southern norway tourism

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

11 BREATHTAKING best places to see in Southern Norway

Heading to Southern Norway? Looking for activities, best places to see or itinerary ideas for your trip?

We went motorhoming in Norway and spent two weeks exploring some of the most beautiful places I have ever visited! Seriously, if you’ve never been, you have to GO! You’ll never regret it… (even if you’re really unlucky like us and it rains most of the time you’re there! *sob*)

We thought 2 weeks would be enough time to get around most of the country, but actually we only really explored Southern Norway in that time. We took coast roads, which had breathtaking views but were a lot slower. There are also more ferries between the islands, which also slows travelling down.

Still, we believe a self-guided road trip is one of the best ways to see this fantastic country and allows you to set your own itinerary. In order to help you plan, here are 11 of the best places to see in Southern Norway , so you can add them to your own bucket list! 

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Watch the video of our Norway motorhome trip

Here’s a video of the speech I gave at the NEC Camping, Caravan and Motorhome show about taking your motorhome or van to Norway.

We hope you found the video useful. If you did, we’d love it if you followed us on Youtube . New videos with tips for motorhoming and campervanning in the UK and Europe are released weekly.

Map with best places to see in Southern Norway

This is the map of our road trip route through Southern Norway. This is the itinerary which took us 2 weeks to drive, not including getting to/ from Norway back to the UK. The route is FULL of some of the prettiest places in Norway.

Want to know how expensive travelling in Norway is? Find out how much to budget for a trip to Norway and what we spent including fuel, tolls, ferries and food!

Preikestolen

Preikestolen is one of the most breathtaking places I have ever seen. It’s also one of the most famous Southern Norway hiking spots! We camped with our motorhome right on the shores of the Fjord and were lucky enough to enjoy incredible views.

Sadly, we didn’t hike up to the top of Preikestolen as the new Mission Impossible was screening up there the night we visited- seriously, they had a HUGE projector and screen and everything. However, 2000 people on a ledge with no barriers  and a VERY long drop didn’t appeal to me much, so we decided to stay at ground level.

Hiking Preikestolen is one of the most popular things to do in Southern Norway, so if you want to go, go early!

Oslo is such a beautiful, clean, friendly city. It feels modern, which is weird as the history you can find here is incredible. There are museums EVERYWHERE, but of course you can choose to do other things. It’s one of the few cities I’ve visited which doesn’t feel like a city- there’s so much nature surrounding it, both trees and water. 

You can visit Oslo in Winter or summer- it’s a great weekend destination even if you aren’t on a road trip and you can enjoy a small part of Southern Norway for a few days. 

We didn’t stop in Bergen on our road trip as the weather was just miserable, but I’ve been before and loved the place.  (Apparently, Bergen is famous for its rain… wish we’d known that when we were visiting!) Still, don’t let that put you off; this pretty city has a lot to offer, as well as stunning views across the sea.

Again, the history here is amazing to see- medieval buildings dating back hundreds of years, traditional costumes and ways of life, mixed in with more modern additions. The colourful houses and the Old Wharf are quintessentially Norwegian- definitely worth a visit. 

Also, apparently, this is the city which inspired Frozen. So now you have to (let it) go…

No? Ok then. Moving on.

Flamsbana Railway

If you’re on a guided tour and not enjoying a Southern Norway road trip, you have to do the Flamsbana Railway . It’s a great way to get up into the mountains without hiking, see an incredible waterfall and some of the best views in the area. It’s not cheap (where in Norway is!?) but the crazy girl dancing in the red dress at the bottom of a waterfall is enough to entertain anyone!! 🙂 Watch the video 

If you want to see more waterfalls, here is a list of 29 beautiful waterfalls in Europe .

The Norwegian Fjords

There probably aren’t enough words to accurately describe the Norwegian Fjords- although many (many!) have tried!

The sheer SIZE and beauty of this incredible landscape is breathtaking. Wherever you go in Norway, you have to add at least one of the Fjords to your itinerary! 

Our favourite was Geirangerfjord- which is also the biggest- but there are seriously so many to choose from.

Trollstigen Road

Trollstigen Road is AWESOME! It’s one of the twistiest, turniest (new word!) roads we’ve ever driven down- although actually, we rode down it on our motorbike .

