The Glampacking Lawyer

A Little Adventure From Oslo to Bergen: Norway’s Most Scenic Train Ride 🚂 🇳🇴

If you’re looking for information and insights on the breathtaking train journey from Oslo to Bergen, you’ve come to the right place! I recently had the privilege of experiencing this legendary rail route myself, and let me assure you, it lives up to its reputation as one of the most picturesque train rides in all of Europe.

Winding its way through Norway’s magnificent fjords, soaring mountains, and pristine forests, the Oslo to Bergen railway offers an ever-changing tapestry of natural wonders that will truly leave you in awe. From the moment you leave the minimalistic city of Oslo, you’ll be treated to a front-row seat to some of the most epic landscapes on the continent.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Norway, this journey promises to be an unforgettable highlight. So settle in, grab a window seat, and get ready to be mesmerised by the sheer beauty that unfolds before your eyes. Trust me; this is one train ride you won’t soon forget!

Catch the Morning Train from Oslo to Bergen 🌅

Since this train journey from Bergen to Oslo is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, you’ll want to catch it at the best possible time!

I HIGHLY recommend choosing the morning train, so that you can enjoy the entire route during daylight hours.

The first departure from Oslo is at 08:25 am and the latest one takes place at 15:43 pm.  There’s also an overnight sleeper train that runs between the two cities. However, you miss out on all the famous scenery by traveling at night.

Even if the journey is overcast this provides beautiful reflections of the surrounding houses, rivers, and lakes you’ll see from the windows. Come rain or shine, the train from Oslo to Bergen is an absolute must!

How Long is the Train from Oslo to Bergen? ⌚

Regarding the distance between Oslo and Bergen, this is approximately 308 miles (496 km).

The scenic train ride between Oslo and Bergen takes 6.5 to 7.5 hours depending on which direction you’re traveling and if there are any delays.

Generally, the most common routes are:

• Oslo – Drammen – Hokksund – Hønefoss – Gol – Finse – Myrdal – Voss – Bergen
• Or the reverse route from Bergen to Oslo

The train climbs to its highest point of around 4,000 feet (1,237 meters) above sea level at Finse Station before descending towards the coastal city of Bergen.

Lots of visitors choose to break up the journey by disembarking at Myrdal to take the famous Flam Railway down to the village of Flam, rejoining the Bergen-Oslo line later.

So be sure to budget around 7 hours of total travel time when taking the legendary scenic train ride from Oslo to Bergen (or vice versa) to properly experience one of Norway’s most beautiful rail routes.

Views on the Train from Oslo to Bergen 🏔️

The Oslo to Bergen route is not just about transportation – it offers an immersive experience through Norway’s pristine natural beauty and a fascinating look at the impressive feats of engineering required to construct this highest mainline railway in Northern Europe through such challenging terrain.

From alpine lakes to windswept valleys above the treeline, the scenery continually changes as the train climbs towards its highest point at Finse, situated at an elevation of 1,222 meters (4,009 feet) above sea level! The Oslo to Bergen train is consistently rated as one of Europe’s most scenic train journies for good reason. Every time we emerged from a tunnel we entered scenes that seemed to be conjured from a painter’s wildest dreams!

While flying is quicker, the Oslo to Bergen train allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s beauty in a way that makes this renowned route well worth the time for anyone visiting Norway. The train route is truly a living museum showcasing both the grandeur of nature and the ambition of those who dared to build the line between 1875-1909.

Whether you’re travelling solo, with kids, or a couple vacationing, it’s well worth seeing this region of Norway from the train window.

Seating on the Train from Oslo to Bergen 💺

Seating features

The comfortable standard seats make for pleasant viewing, though upgrading to first-class provides more spacious seating. Each seat has hooks, some overhead storage, and space to stow jackets and coats. Regardless of where you’re sat, the time flies by given the views on the Train from Oslo to Bergen.

What I liked about the seating is that all of the seats have fold-down tray tables, which is ideal for working on your laptop in between admiring the views, or you can even book a four-seater if you’re in a group and have a large table between you.

WiFi and Power Plugs

Although WiFi is available, it was quite patchy due to the number of long tunnels you pass through. Video calls might not work but you can easily text with friends or send some work emails. There’s also no need to worry about charging your devices as each seat has power plugs, which you can use throughout the journey (totally essential given how many photos you’ll want to take!).

Got Kids? Choose the Family Car!

A unique advantage of this train from Oslo to Bergen is that it features a family car with a play area to keep young kids entertained during the roughly 7-hour journey. The dedicated family car with its soft play area and amenities like a large bathroom makes all the difference for an enjoyable, stress-free journey through Norway’s world-famous scenery.

The kids area of the family car is a decent size with things like a ladder and crawl tunnel and some soft, padded cushions covered everything, so it’s totally safe for kids to use. The family car’s thoughtful design also includes a changing table, and huge spaces for stroller parking, which are free but need to be booked separately. This is ideal for those traveling with babies who sleep in larger prams.

Which Side of the train should you sit?

