The journey between Oslo and Bergen connects Norway’s two largest cities through some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes—a route that has captivated travelers since the Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen) opened on November 27, 1909, after nearly 20 years of construction across some of the continent’s most challenging terrain. This 496-kilometer connection crosses the Hardangervidda plateau, Europe’s largest mountain plateau spanning over 8,000 square kilometers, at elevations exceeding 1,200 meters where snow can fall any month of the year.
Most travelers recommend making the journey itself part of the adventure. The Bergen Railway is not just transportation—it is consistently ranked among the world’s most scenic train journeys, crossing the roof of Norway while passing glaciers, pristine alpine lakes, traditional mountain farms, and landscapes that seem almost otherworldly. National Geographic and Lonely Planet have both named it one of the world’s greatest rail experiences, and with over 1.5 million passengers annually, it remains one of Norway’s most significant tourism assets.
According to Statistics Norway (SSB), Norway’s rail network spans 4,200 kilometers with approximately 60 million passenger journeys annually. The Bergen Railway carries over 1.5 million passengers per year, making it one of Norway’s busiest and most economically significant routes. The line’s combination of engineering achievement and natural beauty has made it a destination in itself—travelers from around the world come specifically to experience this seven-hour mountain crossing.
Understanding the Route: Geography and History
Geographic Zones
The Oslo-Bergen route crosses five distinct geographic zones, each with its own character and visual appeal:
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The Hallingdal Valley (0-400m elevation): Gentle farmland, dense forests, and traditional Norwegian farms rising gradually from Oslo. Look for red wooden barns and grazing livestock.
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The Mountain Transition (400-800m): Dramatic ascent through Geilo ski country, where the landscape transforms from forest to alpine terrain. Geilo (800m) is Norway’s oldest ski resort.
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The Hardangervidda Plateau (800-1,222m): Europe’s largest mountain plateau—a vast, treeless tundra of rock, snow, lakes, and Arctic flora. Home to Europe’s largest wild reindeer herd (approximately 7,000 animals).
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The Finse Area (1,222m): The highest point on the journey, surrounded by the Hardangerjokulen glacier. Snow persists here year-round, and the landscape resembles another planet—which is why it doubled as Hoth in The Empire Strikes Back.
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The Descent to Bergen (1,222m to sea level): Steep western slopes through tunnels and valleys as the landscape transforms from Arctic tundra to lush coastal greenery. Over 100 tunnels punctuate this dramatic descent.
The Engineering Marvel: A Century of Achievement
The Bergen Railway represents one of Norway’s greatest engineering achievements and remains a source of national pride. Construction began in 1894 and required extraordinary effort:
| Engineering Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Total tunnels | 182 tunnels (73 km total length) |
| Bridges | Over 300 bridges |
| Snow galleries | Extensive snow protection structures |
| Construction period | 1894-1909 (15 years) |
| Peak workforce | Over 10,000 workers |
| Opening date | November 27, 1909 |
| Highest elevation | 1,222 meters (Finse station) |
| Investment | Equivalent to billions in today’s currency |
The railway transformed travel between Norway’s two largest cities from a multi-day coastal voyage to a single-day mountain crossing—a revolution in Norwegian connectivity that remains essential over a century later. Before the railway, travelers faced a 5-7 day journey by horse and boat; today, the same trip takes just 7 hours in heated comfort.
Why the Bergen Railway Matters
The Bergen Railway is not merely a transportation link—it is a window into Norway’s soul. The route passes through landscapes that have defined Norwegian identity for centuries: the mountain farms (stol) where hardy families eked out livings on impossible slopes, the vast plateaus where wild reindeer still roam, and the glaciers that carved the fjords below. Riding this train connects you to 10,000 years of human adaptation to one of Earth’s most challenging environments.
