Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Norway's western gateway and explore the UNESCO-listed waterfront and surrounding hills. Ease into Norwegian culture with seafood, historic architecture, and stunning city views.
Morning
Arrival and
Bergen orientation
Arrive at
Bergen Airport and transfer to the city center. Settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely walk through the city streets to get oriented. Stop by the fish market to see the daily catch and local specialties. The compact city center is easily walkable, making it perfect for recovering from travel while getting your first taste of coastal Norwegian life.
3-4 hours
$30-40
Airport bus to city center is efficient and affordable; book accommodation near the harbor for convenience
Lunch
A harborside seafood restaurant near the fish market
Fresh Norwegian seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Bryggen exploration
Explore Bryggen, the historic Hanseatic wharf with colorful wooden buildings dating back to the 14th century. Wander through narrow alleyways between the tilting structures, visit small museums and artisan shops, and learn about
Bergen's trading history. The UNESCO World Heritage site offers countless photo opportunities and provides insight into Norway's maritime heritage. Take your time absorbing the atmosphere of this remarkably preserved medieval quarter.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Evening
Sunset walk and traditional dinner
Stroll along the harbor as the sun sets, then enjoy traditional Norwegian cuisine at a restaurant in the
old town featuring local game or fish dishes
Where to Stay Tonight
Bergen city center (Mid-range hotel near Bryggen)
Central location provides easy access to attractions and serves as the perfect base before heading into fjord country
Bergen is known as Europe's rainiest city, so pack waterproof layers and embrace the weather as part of the authentic experience
Day 1 Budget: $180-220
Dive deeper into
Bergen's attractions before beginning your fjord journey tomorrow. Experience local culture and prepare for the scenic adventures ahead.
Morning
Mount Fløyen or local exploration
Take the funicular or hike up to one of
Bergen's surrounding peaks for panoramic views over the city, islands, and fjords. The vista provides perfect perspective on
Bergen's geography and Norway's dramatic landscape. Alternatively, explore
Bergen's museums and galleries to understand the region's cultural history. The morning light offers excellent photography opportunities of the cityscape below.
2-3 hours
$20-30
Lunch
A cozy cafe in the city center
Norwegian sandwiches and coffee
Budget
Afternoon
Shopping and trip preparation
Spend the afternoon exploring
Bergen's shopping streets, picking up any supplies needed for your fjord journey. Visit outdoor gear shops if you need hiking equipment, and stock up on snacks for scenic drives. Browse local craft shops for Norwegian woolens and design items. This is your last chance for major shopping before heading into more remote areas, so gather provisions wisely.
3-4 hours
$40-60
Evening
Early dinner and rest
Enjoy an early meal at a traditional restaurant and rest up for tomorrow's scenic drive into fjord country
Where to Stay Tonight
Bergen city center (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Staying put allows you to explore Bergen thoroughly without repacking, and positions you for an early departure tomorrow
Pick up your rental car in the afternoon to avoid morning rush and familiarize yourself with the vehicle before tomorrow's mountain driving
Day 2 Budget: $160-200
Begin your epic road trip through Norway's most scenic landscapes, encountering your first major waterfalls and fjord views along the way.
Morning
Scenic drive toward Steinsdalsfossen
Depart
Bergen and drive east through increasingly dramatic landscapes. Your first major stop is Steinsdalsfossen, a unique waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water curtain without getting wet. The path behind the falls offers a magical perspective and photo opportunity. The surrounding area features traditional Norwegian farms and excellent views of the valley. This accessible waterfall serves as a perfect introduction to Norway's countless cascades.
3-4 hours including drive
$0 (free attraction)
Lunch
A roadside cafe or packed lunch near the waterfall
Simple Norwegian fare
Budget
Afternoon
Continue to Vøringsfossen
Drive toward one of Norway's most famous waterfalls, Vøringsfossen, which plunges 182 meters into the Måbødalen valley. The viewing platforms offer spectacular perspectives of the falls and surrounding canyon. The new walkway and bridge provide thrilling views suspended above the gorge. Spend time at multiple viewpoints to appreciate the scale and power of this natural wonder. The dramatic landscape here exemplifies Norwegian highland scenery at its finest.
