's best family-run hotels. Start with a local tour of Bergen, and then drive north to explore Norway's two biggest fjords. Finish the adventure with a ferry ride across the Lusterfjord to a UNESCO-listed stave church built in the 12th century.

A summer evening in the village of Reine
Map of Summer Road Trip:  Norway's West Coast - 7 Days
Summer Road Trip: Norway's West Coast - 7 Days

This lightly-trafficked, summertime road trip is a great way to experience Northern Norway's stunning coastline from late May to early September. The adventure starts with a half-day in Tromsø—"Paris of the North"—before you continue to Sommarøy, the first of many islands. You'll then take car ferries to Senja island and Andoya island to enjoy remote nature where fewer travelers venture. Finish the adventure in Lofoten's stunning, and yes, more popular, islands for hiking and kayaking while based in the charming village of Reine.

Take in the vistas of the Hardangerfjord, near Eidfjord
Map of Oslo to Bergen Scenic Road Trip - 6 Days
Oslo to Bergen Scenic Road Trip - 6 Days

Perfect for families, this summer adventure combines exploration of Norway's two largest cities with a natural getaway, including a visit to Vøringsfossen Falls and its dramatic 600-foot drop. Begin in modern Oslo before driving westward to Eidfjord, home to the stunning Hardangervidda National Park. Top it off with a visit to charming Bergen, the historic Hanseatic city known as the gateway to the fjords.

Stay a night along the Geirangerfjord between Bergen and Trondheim
Map of Summer Road Trip: Oslo, Bergen & Trondheim - 12 Days
Summer Road Trip: Oslo, Bergen & Trondheim - 12 Days

This journey highlights Norway's three biggest cities with scenic detours along the way. Start off in sophisticated Oslo before traveling by train and ferry to UNESCO-listed Bergen. From here, drive through fjord-side villages to Ålesund, known for its art nouveau architecture, and Kristiansund. Finish off in Trondheim with colorful wooden homes, café culture, and tree-lined streets for cycling.

Stay a night in Gudvangen on the shore of Naeroyfjord
Map of Norwegian Viking Tour - 8 Days
Norwegian Viking Tour - 8 Days

This 8-day itinerary is a great way to experience a historic side of Norway that most visitors miss. Between the 8th and 11th centuries, Vikinger was a form of adventure, drawing plunderers but also poets, scholars, and traders. Starting and ending in Bergen, you'll travel through Viking-era settlements, islands, and fjords, including the former stomping grounds of one of the most famous Vikings of all: Eric Bloodaxe.

Dramatic hairpin turns on the Trollstigen Road.
Map of Norway Scenic Road Trip - 14 Days
Norway Scenic Road Trip - 14 Days

Starting and ending in Oslo, this wide loop covers a staggering variety of landscapes where'll you drive through three of Norway's official scenic routes. First, make your way to a former Olympic village and two national parks loaded with wildlife, then head west for hiking and boating in the fjords. Stay two nights in the art nouveau city of Ålesund before you swing back around towards Jotunheimen National Park. Finish in the alpine village of Lom with one of the best restaurants and bakeries in Norway.

Drive along some of Scandinavia's most beautiful roads.
Map of Nordic Road Trip for Nature Lovers - 14 Days
Nordic Road Trip for Nature Lovers - 14 Days

Take the wheel on this relaxed self-guided road trip as you travel through five of Norway's official scenic routes. Over two weeks you'll encounter a number of stunning fjords, national parks, cool mountain towns, farm stands, and varying landscapes with mile-long views. Finish the adventure with some urban culture in Norway's second largest city (Bergen) with its great restaurant scene and wharfside UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Look for the Northern Lights while driving through the Lofoten Islands
Map of Lofoten Islands & Tromsø Winter Excursion - 6 Days
Lofoten Islands & Tromsø Winter Excursion - 6 Days

Dramatic, snow-covered mountains and the Northern Lights are highlights of this 6-day adventure above the Arctic Circle. Starting in Bodø, you'll ferry to the stunning Lofoten Islands and drive at your own pace through some of Norway's oldest and most colorful fishing towns. Then, exchange your rental car for an overnight coastal steamer where you'll travel to Tromsø for some urban culture and dog sledding.

