Road Trips in Norway

Oslo, which is considered one of the greatest Norway’s attractions, definitely can’t be missed, yet there exist plenty of other highlights that should be seen in the region. These include such places as Risør, Kristiansand, and Lillehammer. 

Other smaller settlements in the eastern part of the country that are worth visiting are Røros, one of the oldest European towns built almost entirely out of wooden constructions, and Dombås, an ideal gateway to the Dovrefjell National Park with the awe-inspiring Snøhetta.

The western part of Norway is a true treasure trove of tourist attractions. Stavager, Lysebotn, Eidfjord, and Bergen are all about the stunning landscape of fiords, mountains, and sandy beaches that run along the coast. Each of the cities can boast a number of popular museums, entertainment venues, and cultural events.

Even though Bergen is considered a true gateway to the world of fiords, you shouldn’t miss such places as Norheimsund, Kaupanger, Ulvik, or Gudvangen while in the region. A visit at one of them will bring tourists closer to nature and allow them for a deeper contemplation of Norway’s natural gems.

Alesund and Geiranger both offer attractive town centres surrounded by clear water and large rocky outcrops dotting the horizon. The region is especially known for the abundance of waterfalls, stunning mountain trails, and picturesque green plains. Hellesylt, a UNESCO Heritage Site, welcomes tourists with a range of hiking opportunities, Åndalsnes will become a great starting point for the exploration of the Romsdal Valley and Romsdalfjord, and Rauma will enchant you with its atmosphere and local wooden churches.

Trollstigen, also known as Trolls’ Path, is among one of the most popular Norwegian tourist attractions. This must-see highlight has more than 100 km and offers intense visual experiences with a great insight into Norwegian nature at its best. Arid valleys, deep fiords, and mountain crags create a stunning blend of pristine landscapes. 

Trondheim, along with Steinkjer, will be ideal both for fans of outdoor activities as well as those who fancy long sightseeing tours. Apart from a wide selection of museums, churches, and urban monuments, the cities also offer excellent accommodation options and bike trails.

If you are searching for some solitude and rest from the most popular urban highlights, you should direct your steps to Foldereid or Vennesund. Both offer tranquillity and plenty of local specialties that you just can’t miss while in Norway.

The charm of small Norwegian towns can be best experienced when arriving in Mosjøen, Mo i Rana, Fauske, or Bodo. Beautiful views of the surrounding nature, pristine forests, and plenty ideas for trekking and hillwalking are what you can expect from these settlements.

The northern part of Norway is characterised by intriguing old fishing villages, untouched natural wonders, and the Norwegian tundra. The quintessence of these features can be felt at every corner of such places as Narvik, Svolvær, or Moskenes.

You can delve a little deeper into the northern experience and pay a visit at such popular highlights as Tromsø, Skibotn, Alta, or Honningsvåg, Norway’s northernmost city. However, your trip around the northern region won’t be full without a visit at the North Cape, the jewel of Finnmark. The attraction is located above the barren Arctic Circle and the sun doesn’t set here for almost three months. Additionally, the cape is also home for thousands of charming puffins and cormorants.

One of the numerous opportunities to travel around Norway is to hire a car. It is possible in most of the major cities as well as at the international airports. The wide variety of interesting rental vehicles and insurance offers will surely cater to the needs of even the most demanding motorists. Even though in Norway you have to be 18 years old to have a driver’s licence, most of the car hire companies will require the motorists to be at least 21 years of age. 

The state of Norwegian roads is pretty impeccable; however, due to the country’s topography, most of the roads are very winding and run uphill. This isn’t only an obstacle for the driver, but also for the vehicle itself. Try to remain cautious and vigilant at all times to avoid any dangerous road situations.

Toll roads in Norway are part of the road environment. The tolls are gathered through a special electronic system called Auto Pass. In order to avoid stopping at each toll gate, you can use a simple pre-paid system that will make everything easier. Sometimes you’ll be also asked to pay for entering certain cities, including Oslo, Trondheim, or Bergen. Toll gates are also located on the so-called “private roads” which often lead to valleys or mountain ranges. In such cases, it’s best to have some spare cash because you won’t be able to pay with your credit card.