If you’re not on a road trip, try and rent a car (or even better, a motorbike!) so you can drive Trollstigen road for yourself. Definitely one of the best things we did in Norway! You won’t forget doing that in a hurry. 

Sverd i fjell

Sverd i fjell was something I found on Pinterest whilst looking for the best places to see in Southern Norway- and was instantly intrigued. Why on earth would three HUGE carved swords be put into the rock? 

It’s a fascinating place and the views across the bay are breathtaking. It’s also close to Stavanger, which is another pretty place to visit.

I liked Alesund more than I thought I would. For a very touristy town, it’s incredibly pretty and full with all sorts of fun things to do. We enjoyed wandering around the cute streets, enjoying the shops and people watching- many cruise ships dock here so it’s normally quite a busy, bustling place, especially during the summer months. 

Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall

Steinsdalsfossen was possibly my favourite waterfall in Norway- mainly because you can walk behind it and enjoy the force of the water crashing over the cliff above you. Watch the video of Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall.

Also, we had it all to ourselves. For about an hour. It was magical. If you’re wondering what waterfalls to see in South Norway, add this to your list!!

Hornindalsvatnet- the Deepest Lake in Norway

As Southern Norway attractions go, this is possibly one of the more random- but we enjoyed our time at Hornindalsvatnet. Hornindalsvatnet is the deepest lake of Norway –  the official depth of 514 meters and its bottom is 461 meters below sea level!

Drive through the world’s Longest Tunnel!

This was cool- we drove through the world’s largest tunnel! It’s so long, there are rest stops in several places in the middle to allow you to stop and take a break- complete with blue mood lighting!! Learn more and watch the video of the world’s longest tunnel.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Norway

Sadly, the Northern lights are rarely visible during the summer months, which is when we visited. Also, the best place to see the Northern Lights in Norway is north of the Arctic Circle (think Tromso or above), although of course it is possible to see them in Southern Norway if conditions are good. 

We were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights several years ago on a Norwegian cruise, but we weren’t any good at photographing the Northern Lights , so we’d love to go back and try again now we have a better camera!! 

Planning a road trip to Norway?

You might be interested in these related posts:

• How expensive is Norway for a Road Trip?
• How to plan an EPIC Europe road trip
• Where’s the BEST campsite in Norway?

Have you visited Southern Norway? Where were your best places to see?

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts

Our secret find! Motorhome camping near Preikestolen

Cirque De Gavarnie- 10 things you need to know (with map!)

Taking the ferry from Denmark to Norway

10 best & biggest Christmas Markets in Europe

Is Norway expensive to visit? Here’s everything you need to know

Flamsbana Railway- the most beautiful train ride in the world?

One comment.

Hello, my birth Mother’s Family, “Settre” came from Molovelen to Australia and I’ve been looking for this town but I cannot find it’s location in Norway. Can you please assist me. My wife and I are investigation a trip maybe 2021.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Kardemomme City in Kristiansand

Kristiansand Dyrepark

Welcome to Southern Norway

Discover the southern part of Norway and the many offers and activities regardless the season.

The Telemark region in Norway  has an amazing coastline which gives opportunities for bathing and boating in the summer. The region is best known for the special style of skiing that was practised in the impenetrable upper districts, where no other type of transportation was possible back in time.

An exceptionally scenic road connects Telemark with Hardangerfjord , and the impressive Telemark Canal stretches all the way to the foot of Hardangervidda. Kristiansand also called the ‘capital’ of south Norway.  Here you can immerse yourself in colourful legend and lore; explore the Christiansholm Fortress, the market place and the old quarter with its traditional wooden houses.

Southern Norway

Kristiansand

Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park

Christiansholm Fortress

Plan your trip to norway.