2-3 hours including drive
$15-20
Arrive before late afternoon for best lighting on the falls
Evening
Settle into Odda area
Check into accommodation in the Odda region and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with mountain views
Where to Stay Tonight
Odda or nearby Hardangerfjord area (Comfortable hotel or guesthouse)
This area positions you perfectly for exploring more waterfalls and beginning the scenic route adventures tomorrow
Fill up your gas tank when you see stations; they become sparse in remote mountain areas
Day 3 Budget: $200-250
Experience the twin falls of Låtefossen and begin navigating Norway's famous hairpin mountain roads with breathtaking viewpoints.
Morning
Låtefossen and morning exploration
Visit Låtefossen, the spectacular twin waterfall that cascades under a historic stone bridge. The symmetrical falls are among Norway's most photographed natural features, and you can feel the spray from the viewing areas near the road. The force of the water and the elegant arch of the bridge create a perfect composition. Explore the surrounding area and perhaps take a short hike to see the falls from different angles before continuing your journey.
1-2 hours
$0 (free attraction)
Lunch
A mountain lodge or cafe along the route
Norwegian comfort food
Mid-range
Afternoon
Drive toward Aurland via mountain routes
Begin your journey toward the Aurland area, taking scenic mountain roads that wind through spectacular highland terrain. Stop at viewpoints along the way to appreciate the transition from coastal fjords to high mountain plateaus. The drive itself is an attraction, with each turn revealing new vistas of waterfalls, valleys, and peaks. Take your time navigating the curves and enjoying the ever-changing landscape that makes Norwegian road trips legendary.
4-5 hours
$0 (free)
Evening
Arrival in Aurland
Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a quiet dinner in this charming fjord village, preparing for tomorrow's scenic route adventures
Where to Stay Tonight
Aurland village (Fjordside guesthouse or hotel)
Aurland is the perfect base for exploring the Aurlandsfjellet scenic route and nearby attractions over the next two days
Check weather forecasts for mountain roads; conditions can change rapidly at high elevations even in summer
Day 4 Budget: $180-230
Tackle one of Norway's most dramatic scenic routes, the Aurlandsfjellet, with its snow-capped peaks and incredible viewpoints including Stegastein.
Morning
Aurlandsfjellet scenic route
Drive the famous Aurlandsfjellet scenic route, also known as the Snow Road, which climbs from sea level to 1,306 meters. This engineering marvel takes you through landscapes that transition from lush fjord valleys to barren alpine tundra. Even in summer, snow patches often line the road at higher elevations. The route offers countless photo opportunities and represents some of Norway's most dramatic mountain scenery. Take your time ascending, stopping at pullouts to absorb the views.
2-3 hours
$0 (free)
Lunch
Packed lunch enjoyed at a scenic pullout with mountain views
Picnic provisions
Budget
Afternoon
Stegastein viewpoint
Visit Stegastein, one of Norway's most iconic viewpoints. This dramatic platform extends 30 meters out from the cliff face, 650 meters above the Aurlandsfjord. The architectural design frames the fjord view perfectly, creating a sensation of floating above the landscape. The perspective from this cantilevered structure is absolutely breathtaking and offers unparalleled photo opportunities. Spend time here absorbing the scale of Norway's fjord landscape from this unique vantage point.
1-2 hours
$0 (free attraction)
Visit in late afternoon for dramatic lighting on the fjord below
Evening
Return to Aurland for dinner
Enjoy a relaxed evening in Aurland village with dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties
Where to Stay Tonight
Aurland village (Same accommodation as Day 4)
Staying in Aurland for two nights eliminates repacking and allows you to explore the area thoroughly
The Stegastein viewpoint can be windy; bring a jacket even on warm days
Day 5 Budget: $150-190
Experience the world-famous Flåmsbana railway and discover hidden waterfalls along the dramatic valley route.
Morning
Flåmsbana railway journey
Board the legendary Flåmsbana, one of the world's steepest standard-gauge railway lines. This engineering masterpiece descends 865 meters through 20 tunnels, offering constantly changing views of mountains, waterfalls, and farms clinging to steep hillsides. The train stops at Kjosfossen waterfall, where you can disembark briefly to photograph the powerful cascade. The journey showcases Norwegian engineering prowess and natural beauty in equal measure, making it an unforgettable experience that justifies its worldwide reputation.