Ah for the all important Question! To be honest, it’s hard to give an answer on this since the views were so different and whether or not it was best on one side or the other kept changing throughout the journey.

There’s also no general consensus online, as all of my sources conflicted with each other, which made planning the journey to ensure I had the best views pretty tricky!

There are public areas on the train from Oslo to Bergen, meaning anyone can sit in places like the cafe for free, which has big windows on either side. So, even if you don’t book the best seat you still have options to switch up the views on the journey.

I personally sat in first class (Pluss) and the best seat in this area was Seat 04 (window seat) in Wagon 1 to be precise! This was not my seat but a couple sat in 03 and 04 and I was pretty jealous!

My seat (05) in Pluss was still decent though. This was on the right of the train (facing backwards), whereas the couple in the best seats were on the left hand side of the train (facing backwards), and this was even better. Note: This side of the train tends to sell out quicker, I guess whoever is buying these tickets has the insider knowledge I gained from doing the journey myself!

Wherever you sit the views will still be amazing and you can switch things up whenever you fancy en route to Bergen by sitting in an alternative public area of the train.

Food Options on the Train from Oslo to Bergen 🍟

The cafe car has large bay windows and comfortable seating. While the hot drinks are fine (and free in first class), the food options are exactly what you’d expect of train fare—think pre-packaged microwaveable items like hot dogs and pizza, and some unhealthy snacks like chocolate and chips. So, if you’re fussy, it’s best to bring your own food!

Luggage Storage on the Train from Oslo to Bergen 🧳

There’s plenty of luggage storage is available on board, with designated areas for all of your larger bags and some overhead racks for smaller ones. You can store your belongings securely to prevent any inconvenience during the whole train from Oslo to Bergen.

Best Time of Year to Catch the Oslo to Bergen Train? 🌄

The best time of year to take the scenic Oslo to Bergen railway really depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Here are some considerations for the different seasons:

Spring (April-May)

• The landscapes are lush and green as nature comes back to life
• Melting snow reveals waterfalls and rivers
• Wildflowers start blooming
• Fewer crowds than summer
• Possibility of some remaining snow in the high mountain areas

Summer (June-August)

• Long daylight hours to enjoy the views
• Warm temperatures ideal for hiking near stops
• Peak tourist season, so trains can be more crowded
• Lush, green scenery

Fall (September-October)

• Stunning fall foliage colors in the forests and mountains
• Cooler, crisper temperatures
• Fewer crowds than summer
• Potential for early winter storms late in the season

Winter (November-March)

• Beautiful snow-covered landscapes
• Incredibly scenic with frozen lakes and snow-capped peaks
• Fewest crowds
• Potential for delays/disruptions due to extreme winter weather
• Shortest daylight hours to see the views

Many travelers prefer the “shoulder” seasons of May-June or September for relatively mild weather, thinner crowds, and the full spectrum of seasons on display. But every season offers its own unique charms on this renowned railway journey.

Ticketing and Planning Your Train Journey From Oslo to Bergen 🎟️

Lots of travelers take this rail journey as part of a group tour, but if you’re independently traveling in Norway, it’s very simple to take the train in either direction, from Oslo to Bergen (or Bergen to Oslo).

Travelers journeying from Oslo also book this route as you can actually disembark in Myrdal and take the famous Flam Railway.

Booking Tickets

You have two options. Most people (myself included) use online book the train journey from Oslo to Bergen online, but if you’re using a Eurail or Interrail passes, you need to call and make reservations ahead of time and then activate the trip in the app.

You can book your tickets online through the official website of the Norwegian State Railways (Vy). The platform is pretty user friendly and you can even select the family car option here. Don’t use passthrough booking sites as they tend to charge a steep premium. Through Vy you’ll have access to the best prices, including any discounted tickets available on your date and time.

Always book your tickets at least 30 days in advance if you can, but spaces open up 90 days ahead. This is essential if you’re aiming for the family car during peak season (summer), as these spots can fill up quickly.

How much is the train from Oslo to Bergen?

Of course the price of the train tickets varies, depending on the travel class you choose and how far in advance you book your tickets. Generally, a one-way Oslo – Bergen ticket cost starts from 110 USD.

Discounts

• Youngsters (up to 25yrs old) are eligible for 15% discount
• Infants (up to 1 year old) can travel for free without seats. You can reserve a seat using the youngsters discount.

What to do in Oslo: The Minimalist City That Packs a Punch ☑️

If you’re wondering what to do in Oslo before you embark on the scenic train journey from Oslo to Bergen, read on! Although I only had 24 hours here I was seriously impressed with all it had to offer, and will be back!

Don’t let Oslo’s clean, minimalist aesthetic fool you – this fascinating Norwegian capital is bursting with cool cultural experiences and striking natural scenery just waiting to be explored. I mean, where else can you go from being awed by mind-bending modern art and architecture one minute, to kayaking through a mossy fjord or hiking lush forests right in the city centre the next?