Reasons to Visit Norway

Getting to Norway

Getting around in Norway

Practical information in Norway

Accommodation Norway

Weather in Norway

Visit Telemark

• Nordic Countries
• Inspiration
• Heritage & Culture
• Nature & Activities
• Design & Shopping
• Nordic Vikings
• Seasons & Weather
• Visitnordic
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Become a Partner

Must-see attractions in Southern Norway

Ibsenhuset Museum

Norway's favourite playwright, Henrik Ibsen, washed up in Grimstad in January 1844. The house where he worked as a pharmacist's apprentice, and where he…

Sørlandets Kunstmuseum

Kristiansand

This exceptional regional art museum focuses on both fine and craft-based practices, and the collection includes some particularly strong contemporary…

Egersund Fayancemuseum

A walkable 1.5km northeast of Egersund centre, this well-designed museum (squirrelled away in an unprepossessing shopping centre), houses the wares of…

Gaustabanen Cable Railway

Southern Norway

Gaustabanen runs 860m deep into the core of Gausta before a different train climbs an incredible 1040m, alongside 3500 steps at a 40-degree angle, to…

Heddal Stave Church

This fairy-tale church is the largest and one of the most beautiful of Norway's 28 remaining stave churches. As always, it's constructed around Norwegian…

The timbered houses, moats, gates and drawbridge of the Fredrikstad Gamlebyen are simply enchanting. The perimeter walls, once defended by 200 cannons,…

Norwegian Industrial Workers Museum

This museum, 7km west of Rjukan, is in the Vemork power station, which was the world's largest when completed in 1911. These days it honours the Socialist…

Bomuldsfabriken Kunsthall

This highly regarded contemporary art gallery is a 15-minute walk from the town centre on the northern reaches of Arendal. One of the largest contemporary…

Fredriksten Fortress & Museums

Crowning the hilltop behind Halden is the 1661 Fredriksten Fortress, which has resisted six Swedish sieges and never been captured. The fortress covers a…

Kaupang, 5km east of Larvik, was a former Viking town built around AD 800 and occupied until 960. It is believed that up to 1000 people once lived here…

Royal Silver Mines

The profusion of silver mines in Kongsberg's hinterland is known collectively as Sølvgruvene. The easiest way to visit is with the tours that leave from…

Kristiansand Dyrepark

Off the E18, 10km east of Kristiansand, Dyrepark is probably the favourite holiday destination for Norwegian kids. The former zoo is several parks rolled…

Storedal Cultural Centre

This cultural centre is 11km northeast of Fredrikstad. The most intriguing feature is the Ode til Lyset (Ode to the Light), a 'sound sculpture' by Arnold…

Oscarsborg Fortress

Don't miss the imposing Oscarsborg Fortress, which lies on an offshore island and dates back to the 1600s. It was the Oscarsborg batteries that sank the…

The Mølen promontory, around 20 minutes' drive west of Stavern, is Norway's largest beach of rolling stones, and an austere and rather impressive sight…

Henrik Ibsenmuseet

Author, playwright and so-called 'Father of Modern Drama' Henrik Ibsen was born in Skien on 20 March 1828. In 1835 the family fell on hard times and moved…

Norwegian Mining Museum

Set in a smelter dating from 1844 (the old furnaces survive in the basement), this museum tells Kongsberg's story with relics, models and mineral displays…

Norse sagas mention the 13th-century fortress of Isegran, an islet in the Glomma that became a further line of defence against Sweden in the mid-17th…

Lindesnes Fyr

Rising above the cape is the evocative Lindesnes Fyr, a classic lighthouse. In two of the buildings you'll pass as you climb to the cape, there are…

Rygnestadtunet

Around 9km northwest of Valle, this farm has a unique three-storey storehouse dating to 1590, and an extraordinary collection of 15th-century painted…

Christiansholm Fortress

Strandpromenaden's hulking centrepiece is the distinctive Christiansholm Fortress. Built by royal decree between 1662 and 1672 to keep watch over the…

Borgarsyssel Museum

This excellent Østfold county museum lies in the town of Sarpsborg (14km northeast of Fredrikstad). The open-air display contains 30 period buildings from…

Agder Natural History Museum & Botanic Gardens

The winding paths through the established 50-hectare park at Gimle Estate lead through a botanic garden that also contains rocks, minerals, stuffed…

Whaling Museum

You might not agree with the continuation of the practice this museum explores, but there's no denying that Sandefjord's Whaling Museum is a well…

Egersund Kirke

There has been a church in Egersund since at least 1292. The cute, current manifestation dates back to the 1620s. The carved altarpiece, a depiction of…

Lågdal Folk Museum

This folk museum, a 10-minute walk southeast of the train station, houses a collection of 32 period farmhouses around which sheep, goats and pigs frolic…

