There are countless ways to travel through Norway and after partaking in almost every mode myself, here are a few recommendations of how to get around in style.
The Rauma Railway – where modernity and mountains meet
These two-wagon trains have a modern design and comfortable seating, which is always a plus. While locals do use this train for their daily commute, the main purpose caters to tourists. The route was skillfully constructed to pass through the most scenic viewpoints and during the summer months, there is an audio guide in several languages to help travelers better understand the nearly area. Most tourists hop off at Bjorli but I chose to walk around the very slightly more populated Dombås.
Price: 220 NOK (adult)
National Tourist Routes via the Bus – save money while enjoying the view
During the summer months, local buses run more frequently which is a major perk for budget travelers who, like me, opt not to rent a car. Check schedules before choosing this method if traveling in winter, as buses run less frequently. This particular ride drove us along one of Norway’s National Tourist Routes – a series of roads with picturesque viewpoints. We started in Åndalsnes and headed to the famous Trollstigen viewing platform before arriving in Geiranger.
Price: 135 NOK (student fare)
Fjord Cruises – how the locals traveled before Norway’s roads were built
Long before Norway created the public roads and National Tourist Routes in existence today, many locals relied on ferries and boats to get them from one place to another. My ferry cruise from Kaupanger to Gudvangen lasts just over two hours and takes travelers through Nærøyfjord, the world’s most narrow fjord and not surprisingly, also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is an audio guide that informs guests when the ferry is approaching noteworthy landmarks.
Price: 130 NOK (student fare)
The Flåm Railway – another scenic route to enjoy in style
Similar to the Rauma Railway, this train takes travelers from Flåm to Myrdal, where many people (including myself) change trains for the Bergen line (271 NOK). However, unlike Rauma’s modern trains, The Flåm Railway has a much more vintage design. The ride only takes about an hour and I suggest arriving early to snag a window seat, as there are no seat assignments. Better yet, aim to sit by a window that opens near the top so you can take better quality photos.
Price: 260 NOK (adult) one-way; 360 NOK (adult) round trip
Going Local – travel in style minus the costs
While I mostly traveled from place to place via bus, train or ferry, I was able to enjoy a few boat rides and car drives from my local guides. These were the most enjoyable because I had to pay little attention to where I was going, giving me more time to day dream about my surroundings. For those of you planning a trip to Norway, most people choose to rent a car because many touristic attractions are not easily accessible by local bus. Plus, you have more freedom to travel as your own pace.
Price: priceless.
Megan Eileen McDonough is writer, blogger and social media specialist based in New York City. She also runs Bohemian Trails, a lifestyle blog designed for the savvy and stylish traveler. Bohemian Trails aims to feature must-see places around the world, covering everything from revamped neighborhoods and vibrant street art to innovative tech hubs and everything in between. Her cultural escapades have taken her to Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Megan is also a freelance writer and social media specialist based in New York City. She contributes to various online and print publications in the travel and fashion industries and is an international correspondent for both Jetsetter and Northstar Travel Media.
