1 Explore Historic Bryggen

Bryggen is one of Bergen’s most iconic sights and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colorful wooden buildings lining the harbor. These old merchant houses date back to the 14th century when the Hanseatic League controlled trade in the region. Walking through this area feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow alleyways, wooden structures, and small artisanal shops selling everything from traditional crafts to souvenirs. In the backstreets and hidden courtyards behind the main row of buildings you’ll find small museums and cafes.

2 Ride the Floibanen to Mount Floyen

Mount Floyen is a must-see when you’re in Bergen, and the best part? It’s super accessible. Get on the Floibanen funicular, which takes you up to the top of Mount Floyen in about 6-7 minutes. The views from the summit are stunning, offering a panoramic look at the city, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains.

Once you’re at the top, there’s a lot to do. You can grab a coffee and enjoy the view, take a short hike, or even rent a bike if you’re feeling more adventurous. The trails around Mount Floyen are well-marked, and you can even hike all the way back down to the city center if you want a scenic walk.

3. Visit the Fish Market (Fisketorget)

Bergen’s Fish Market is a great place to experience Norwegian cuisine firsthand. Located right on the harbor, it’s a lively spot where you can pick up fresh seafood like salmon, king crab, and shrimp. Many stalls also offer ready-to-eat dishes, so it’s a good place for a casual lunch or snack. Although definitely geared towards tourists, here are even some local delicacies like reindeer or whale meat.

4. Learn Some History at the Hanseatic Museum

Located in one of the original buildings on Bryggen, the Hanseatic Museum is actually pretty interesting – it shows the lives of German merchants who controlled Bergen’s trade for over 400 years. You can get a realistic feel for the cramped living quarters and strict working conditions of the time. The museum does an excellent job of explaining the role of the Hanseatic League and how it influenced Bergen’s development. Even if you’re not much into history, the authentic setting makes it worth the visit.

5 Climb to the Top of Mount Ulriken

If you’re up for a more challenging hike, head to Mount Ulriken, the tallest of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen. You can either hike up (which takes about 1.5-2 hours) or take the Ulriksbanen cable car for a faster ascent. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular—think endless fjords, mountain peaks, and, on a clear day, even a glimpse of the North Sea.

There are several hiking trails once you’re at the top, including a popular route to Mount Floyen if you’re up for a longer adventure.

6 Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet i Bergen)

Bergen Aquarium is perfect if you’re traveling with kids, but it’s also fun for adults interested in marine life. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including seals, penguins, and fish native to the Norwegian coastline. They also have informative exhibits about Norway’s marine environment and conservation efforts.

Tip: the penguin feeding and seal shows are highlights, so try to time your visit around one of these events.

7 Take a Fjord Tour

You can’t visit Bergen without experiencing the magic of Norway’s fjords. There are plenty of boat tours leaving from Bergen’s harbor that will take you into the heart of the fjords. One of the most popular tours is the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which includes a boat trip through the fjords as well as a scenic train ride on the famous Flåm Railway and which you can replicate much cheaper yourself – see here how).

How to get there

By Plane | The easiest way to get to Bergen is by flying into Bergen Airport (BGO), also known as Flesland Airport. There are direct flights from major European cities like London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Stockholm, as well as frequent domestic flights from Oslo and other Norwegian cities. From the airport, it’s just a 20-30 minute journey to the city center by:

– Light Rail (Bybanen): The most affordable option, costing around NOK 40-50 ($4-5), with trains departing every 10 minutes.

– Airport Shuttle (Flybussen): A bit quicker than the light rail and costs around NOK 130-150 ($12-15).

– Taxi: If you prefer convenience, a taxi ride to the city center will cost approximately NOK 400-500 ($40-50).

By Train | If you’re already in Norway, taking the train to Bergen is one of the most scenic options. The Bergen Line (Bergensbanen) from Oslo to Bergen is often considered one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. The 7-hour ride takes you through dramatic landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and rivers. You can book tickets through Vy (Norwegian Railways), with prices ranging from NOK 300-800 ($30-80) depending on the class and time of booking.