Penalties for breaking traffic rules in Norway are very strict. Lack of hands-free set is a traffic offence and you can’t touch the screen of your mobile phone even when it is located in a special holder. Wearing seatbelts is compulsory for all passengers of the vehicle. What’s more, don’t even think about drinking and driving. The enforced limit of alcohol is 20 mg per 100 ml of blood. This means that even a larger drink can take you over the designated limit. The penalties when caught include an extremely large fine, removal of licence, and the possibility of imprisonment.

Documents that you’ll need while driving on Norwegian roads are: driver’s licence, liability insurance, ID or passport, registration document, and vehicle technical inspection certificate.

What’s more, due to the Norwegian approach to ecology, fuel is pretty expensive at all petrol stations. 

You are allowed to drive at a speed of 100 km/h on motorways. In built-up areas, you have to drive at a speed of up to 50 km/h or sometimes even 30 km/h (for example, near schools or shops). In rural areas, the speed limit is 80 km/h and on expressways it is 90 km/h. So if you want to spare yourself any additional costs during your trip, it’s best to drive below the designated limits.

While driving around Norway, you need to carry at least one reflective vest and a warning triangle. It is also advisable to remember about a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, a set of spare bulbs, a spare tyre, and a towline.

When taking a road trip in Norway, there are several things to be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Weather conditions: Norway's weather can be unpredictable and change quickly, especially in the mountains and coastal regions. It is important to check weather forecasts and road conditions before embarking on a road trip and be prepared for changing weather conditions. It is also important to have appropriate clothing and equipment for different weather conditions, such as rain gear, warm clothing, and snow chains.

• Driving rules: Norway has strict driving rules and regulations that visitors should be aware of before hitting the road. Speed limits are strictly enforced, and there are steep fines for speeding or other traffic violations. It is also important to be aware of Norway's unique road signage and driving rules, such as the use of roundabouts and yield signs.

• Road conditions: While Norway's roads are generally well-maintained, some rural roads can be narrow, winding, and steep. It is important to drive cautiously and be aware of road conditions, particularly in winter when ice and snow can make driving hazardous. Some roads may also be closed during certain times of the year due to weather conditions.

• Cost of living: Norway is known for its high cost of living, and road trippers should be prepared for higher prices for food, fuel, and accommodations. It is important to budget accordingly and plan ahead to avoid unexpected expenses.

• Wildlife: Norway is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, reindeer, and arctic foxes. While these animals can be a highlight of a road trip, they can also pose a hazard to drivers. It is important to be aware of wildlife crossings and to drive cautiously in areas where animals are known to be present.

By keeping these factors in mind and planning ahead, road trippers can have a safe and enjoyable journey through Norway's stunning landscapes and attractions.

The best time to take a road trip in Norway depends on the traveler's interests and priorities. Here are some factors to consider when planning the timing of a road trip in Norway:

• Weather: Norway's weather can be unpredictable and change quickly, so it is important to consider weather conditions when planning a road trip. The summer months from June to August are generally the warmest and sunniest, with long days and mild temperatures. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and popular destinations can be crowded. The fall months of September and October can be a beautiful time to visit Norway, with fall foliage and fewer crowds. However, this is also when the weather can start to turn colder and wetter.

• Northern Lights: If seeing the Northern Lights is a priority, the best time to visit Norway is during the winter months from November to March. However, this is also the coldest and darkest time of year, with shorter days and the possibility of snow and icy roads.

• Festivals and Events: Norway has a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that may be of interest to road trippers, such as the Bergen International Festival in May, the Midnight Sun Marathon in June, and the Oslo Jazz Festival in August.

• Road conditions: Some of Norway's scenic routes, such as the Trollstigen and Atlantic Road, are closed during the winter months due to snow and ice. It is important to check road conditions and closures before planning a road trip.