2-3 hours round trip
$80-100
Book tickets online several weeks in advance during summer months; morning departures offer best light
Lunch
A cafe in
Flåm village near the harbor
Light Norwegian meals
Mid-range
Afternoon
Waterfall exploration
Explore the area around
Flåm and seek out lesser-known waterfalls accessible by short walks or drives. The valley contains numerous cascades beyond the famous ones, including Skjervsfossen Waterfall and others tucked into side valleys. These quieter spots offer opportunities to experience Norway's natural beauty without crowds. The afternoon light creates beautiful conditions for photography, and the sound of falling water provides a peaceful backdrop for contemplation.
3-4 hours
$0-10
Evening
Fjord evening
Enjoy dinner with views of the Aurlandsfjord and perhaps take an evening stroll along the waterfront as the light softens
Where to Stay Tonight
Flåm or nearby Aurland (Fjordside accommodation)
This area offers excellent amenities and positions you for continuing your journey through fjord country
The Flåmsbana can be combined with a fjord cruise for a full-day excursion if you want to extend the experience
Day 6 Budget: $220-280
Navigate dramatic mountain roads including serpentine passes, stopping at spectacular viewpoints and hidden natural wonders along the way.
Morning
Begin the journey toward
Geiranger, one of Norway's most famous fjord destinations. The route takes you through varied landscapes, from fjord valleys to high mountain passes. Stop at roadside viewpoints to appreciate the engineering of Norwegian mountain roads and the landscapes they traverse. The morning drive offers fresh energy for navigating challenging routes and enjoying the constantly changing scenery that makes this journey memorable.
3-4 hours
$0 (free)
Lunch
A mountain cafe or hotel along the route
Norwegian lunch fare
Mid-range
Afternoon
Ørnesvingen Viewpoint
Experience Ørnesvingen, the Eagle's Bend viewpoint, which overlooks Geirangerfjord from 620 meters above sea level. The serpentine road with its eleven hairpin turns is an attraction itself, and the viewpoint at the top offers one of Norway's most iconic vistas. From here, you can see the entire Geirangerfjord stretched below, with waterfalls cascading down the steep valley walls. The perspective illustrates why Geirangerfjord is UNESCO-listed and considered one of the world's most beautiful fjords.
1-2 hours
$0 (free attraction)
Evening
Check into your accommodation and enjoy dinner with views of the famous fjord
Where to Stay Tonight
Geiranger village or nearby (Hotel with fjord views)
Geiranger offers excellent facilities and serves as your base for exploring this UNESCO-listed fjord region
Drive the Ørnesvingen road early morning or evening to avoid tour bus traffic during peak season
Day 7 Budget: $190-240
Dedicate a full day to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Geirangerfjord from multiple perspectives, both from above and at water level.
Morning
Fjord cruise or kayaking
Experience Geirangerfjord from water level by taking a sightseeing cruise or renting a kayak. From the fjord, you can fully appreciate the towering cliffs, abandoned mountain farms, and famous waterfalls including the Seven Sisters. The water perspective reveals details invisible from above, including the sheer scale of the valley walls and the vibrant green vegetation. A cruise provides commentary on the fjord's history and geology, while kayaking offers intimate connection with this magnificent landscape.
2-3 hours
$60-80
Book fjord cruises a day in advance; morning departures often have calmer water
Lunch
A restaurant in
Geiranger village with outdoor seating
Fresh local ingredients
Mid-range
Afternoon
Hiking and viewpoint exploration
Take a hike to one of the many trails around
Geiranger that offer elevated perspectives on the fjord. Options range from easy walks to challenging climbs, all rewarding you with spectacular views. The trails provide opportunities to experience the alpine flora and perhaps spot local wildlife. Afternoon light creates beautiful conditions for photography, highlighting the waterfalls and the deep blue of the fjord. Choose a route matching your fitness level and time available.
3-4 hours
$0 (free)
Evening
Enjoy a leisurely dinner and evening walk through the village, perhaps watching cruise ships navigate the narrow fjord
Where to Stay Tonight
Geiranger village (Same accommodation as Day 7)
Two nights allows thorough exploration without the hassle of repacking
Visit the
Geiranger Skywalk viewpoint for a different perspective than Ørnesvingen, especially beautiful at sunset
Day 8 Budget: $180-230
Journey through some of Norway's most remote mountain landscapes, transitioning from fjord country to the high peaks region.