By Car | Driving to Bergen can be a fantastic way to explore the Norwegian countryside, but keep in mind that some routes involve ferries, tunnels, and winding mountain roads. If you’re driving from Oslo, it’s a 7-8 hour journey, while from Stavanger, it’s about 5 hours. Be prepared for tolls along the way and beautiful but often narrow and winding roads, especially in the fjord regions.

By Bus | Several bus companies, such as Nor-Way Bussekspress and Vy Bus, offer routes to Bergen from other Norwegian cities. Traveling by bus is a good option if you’re coming from cities like Stavanger or Trondheim. While the journey can be long (about 5-6 hours from Stavanger), it’s more budget-friendly, with tickets costing between NOK 300-600 ($30-60).

By Ferry | For a unique experience, you can arrive in Bergen by ferry. Hurtigruten, known for its coastal cruises, operates daily ferry services along Norway’s coast, with Bergen being one of the main stops. This is a more leisurely option and offers stunning views of the coastline, fjords, and islands along the way. Ferries also connect Bergen to nearby towns like Stavanger and the fjord regions, perfect if you want to explore the western coast of Norway by water.

Pro tip |  If you have time, the combination of train and ferry (Norway in a Nutshell tour) from Oslo to Bergen is a fantastic way to see some of the best scenery Norway has to offer, including the fjords and mountains.

Where to stay

Budget | If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, Marken Guesthouse is a solid choice. Located just a short walk from Bergen’s city center and train station, this hostel offers both private rooms and dormitories at reasonable rates. It’s clean, comfortable, and has a cozy communal area where you can meet fellow travelers. You’ll also have access to a shared kitchen, which is a great way to save on dining costs in an otherwise pricey city. Book well in advance, especially in summer, as this hostel is popular with budget travelers and backpackers.

Midrange | For a charming, midrange option, Hotel Park Bergen is a great choice. It’s located in a historic building near the University of Bergen, just a short walk from the city center. The hotel offers individually decorated rooms with a cozy, boutique feel and a great breakfast spread in the morning. Guests love the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the fact that it’s slightly away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas. Ask for a room on the upper floors for a better view of Bergen’s scenic rooftops and mountains.

Boutique | For a more boutique experience, Det Hanseatiske Hotel is an excellent option. Located right in the heart of Bryggen (the old Hanseatic wharf), this hotel offers rooms full of character with a mix of historic charm and modern comfort. The exposed wooden beams and rustic decor give it a traditional Norwegian feel, but with all the modern amenities you need. Plus, you’ll be staying steps away from some of Bergen’s top attractions, like the Hanseatic Museum and the Fish Market. Book a room with views of Bryggen for an authentic Bergen experience.

High-End | Opus XVI is one of Bergen’s top hotels. This upscale hotel is housed in a grand historic building, offering spacious and elegantly designed rooms. Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance of most of the major attractions, but it also feels secluded and peaceful. The hotel also offers an excellent on-site restaurant and impeccable service. Perfect for those looking to indulge in some Norwegian luxury.

Cost of travel

Bergen can be pricey, but it offers something for every budget. For accommodation, budget travelers can expect to pay around NOK 300-500 (€25-45) per night for hostels or guesthouses, while midrange hotels range from NOK 800-1,500 (€70-130). Luxury stays cost upwards of NOK 2,000 (€170) per night.

Food prices vary from NOK 150-250 (€13-22) for a meal at a casual cafe, while dining at midrange restaurants costs around NOK 250-400 (€22-35). Public transport is affordable, with fares around NOK 40-50 (€3.50-4.50), and the Bergen Card offers discounts on attractions and free public transport. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend NOK 700-1,000 (€60-85) per day, while midrange travelers might spend NOK 1,500-2,500 (€130-215).