Route Options Compared
At a Glance
| Option | Duration | Cost (2025) | Scenic Value | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Bergen Railway) | 7 hours | 299-1,200 NOK | Exceptional | First-time visitors |
| Car | 7-8 hours | 600-1,000 NOK (fuel/tolls) | Very good | Flexibility seekers |
| Plane | 50 minutes | 500-2,000 NOK | Minimal | Time-limited travelers |
| Bus | 10 hours | 300-600 NOK | Good | Budget travelers |
| Norway in a Nutshell | 1-2 days | 2,250-2,880 NOK | Outstanding | Experience maximizers |
The Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen)
Overview and Statistics
The Bergen Railway is one of Europe’s highest mainline railways and consistently ranked among the world’s most scenic train journeys. The route has operated continuously since 1909 and carries passengers through landscapes inaccessible by any other means of transport.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 496 km |
| Duration | Approximately 7 hours |
| Highest point | Finse station (1,222 m) |
| Daily departures | 4-5 trains each direction |
| Operator | Vy (Norwegian State Railways) |
| Annual passengers | Over 1.5 million |
| Tunnels on route | 182 |
| Year opened | 1909 |
The Journey: Kilometer by Kilometer
Oslo Central Station (0 km, 0m elevation): Trains depart from Oslo Central Station (Oslo S), Norway’s busiest transport hub. The station features excellent facilities including cafes, shops, and easy connections to Oslo Airport Express, metro, and trams. Arrive 15-20 minutes early to find your platform and settle in.
The Eastern Approach (0-100 km): The train heads northwest through Oslo’s suburbs, quickly transitioning to forested countryside. Within an hour, you will pass Drammen and begin climbing into the Hallingdal valley.
Geilo (238 km, 800m elevation): Norway’s oldest ski resort marks the transition to true mountain country. Many travelers recognize Geilo as a popular winter sports destination—the town has hosted World Cup events and offers excellent skiing from November through May.
Ustaoset and Haugastol (260-290 km, 900-1,000m elevation): The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as you climb toward the plateau. Small mountain stations serve hardy locals and adventurous hikers. The treeline disappears, replaced by rock, snow, and alpine tundra.
Finse (304 km, 1,222m elevation): The highest point of the journey—and the highest station on any railway in Northern Europe. Finse is accessible only by train (no roads reach here), creating a unique atmosphere of isolation. The Hardangerjokulen glacier looms nearby, and the terrain served as the ice planet Hoth in The Empire Strikes Back. Outdoor enthusiasts use Finse as a base for glacier hiking and the famous Rallarvegen cycling route.
Myrdal (343 km, 867m elevation): A crucial junction where the Flam Railway descends 20 km through 20 tunnels to Flam village at sea level. Many travelers break their journey here for the Flam Railway experience—one of the world’s steepest standard-gauge railways with gradients up to 5.5%.
The Descent to Bergen (343-496 km): The final section involves a dramatic descent through over 100 tunnels, revealing glimpses of deep valleys, thundering waterfalls, and increasingly lush vegetation as you approach the coast.
Bergen Station (496 km, sea level): Arrival in Norway’s second city, a short walk from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bryggen. Bergen’s charming wooden wharf buildings, fish market, and funicular to Mount Floyen await.
What You Will See
The Bergen Railway offers a visual feast that changes with elevation and season:
Natural Features:
- Hardangervidda plateau: Europe’s largest mountain plateau, treeless and Arctic
- Hardangerjokulen glacier: Norway’s sixth-largest glacier, visible from Finse
- Alpine lakes: Crystal-clear mountain tarns, often frozen even in summer
- Waterfalls: Particularly spectacular on the western descent
- Wild reindeer: Approximately 7,000 animals roam Hardangervidda
- Arctic flora: Hardy plants adapted to extreme conditions
Human Elements:
- Mountain farms (stol): Traditional farms perched on impossible slopes
- Wooden stations: Beautifully preserved railway architecture
- Snow galleries: Engineering structures protecting the line from avalanches
- Ski resorts: Geilo and other mountain recreation areas
Seasonal Variations:
- Winter: Snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, dramatic light
- Spring: Melting snow, emerging green, waterfalls at peak flow
- Summer: Midnight sun effects, lush valleys, wildflowers on the plateau
- Autumn: Golden colors, clear air, dramatic cloud formations
Tickets and Booking
Price Tiers (2025):
| Ticket Type | Price Range | Flexibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minipris | 299-500 NOK | Fixed train, no refund | Budget travelers |
| Minipris+ | 399-600 NOK | Exchange for fee | Moderate flexibility |
| Flex | 800-1,200 NOK | Full flexibility | Last-minute travelers |
| Komfort | +150-300 NOK | Upgrade, not separate ticket | Enhanced experience |
Booking Strategy:
- Book at vy.no — the official Vy website offers the best prices and seat selection
