Bergen to Oslo: How to Travel Between Norway’s Two Cities (Without My Mistakes)
If you’re planning to travel from Bergen to Oslo, you have a few different options to choose from, and I quickly learned that they’re not all created equal!
I traveled from Bergen to Oslo during my trip to Norway, and while the journey itself was an experience, I definitely made a few mistakes that ended up costing me a lot of time. Looking back, there are things I would’ve done differently and a few things I wish I had known before booking my trip.
In this guide, I’ll break down the different ways to travel from Bergen to Oslo, including train, bus, and flight options, so you can choose the one that makes the most sense for your trip. I’ll also share what I learned from doing the journey myself, including the mistakes I’d avoid if I were planning it again.
If you are spending time in Oslo, make sure to read my 24-hour Oslo Guide so you get the most out of your trip!
In a Rush?
Don’t have time to read the whole guide, the Bergen to Oslo train is my top recommendation. It’s one of the most scenic ways to travel between the two cities and takes around 6.5-7.5 hours. If you’re shorter on time, flying is the fastest option.
Keep reading to see which option is best for you, how much each one costs, and what I wish I’d known before making the journey.
How to Get from Bergen to Oslo
There are three main ways to get from Bergen to Oslo: by train, bus, or plane. Each has its pros and cons, and which one is right for you will depend on your budget, travel plans, and whether you want the journey to be part of the experience.
I chose the bus because I found a ticket for just $13, but that bargain came with a catch: the journey took 13 hours.
In hindsight, I’m not sure saving the money was worth the extra time. I also don’t know how I survived the journey because I was NOT prepared.
Below I’ll break down each option so you can compare the price, travel time, and overall experience before deciding how to get from Bergen to Oslo.
Bergen to Oslo by Train
After hearing stories and having my own experience, the train is the option I wish I’d chosen, and I would recommend the most for travellers who aren’t in a rush. The Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen) connects the two cities and is known for being one of the most scenic train journeys in Norway!
How long does the train take?
The journey can take anywhere from 6.5-7.5 hours, depending on the specific service you choose.
That might sound long, but you truly would be experiencing some of Norway’s best scenery, and the train itself would be part of the experience.
How much does the train cost?
Prices vary significantly depending on when you book and which fare you choose. Booking in advance can help you save money.
While I was travelling around Norway, I wanted to save money, which is what led me to choose the bus ticket. However, if I had to do it again, I would spend the money on a train ticket. One ticket can cost you anywhere from €150-€200+, depending on the class, time, and season.
What is the journey like?
The route travels through some incredible Norwegian landscapes, including mountains, valleys, lakes, and the Hardangervidda mountain plateau.
Even if the train is not the cheapest option, if you have the time, I think the train is worth considering. You’ll get from Bergen to Oslo while seeing a completely different side of Norway along the way.
Pros of travelling by train…
Cons of travelling by train…
Is this your first trip to Norway? Make sure to read the 15 Norway Tips I Wish I Knew before your trip!
Bergen to Oslo by Bus
Taking the bus from Bergen to Oslo is usually one of the cheapest ways to travel between the two cities, but there’s a major trade-off.
Depending on the service and route, the journey can take around 13 hours, which is a pretty big commitment for a relatively short distance. (A commitment I should’ve thought more about…)
I chose the bus because I found a $13 ticket. At the time, this seemed like an absolute steal. What I didn’t take the time to think through was the 13-hour trade-off of being crammed on a bus.
What to expect on the bus:
What I wish I knew:
There were a couple of surprises on the bus journey. First off, you will make at least two ferry stops, depending on your route.
This is where the bus driver will pull onto a ferry and you are expected to get off the bus and wait on the ferry deck above. Thankfully, the ferry had a small shop where I bought a coffee and pastry before boarding the bus again.
Secondly, there is no food. Make sure to pack your own food, 13 hours is a LONG time. Why I didn’t stop to think this through will never not amaze me. I arrived in Oslo at midnight with nothing in my stomach and nothing open. Don’t be me.
Thirdly, bring something to do. I repeat, 13 HOURS IS A LONG TIME… Why I also brought nothing to do was so stupid!
I was the first one on the bus and the only one to ride it all the way to Oslo. I should’ve taken that hint. Not to mention it took an entire day just to get there. Maybe not my smartest money saving moment…
Pros of travelling by bus…
Cons of travelling by bus…
Would I take the bus from bergen to Oslo again? No, not unless the price was significantly different and I had no other option.
Bergen to Oslo by Plane
Flying is the fastest way to get from Bergen to Oslo and can be a good option if you’re short on time or don’t want to spend the whole day travelling.
The flight itself is only about 1 hour, although you’ll obviously need to factor in getting to the airport, check-in, security, and getting from the airport to Oslo city centre.
How much does flying cost?
Flight prices can vary quite a lot depending on what season and when you are booking. While I was travelling in March, I found tickets for $40 (why I didn’t just buy this ticket, the Lord will only know).
Booking in advance will generally give you the best chance of finding a cheaper fare, while last-minute flights tend to be more pricey.
Is flying the best option?
For saving time, yes. If you’re short on time or just want to get to Oslo, I recommend flying. Plus, you can find tickets at a decent price if you book far enough in advance.
However, keep in mind Norway is known for its scenery. For this reason, I would still pick the train over flying.
Pros of travelling by air…
Cons of travelling by air…
Which is the Best Way to Travel from Bergen to Oslo?
Choosing the best way to travel from Bergen to Oslo really comes down to what matters most to you: price, time, or the experience.
Most scenic journey:
If you want the most scenic journey, I’d choose the train. The Bergen Railway takes longer than flying, but the scenery makes the journey part of the trip rather than just a way to get from one city to the next.
If your short on time:
Flying is the best option for those short on time. The flight is significantly quicker and can make sense if you only have a limited number of days in Norway.
Cheapest option:
If you’re travelling on a tight budget like I was, the bus can be incredibly cheap. For just $13 I was able to make it to Oslo with no issues other than it taking a long time.
My personal recommendation:
If you’re short on time, I’d fly. If you want the most scenic experience, take the train. If your main priority is saving money, the bus is the way to go (just be prepared for a very long journey.)
Final Thoughts
Getting from Bergen to Oslo is actually pretty straightforward, and the best option really depends on what you value most.
If you’re starting your Norway trip in Bergen, make sure to check out 2 Day Bergen Itinerary and my guide to the 17 Best Things to Do in Bergen to help plan your time in the city before heading to Oslo.
I definitely learned a few lessons from my own journey, but hopefully this guide helps you choose the option that’s right for you and avoid some of the mistakes I made along the way!
Safe Travels! – Olive Grace
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