Overview

The Reinebringen hike is one of the most iconic and rewarding hikes in Lofoten, offering sweeping views of Reine and the surrounding fjords. Known for its steep climb and unparalleled panoramas, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting the Lofoten Islands. The hike, although short, is intense and requires a good level of fitness, but the effort is well worth it once you reach the top.

The Hike

• Difficulty: Moderate due to its steep incline.
• Distance: Approximately 1.5 kilometers each way.
• Elevation: The trail ascends about 450 meters.
• Time: 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and time spent enjoying the views at the summit.

The hike starts just outside of Reine, and you’ll quickly find yourself on a steep path with a series of stone steps built by Sherpas to help prevent erosion and improve the safety of the route. Though the trail is well-marked and relatively short, the incline is unrelenting, so be prepared for a leg workout. The final stretch involves a few rocky sections, so take care if the conditions are wet. As you reach the summit, the incredible views make all the effort worthwhile. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the turquoise fjords, tiny fishing villages, and jagged mountains that define the Lofoten landscape.

What to Expect at the Top

Once you make it to the top of Reinebringen, the views are truly spectacular. The fjords spread out below you like something out of a postcard, and the colorful fishing cabins in Reine look like tiny dots on the water’s edge. Whether you’re there at sunrise, sunset, or midday, the scenery is unforgettable. Be sure to bring a camera – the photos you capture here are bound to be some of the best from your trip.

Tips for the hike

– Safety First: The hike is steep and can be slippery, especially in wet conditions. Proper hiking shoes with good grip are a must.

– Best Time to Go: Early mornings or late evenings during the summer months are ideal for avoiding the crowds and capturing the best light for photos.

– Bring Water: There are no facilities along the trail, so be sure to bring enough water and snacks for the climb.

– Check the Weather: Weather in Lofoten can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before you set out. Avoid hiking in heavy rain or fog, as the trail can become dangerous.

Is It Worth the Hike?

Absolutely. While the Reinebringen hike is demanding, it’s a must for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience Lofoten’s natural beauty from a bird’s-eye view. The combination of challenging terrain and stunning rewards makes it one of the best hikes in Norway. Just remember to take your time, stay safe, and soak in the view from the top – it’s one you won’t forget.

Hiking in the Lofoten

Lofoten’s hikes are generally shorter but steeper due to the islands’ unique geology. You won’t find long-distance, gradual trails here—instead, expect routes that take you straight up and down the mountains. Most hikes reward you with panoramic views over the dramatic fjords, tiny fishing villages, and the open sea. Popular trails, like Reinebringen or Nubben, are well-trodden and offer built-in steps to help with erosion and safety, but many lesser-known hikes are more rugged and require good trail-finding skills.

Other popular hikes

Ryten: If you’re looking for a hike that balances effort and reward without being overly strenuous, Ryten might be the perfect choice. This moderate hike takes you to an elevation of around 543 meters, offering awesome views of the white sands of Kvalvika Beach below. The trail begins near Fredvang. While it’s longer compared to some other hikes in Lofoten, the terrain is fairly forgiving, making it accessible for most hikers.

Munkebu Hut: For a more challenging adventure, the hike to Munkebu Hut offers a true view of Lofoten’s rugged beauty. Starting from Sørvågen, this trek takes you through varied terrain, with mountain lakes, streams and rocky outcrops. The elevation gain is tough, and there are a mix of steep climbs and rocky paths. After about five hours, you’ll reach Munkebu Hut, a cabin high in the mountains managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association, where you can stay overnight (check availability, as the hut operates on a first-come, first-served basis).

Bunes Beach: Accessible by ferry from Reine to Vinstad, the hike to Bunes Beach is a completely different experience – simple and peaceful. This relatively easy trek, just about an hour each way, is a great option for a relaxing day. The path is mostly flat, leading to the wide, sandy expanse of secluded Bunes Beach.

