A road trip through Norway ranks among the world’s great driving adventures—weaving along cliff-hugging roads above fjords that plunge 1,000 meters below, crossing bridges that leap between islands in the open North Atlantic, climbing mountain passes through hairpin bends surrounded by cascading waterfalls and snow-capped peaks reaching 2,469 meters. Norway maintains approximately 95,000 kilometers of roads across a country spanning 385,207 square kilometers, with 18 designated National Scenic Routes (Nasjonale Turistveger) covering 2,240 kilometers of the most spectacular driving on Earth.
According to Statistics Norway (SSB), over 25.3 million hotel guest nights were recorded in 2023, with road tourism representing a significant and growing segment. The summer months of June through August account for 36% of annual tourism—peak season for road trips when all mountain passes are open and Norway’s famous 24-hour daylight illuminates the Arctic landscape. The country’s 50+ airports and 4,200 kilometers of rail network connect to road journeys, but it’s behind the wheel where Norway truly reveals its character.
Each scenic route features carefully designed viewpoints, award-winning architectural rest stops by world-renowned designers, and access to landscapes that public transport simply cannot reach. Whether you dream of driving the legendary Trollstigen’s eleven switchbacks, crossing the Atlantic Road’s ocean-spanning bridges during an autumn storm, or exploring Lofoten’s fishing villages at your own pace under the midnight sun, Norway rewards drivers with experiences unavailable any other way.
Understanding Norway’s Road Network
Norway’s geography creates unique driving conditions. The country stretches 1,752 kilometers from south to north (equivalent to driving from New York to Miami), yet is rarely wider than 430 kilometers. Mountains, fjords, and islands mean roads must tunnel through rock, ferry across water, and wind along cliff edges. What appears short on a map takes longer than expected—average speeds on scenic routes rarely exceed 50-60 km/h.
Norwegian Scenic Routes (Nasjonale Turistveger)
Overview of the 18 Routes
Norway has designated 18 National Scenic Routes covering 2,240 kilometers through the country’s most dramatic landscapes. These aren’t merely pretty drives—each route represents a carefully curated experience combining world-class scenery with architectural interventions by leading Norwegian and international designers. The program, initiated in 1994 and ongoing, transforms rest stops and viewpoints into cultural destinations.
What Makes Scenic Routes Special:
- Architectural viewpoints: Structures by architects including Peter Zumthor, Snohetta, and Reiulf Ramstad
- Art installations: Site-specific works integrated into landscapes
- Design standards: Consistent signage, information, and facilities
- Maintenance priority: Road surfaces kept in excellent condition
- Toilet facilities: Clean, architecturally designed rest stops
Complete List of 18 National Scenic Routes
| Route | Region | Length | Highlights | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanterhavsvegen (Atlantic Road) | More og Romsdal | 36 km | Ocean bridges, dramatic storms | Year-round |
| Geiranger-Trollstigen | More og Romsdal | 106 km | Trollstigen switchbacks, Geirangerfjord | May-Oct |
| Hardanger | Vestland | 158 km | Fjord, Voringsfossen, orchard country | Year-round |
| Hardangervidda | Vestland/Viken | 67 km | Mountain plateau, Mabodalen | Year-round |
| Rondane | Innlandet | 75 km | Norway’s first national park | Year-round |
| Gamle Strynefjellsvegen | Vestland | 27 km | Historic mountain road | June-Sept |
| Sognefjellsvegen | Vestland/Innlandet | 108 km | Norway’s highest pass (1,434m) | June-Oct |
| Aurlandsfjellet | Vestland | 47 km | Stegastein viewpoint | June-Oct |
| Gaularfjellet | Vestland | 84 km | Waterfalls, mountain scenery | May-Oct |
| Valdresflye | Innlandet | 49 km | Mountain plateau views | May-Oct |
| Lofoten | Nordland | 166 km | Fishing villages, beaches, peaks | Year-round |
| Helgelandskysten | Nordland | 433 km | Coastal island route | Year-round |
| Andoya | Nordland | 58 km | Arctic coast, whale watching | Year-round |
| Senja | Troms | 102 km | Devil’s Teeth, Husoy | Year-round |
| Varanger | Troms og Finnmark | 160 km | Arctic tundra, Sami culture | Year-round |
| Havoyysund | Troms og Finnmark | 67 km | Fishing villages, Arctic | Year-round |
| Jaeren | Rogaland | 41 km | Coastal beaches, lighthouses | Year-round |
| Ryfylke | Rogaland | 183 km | Preikestolen access, fjords | Year-round |
Must-Drive Routes — Detailed Guide
| Route | Best For | Driving Time | Key Stops | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geiranger-Trollstigen | First-time visitors | 3-4 hours | Trollstigen platform, Eagle Bend, Dalsnibba | Geiranger, Andalsnes |
| Atlantic Road | Storm chasers, engineering | 30 min (allow 2 hours) | Storseisundet Bridge, Eldhusoya | Kristiansund, Molde |
| Hardanger | Waterfall lovers | 4-5 hours | Voringsfossen, Steindalsfossen | Eidfjord, Odda |