Summertime adventures stay golden above the Arctic Circle
Map of Summer Road Trip: Midnight Sun in Norways Arctic - 14 Days
Summer Road Trip: Midnight Sun in Norways Arctic - 14 Days

This two-week adventure is ideal for travelers who want to make the most of Norway's summer. Start off exploring southern Norway (Oslo, Bergen and the Sognefjord) before flying to the Arctic Circle. From here, you'll rent a car and head to the rugged island of Senja for an active two days of cycling and kayaking before ferrying to smaller Andenes for whale watching. The adventure ends in lively Tromsø and Oslo for festivals and outdoor restaurants.

Drive through the village of Loen on the Nordfjord at the end of this trip.
Map of Aurland Valley Trek & Norwegian Fjord Road Trip - 10 Days
Aurland Valley Trek & Norwegian Fjord Road Trip - 10 Days

You'll be at the helm of this Norwegian adventure, as you make your way through some of Scandinavia's most spectacular landscapes and two of the country's biggest cities. It starts with a train ride from Oslo that connects to a three-day trek in the Aurlandsdalen Valley. From here, ferry to Bergen via the Sognefjord and grab a rental car as you make your way to coastal villages and mountain towns on your way back to Oslo.

Glorious views of the Nordfjord
Map of Hidden Gems of Western Norway - 6 Days
Hidden Gems of Western Norway - 6 Days

Check off two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, peaceful villages, and dramatic vistas on this self-drive tour through Western Norway. Kicking off in seaside Bergen, you'll make your way through the Nordfjord, Sognefjord, and Lusterfjord for hiking, history, and plenty of scenery—all while staying in some of Norway's best family-run hotels.

Hike to Trolltunga while staying in Odda
Map of Hiking in Southern Norway - 16 Days
Hiking in Southern Norway - 16 Days

This epic journey loops around a key section of Norway hitting up some of the best hikes in the country. Equipped with a sturdy rental car, make your way to several peaks, fjords, waterfalls, and national parks, with stops in scenic villages, farms, and UNESCO-listed monuments. Start and end the trip in seaside Bergen with time to enjoy the city's vibrant culture—and, of course, hiking trails in the surrounding hills.

Get behind the wheel for stunning vistas, where driving is part of the adventure
Map of Norway Mountains & Fjords Road Trip - 8 Days
Norway Mountains & Fjords Road Trip - 8 Days

Steer a relaxing weeklong course through the highs and lows of Norway's spectacular landscapes: from the dizzying zig-zag heights of the Trollstigen (Troll's Ladder) to the depths of Sognefjord, the country's deepest fjord. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace when visiting museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and explore the wonders around you. Buckle up and pack your camera—this is going to be one gorgeous drive!

The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord where you'll spend three nights
Map of Summer Road Trip: Mountains & Fjords - 14 Days
Summer Road Trip: Mountains & Fjords - 14 Days

Steer a relaxing two-week course through Norway's spectacular landscapes from Jotunheimen National Park to the depths of Sognefjord, the country's deepest fjord. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace when visiting museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and explore.

A branch of the Svartisen glacier
Map of Summer Road Trip: Helgelands Coastal Tour - 10 Days
Summer Road Trip: Helgelands Coastal Tour - 10 Days

Road trippers will cover a great deal of scenic ground between southern Norway and the tip of the Arctic Circle with this 10-day itinerary. Start the adventure in Bergen's colorful wharf city before you make your way to Fjærland on Norway's biggest fjord. From here, continue towards the mighty Geirangerfjord and city of Trondheim, and finally, the Helgeland Coast—named one of the world’s top undiscovered island gems. This Norwegian Scenic Route (the longest in the country) runs from Holm to Godøystraumen with detours in Svartisen glacier and the Seven Sisters mountain range, to name a few. In other words, outdoor opportunities aplenty!