Tips for Hiking in Lofoten

– Be Prepared for Steep Terrain: Lofoten’s hikes may be short in distance but are often steep and can be challenging. Good hiking boots with ankle support are essential.

– Weather Can Change Quickly: The weather in Lofoten is notoriously unpredictable, so pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and be prepared for sudden changes.

– Respect Nature: Many of the trails go through pristine natural environments, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles, stick to marked paths, and take all your trash with you.

Best Time to Hike

The summer months, from June to September, are the best time for hiking in Lofoten. During this time, you can take advantage of the midnight sun, allowing you to hike late into the evening with full daylight. However, the shoulder seasons of May and October can also be rewarding for those looking to avoid crowds, though weather conditions may be more unpredictable.

Finish

The very end of the trail leads you to the touristy part of the plantation. You can buy drinks and snacks here. To leave, you’ll need to walk up towards the road and unfortunately you’ll need to pay the entrance fee to the plantation (yes, they will stop you on the way out with eagle eyes!).

To get back to Tanah Rata, you will either have to hitchhike (which shouldn’t take long as there are lots of cars heading towards Tanah Rata), or you can flag down a taxi from the road. You can also try calling a Grab, but you’ll probably have to wait a long time as they are not so frequent here.

Hiking in Norway

Trail markers in Norway

In Norway, hiking trails are usually well-marked, making it easier for both experienced and novice hikers to navigate the country’s stunning landscapes. The trail marking system is designed for visibility and simplicity, ensuring you stay on track, even in more remote areas.

The most common type of trail marker in Norway is a red “T” symbol, often painted on rocks, trees, or cairns. This symbol is maintained by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), which manages thousands of kilometers of hiking trails across the country. The red “T” is easily spotted and is often found along the most popular and scenic routes, leading hikers through mountains, valleys, and along coastal trails. In addition to the red “T,” you’ll often see cairns (piles of stones) marking trails, particularly in rocky or exposed areas where there are no trees. In more open terrain, wooden poles are sometimes used to guide hikers along the path. These markers are spaced close enough to remain visible, even in poor weather conditions. At trailheads or key intersections, you’ll find wooden signposts indicating the distance to various destinations, often with estimated hiking times. These signs are very helpful for planning your hike and ensuring you’re on the right path. Norwegian hiking trails are often categorized by difficulty and color-coded on maps and signs:

• Green: Easy hikes, suitable for beginners or family-friendly trails.
• Blue: Moderate difficulty, requiring a bit more endurance but still accessible for most hikers.
• Red: Challenging hikes, often involving steep or rugged terrain.
• Black: Expert-level trails, which may involve scrambling or technical climbing sections.

Getting there

There are different transport option, depending where you come from:

– From Bodø, take a ferry to Moskenes or a speedboat to Svolvær

– From Oslo, Bergen or Bodø, fly directly into Svolvær or Leknes with Widerøe

– From Tromsø take the Hurtigruten coastal steamer (16-18h) or take a bus to Harstad and then a ferry

Arriving from Bodø, I chose to take the Moskenes ferry both ways. The speedboat to Svolvaer is pretty limited in departures and the times didn’t work for me. It takes longer than the ferry, and can be rougher too. The best part is, the ferry to Moskenes is free if you don’t have a car (you can pre-book tickets for a fee, but don’t do this, half the tickets are always available at boarding).

Getting around

One of the biggest challenges in the Lofoten Islands is actually getting around. All the travel guides and sources I could find make it sound like you absolutely cannot get by without a car or a van. Fortunately this is not true. The car rental in June would’ve cost around 300€ (!) per day, so I was determined to find another solution. Sure, it’s hard to get to certain areas or to explore in-depth on foot, but it’s easy to meaningfully spend 4-5 days and focus on the highlights or on only one area of Lofoten.

1 Buses in Lofoten

Lofoten has a reliable bus network that connects the main towns and villages across the islands The main bus route runs on the E10 highway, between the larger towns like Svolvær, Leknes, and Å (actually this is a combination of different routes, but it generally shows where you can get to by bus.