| Lofoten | Photography, villages | Full day minimum | Reine, Hamnoy, beaches | Rorbuer throughout |
| Sognefjellsvegen | Mountain enthusiasts | 3-4 hours | Highest point viewpoint, Jotunheimen access | Lom, Turtagro |
| Senja | Lofoten alternative | 3-4 hours | Tungeneset, Bergsbotn, Husoy | Hamn i Senja |
The Iconic Routes — Detailed Driving Guides
Trollstigen — Norway’s Most Famous Mountain Road
Eleven Hairpin Bends Through Wild Mountain Landscape
Trollstigen (The Troll’s Road) represents Norway’s most iconic driving experience—eleven dramatic hairpin bends carved into a near-vertical mountainside, climbing 858 meters through a landscape of cascading waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and snow-capped peaks. Built between 1916 and 1936 using hand tools and minimal machinery, Trollstigen remains one of the world’s great engineering achievements and Norway’s most visited tourist road.
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Hairpin bends | 11 (numbered from bottom) |
| Elevation gain | 858 meters |
| Road gradient | Average 9%, maximum 12% |
| Road width | 3.3 meters (many sections single-track) |
| 2025 Opening | July 11 (weather dependent) |
| Closing | Mid-October (varies with snowfall) |
| Maximum vehicle length | 13.3 meters |
| Daily traffic (peak) | 2,000+ vehicles |
Practical Driving Information:
| Approaching From | Distance | Driving Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alesund | 105 km | 2-2.5 hours | Include ferry at Eidsdal or drive via Andalsnes |
| Andalsnes | 25 km | 45 min (bottom to top) | Most dramatic approach |
| Geiranger | 106 km | 3-4 hours | Via Eagle Road |
| Molde | 70 km | 1.5-2 hours | Via Andalsnes |
Expert Driving Tips for Trollstigen:
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Arrive early or late: Peak traffic occurs 10 AM - 4 PM when tour buses dominate. Arrive before 9 AM or after 5 PM for calmer driving and better photography.
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Patience is mandatory: Much of Trollstigen is single-track with passing places. Drivers routinely stop for photos at hairpin bends. Accept that this is a 30-45 minute climb, regardless of driving skill.
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Give buses priority: Large tour buses cannot navigate hairpins in a single turn. When you see a bus approaching, find a passing place and wait—they cannot reverse easily.
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Check weather conditions: Heavy rain or fog can close Trollstigen at short notice. Check vegvesen.no the morning of your planned drive.
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Stop at the top: The architectural viewpoint platform (Trollstigen Platået) offers spectacular views down the switchbacks and across to Stigfossen waterfall (320 meters). Allow 30-60 minutes.
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Fuel before starting: The nearest gas stations are in Andalsnes (bottom) or Valldal (top). Don’t start with a low tank.
Atlantic Road — The Road in the Ocean
8 Bridges Leaping Between Islands in the Open North Atlantic
The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsvegen) ranks among the world’s most photographed and celebrated road structures—8.3 kilometers of bridges and causeways connecting islands through an exposed archipelago where the North Atlantic meets the Norwegian Sea. Built between 1983 and 1989, the road replaced a ferry connection and has become Norway’s most visited scenic route, attracting visitors who come specifically to experience driving through dramatic ocean storms.
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total length | 8.3 km (scenic route: 36 km) |
| Bridges | 8 bridges connecting islands |
| Highest point | Storseisundet Bridge (23m above sea level) |
| Construction | 1983-1989 |
| Season | Year-round (no winter closure) |
| Daily traffic | 1,000-2,500 vehicles depending on season |
| Toll | FREE (no toll since 2023) |
Key Stops Along the Atlantic Road:
| Location | What to See | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Storseisundet Bridge | The iconic “Bridge to Nowhere” | Appears to end in mid-air from certain angles |
| Eldhusoya | Visitor center, viewpoint | Coffee shop, information, restrooms |
| Kvernes Stave Church | Historic 14th-century church | 3 km detour, worth visiting |
| Bud | Fishing village, WWII history | Northern terminus of scenic route |
Weather and Driving Conditions:
The Atlantic Road transforms completely based on weather:
- Calm days: Easy driving, clear views, excellent for photography
- Stormy days: Waves crash over the road surface; spectacular but challenging driving
- Autumn storms: Many photographers specifically visit September-November for dramatic conditions
- Winter: Open year-round; occasional closures in extreme weather
Storm Warning: While storm photography is popular, large waves can be dangerous. Vehicles have been swept off the road. Exercise extreme caution in severe weather; if conditions exceed your comfort level, wait for improvement.