Overall, the best time to take a road trip in Norway is during the summer months if mild weather and long days are a priority, or during the winter months if seeing the Northern Lights is a priority. However, Norway's natural beauty and attractions can be enjoyed year-round, so road-trippers can plan their trip according to their interests and priorities.

When packing for a road trip in Norway, it is important to consider the climate, the length of the trip, and the activities planned. Here are some essential items to pack:

• Warm clothing: Norway's weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer months, so it is important to pack warm clothing such as a waterproof jacket, fleece or sweater, hat, gloves, and scarf. In the winter, it is important to pack warm layers, a heavy coat, and insulated boots.

• Comfortable footwear: For a road trip, comfortable footwear is essential. Hiking boots or sneakers are ideal for outdoor activities, while comfortable shoes are best for driving and exploring towns and cities.

• Navigation tools: Norway's road system can be complex, so it is important to have navigation tools such as GPS or a paper map. It is also important to have a charged mobile phone and a car charger.

• First-aid kit: A basic first-aid kit is essential for any road trip. It should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.

• Camera: Norway is known for its stunning landscapes, so a camera is essential to capture the beauty of the scenery.

• Outdoor gear: For outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, it is important to bring appropriate gear such as a tent, sleeping bag, and camping stove.

• Snacks and water: Norway's remote areas may not have many food and drink options, so it is important to pack snacks and plenty of water for the road trip.

• Cash and credit cards: Norway is a cashless society, so it is important to bring a credit card for transactions. However, it is also a good idea to have some cash for small purchases and emergencies.

By packing these essentials, road trippers can have a comfortable and enjoyable journey through Norway's stunning landscapes and attractions.

The cost of a road trip in Norway can vary depending on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the time of year, the type of accommodations chosen, and the activities planned. However, in general, Norway can be an expensive country for travelers.

For budget-conscious road trippers, camping or staying in hostels can be a more affordable option than hotels. Prices for campsites and hostels can range from around 150-300 NOK ($18-36 USD) per night. Alternatively, hotels can range from around 700-1500 NOK ($84-180 USD) per night.

Food and drink prices can also be high in Norway, with meals at restaurants ranging from around 150-300 NOK ($18-36 USD) per person. However, road trippers can save money by buying groceries and cooking their own meals. Groceries can be purchased at supermarkets such as Coop and Rema 1000.

Renting a car in Norway can also be expensive, with prices varying depending on the type of car and the time of year. In general, a standard economy car rental can cost around 400-600 NOK ($48-72 USD) per day. It is important to note that fuel prices in Norway are also high, with prices ranging from around 16-18 NOK ($1.90-2.16 USD) per liter.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Norway can range from around 1500-3000 NOK ($180-360 USD) per person per day, depending on the level of comfort and the activities planned. However, road trippers can save money by opting for more affordable accommodations, cooking their own meals, and planning their itinerary carefully to avoid unnecessary expenses.

There are many guidebooks and road maps available for a road trip in Norway. Here are some popular options:

• Lonely Planet Norway: This guidebook is a comprehensive resource for planning a trip to Norway. It includes information on attractions, accommodations, transportation, and food, as well as suggested itineraries and maps.

• Rick Steves Scandinavia: This guidebook covers Norway, as well as Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. It includes practical travel advice, suggested itineraries, and tips on local customs and culture.

• Insight Guides Norway: This guidebook provides in-depth information on Norway's history, culture, and geography, as well as practical travel advice and suggested itineraries. It also includes maps and photos.

• Michelin Norway Map: This map provides detailed information on Norway's road network, including scenic routes, toll roads, and attractions. It also includes city maps and a distance chart.

• National Geographic Norway Adventure Map: This waterproof and tear-resistant map is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. It includes topographic information, trails, and points of interest.

• Norway Road Atlas: This comprehensive road atlas includes detailed maps of Norway's roads, as well as information on attractions, accommodations, and services along the way.

These guidebooks and road maps can help road trippers plan their itinerary, navigate Norway's roads, and discover the country's stunning scenery and attractions.