These buses are operated by Torghatten Nord and Nordland fylkeskommune. They don’t run often – typically a few times a day, with more frequent services in the summer. Use the Reis Nordland website or app to check bus schedules and plan your trips. You can buy tickets on the bus with cash or a card. Alternatively, purchase tickets in advance using the Reis Nordland app, which might offer slight discounts.

2 Cycling Around Lofoten

For an adventurous and eco-friendly way to explore, cycling is a fantastic option. Several shops in Svolvær, Leknes, and Reine offer bike rentals. Some accommodations might also rent out bikes to their guests. Here are the bigger bike rentals:

In Svolvær:

Lofoten Aktiv | Offers bike rentals, including electric bikes. They also provide guided cycling tours.

Lofoten Explorer | Known for kayak and boat tours, they also offer bike rentals. It’s a convenient option if you’re looking to mix activities.

In Leknes:

Intersport Leknes | A sporting goods store that provides bike rentals, especially in the summer. They offer a range of bicycles suitable for exploring the area.

Lofoten Basecamp | Located just outside Leknes, they offer bike rentals along with various other outdoor gear for hire, including tents and hiking equipment.

In Reine:

Reine Adventure | Known for their adventure activities and kayak rentals, Reine Adventure also offers bike rentals for exploring the nearby areas.

Reine Rorbuer | This accommodation provider sometimes offers bike rentals for their guests and can arrange rentals if needed. It’s a good option if you’re staying there or nearby.

The E10 highway, which runs through the islands, has relatively low traffic and stunning views, making it popular with cyclists. There are also quieter side roads and paths where you can cycle at a more leisurely pace. Lofoten’s terrain is varied, so be prepared for some hills and changing weather conditions. That said, the breathtaking landscapes make every pedal worth it.

3 Hiking: Discover Lofoten on Foot

Lofoten is a hiker’s paradise, and many of its most beautiful spots are best explored on foot. Trails like Reinebringen, Kvalvika Beach, and the trek to Munkebu Hut offer some of the most iconic views in Lofoten. These hikes vary in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. Most trailheads are accessible by bus, and some are even walkable from towns. Always check the bus schedules to ensure you can return after your hike. Wear proper hiking boots and carry a map or GPS, as weather can change rapidly, and some trails can be challenging.

4 Guided Tours and Activities

If you prefer structured experiences, guided tours are an excellent way to see the islands. Here are some of the most popular tours from Svolvær, Leknes, and Reinebringen that you can book on GetYourGuide:

From Svolvær:

RIB Sea Eagle Safari to Trollfjord | This exciting boat tour takes you through the scenic Trollfjord, where you’ll have the chance to spot sea eagles up close. It’s one of the most popular wildlife tours in Lofoten and lasts about 2 hours.

Lofoten Islands 5-Hour Tour | This guided tour explores the islands’ landscapes, from scenic fjords to charming fishing villages like Henningsvær and Nusfjord.

Northern Lights Tour by Van | If you’re coming in winter, this 4-hour small-group tour provides expert guidance on where and when to spot the aurora.

From Leknes:

Private Lofoten Tour with Transfer | Explore Lofoten’s iconic spots, from Vik Beach to the picturesque village of Reine. This private tour allows flexibility, perfect for cruise passengers or with limited time.

Lofoten Landscapes Photography Tour | Designed for photography enthusiasts, this full-day tour takes you to some of Lofoten’s most photogenic locations, including Ramberg and Reine.

Tips

Why is it good, not to drive?

– Cost savings – obviously. As mentioned above, car rental can get extremely expensive. Not only that, but gas in Norway is also expensive, and unless you’re splitting the cost across several people, it adds to an already expensive destination.

– The roads are beautiful, but hard to drive. With lots of blind curves, heavy traffic (compared to the size of the place) and narrow lanes it looks pretty advanced to drive a van here.