Get close to the views in Naeroyfjord
Map of Norway Fjord Road Trip - 10 Days
Norway Fjord Road Trip - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary combines some of Norway's best fjords, mountains, villages, and cities. You'll kick off in Oslo with a few days to explore the up-and-coming capital before taking one of the most scenic trains in the world to Flåm. Then, ferry across the Sognefjord and begin a road trip with several days of UNESCO-listed sites, hiking trails, and boat rides to get to Bergen—a seafaring city surrounded by seven hills.

Hike and camp with views of Lake Ringedalsvatnet
Hardangerfjord Road Trip - 6 Days

This adventure in western Norway encompasses a slew of outdoor activities for ambitious types who want to experience as much summer fun as they can fit in under a week. Starting in Bergen, you'll drive through some of the country's most spectacular scenery as you make your way towards Trolltunga, Ullensvang, and Voss for hiking, rafting, and even a night of camping in the great outdoors with a private guide.

Explore remote beaches on both archipelagoes
Map of Vesterålen & Lofoten Islands Road Trip - 13 Days
Vesterålen & Lofoten Islands Road Trip - 13 Days

This self-guided summer road trip travels at a relaxed pace through gorgeous scenery above the Arctic Circle in Northern Norway. Explore two distinct archipelagos offering hiking trails, peaceful beaches, guided excursions, and a seaside teeming with whales—not to mention constant daylight hours during the 'Midnight Sun' to soak it in. Start and end the trip in Bodø, a cool little city with street art and a charming harbor.

Summertime adventures stay golden above the Arctic Circle
Map of Midnight Sun Road Trip in Arctic Norway - 8 Days
Midnight Sun Road Trip in Arctic Norway - 8 Days

This adventurous weeklong road trip from late May to late August begins and ends in Tromsø, the country's gateway to the Arctic, where—during summer months—the sun never sets on these gorgeous views. From here, you'll journey through rugged landscapes of Norway's second largest island (Senja), and partake in active outings like cycling, kayaking, and swimming before ferrying to another less-populated island (Andøya) where spotting whales is practically a guarantee. Hike the coastal trail on the Queen’s Route before heading back to Tromsø for a few more nights of Scandinavian fun.

The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord where you'll spend three nights
Map of Summer Road Trip: Mountains & Fjords - 12 Days
Summer Road Trip: Mountains & Fjords - 12 Days

Steer a relaxing 12-day course through the highs and lows of Norway's spectacular landscapes from Jotunheimen National Park to the depths of Sognefjord, the country's deepest fjord. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace when visiting museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and explore the wonders around you. Buckle up and pack your camera—this is going to be one gorgeous drive!

Ferry through the Sognefjord to Bergen to finish the trip
Map of Norway's Sognefjord Road Trip - 9 Days
Norway's Sognefjord Road Trip - 9 Days

This 9-day itinerary combines some of Norway's prettiest cities, villages, and mountains surrounding its biggest and most famous fjord: the Sognefjord. After a few days in Oslo, you'll travel by train, ferry, and rental car through several villages boasting scenic hikes, waterfalls, and UNESCO-listed architecture. Finish with a half-day cruise to get to 16th-century Bergen, a seaside city oozing with history and charm.

Early snowcapped views of the Altafjord
Map of Autumn Road Trip in Norway's Arctic - 7 Days
Autumn Road Trip in Norway's Arctic - 7 Days

This relaxed road trip explores an area of Norway's Arctic rarely visited by tourists. Start in fjord-side Alta and drive inland to experience indigenous culture while staying in a cozy wilderness lodge. You'll then make your way toward the northernmost tip of the continent for hiking trails, colorful villages, and breathtaking views. Spend each night looking for early glimpses of the northern lights—they usually start in October.