Kongsten Festning

On what was once called 'Gallows Hill' stands the flower-festooned Kongsten Festning. Dating from 1685, it once served as a lookout and warning post for…

Rising up behind the Gjestehavn (Guest Harbour) is the old harbourside Tyholmen district, home to beautiful 17th- to 19th-century timber buildings…

Baneheia & Ravnedalen

Baneheia and Ravnedalen, both north of the city centre, offer greenery and a network of lakeside hiking and skiing tracks for those keen to escape the…

Krossobanen

The Krossobanen cable car was constructed in 1928 by Norsk Hydro to provide its employees with access to the sun. It now whisks tourists up to Gvepseborg …

Herregården Manor House

The classic baroque timber Herregården manor house was constructed in 1677 as the home of the Norwegian Governor General, Ulrik Frederik Gyldenløve, the…

Some 20km north of Larvik is the beautiful, haunting lake of Damvann, surrounded by forests. Popular legend claims it to be the home of a witch called…

Kristiansand Museum

Located 4km east of town on the E18, this open-air folk museum houses a collection of 40 farmsteads and hamlets from the Setesdalen region and…

Mandal Museum

Displays of historical maritime and fishing artefacts and works by local artists are pleasant enough, but this museum is elevated above the mundane by…

This island, a rocky outcrop just by the fish market and connected by a bridge, is one of the city's wonderful green spaces. There are some delightful…

The town's impressive wave-shaped cultural centre houses a gallery that has an interesting curatorial calendar of contemporary Norwegian artists, concert…

Eidsborg Stave Church

High above town on the Rv45 to Høydalsmo, the quaint, 13th-century Eidsborg Stave Church, dedicated to St Nicolas, has but a single nave and is in…

This sublime patch of green overlooking Larvik is Norway’s largest and the world’s most northerly beech tree forest. It is criss-crossed with walking…

Fredrikstad's 1880 cathedral reflects the town's 19th-century importance with its stained-glass work by Emanuel Vigeland. Norwegian practicality combines…

Grimstad Maritime Museum

This spectacularly sited, but rarely open, museum in the office of the 1842 Hasseldalen shipyard provides a glimpse into Grimstad's history during 'the…

More destinations you need to see

2-Week Norway Itinerary: Best of Southern Norway

Minimum Time:  1 week Recommended Time:  2 weeks or more Stops:  Bergen, Flåm, Jostedalsbreen, Jotunheimen , Geirangerfjord, Ålesund, Dovrefjell , Rondane, Hardangervidda Summary:   It would be hard to find a more beautiful road trip than our Best of Southern Norway self-drive itinerary. The route includes the scenic port cities of Bergen and Ålesund, the largest glacier in continental Europe (Jostedalsbreen), Norway’s highest mountains in Jotunheimen National Park , the UNESCO World Heritage Geirangerfjord , musk oxen in Dovrefjell , and the rugged Hardangervidda .

Rental cars from the major international companies in Bergen or Oslo can be found for around $350 per week—the roads in Norway are excellent so a smaller fuel-efficient car is fine. For two or more people, renting a car is surprisingly economical and by far the most convenient option.

The total driving distance of the Best of Southern Norway itinerary is approximately 1,450 kilometers (900 miles) round-trip from Bergen. Remember that many of Norway’s roads are winding and slow, particularly near the fjords, and there are three ferry crossings along the way.

This itinerary as a two-week trip is meant for those who plan on stopping and exploring some of the areas (there is world-class hiking in the Jotunheimen , Dovrefjell , and the  Hardangervidda , for example). If you visit the sites quickly and don’t mind long drives, it’s possible to complete the loop in one week or even less. Those making multi-day stopovers could easily spend three weeks or more.

Mobile Menu

Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.