– Lack of parking at destinations is very annoying and a big issue especially in high season.

The most important tips

1. Plan well where to enter and exit the Lofoten – ferries and buses are not that frequent and distances can be big.
2. Choose your bases carefully: I based my trip in Reine, which has easy access to other highlights, accessible trailheads and organized tours, like kayaking. 
3. Plan your transit ahead of time: schedule your bus trips between the cities and for your flight in advance. Transportation options also vary by season, with more services available in the summer, so keep this in mind. 
4. Be ready to bike: you can reach places like Henningsvær and lesser-known trailheads by bike. If you’re not open to cycling, you’ll likely have to stick to more structured, package tours.
5. Travel light – a great idea on any trip, but especially important here.
6. Be patient – embrace the slower pace of travel. Waiting for a bus or taking the scenic route often leads to unexpected discoveries.

Where to stay

Stay in a rorbuer (traditional fishermen’s cabin), which is a highlight in itself: Reine Rorbuer offers cozy, traditional rorbuer cabins right on the waterfront with breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The cabins combine rustic charm with modern amenities, so you can have a comfortable and warm stay.

Other than a rorbuer, here are the best options in all 3 towns:

(Reine) Catogården is a unique, cozy guesthouse that offers a blend of comfort and community. The house has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with shared kitchen facilities, beautiful common areas, a sauna and stunning views of the fjords. They also organise kayak tours. 

(Leknes) Scandic Leknes offers a comfortable, modern stay in the heart of Leknes. It’s a great base for exploring the nearby beaches and fjords, with free parking and a convenient location. The hotel offers a cozy atmosphere with a restaurant serving traditional Norwegian dishes, ideal for both solo travelers and families.

(Svolvær) Thon Hotel Lofoten is a high-quality hotel located right by the harbor in Svolvær. Offering modern rooms with spectacular views, it’s a top choice for those who want to explore the town and its surroundings. The hotel also features an excellent restaurant serving local cuisine, and it’s well-known for its eco-friendly initiatives.

My actual itinerary

Day 0: Getting to Reine – hike to Hamnøy
I chose the Bodø – Moskenes ferry to get to the Lofoten, then made my way to Catogården, a comfortable guesthouse in Reine with great views, where I closed the day with a sauna session (and did manage a dip in the arctic water after 3 rounds of sweating!)

Day 1: Reine – Reinebringen Hike
I started the first day in Reine. First up was hiking Reinebringen – steep but totally worth it for the epic views over the fjords and villages.

Day 2: Å and Kayak Tour
On day two, I took a quick day trip to Å by bus, the last village on the archipelago, followed by a kayak tour around the fjords. Seeing Lofoten from the water was a highlight, offering a peaceful change from the mountain hikes.

Day 3: Flakstad – Lofoten Beach Camp and Nubben Hike
I moved to Lofoten Beach Camp in Flakstad, set up camp, and hiked to Nubben near Ramberg Beach. It’s an easy hike with great views over the coastline, and the beach camp was a nice, laid-back spot to relax afterward.

Day 4: Arctic Surfing and Midnight Sun Photography
On my last day, I went arctic surfing – not as cold as it sounds, but you do need a very thick wetsuit. Afterward, I made the most of the midnight sun to capture some amazing photos, with the sun never fully setting in the summer.

1 Book in Advance

This is the no 1 golden rule of Norway. Not exactly my travel style, but believe me when I say it is crucial – either book (way) in advance or accept that your Norwegian trip will push you into financial ruin. The longer you can plan in advance, the better, I would say 1 month before at least if you’re traveling in peak season. There aren’t so many options in Norway and not only do they simply sell out (and of course, the cheaper ones do first), but the remaining ones will also raise their price.