A fjord-side road near Solvorn
Map of Western Norway Self-Drive Tour - 8 Days
Western Norway Self-Drive Tour - 8 Days

This relaxed road trip includes peaceful islands, fjord-side villages, and hiking trails in Western Norway. After exploring Bergen with a local guide, rent a car and make your way to the remote island of Værlandet and stunning branches of the Sognefjord for your choice of outdoor activities that capitalize on the views. Finish the adventure with two nights in a historic family-run hotel before looping back to Bergen.

Climb to Preikestolen, or 'Pulpit Rock'—a steep cliff above the Lysefjorden
Map of Norwegian Fjord Road Trip - 11 Days
Norwegian Fjord Road Trip - 11 Days

This active itinerary visits the best of Norway's fjords with plenty of chances to work up a sweat. See Bergen like a local before driving to Stavanger and beyond for endless scenery, hiking, and waterfall photo ops. Stop at villages along the Sognefjord—Norway's longest and deepest fjord—before visiting the glaciers of Jotunheimen National Park.

Jostedalsbreen National Park
Map of Self-Drive Tour of Norway: Hemsedal, Hjelledalen & Flam - 10 Days
Self-Drive Tour of Norway: Hemsedal, Hjelledalen & Flam - 10 Days

Enjoy the great Norwegian outdoors with a number of exciting activities. You'll start with a few days cross-country skiing in Hemsedal before heading towards the glacier area of Jostedalsbreen. Here, you'll hike to the Blue Ice Cave, learn about glaciers, and ride a cable car to the top of a fjord. Then, you'll stop in Flam for a scenic fjord cruise and a trip along the Flam Railway. The trip will end in exciting Oslo.

Pulpit Rock in the Lysefjord
Map of Lysefjord, Hardangerfjord & Sognefjord - 11 Days
Lysefjord, Hardangerfjord & Sognefjord - 11 Days

If seeking relaxation and exposure to some of Norway's most spectacular fjords, this trip is for you. After arriving in Norway's 2nd largest city, begin your self-guided drive to Stavanger where you'll boat through the Lysefjord for the activity of your choosing. Then, continue to the Hardangerfjord through a series of national parks, waterfalls, mountain towns, and fjord-side villages—eventually heading north where you'll wrap around the Sognefjord to get back to Bergen for one more night on the town.

Sail through the Geirangerfjord and get up close to waterfalls
Map of Best of Western Norway - 11 Days
Best of Western Norway - 11 Days

This family-friendly road trip covers a mix of popular and lesser-known destinations on Norway's stunning west coast. Start with a few days in Bergen to explore numerous cultural opportunities and easy hiking trails. Then, pick up your rental car and head north through distinct fishing communities to get to Ålesund. From here, choose your own activities as you slowly make your way to Solvorn where you'll stay at the oldest family-run hotel in the country before looping back to Bergen.

Drive through some of the most scenic roads in the western fjords
Map of Western Norway Fjord Road Trip - 13 Days
Western Norway Fjord Road Trip - 13 Days

This 13-day trip covers some of Norway's best fjords, mountains, villages, and cities in under two weeks. Start in Oslo and check out the capital's new architecture and restaurant scene before traveling west (by train and ferry) to pick up a rental car. From here, drive at your own pace visiting charming towns and stunning fjords while enjoying a variety of activities like hiking, kayaking, and biking. Finish the adventure with a fjordcruise to Bergen—famous for its UNESCO-listed Hanseatic wharf.

Sail through the narrow Nærøyfjord on your last day
Map of Explore the Hardangerfjord & Sognefjord - 9 Days
Explore the Hardangerfjord & Sognefjord - 9 Days

This slow road trip—concentrating on Norway's two longest fjords—gives travelers the opportunity to become part of local life. Starting in Bergen, you'll explore the city before renting a car and heading to the Hardanger region for hiking and mountain biking. Then make your way to Aurland and explore two spectacular arms of the Sognefjord before circling back to Bergen for one more night on the town.