Explore Atlantic Road ToursGeiranger-Trollstigen Route
The Golden Route through fjord and mountain:
The 68-kilometer road between Geiranger and Trollstigen—often called “The Golden Route”—combines two of Norway’s most spectacular experiences. Starting from the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, the route climbs through dramatic mountain scenery before descending through Trollstigen’s famous switchbacks.
Highlights:
- Geirangerfjord viewpoints (Eagle Bend, Ørnesvingen)
- Dalsnibba summit viewpoint (1,500m elevation)
- Trollstigen viewing platform
- Multiple waterfalls along the route
- Combining two UNESCO-quality landscapes
Hardangerfjord Route
Fjord, waterfalls, and glacier access:
The Hardanger scenic route is a blend of fjord vistas, charming villages, and powerful waterfalls. The road passes by the twin cascades of Låtefossen and Skjervsfossen, and serves as the gateway to Trolltunga and Folgefonna glacier.
Key stops:
- Låtefossen—twin waterfalls crashing under the road
- Steinsdalsfossen—walk behind a waterfall
- Hardangervidda Nature Center
- Access to Trolltunga trailhead
- Fruit orchards and cider farms
Toll Roads and Payment
Understanding Norway’s Toll System
All vehicles must pay road tolls in Norway. There are many toll stations throughout the country, almost all of which are automatic—no stopping required. Your vehicle is photographed, and tolls are charged to your registered account.
According to Life in Norway, city driving has become extremely expensive due to environmental legislation. For example, driving into Trondheim city center from the south passes three toll stations with minimum charges of 29 NOK, increasing during peak times.
AutoPASS System
How it works:
AutoPASS is Norway’s electronic toll collection system covering most toll roads, bridges, tunnels, and ferries. Local vehicles (including rental cars) typically have transponders in windshields that automatically collect tolls.
Benefits:
- Zero-emission vehicles pay up to 50% reduced rates with AutoPASS
- Environmentally friendly vehicles with AutoPASS tags get 20% discount
- Most ferry payments also work through AutoPASS
- No stopping at toll stations required
For Rental Cars
Most rental cars in Norway are registered with AutoPASS. However:
- Confirm with your rental agent: Toll agreements with clients vary by company
- Tolls added to final bill: Unless otherwise agreed, tolls appear on your rental invoice
- Some charge admin fees: Ask about any additional processing charges
For Personal/Foreign Vehicles
If bringing your own car to Norway:
- Register at Epass24.com before arrival
- Create a user profile with credit card for automatic billing
- Note: It is not possible to get a toll tag at the Norwegian border—you must register in advance
- Unregistered vehicles receive invoices by mail (with higher fees)
Practical Driving Information
Road Conditions
Narrow roads:
Some Norwegian Scenic Routes follow very narrow and winding roads where passing places must be used to allow oncoming traffic to pass. Allow extra time for journeys and be prepared to reverse to passing points.
Vehicle restrictions:
- Trollstigen: Maximum vehicle length 13.3 meters
- Gamle Strynefjellsvegen: Not suitable for motorhomes or caravans
- Some mountain roads have weight restrictions
- Check specific route requirements before driving large vehicles
Ferries
Part of the road network:
Ferries are integral to Norwegian road travel, connecting routes across fjords and along the coast.
- Most ferry payments work through AutoPASS
- Several routes are now free of charge
- Booking recommended for popular summer routes
- Queues common in peak season
Tips:
- Check ferry schedules when planning (ferries may only run hourly)
- Arrive early for busy routes
- Some routes require advance booking
- Last ferry is often earlier than you’d expect
Fuel and Services
Costs (2025):
- Fuel: 21-25 NOK per liter ($7.50-9.00 per gallon)
- Diesel typically slightly cheaper than petrol
- Electric vehicle charging widely available (growing network)
- Service stations less frequent in rural areas—fill up when you can
- Car rental high season: 3,500-4,500 NOK per day
2025 specific costs:
| Item | Cost (NOK) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol (per liter) | 21-25 | $1.95-2.30 |
| Diesel (per liter) | 19-23 | $1.75-2.15 |
| Full tank (50L) | 1,050-1,250 | $97-115 |
| Car rental (per day) | 3,500-4,500 | $320-415 |
| EV charging (per kWh) | 4-8 | $0.37-0.74 |
Planning:
- Fill up in towns before scenic routes
- Don’t let tank drop below quarter in remote areas
- Download offline maps—cell coverage can be spotty
Rental Car Guide
Booking Tips
According to The Holistic Backpacker, booking well in advance is strongly recommended, especially during summer season when demand peaks.
