How to get around Norway
Navigating Norway is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
Traveling between Norwegian cities offers several modes, each with varying costs. Trains provide a scenic experience, connecting major cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. Ticket prices for long journeys, such as Oslo to Bergen, can start around 110 USD, with costs influenced by how far in advance one books and the class of travel. Booking in advance is recommended for better prices.
Buses are generally the most economical choice for long-distance travel, filling gaps where train lines do not reach and offering connections between major towns and even remote areas. For instance, a bus trip from Bergen to Oslo can take over 13 hours and is typically cheaper than a train.
Ferries and express boats are vital for coastal travel and exploring the fjords, with prices varying significantly depending on the route, season, and whether a vehicle is included. For a person, ferry costs can range from €70 to €300 for longer crossings, while taking a family with a vehicle could cost €250 to €1200 or more.
Domestic flights are the fastest option for covering long distances, especially to northern Norway, but they are typically the most expensive. A significant factor in intercity travel pricing is distance and booking time; earlier bookings often yield lower fares.
Travel Within Cities
Within Norwegian cities, public transport systems are well-developed and efficient, typically including buses, trams, metros, and local trains, often integrated under one ticketing system.
In Oslo, for example, a single bus ticket for an adult generally costs around 35-55 NOK (approximately 4.3 - 6.8 USD), with prices potentially higher if purchased from the driver. Day passes or weekly passes are more cost-effective if planning multiple journeys within a city.
A 24-hour ticket in Oslo might be around 127 NOK, and a 7-day pass around 352 NOK. Children and seniors usually receive discounts. The Oslo Pass offers unlimited travel on public transport within specific zones, alongside other benefits, providing a good value for tourists.
Taxis are available but are a considerably more expensive option for getting around within cities.