That blend of cutting-edge design and easy access to outdoor adventures is what makes Oslo so special. Don’t get me wrong, you’ll want to embrace your inner art nerd and spend some time taking in the exhibits at places like the National Museum and the unique Vigeland Installation with its weird naked statues. The city’s amazing culinary scene also deserves a special mention with innovative New Nordic cuisine and cozy beer halls serving up delicious fuel for your adventures.

But the real magic happens when you explore Oslo’s natural surroundings. Rent a kayak and paddle through the Oslofjord’s tranquil waters flanked by islands and coastal homes straight out of a fairytale. Or hike into the forested hills at the city’s edge, keeping an eye out for elk and deer between stunning viewpoints overlooking the fjord.

In the winter, the forests turn into an outdoor playground for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing right alongside people going about their daily business. Ski culture is hugely popular, so cap off those brisk outdoor adventures by warming up at one of the cozy châlet-style cafes for hot drinks and waffles. Hygge redefined!

Overall, Oslo seamlessly combines cultural cool with jaw-dropping natural beauty. Just don’t mistake this city’s minimalism for being dull – it packs an adventurous punch!

What to do in Bergen: The Whimsical Coastal Gem ☑️

At first glance, Bergen seems like a tiny, old-world city with some storybook charm. Colourful historic wooden houses climb up the hillsides, the wharf bustles with fishermen bringing in the day’s catch, and cute cafés invite you in with the scent of fresh waffles! But spend some time in this Norwegian coastal gem and you’ll quickly discover there’s a super adventurous spirit beneath the surface.

Sure, you’ll want to embrace total wanderlust by losing yourself in the tangle of Bergen’s UNESCO World Heritage listed Bryggen wharf area. Wind your way along the narrow medieval lanes, check out the local museums and travel back to the hanseatic times when Bergen dominated trade for about 400 years. An important part of Bergen’s history can be experienced here, with lots of the arcitechture being preserved or rebuilt as it was in the Middle Ages. 

But then contrast that old-world fantasyland with an injection of adrenaline and nature by taking the gravity-defying Fløibanen Funicular up the mountainside. At the top, you’ll have panoramic views over the entire city and access to the breathtaking trails draped over the seven iconic peaks encircling Bergen. Hike up an appetite to properly indulge in skillingsboller, the local cinnamon buns best enjoyed hot from the oven with a mug of bergenser, the region’s coffee blend.

Don’t sleep on the chance to experience the waters that gave this port city life either. Hop on a boat tour to see countless islands and skerries surrounding Bergen, keeping an eye out for some seals and Sea Eagles soaring overhead. Or, you could embrace your inner seafarer and rent a kayak to paddle between the islands.

With its colourful past as a powerhouse in Norway’s medieval seafaring days and its lingering reputation as one of Scandinavia’s hotbeds of art and culture today, Bergen truly manages to impress from every angle. So go get lost in the fairy tale and make sure to veer off path whenever possible for some outdoorsy surprises.

Other Ways to Get Between Oslo and Bergen 🗺️

If you’re looking for one of the most scenic rail routes in the world, take the Oslo to Bergen train as it leaves and arrives in the city centers and is simply stunning. But if you want more flexibility in your journey, or you want to maximise your time, there are some other ways to consider to get between Oslo and Bergen.

✈️ Flying: The flight is quick, taking under an hour and with more than 20 flights each day it offers flexibility. However, it’s not as scenic, less eco friendly and will still take several hours once you factor in getting to and from the airport, and through airport security etc.

🚙 Driving: Driving from Oslo to bergen offers lots of freedom to explore attractions like Vøringsfossen waterfall and Folgefonna glacier. However, this journey is longer than the train (around 8 hours) and requires dealing with potentially challenging driving conditions.

Hire a Car at the best price ⬇️

🚎 Bus: If you catch the bus from Oslo to Bergen you will get some pretty views of Norway’s scenic landscapes, without having to drive yourself and it’s generally cheaper than the train. However, it takes around 9.5 hours, lacks the comfort of train amenities, and will miss some of the most stunning places the train goes but where there are no roads.

Final Thoughts: Train From Oslo to Bergen 🚂 🇳🇴

The train journey from Oslo to Bergen is undoubtedly one of the most scenic and memorable rail experiences in the world. Winding through breathtaking Norwegian landscapes of mountains, fjords, and forests, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendour of this Nordic nation.

Regardless of the season, expect to be awestruck by the ever-changing views that unfold outside the train windows. From the snow-capped peaks and frozen lakes of winter to the vibrant colours of fall and the lush greens of spring and summer, each season presents its own unique charm along this iconic route.

While the journey itself is a highlight, the opportunity to disembark and explore charming villages, hike through pristine wilderness, or simply breathe in the crisp mountain air adds to the allure of this unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid photographer, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Oslo to Bergen train journey promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a true celebration of Norway’s natural beauty and a testament to the power of rail travel to connect us with the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

P.S., If you have any questions about this article on the scenic Train From Oslo to Bergen, do let me know in the comments!