2 Stay in Hostels, wherever you can

Norway has a range of hostels in bigger cities, and most of them are pretty high quality, like almost any accommodation in the Nordics. The problem with hostels is that they are simply not available for most of your itinerary outside of cities. Some of the best hostels are:

– Anker Hostel, Oslo: A large, central, budget-friendly option with easy access to public transport.
– K7 Hotel, Oslo: A smaller hostel plus hotel, with a lovely cafe downstairs. It is very central, about 5 min walk from the train station.
– Bergen Hostel Montana, Bergen: Offers breathtaking views and a cozy atmosphere.
– Tromsø Activities Hostel, Tromsø: Great for those looking to explore the Arctic Circle without breaking the bank.

3 Wild camp

Norway is a camper’s paradise, and the country’s “Right to Roam” law allows you to camp almost anywhere in the countryside for free, as long as you follow certain guidelines. Of course wild camping isn’t for everyone. Even if it is for you, it’s probably smart to combine wild camping with campsites for a bit more comfort. Campsites are the cheapest (paid) option, with a tent night costing between 15-45 €.

4 Stay in rooms or cabins at a camping

I consider this the second best tip. The best cheap accommodation in Norway is often a room or a cabin (“hytter”) in a camping. I was very (positively) surprised by the quality of all the campsites we have stayed at. They were clean, convenient, well-equipped and always in unbelievable scenic settings. Prices were between 40-120€. The best campsites I’ve stayed at:

– Lofoten Beach Camp, Ramberg: Absolutely stunning! The best camping I’ve ever stayed at. It’s beautiful and new, with a ton of amenities (like surf classes). The location is also unbelievable, right at the white sand beach of Ramberg.
– Gudvangen camping, Gudvangen: walking distance from the ferry station. Cabins are basic but it’s a perfect place to spend the night after arriving late with the ferry. Start the next day with a hike and take the direct bus to Voss (or back to Flåm).
– Flåm Camping and Cabins, Flåm: It is very popular (and basically the only budget option in the area), so book very early! There are dorms as well as rooms and cabins.
– Andalsnes Camping & Motell, Åndalsnes: A beautiful setting next to the river. Some of the rooms have en suite bathrooms. It is far from the station and the center, but doable without a car.

5 Try Airbnb and Short-Term Rentals

Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms are often your best bet when prices surge. Renting an entire apartment is very expensive, but a room only can be a good solution. I’ve booked rooms in many Airbnbs in Norway and always found clean spaces, friendly hosts and good amenities. It’s also a great way to talk to locals, which otherwise would be pretty hard to do as a tourist (plus in my opinion Norwegians are pretty shy). This is also one of the destinations where it really counts if you can have your own kitchen to prepare a meal, especially if you’re tired of those store sandwiches and wraps!

6 Consider Couchsurfing

I am personally not a fan of couchsurfing, simply because I find the idea very uncomfortable to sleep on a stranger’s sofa, but if there is one region I would consider this it would definitely be the Nordics, and especially Norway.

7 Night trains

Night trains are a smart way to trick the system (provided that you are going somewhere, and preferably somewhere far, of course…). Usually they are pretty expensive, but if you buy an Interrail or Eurail pass for Norway then it’s much cheaper, and you could end up saving money compared to a hotel (this is how I spent 2 full days in Bergen with only one hotel night). Most overnight trains have double sleeping cabins which you can book for two or alone – the price is the same either way because you have to reserve the entire cabin, so it’s worth to go with a friend. A sleeper cabin with Interrail costs about 100€ for the night. There are sadly no showers on the train or at the station (in Bergen and Oslo you can shower in partner hotels near the station for a fee of around 25€. This sometimes contains breakfast, sometimes only a shower and is insultingly expensive in my opinion). There are lockers in all train stations where you can board a night train. The best website to book a sleeper cabin (or a seat reservation once you have Interrail) is Entur.

8 The usual tricks (that don’t work!)

Travel Off-Peak: You can somewhat consider visiting Norway during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn), but it won’t help you much. Norway is always expensive. The big difference is that outside of peak season you have better chances to book the cheaper accommodations before everyone else does.

