The Norway in a Nutshell Tour is one of the most popular ways to get close to Norway’s picturesque fjords, mountains and villages. Each year, travelers from all over the world embark on this epic journey to discover and enjoy the heart of Norway.

This tour can start in Oslo or Bergen. You’ll explore Norway’s idyllic fjord villages via scenic train rides and fjord cruises. From spectacular views to indulging in a traditional Viking feast, there are plenty of things to do in Norway!

In this article, I’m sharing an overview of the Norway in a Nutshell Tour, including the transportation, places to stay, things to do and tips for planning your perfect trip. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind journey through Norway and the experience of a lifetime!

 

 

Travel your way: An overview of the Norway in a Nutshell Tour

 

 

The Norway in a Nutshell Tour is an unforgettable journey where you’ll experience some of the best parts of Norway! You can book your tour as a one or multiple-day journey. Most travelers begin the tour from Oslo or Bergen, two popular starting points. 

I recommend booking your tickets as soon as you know your travel dates, especially in the summer when departure tickets sell out. Keep an eye out for early bird rates!

The tour is self-guided and flexible, allowing you to customize your Norway in a Nutshell Tour itinerary with overnight stays and activities. Whether you leave from Oslo or Bergen, you can plan on enjoying scenic routes via historic train rides, fjord cruises and bus journeys. 

A great part about the Norway in a Nutshell Tour is that you create your itinerary to suit your Norway wishlist. You can add hotel stays and activities to your ticket purchase, so you don’t have to worry about booking as you go. 

Book your Norway in a Nutshell Tour ticket on the Fjord Tours website.

 

Your Norway in a Nutshell tour map and route

 

 

Come on a behind-the-scenes tour of my Norway in a Nutshell journey from Oslo to Bergen, where I share insider travel tips and must-visit stops! I start my journey by train in Oslo, my hometown and a popular departure point for the tour.

 

 

Bookmark my Oslo City Guide for insider travel tips!

From Oslo, you could stop in Geilo, a premier Alpine skiing destination. Or, after you switch trains from Myrdal, make a stop along the Flåm railroad at Vatnahalsen for a hike or bike ride.

Many people also stop at Flåm, a popular destination with many exciting things to do. From relaxing fjord cruises to braving Scandinavia’s longest zipline over the Flåm Valley, you won’t get bored here! There are also many souvenir shops selling unique Nordic gifts to bring home. I recommend the cozy, traditional Norwegian wool sweater (ullgenser). 

Next stop: Gudvangen.

You’ll take the fjord ferry cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen. The cruise is two hours long and is the perfect way to relax while you soak up stunning panoramic fjord views of the Aurlandsfjord and UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. Gudvangen is known for its unique Viking Village and kayaking experiences.

 

 

Now, it’s time to explore Voss.

Voss is ideal for outdoor activities, like white-water rafting and hiking. If you’re looking for unbeatable aerial views, don’t miss a ride on the Voss Gondola!

Welcome to Bergen!

You’ve made it to your last stop, the bustling town of Bergen, a picturesque town famous for its UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf and rich maritime history. Bookmark my Bergen City Guide to make the most of your stay in one of Norway’s most charming towns!

 

Norway in a Nutshell Tour: Places to stay

Now that you’re familiar with the main stops on the Norway in a Nutshell Tour, I’m sure you’re wondering where to stay. I have some great recommendations for you!

In Oslo, you can stay at the Thon Hotel Opera, a mid-range budget hotel near the train station. Also close to the train station is Amerikalinjen, a high-end boutique hotel, and the CityBox Hotel, a budget-friendly and modern hotel.

Many travelers stay at least one night in Flåm (where you’ll board the ferry for your fjord cruise). Three hotels I recommend in Flåm are the Flåm Marina, Fretheim Hotel and Flåm Camping & Cabins.

If your journey includes a one-of-a-kind Viking experience, then you’ll want to stay in Gudvangen. The Gudvangen Fjordtell is a fjord-front hotel with unique Viking-themed rooms!