Morning
Scenic mountain drive
Depart
Geiranger and drive through spectacular mountain passes toward the
Jotunheimen region. The route takes you across high plateaus where snow often lingers into summer, past mountain lakes, and through landscapes that feel utterly remote. Stop frequently at viewpoints to appreciate the scale and emptiness of Norway's mountain interior. The drive itself becomes a meditation on landscape and solitude, offering a different experience from the fjord valleys.
4-5 hours
$0 (free)
Lunch
A mountain lodge or packed lunch at a scenic rest area
Simple mountain fare
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Lom area
Arrive in the Lom area, gateway to
Jotunheimen National Park. Visit the distinctive stave church if time permits, or explore the small town that serves as a base for mountain adventures. The area offers insight into how Norwegians have adapted to life in harsh mountain environments. Stock up on supplies and prepare for tomorrow's national park exploration. The transition from coast to mountains is now complete.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Evening
Mountain village evening
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and rest up for tomorrow's glacier park exploration
Where to Stay Tonight
Lom or nearby mountain village (Mountain hotel or lodge)
This area provides access to Jotunheimen and positions you for exploring Norway's glacier country
Mountain weather can be unpredictable; always carry warm layers and rain gear even in summer
Day 9 Budget: $170-210
Explore Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to mainland Europe's largest glacier, with opportunities for hiking and experiencing ice-age landscapes.
Morning
Journey to Jostedalsbreen nasjonalpark
Drive to Jostedalsbreen National Park, where the massive Jostedalsbreen glacier dominates the landscape. This ice cap covers 487 square kilometers and feeds numerous glacier tongues that descend into surrounding valleys. Explore visitor centers to understand glacial geology and climate science, then access viewing points or trails that bring you close to the ice. The park offers various difficulty levels for glacier viewing, from roadside viewpoints to challenging hikes. The raw power of moving ice creates an unforgettable impression.
4-5 hours
$20-30
Guided glacier walks require advance booking and proper equipment; book several days ahead
Lunch
Packed lunch near the glacier or at a park facility
Picnic provisions
Budget
Afternoon
Additional glacier exploration or waterfall visits
Continue exploring the glacier park area, visiting glacier-fed waterfalls and lakes. The meltwater creates stunning turquoise colors and powerful cascades. Hike trails that offer different perspectives on the ice and surrounding peaks. The afternoon provides opportunities for photography as light plays across the ice and rock. This landscape demonstrates the ongoing power of glaciers to shape terrain, offering glimpses of processes that formed much of Norway's dramatic topography.
3-4 hours
$0-15
Evening
Return to accommodation area
Drive to your evening accommodation and enjoy dinner reflecting on the day's glacial encounters
Where to Stay Tonight
Near Jostedalsbreen or en route toward Sogn (Rural hotel or mountain lodge)
Staying near the park allows maximum exploration time while positioning you for tomorrow's journey
Glacier areas are significantly cooler than valleys; bring warm clothing even if valley temperatures are mild
Day 10 Budget: $160-200
Discover lesser-known natural wonders including cave waterfalls and remote mountain farms that showcase Norway's hidden treasures.
Morning
Høgabru - Cave Waterfall exploration
Visit Høgabru, a unique cave waterfall where water cascades through a natural rock formation creating an otherworldly atmosphere. This lesser-known attraction offers a different waterfall experience from the dramatic plunge falls you've seen earlier. The cave environment creates interesting acoustics and light effects, making it a memorable stop. The site demonstrates the variety of water features in Norway's landscape and rewards travelers who venture beyond the most famous attractions.
1-2 hours
$0 (free)
Lunch
A countryside cafe or farm serving local products
Traditional Norwegian farm food
Budget
Afternoon
Likholefossen and Trollkyrkja exploration
Visit Likholefossen waterfall and explore the area around Trollkyrkja, the Troll Church cave system. These natural features showcase the geological diversity of the region, from cascading water to underground formations. The Trollkyrkja offers a glimpse into Norway's cave systems and the folklore that surrounds such mysterious places. The combination of waterfalls and caves provides varied experiences and photo opportunities throughout the afternoon.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Trollkyrkja may require guided access; check locally for current access conditions
Evening
Evening in Sogn fjord area
Settle into accommodation near
Sognefjord and enjoy dinner featuring local ingredients
Where to Stay Tonight
Sognefjord region (Fjordside guesthouse or hotel)
This area offers good amenities and positions you for exploring more of Norway's longest fjord
Many of Norway's most rewarding attractions are lesser-known; don't hesitate to explore beyond the famous sites
Day 11 Budget: $150-190
Experience traditional Norwegian mountain farming culture and begin your return journey with stops at unique cultural and natural sites.