• Hiking Gear
• Backpacking Gear
• Biking Gear
• Camping Gear
• Footwear Reviews
• Climbing Gear
• Skiing Gear
• Winter Gear Reviews
• In-Depth Gear Reviews
• Hiking Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Trail Running Shoes
• Mountain Bike Shoes
• Approach Shoes
• Climbing Shoes
• Beginner Climbing Shoes
• Mountaineering Boots
• Winter Boots
• Rain Jackets
• Down Jackets
• Synthetic Jackets
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Windbreaker Jackets
• Ski Jackets
• Winter Jackets
• Hiking Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Trekking Poles
• Baby Carriers
• Running Vests
• Backpacking Tents
• Backpacking Packs
• Backpacking Sleeping Bags
• Backpacking Sleeping Pads
• Backpacking Stoves
• Backpacking Food
• Water Filters
• Altimeter Watches
• Handheld GPS
• Mountain Bike Helmets
• Mountain Bikes
• Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
• Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
• Gravel Bikes
• Bike Brands
• Kids' Bikes
• Hitch Bike Racks
• Camping Tents
• Rooftop Tents
• Camping Sleeping Bags
• Camping Mattresses
• Camping Chairs
• Camping Stoves
• Duffel Bags
• Rock Climbing Shoes
• Climbing Helmets
• Climbing Harnesses
• Climbing Quickdraws
• Belay Devices
• Climbing Ropes
• Climbing Backpacks
• Winter Gloves
• 4-Season Tents
• Ski Helmets
• Ski Goggles
• Ski Backpacks
• All-Mountain Skis
• Ski Bindings
• Backcountry Skis
• Backcountry Ski Boots
• Skis for Beginners
• Hardpack Skis
• Mirrorless Cameras
• Full-Frame Cameras
• DSLR Cameras
• Point-and-Shoot Cameras
• Travel Cameras
• DSLR Lenses
• Mirrorless Lenses
• Lofoten Islands
• Lofoten Hiking
• Hardangervidda
• Jotunheimen
• 10 Great Norway Hikes
• Public Huts
• Torres del Paine
• Chalten and Glaciares
• Lake District
• Patagonia National Park
• Milford Sound
• Abel Tasman
• Marlborough
• Great Walks
• Adventure Towns

Add adventure to your inbox

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

© 2024 Switchback Travel. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

KRISTIANSAND

The smiling capital of the south.

These are the biggest collection of charming wooden houses that characterizes many of the villages of Southern Norway .

Today, they are filled with quirky little shops. Warning: you will not leave empty-handed!

Wait, what?  Fine sand and palm trees in Norway? 

Yes, the  Bystranda urban beach gives you the feeling of being in more southern parts of Europe.

Very few places in Norway get more hours of sunlight a year than Kristiansand!

Cultural experiences, shopping, and good restaurants are just a stone's throw away.  Markens  is the main pedestrian street in the city centre and is usually bustling with life.

Although the sea can become quite warm in the summer, you are guaranteed a comfortable 25 degrees Celsius all year round in  Aquarama Waterpark’s outdoor pool, right by the city beach.

The palm trees on the beach are the inspiration behind the name of the annual Palmesus festival that takes place on Bystranda.

With 60,000 attendees and an international line-up, it’s Norway’s biggest beach party.

Come join us next summer!

You can also listen to great music of all kind in the new landmark Kilden Performing Arts Centre .

The striking building houses a theatre and a music hall with an exciting programme.

Kilden is located at Odderøya , a former naval base turned into a recreational area with an artsy vibe. Follow the sign-posted paths and have a coffee with a view or challenge yourself in the indoor climbing park Høyt & Lavt Odderøya .

You can also explore the city's cool, urban vibe through its extensive street art .

Keep your eyes peeled for gigantic murals and more subtle pieces on the streets.

After a fine meal at one of the city's restaurants, whether you enjoyed seafood, Tex-Mex, Asian, or just a triple scoop of ice cream, ...

... you can sip a drink in the city's first rooftop bar, Club 21 on top of the Caledonien Hotel.

A short hike from the city centre takes you to a secluded gem - Ravnedalen  Valley Nature Park.

Its  beautiful nature  provides the perfect backdrop for a delicious homemade burger at Generalen .

Summer nights at the café are magical, with live music and a cosy atmosphere.

Here, family entertainment is an art form and Kristiansand is known as "the children's city".

Dyreparken Zoo and Amusement Park – which also includes a big water park (in summer)- is a much desired destination by Norwegian children .

Another attraction well worth visiting is the  Kristiansand Cannon Museum at Møvik Fortress.

The fortress was built by the German Navy during WWII, and the museum offers fascinating insight into the history of the war.

