For most travelers, about eight days is the perfect amount of time for a Norway trip, with stops in Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand, and Tromsø. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as seven days. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Flåm. Keep reading for more inspiring Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand, and Tromsø itineraries.

How many days do you need in Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand & Tromsø?

  • Most travelers spend 8 days in Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand, and Tromsø combined
  • Visiting Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand, and Tromsø in 7 days is possible, but it will feel rushed
  • With 9 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip
  • The most common extension is Flåm, Andenes & Senja

How Many Days to Spend in Norway

Recommended Itineraries for Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand & Tromsø

Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days

A view over Bergen city in the afternoon
A view over Bergen city in the afternoon
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Oslo Oslo
Day 2 Train to Flåm - Ferry to Balestrand Balestrand
Day 3 Ferry to Bergen Bergen
Day 4 Bergen City Tour Bergen
Day 5 Transfer to Tromsø Tromsø
Day 6 Explore Tromsø - Chase Northern Lights Tromsø
Day 7 Explore Tromsø Tromsø
Day 8 Depart Norway  


After arriving in Oslo, you'll have an afternoon to explore this capital before traveling along the scenic Flåm Railway to the Flåm Village and then taking a ferry to Balestrand, and you'll spend the evening at this fjord-side town. You'll then take another ferry to Bergen, a culturally-rich city with a vibrant bar and restaurant scene, where you'll enjoy a walking tour that includes heading to the top of Mount Fløyen for a view over the city. Your final destination is Tromsø,  a charming seaside town, and from here, you'll head out in the evening to chase the northern lights! Read more

Plan your trip to Norway
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Extended Itineraries

2-Week Itinerary Including Andenes & Senja

Summertime adventures stay golden above the Arctic Circle
Summertime adventures stay golden above the Arctic Circle
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Oslo Oslo
Day 2 Train to Flåm - Ferry to Balestrand Balestrand
Day 3 Fjordcruise to Fjærland - Ferry to Bergen Bergen
Day 4 Explore Bergen with a Local Bergen
Day 5 Bergen - Flight to Tromsø Tromsø
Day 6 Tromsø - Drive to Senja Senja
Day 7 Explore Senja Senja
Day 8 Ferry to Andenes - Whale Watching Andenes
Day 9 Hike the Queen's Route Andenes
Day 10 Andenes - Drive to Tromsø Tromsø
Day 11 Explore Tromsø in Summer Tromsø
Day 12 Tromsø - Flight to Oslo Oslo
Day 13 Explore Oslo with a Local Oslo
Day 14 Depart Oslo  


This two-week adventure is ideal for travelers who want to make the most of Norway's summer. Start off exploring southern Norway (Oslo, Bergen, and the Sognefjord) before flying to the Arctic Circle. From here, you'll rent a car and head to the rugged island of Senja for an active two days of cycling and kayaking before ferrying to smaller Andenes for whale watching. The adventure ends in lively Tromsø and Oslo for festivals and outdoor restaurants. Read more

How to travel between Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand & Tromsø

How to get to Tromsø
Tromsø is one of the best places to see the northern lights, which is one of the most beautiful wonders of the world. Tromsø is located in northern Norway and is above the Arctic Circle. Read more

How to get from Oslo to Bergen
Traveling 288 miles (464 km) from Oslo to Bergen is very straightforward. Oslo and Bergen are the biggest cities in Norway, and traveling between the two destinations is quick and easy by plane. The flight is less than an hour. Going by train or taking a road trip is considerably longer—six to seven hours without stops—but this is a scenic journey that travelers should consider if time isn't a limiting factor. Read more

How to get from Bergen to Balestrand
There are a few different travel options between Bergen and Balestrand. Renting a car and then taking the express ferry is the fastest way to get to Balestrand from Bergen, about 128 miles (206 km) going this route. There are only two different sail times each day, but this is the best option for anyone looking to get Balestrand efficiently. Pairing ferry and bus travel is an option for anyone not interested in making the drive themselves. If you skip taking the ferry altogether, you can drive the whole way—a journey that takes about nine hours. Read more

Map

Map of Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand & Tromsø: Best Itinerary Ideas
Map of Oslo, Bergen, Balestrand & Tromsø: Best Itinerary Ideas