Morning
Kjeåsen mountain farm visit
Visit Kjeåsen, a traditional mountain farm that represents centuries of Norwegian agricultural heritage. These farms, often perched on seemingly impossible slopes, demonstrate the determination and ingenuity required to farm in Norway's challenging terrain. Explore the historic buildings, learn about traditional farming methods, and enjoy spectacular views from the farm's elevated position. The site offers insight into rural Norwegian life and the connection between people and landscape that defines the culture.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Lunch
Traditional farm lunch if available, or packed provisions
Local farm products
Budget
Afternoon
Vindhellavegen scenic route
Drive Vindhellavegen, a scenic mountain road that offers spectacular views and represents another example of Norwegian road engineering. The route winds through dramatic landscapes with viewpoints overlooking valleys and peaks. This lesser-known scenic road provides a quieter alternative to the most famous routes while delivering equally impressive scenery. Take your time navigating the curves and stopping at pullouts to appreciate the ever-changing vistas.
3-4 hours
$0 (free)
Evening
Drive toward the
Bergen region and settle into accommodation for your final nights in Norway
Where to Stay Tonight
Between Sogn and Bergen, or Bergen outskirts (Comfortable hotel or guesthouse)
This positioning allows a relaxed final day tomorrow without rushing back to Bergen
Fill your gas tank and check your route for tomorrow to ensure a stress-free final day
Day 12 Budget: $160-200
Complete your circuit back to
Bergen with final stops at any attractions you'd like to revisit or explore more thoroughly.
Morning
Leisurely drive back to
BergenTake a relaxed drive back toward
Bergen, perhaps revisiting a favorite waterfall or viewpoint from earlier in your trip. The return journey allows you to see familiar landscapes from a different perspective and appreciate how much you've experienced over the past two weeks. Stop where inspiration strikes, knowing you have time to linger at places that captured your imagination. The morning offers fresh light on landscapes you saw in different conditions before.
3-4 hours
$0 (free)
Lunch
A scenic lunch stop at a favorite location from your journey
Norwegian favorites
Mid-range
Afternoon
Arrival in
Bergen and final exploration
Arrive back in
Bergen with time to explore areas you missed on your first days or revisit favorite spots. Perhaps shop for Norwegian souvenirs, visit a museum you skipped initially, or simply walk the harbor enjoying the coastal atmosphere after your mountain adventures. The return to
Bergen provides satisfying closure to your circular journey through Norway's spectacular landscapes.
3-4 hours
$30-50
Evening
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a quality restaurant in
Bergen, celebrating your Norwegian adventure with excellent local cuisine and perhaps a toast to the landscapes you've experienced
Where to Stay Tonight
Bergen city center (Comfortable hotel near the airport bus stop)
Central Bergen location provides easy access for your departure tomorrow while offering final evening enjoyment of the city
Return rental cars with a full tank to avoid expensive fuel charges at the rental agency
Day 13 Budget: $180-230
Final morning in
Bergen before your departure, with time for last-minute exploration or relaxed preparation for your journey home.
Morning
Enjoy a final Norwegian breakfast and take a last walk through
Bergen's streets. Visit Bryggen one more time to capture final photos, or browse shops for any last-minute purchases. The morning provides quiet time to reflect on your journey through Norway's spectacular landscapes. Pack carefully, ensuring you have room for any souvenirs collected along the way. Check out of your accommodation with plenty of time before your departure.
2-3 hours
$20-30
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or in
Bergen before transfer
Simple Norwegian fare
Budget
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Take the airport bus or arranged transfer to
Bergen Airport. The journey provides final views of Norwegian landscapes and time to process the incredible experiences of the past two weeks. Arrive at the airport with adequate time for check-in and security. As you depart, you'll carry memories of fjords, waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain roads that showcase why Norway ranks among the world's most spectacular destinations.
1-2 hours
$30-40
Book airport transfer in advance or allow extra time for public bus schedules
Evening
Departure
Depart Norway with memories of an unforgettable journey through some of Earth's most dramatic landscapes
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Bergen Airport has excellent duty-free shopping for Norwegian chocolates, woolens, and design items if you want final souvenirs
Day 14 Budget: $100-150