- Book 60-90 days ahead for Minipris tickets—these sell out quickly for popular departures
- Consider Komfort class for larger seats, power outlets, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages
- Reserve specific seats during booking to guarantee window placement
- Download the Vy app for mobile tickets and real-time updates
- Set fare alerts if your dates are flexible—prices fluctuate based on demand
Seat Reservations:
While seat reservations are included with most tickets, selecting your specific seat during booking ensures optimal views:
- Right side Oslo to Bergen: Best for Hallingdal valley views and mountain panoramas
- Left side Bergen to Oslo: Optimal for the same features in reverse
- Both sides offer stunning scenery — do not worry excessively about which side
- Avoid seats above wheels if sensitive to vibration (row and seat information available during booking)
Best Seats for Photography
For serious photographers, seat selection can make a significant difference:
Top Recommendations:
- Window seats in Komfort class (larger windows, fewer passengers)
- Seats away from carriage junctions (less movement, steadier shots)
- Consider the observation areas at carriage ends for unobstructed views
Photography Tips:
- Clean the window at your seat upon boarding (bring lens cloth)
- Use a fast shutter speed (1/500 or faster) to compensate for train movement
- Shoot through glass at an angle to minimize reflections
- Peak photography moments: Finse glacier views, western descent waterfalls, Voss valley approach
Driving Oslo to Bergen
Route Options
Driving offers flexibility that the train cannot match—the ability to stop at viewpoints, explore side valleys, and set your own schedule. However, it requires attention on challenging mountain roads and misses the chance to simply watch the scenery unfold.
Main Route (E16):
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approximately 465 km |
| Driving time | 7-8 hours (without stops) |
| Key feature | Laerdal tunnel (24.5 km, world’s longest road tunnel) |
| Character | Efficient but many tunnels limit views |
| Year-round | Yes, always open |
Scenic Route via Hardanger (RV7/RV13):
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approximately 480 km |
| Driving time | 8-10 hours (with recommended stops) |
| Key features | Hardangervidda, Voringfossen waterfall, Hardanger Bridge |
| Character | Spectacular scenery, Norway’s most beautiful drive |
| Season | Summer only (typically June-September) |
| Ferry required | Yes (Kvanndal-Utne or alternatives) |
Northern Route via Filefjell (E16/RV52):
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approximately 500 km |
| Driving time | 8-9 hours |
| Key features | Jotunheimen area views, less trafficked |
| Character | Mountain scenery, authentic Norway |
| Year-round | Mostly, some winter closures possible |
Recommended Stops
For the Scenic Hardanger Route:
| Stop | Highlight | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Geilo | Mountain resort, midway break | 30-60 minutes |
| Voringfossen | 182m waterfall, Norway’s most famous | 1-2 hours |
| Eidfjord | Hardanger fjord gateway, museums | 1-2 hours |
| Hardanger Bridge | Engineering marvel, photo stop | 15-30 minutes |
| Norheimsund | Charming fjord village | 30-60 minutes |
| Steinsdalsfossen | Walk behind the waterfall | 30 minutes |
Driving Tips and Requirements
Essential Information:
- Right-hand traffic (same as continental Europe)
- Speed limits strictly enforced (fines are severe)
- Many tunnels—some exceeding 20 km
- Tolls are automatic via AutoPASS (rental cars handle this automatically)
- Winter tires mandatory November 1 to April 15
- Headlights required at all times, year-round
Mountain Driving Safety:
- Check road conditions at vegvesen.no before departure
- Carry emergency supplies (blanket, water, snacks, phone charger)
- Fill fuel tank before mountain sections—stations are sparse
- Allow extra time—rushing on mountain roads is dangerous
- Use passing places on narrow sections (yield to uphill traffic)
Fuel and Cost Estimate
| Cost Category | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Fuel | 500-700 NOK |
| Tolls | 150-250 NOK |
| Ferry (scenic route) | 300-500 NOK (car + passengers) |
| Total main route | 650-950 NOK |
| Total scenic route | 950-1,450 NOK |
Flying Between Oslo and Bergen
Quick Option Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Flight time | 50-55 minutes |
| Airlines | SAS, Norwegian, Wideroe |
| Oslo airport | Gardermoen (OSL) |
| Bergen airport | Flesland (BGO) |
| Daily flights | 15-25 depending on season |
Realistic Time Comparison
While the flight itself takes under an hour, total travel time is considerably longer:
| Segment | Time |
|---|---|
| City center to Oslo airport | 30-45 minutes |
| Airport check-in and security | 60-90 minutes |
| Flight time | 50-55 minutes |
| Baggage and exit | 15-30 minutes |
| Bergen airport to city center | 30-45 minutes |
| Total door-to-door | 3.5-5 hours |
Comparison: The train takes 7 hours but departs from city center to city center, requires no security procedures, allows unlimited luggage, and offers spectacular scenery throughout.