Recommendations:
- Book 2-3 months ahead for summer travel
- Compare prices on aggregator sites
- Check insurance coverage carefully
- Confirm toll handling arrangements
- Consider manual transmission (cheaper, more available)
Vehicle Types
| Vehicle | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Small car | Solo/couples, budget | Fine for most routes |
| Mid-size | Families, luggage | Better for long distances |
| SUV/4WD | Winter, rough roads | Not needed summer scenic routes |
| Campervan | Freedom camping | Route restrictions, ferry costs |
Pick-up Locations
Major rental options at:
- Oslo Airport (Gardermoen)—largest selection
- Bergen Airport (Flesland)—western fjord access
- Trondheim, Stavanger, Tromsø airports
- City center locations (often more expensive)
Sample Itineraries
7-Day Classic Fjords (Oslo-Bergen)
| Day | Route | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oslo to Flåm | Scenic train connection option |
| 2 | Flåm area | Nærøyfjord cruise, Stegastein |
| 3 | Flåm to Geiranger | Scenic routes, waterfalls |
| 4 | Geirangerfjord | Eagles Bend, boat trips |
| 5 | Trollstigen & Atlantic Road | Full day driving |
| 6 | Ålesund to Bergen | Coast route, Art Nouveau city |
| 7 | Bergen | City exploration, return car |
10-Day Northern Adventure
| Day | Route | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Tromsø area | City, whale watching |
| 3-4 | Drive to Lofoten | Senja route optional |
| 5-7 | Lofoten Islands | Villages, beaches, hikes |
| 8 | Lofoten to Bodø | Coastal scenery |
| 9-10 | Return or extend | Nordkapp option |
Safety and Best Practices
Essential Tips
- Drive slowly: Norwegian roads reward patience, not speed
- Use headlights: Required 24/7 year-round
- Give way: At narrow points, reversing may be required
- Watch for animals: Sheep, reindeer, moose cross roads
- Check forecasts: Mountain weather changes rapidly
- Fuel up: Stations sparse in remote areas
Emergency Information
- Emergency number: 112
- Roadside assistance: Most rental contracts include coverage
- Download offline maps: Cell coverage unreliable in mountains
- Carry: Water, snacks, warm clothing, phone charger
Final Thoughts
A Norway road trip offers some of the most spectacular driving on Earth. The combination of dramatic scenery, well-designed viewpoints, and the freedom to explore at your own pace creates experiences that guided tours cannot replicate. Plan carefully around seasonal road closures, budget for tolls and fuel, and embrace the slower pace that Norwegian mountain roads demand. The reward is access to fjords, mountains, and coastal villages that define this extraordinary country.
2025 Road Trip Quick Reference
Essential Numbers
| Item | 2025 Value |
|---|---|
| Total National Scenic Routes | 18 routes |
| Total Scenic Route km | 2,240 km |
| Fuel cost (petrol) | 21-25 NOK/liter |
| Car rental (high season) | 3,500-4,500 NOK/day |
| Trollstigen opening | July 11, 2025 |
| Atlantic Road toll | FREE |
| Speed limit (highways) | 90-110 km/h |
| Speed limit (rural) | 60-80 km/h |
| Blood alcohol limit | 0.02% (near zero) |
Mountain Pass Opening Dates 2025
All dates are weather-dependent and subject to change:
| Pass | Expected Opening | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Trollstigen | July 11 | 858m |
| Dalsnibba | June | 1,476m |
| Sognefjellet | June | 1,434m |
| Aurlandsfjellet | May | 1,306m |
| Gamle Strynefjellsvegen | June | 1,139m |
| Valdresflye | May | 1,389m |
Midnight Sun Driving 2025
For road trips in northern Norway, take advantage of extended daylight:
| Location | Midnight Sun Period | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lofoten | May 28 - July 14 | 48 days |
| Tromso | May 20 - July 22 | 64 days |
| Nordkapp | May 14 - July 29 | 77 days |
The midnight sun enables 24-hour driving flexibility in northern Norway, though fatigue remains a consideration regardless of daylight.
Drive safely, take your time, and prepare to be amazed.
Browse Self-Drive Tour PackagesFor current road conditions and scenic route information, visit Norwegian Scenic Routes.