In Voss, there are two hotels I recommend: 

1. The 19th-century Fleischer Hotel by Lake Vangsvatnet (next to the Voss Train Station)
2. The Ringheim Hotel, a farmhouse turned rustic hotel and restaurant

Hotel Norge by Scandic is a mid-range budget hotel located in central Bergen (it’s only a 10-minute walk from the train station). Clarion Hotel Havnekontoret is an ideal mid to high-range budget option, while Hotel Oleanna is perfect for more budget-conscious travelers.

Remember to book your accommodations early, especially during the peak summer season! Also, want to travel light and have your luggage transported between Oslo and Bergen? Get in touch with Porterservice.

 

Things to do in Norway

No matter where you stop along your Norway in a Nutshell Tour, you’ll have plenty to do!

Geilo offers family-friendly skiing in the winter, and in the summer, you can enjoy mountain biking and a variety of hiking trails.

Flåm has plenty of year-round activities, like:

• Zip-line and Bike Ride: This is an adventurer’s paradise! Take the scenic Flåm Railway. Then, zip-line and bike down Rallervegen, a beautiful recreation trail for bicyclists.
• UNESCO-Nærøyfjord Hike: Enjoy a spectacular mountain hike that ends with a fantastic view of the UNESCO-protected Nærøyfjord.
• Waterfall & Culture Tour: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and local history! Visit sites like the Otternes Bygdetun, Vangen Church and the Aureland Show factory.
• Viking Plank at Ægir Brewpub: With so many things to do in Flåm, you’ll work up an appetite! End the busy day with an authentic Viking meal and a refreshing local beer.
• Rimstigen Hike: This is a spectacular mountain hike! Starting points include Voss, Gudvangen and Flåm.
• Stegastein Viewpoint: Don’t miss the stunning Stegastein viewpoint! You’ll get panoramic views of Aurlandsfjord, Aurlandsvangen and the mountains.

 

 

Gudvangen is where you can step back in time with a visit to the immersive Viking Village! You can also book a half—or full-day sea kayaking tour where you’ll get to explore the historic area of the Nærøyfjord.

Voss offers a spectacular gondola ride, white-water rafting and snowshoe hiking.

 

How long does it take to do Norway in a Nutshell?

The Norway in a Nutshell tour offers a flexible, go-at-your-own-pace itinerary year-round!

A day trip is perfect if you have a tight schedule. You’ll glimpse Norway’s fjords and picturesque landscape in a single day. Remember that the one-day travel experience won’t leave you much time to stop in places like Flåm or the fjords.

A multi-day itinerary offers a more relaxed pace. You’ll have extra time to explore villages, hike and add activities to your trip.

Choose a day trip for efficiency or a multi-day trip for an immersive experience. Either way, you’ll enjoy epic views and unforgettable moments.

 

 

 

Tips for booking and planning your tour

One question I often hear is: Does Norway sell out in a Nutshell?

The tour is popular during the summer, so booking early is wise, as tickets will sell out and accommodations book up quickly. An advantage of booking early is getting the best rates for hotels and activities, which is a must if you’re traveling on a budget!

When is the best time to visit Norway?

The best months to do your tour are from the end of February – late October. You’ll get more hours of sunlight and warmer temperatures. 

Not as many people travel in Norway from November – January as there is a lack of sunlight. If you travel during this time, I recommend planning your trip over two days so that you have plenty of daylight during the entire journey. 

The Norway in a Nutshell Tour is a great experience year-round, even in the high season. However, if you want to avoid large crowds, try to book from April – mid-June. 

Be sure to pack layers and the right gear. Get my tips for packing for Norway, so you’re prepared and warm.

 

 

Fjord boat tours, epic views, delicious food, and so much more

The Norway in a Nutshell Tour is one you’ll never forget! From world-renowned train rides to fjord cruises and charming villages, there’s endless enjoyment. And, as a self-guided tour, you get to plan the perfect trip.

Are you inspired and ready to experience Norway up close? Book your Norway in a Nutshell tour today!

Before you set sail, check out my Sognefjord, Oslo and Bergen guide pages. 

You’ll learn what to expect and things to do in each area—and, if you’re interested in the epic Sognefjord in a Nutshell Tour, check out my article, which covers everything from booking your ticket to things to do on the tour.

Want a done-for-you itinerary tailored to your Norway wishlist (and prepared by a local!), I’m happy to help. Book your custom tour plan, and let’s make this your most epic journey yet!

Tusen takk!