Norway's Lofoten Islands
Map of Western Norway Fjords & Lofoten Islands - 15 Days
Western Norway Fjords & Lofoten Islands - 15 Days

This 15-day Norway road trip explores the most beautiful fjords, mountains, and ocean scenes between Bergen and Ålesund before crossing the Arctic Circle to the Lofoten archipelago. Spend over two weeks hiking, boating, kayaking, wildlife-spotting, and feasting as you explore cool and creative cities and quiet fjord-side villages across Norway. This relaxed-pace itinerary is best in the summer months.

The Barents Sea off Norway's north coast
Map of Northern Norway Winter Adventure - 13 Days
Northern Norway Winter Adventure - 13 Days

This exciting 13-day adventure—between late February to early April—takes you deep into Norway's boreal territory for unique winter-themed activities and few crowds. After a few days in Oslo, it's time to fly to Tromsø, 'Gateway to the Arctic', where you'll experience local culture and a farm in the wilderness. Then, drive to Alta, Karasjok, and the North Cape for UNESCO-listed rock art, Sami culture, dog sledding, and hiking around Europe's northernmost point before circling back along the stunning coast.

Hike the narrow ridge of the Romsdalseggen trail for epic vistas
Map of Fjord Active Adventure: Bergen to Trondheim - 15 Days
Fjord Active Adventure: Bergen to Trondheim - 15 Days

Explore Norway's famous fjords, snow-capped mountains, and stunning waterfalls on this 15-day tour—perfect for active travelers with a love of hiking and the great outdoors—that starts in UNESCO-listed Bergen and finishes at Trondheim. Drive alongside the famous Sognefjord, paddle on glacial lakes in Jostedalsbreen National Park, take a beautiful train journey from Flåm and enjoy the warmer months when Norway's hiking trails are open and the waterfalls are flowing.

Paddle an inflatable canoe on the Raundal River near Voss
Map of Southern Norway Active Adventure - 15 Days
Southern Norway Active Adventure - 15 Days

Perfect for sporty travelers, this summertime tour is an excellent and healthy way to experience Norway's stunning scenery. The trip starts in Oslo, where you'll warm up with a walk around the nation's capital. Next, travel west to Flåm and Bergen and pick up your car for a series of scenic activities like zip lining, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. Finish the adventure with a ferry ride through a UNESCO-listed fjord before looping back to Oslo for one last night on the town.

See charming Ålesund's Art Nouveau buildings
Map of Western Norway & Oslo Cultural Adventure - 15 Days
Western Norway & Oslo Cultural Adventure - 15 Days

Travel by train, hike mountains, boat along a fjord, and mountain bike down a valley on this 15-day journey that's perfect for active, adventure-seeking travelers. Soak up culture and creativity in Oslo before making an epic train journey to the west coast, where the real fun starts. You'll hike Jotunheim National Park, drive the spectacular Atlantic Ocean Road, ride the scenic Flåm Railway, see Art Nouveau houses in Ålesund, and zigzag along 11 twisting hairpin bends on the Trollstigen road.

Family holiday in Norway
Map of Active Family Adventure in Norway: Oslo, Fjords & Bergen - 14 Days
Active Family Adventure in Norway: Oslo, Fjords & Bergen - 14 Days

Perfect for families with older kids, this epic Norway adventure whizzes you across mountains, glaciers, and fjords as you drive from the pint-sized cultural capital of Oslo to the seven peaks of Bergen. Along the way, you'll whitewater raft in Voss, head to the skies via cable car in Loen, and experience the thrill of Trollstigen's famous hairpin bends. Don't worry, there's time for relaxation, too, as you kayak the gentle Aurlandsfjord and experience the unique stillness of Norway's most famous fjords.