Opt for Less Touristy Areas: Staying outside of the main tourist hubs like Oslo, Bergen, and Tromsø also won’t really help you. Norway is about nature, and rural accommodation is often more expensive than a city one (plus there are likely no hostels around).

+1 Public huts and cabins (for hikers)

In Norway, public huts and cabins are a well-established and integral part of the country’s outdoor culture. “Friluftsliv”, the Norwegian concept of outdoor life and nature appreciation, is deeply ingrained in the use of these huts and cabins. They provide a means for people to experience nature sustainably and responsibly. The Norwegian Trekking Association (Den Norske Turistforening or DNT) manages around 550 cabins across Norway. Huts are strategically placed along popular hiking routes, in national parks, and in remote wilderness areas and are designed to be within a day’s hike of one another (so they are perfect to plan multi-day treks). In addition to DNT huts, there are many cabins managed by local municipalities, private organizations, and even individuals.

DNT huts range from fully staffed lodges to self-service and no-service cabins:
– Staffed Lodges (Betjente Hytter): Offer meals, private rooms, and additional amenities. These are often located in more accessible areas.
– Self-Service Cabins (Selvbetjente Hytter): Equipped with a kitchen, food supplies, and dormitory-style accommodations. Hikers need to prepare their own meals.
– No-Service Cabins (Ubetjente Hytter): Basic shelters with no food supplies. Hikers must bring all their own provisions.

While some DNT huts are open to everyone, for most you need to become a DNT member, which also provides various benefits, such as reduced accommodation rates and access (or keys) to locked self-service and no-service huts. Some huts, especially the staffed ones, require reservations in advance, particularly during peak season. For others, you need to obtain a key from the association before arriving (see here how to do it). Accommodation fees vary depending on the type of hut and membership status. Staffed lodges are more expensive compared to self-service or no-service huts. See a detailed description of the whole hut system and its etiquette here.

How to get there and around

By car

You can drive into Norway from Sweden, Finland, or Russia. The road network is well-developed and offers scenic routes. Renting a car or a van is a popular option for exploring Norway, especially in the Lofoten islands. Norway has strict traffic regulations, and the terrain can be challenging with narrow roads and fjord crossings. Winter driving requires special preparation, especially in the far north, and I would really only recommend it if you are a very very good driver (imagine driving at night in a snowstorm on a road that’s basically a block of ice, with extra bright headlights on for the reindeer…). Many Norwegian roads have tolls. Electronic toll collection (AutoPASS) is common, and rental cars often come equipped with toll tags.

By plane

Most international travelers arrive in Norway by air. Oslo Airport (Gardermoen) is the main international gateway, but there are also international airports in Bergen, Stavanger, Trondheim, and other cities. Due to the large distances, Norway has a dense network of domestic airports, making air travel a convenient option for covering large distances quickly. Airlines like SAS, Norwegian, and Widerøe operate frequent flights between major cities and remote locations. Consider checking Norwegian’s route map when trip planning.

By train

There are train services from Stockholm and Gothenburg to Oslo, operated by SJ (Swedish Railways). You can also travel by train from Copenhagen to Oslo, with a ferry connection between Copenhagen and Oslo operated by DFDS Seaways. Domestic train services are operated by several companies, primarily Vy, Flytoget, SJ Norge and Go-Ahead Nordic. The best website to book train tickets in Norway is Entur.

By ferry

Ferries operate between Copenhagen, Frederikshavn, and Hirtshals in Denmark to several Norwegian ports including Oslo, Kristiansand, and Larvik. Also between Kiel, Germany, and Oslo. You can also take your car on ferries from Denmark or Germany. Within the country, the coastline and fjords are well-served by ferries. Apart from the famous(ly expensive) Hurtigruten coastal ferry (mostly for tourists), most places are served by local ferries that are just as scenic. Consider booking these instead to save money (some are even free if you don’t have a car!)

Tip | Norway is not part of the EU, but part of the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa is required for travelers from certain countries.