Pros and Cons
Advantages of Flying:
- Fastest option for time-limited travelers
- Sometimes cheapest when booked well in advance
- Best choice when weather closes mountain routes
- Allows more time in destinations
Disadvantages of Flying:
- Misses Norway’s most spectacular scenery
- Airport procedures add significant time
- Weather delays affect Bergen frequently
- Luggage restrictions (especially for hiking gear)
- Higher carbon footprint
- Less comfortable than train travel
Airport Connections
Oslo Gardermoen (OSL):
| Transport | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Flytoget (airport express) | 20 minutes | 220 NOK |
| Vy train | 25 minutes | 115 NOK |
| Flybussen (bus) | 45 minutes | 199 NOK |
Bergen Flesland (BGO):
| Transport | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bybanen (light rail) | 45 minutes | 42 NOK |
| Flybussen (bus) | 30 minutes | 149 NOK |
| Taxi | 25 minutes | 400-500 NOK |
Norway in a Nutshell
The Ultimate Norwegian Experience
The Norway in a Nutshell tour combines multiple scenic routes into one comprehensive journey, offering the best of Norwegian landscapes in a single trip. This self-guided package has introduced millions of travelers to Norway’s dramatic scenery.
| Segment | Transport | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Oslo to Myrdal | Bergen Railway | Mountain plateau crossing |
| Myrdal to Flam | Flam Railway | One of world’s steepest railways |
| Flam to Gudvangen | Fjord cruise | UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord |
| Gudvangen to Voss | Bus | Mountain road scenery |
| Voss to Bergen | Train | Valley approach to coast |
Pricing (2025)
| Package Type | Adult Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| One-way Oslo-Bergen | 2,250-2,550 NOK | Peak season higher |
| One-way Bergen-Oslo | 2,250-2,550 NOK | Same experience reversed |
| Round trip | 3,800-4,500 NOK | Return journey included |
| Children (4-15) | 50% discount | Must travel with adult |
| Family packages | Variable | Check website for deals |
Price includes:
- All transport (train, railway, ferry, bus)
- Seat reservations where applicable
- Mobile tickets for all segments
- Detailed itinerary and timing
Not included:
- Meals and refreshments
- Accommodation (for overnight options)
- Optional activities in Flam
Package Options
One-Day Journey: Complete the entire route in a single day, departing Oslo early morning and arriving Bergen late afternoon (or reverse). Longest day but most time-efficient.
Overnight in Flam: Break the journey with a night in the charming fjord village of Flam. This allows time to explore the area, take additional activities (kayaking, hiking), and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.
Extended Sognefjord: Add extra days to explore the Sognefjord region—Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Options include kayaking, glacier walks at Nigardsbreen, and village stays.
Book Norway in a NutshellThe Flam Railway: A Journey Within the Journey
World-Famous Mountain Railway
The Flam Railway (Flamsbana) deserves special attention as one of the world’s most extraordinary railway experiences. This 20-kilometer branch line descends 866 meters from Myrdal (867m) to Flam (2m) at sea level, with gradients up to 5.5%—among the steepest anywhere for standard-gauge railways.
| Flam Railway Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 20 km |
| Elevation drop | 866 meters |
| Maximum gradient | 5.5% (55 meters per kilometer) |
| Tunnels | 20 (18 hand-carved) |
| Journey time | 50-60 minutes |
| Annual passengers | Over 1 million |
Highlights:
- Kjosfossen waterfall: The train stops for passengers to photograph this thundering 225-meter cascade
- Spiral tunnels: The line spirals inside the mountain to lose elevation
- Hand-carved tunnels: 18 of 20 tunnels were carved by hand using only manual labor
- Dramatic scenery: Waterfalls, mountain farms, steep valley walls
Combining with Bergen Railway
Option 1: Day Trip Diversion
- Depart Oslo on morning Bergen Railway train
- Transfer at Myrdal to Flam Railway
- Explore Flam village (2-3 hours)
- Return to Myrdal and continue to Bergen on later train
Option 2: Norway in a Nutshell
- One-way journey with fjord cruise included
- No backtracking required
- Most comprehensive experience
Option 3: Overnight in Flam
- Maximum time in fjord setting
- Evening and morning light for photography
- Opportunity for kayaking, hiking, or relaxation
Bus: The Budget Option
NOR-WAY Bussekspress Service
For budget-conscious travelers who have already experienced the train, the bus offers a viable alternative.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | Approximately 10 hours |
| Cost | 300-600 NOK |
| Comfort | Reclining seats, limited legroom |
| Amenities | WiFi, toilet, charging ports |
| Scenic value | Good (follows similar route to train) |
Best For:
- Budget travelers prioritizing savings
- Those who have already done the train journey
- Overnight travel to save accommodation costs
- Travelers with excess luggage (more generous allowances than flights)
Limitations:
- Significantly longer journey time
- Less comfortable than train
- Fewer departures per day
- No cafe car or dining options
Seasonal Considerations
Season-by-Season Guide
| Season | Train Experience | Driving | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Peak scenery, busy | All routes open | Book weeks ahead |
| Autumn (Sep-Oct) | Golden colors | Good conditions | Fewer crowds, beautiful light |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | Snowy magic | Main route only | Possible delays, magical scenery |
| Spring (Apr-May) | Melting snow, waterfalls | Passes opening | Variable conditions |
Weather Impact on Each Option
Train (Bergen Railway):
- Operates year-round with rare cancellations
- Winter delays possible but usually minor
- Snow adds dramatic beauty to journey
- Heated carriages provide comfort regardless of outside temperature
Driving:
- Scenic mountain routes close November-May
- E16 via Laerdal tunnel always open
- Winter tires and chains may be required
- Check conditions at vegvesen.no before every winter journey
Flying:
- Bergen airport experiences frequent fog and wind
- Weather delays more common than other transport
- Have backup plans during unstable weather
Sample Itineraries
One-Day Journey (Train Enthusiasts)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Depart Oslo Central by Bergen Railway |
| 12:00 PM | Cross Hardangervidda plateau |
| 1:00 PM | Highest point at Finse (1,222m) |
| 3:00 PM | Arrive Bergen |
| 3:00-7:00 PM | Explore Bryggen, Fish Market |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner at Bergen harbor restaurant |
Two-Day Journey (Norway in a Nutshell)
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Oslo to Myrdal (Bergen Railway) to Flam (Flam Railway), overnight in Flam |
| Day 2 | Flam fjord cruise to Gudvangen, bus to Voss, train to Bergen |
Three-Day Journey (Photographer’s Dream)
| Day | Focus |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Oslo to Finse (overnight in mountain lodge), sunset/sunrise photography |
| Day 2 | Finse to Flam via Myrdal, afternoon in Flam, overnight |
| Day 3 | Morning fjord cruise, afternoon to Bergen, evening at Bryggen |
Week-Long Exploration (Complete Experience)
| Days | Location and Activities |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Oslo exploration (museums, Vigeland Park, opera house) |
| 3 | Bergen Railway to Flam, overnight |
| 4 | Flam area (kayaking, hike to Stegastein viewpoint) |
| 5 | Fjord cruise and onward to Bergen |
| 5-6 | Bergen exploration (Bryggen, Floyen, fish market) |
| 7 | Return to Oslo (fly to save time, or train for encore) |
Practical Information
Luggage Guidelines
Train (Bergen Railway):
- Large luggage welcome
- Generous storage areas in each carriage
- No weight or size limits (within reason)
- Bikes allowed (reservation required, fee applies)
- Ski equipment allowed in winter
Plane:
- Checked bag fees typically apply (100-300 NOK)
- Carry-on restrictions (8-10 kg typically)
- Oversize items (skis, bikes) require advance booking
Accessibility Information
Train:
- Wheelchair accessible carriages on all trains
- Platform assistance available (book 48 hours ahead via Vy)
- Accessible toilets on board
- Priority boarding for passengers with mobility needs
Car:
- Rest areas generally accessible
- Main route well-maintained with regular facilities
- Some scenic viewpoints may have limited accessibility
Connections at Each End
From Oslo:
- International flights arrive at Gardermoen (OSL)
- Flytoget or Vy train to Oslo Central (20-25 minutes)
- Direct platform access to Bergen Railway
- Allow minimum 1 hour between flight landing and train departure
From Bergen:
- Bergen station is 10-minute walk from Bryggen
- Fjord cruises depart from nearby Strandkaiterminalen
- Bus connections to Stavanger, Alesund, and coastal routes
- Light rail to airport (45 minutes)
Expert Recommendations: Making the Most of Your Journey
After completing this journey dozens of times over 25+ years, here are my definitive recommendations:
For First-Time Visitors: Take the Bergen Railway train one direction and fly the other. This gives you the full scenic experience without repeating the route. My preference: train Oslo to Bergen (morning departure, arrive late afternoon with time to explore Bryggen), fly back to Oslo.
For Photographers: Consider driving the scenic Hardanger route in summer, which allows stops at viewpoints including the famous Voringfossen waterfall and Stegastein viewpoint. The train offers excellent views but limited stopping opportunities. Alternatively, break the train journey at Finse for glacier photography.
For Budget Travelers: Book Minipris train tickets 60-90 days ahead. These non-refundable advance fares offer the same journey at a fraction of the cost. Alternatively, the overnight bus saves a night’s accommodation while covering the route.
For Families: The train is ideal—children can move around, visit the cafe car, and the journey breaks up nicely with changing scenery. The Flam Railway detour adds adventure without requiring car seats. Pack snacks and entertainment for younger children.
For Adventure Seekers: The Norway in a Nutshell package combines the best of multiple transport modes: train, mountain railway, fjord cruise, and bus. It is more expensive but offers unmatched variety and the chance to experience multiple Norwegian landscapes in a single journey.
| Traveler Type | Recommended Route | Key Reason |
|---|---|---|
| First-timer | Bergen Railway train | Unmatched scenery |
| Photographers | Car via Hardanger | Stopping flexibility |
| Budget | Minipris train or bus | Cost savings |
| Families | Train with Flam extension | Comfort + engagement |
| Adventure seekers | Norway in a Nutshell | Maximum variety |
| Time-limited | Fly one way, train other | Best of both worlds |
Final Thoughts: The Journey Is the Destination
The journey between Oslo and Bergen is more than transportation—it is an experience that showcases why Norway is called the land of natural wonders. The Bergen Railway represents both a triumph of engineering (182 tunnels carved through mountain rock over 15 years of construction) and a window into landscapes that remain largely unchanged since the glaciers retreated 10,000 years ago.
Whatever method you choose, you are connecting two of Norway’s most vibrant cities through some of Europe’s most spectacular terrain. The train offers the quintessential experience—7 hours of constantly changing scenery without driving stress. Flying saves time but misses the point entirely. Driving offers flexibility but requires constant attention on challenging roads.
My advice after all these years: take the train at least once. Watch the landscape transform from lowland forests to Arctic tundra and back to fjord-carved coastline. Have lunch in the cafe car as glaciers drift past your window. Pass through Finse, the highest point in Northern European rail travel, where snow can fall any day of the year. Arrive in Bergen as evening light paints Bryggen golden. The memories will last far longer than any time saved by flying.
The Hardangervidda plateau, the glaciers at Finse, the plunging descent toward Bergen—these are not just waypoints on a journey. They are encounters with a landscape that has shaped Norwegian character for millennia. The Bergen Railway offers a privileged glimpse into this world, comfortable and effortless, as one of humanity’s great engineering achievements carries you through one of nature’s greatest displays.
Book Your JourneyJourney information sourced from Vy Norwegian Railways, Visit Norway, Norway in a Nutshell, and Statistics Norway (SSB). Schedules and prices change seasonally—verify current information before booking. Bergen Railway ticket prices 2025: Minipris from 299 NOK, Norway in a Nutshell 2,250-2,880 NOK. Last updated November 2025.