Explore the drama of the past as you ride the old ammunition railway through  tranquil and idyllic scenery with panoramic views over the archipelago in Kristiansand.

Kristiansand is all about the coast. It’s impossible to pick a favourite from the thousands of islands of the archipelago. But beautiful  Bragdøya is easily accessible by ferry.

With a coastal centre, cosy cafés, a white beach, and picturesque trails, this island capturesthe essence of a summer dream.

Get ready to experience an idyllic paradise!

Discover  the locals’ top Kristiansand tips  and plan your trip .

Discover more

Take advantage of top offers.

See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

Your recently viewed pages

A Stunning South Norway Road Trip in 10 Days

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

Let’s get this out of the way… Norway is one of the most naturally gorgeous places I’ve ever been to, and a South Norway road trip is the way to see it.

This is literally the home of insane fjords cutting through giant mountains, Vikings, salmon that you can eat sashimi style out of the ocean, and the Northern Lights. I was a bit nervous when I made my first trip here a couple of years back because Norway seems wild and huge – and it is. There are very few tourist things to lean on , and while I’m glad for this, it’s daunting to plan a culture & hiking trip, one where nothing is catered for you.

Here are my South Norway road trip priorities , and you’ll see my route below:

• See Fantastic Fjord & Mountain Views : I wanted to do the iconic hikes like Prekeistolen (Pulpit Rock) and Romsdalseggen (locally recommended), and see the prettiest fjords like Lyse Fjord, Geiranger, Loen, and Sognefjorden.
• Eat Local Norwegian Food: I wanted to eat super local and super well. Like fish right out of the fjords caught that morning, maybe some of the weirder Nordic stuff too!
• Stay in Cute Lodging with Star-Gazing : I like Norwegian architecture because it’s a nice blend of modern meets cozy, and so I opted for spots with amazing views, places with indoor saunas (because that’s a thing to do here), and really cozy spots that don’t break the bank.

This post is meant to be the plan behind my road trip around southern Norway, “a la Mariana,” because there is nothing like doing it yourself to spark that little fire. So here is all the due diligence you need to get going!

Table of Contents

South Norway Road Trip 10-Day Itinerary

Here is my South Norway road trip route, with several restaurant recommendations and little gems of where to stay along the way!

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo

Pick up your rental car and drive the 1 hour from the airport to the city center in Oslo. On my first day in the city, I loved winding down at the port, walking around, and listening to live music at night.

If you’re not renting a car for the first couple of days in Oslo, do NOT take a Taxi/Uber from the airport to the city center. It’s super expensive (~€300), and there’s a better way. The fastest way to get from the airport to Oslo is to take the train. Look for Vy or Flytoget trains . Trains get you to the city center in 20 minutes for pretty cheap.

My Favorite Restaurants in Oslo: 👉 Arakataka – Nordic food & a budget fine dining gem 👉 Happolati – Norwegian meets Asian fusion, quite nice inside too! 👉 Vippa local street food vendors in a giant warehouse with breweries on the pier 👉 SALT – Live music spot with beer and street food!

Where to Stay in Oslo

You’ll be staying in Oslo for 2 nights, and I recommend staying in the city center, so everything is walkable. Additionally, you’ll want to find a place that has a place to park your car.

📍 Luxury: Grand Hotel Oslo – if you’ve never stayed in a Grand Hotel, this is an excellent example of high-class European charm and is renowned in Oslo. 📍 Mid-Range: Hotel Bristol – super cozy, fantastic breakfast, the decor is my favorite part, and right in the city center.

Day 2: Be a Tourist in Oslo

Be a tourist and walk or scoot around the city! As luck would have it, I have a good friend in Oslo who was my guide around this amazing city. Here are the places we visited if you want to find your own way.

• Opera House Oslo – Don’t miss out on scooting across the opera house rooftop – you’ll know what I mean when you look at its architectural design. Oh, and trust me, everyone will be doing it! 🙂
• Munch Museum – I love a good art immersion, and if you’re into that as well, this is where you can see the famous The Scream painting!
• Var Frelsers Graveyard – It’s a graveyard, but hear me out… while I don’t usually put cemeteries on my “must-see” list, Norwegians build their graveyards to have a feeling of peace and quiet, and this one is serene and gorgeous. Take your time to walk among the people of the past, imagining their life rather than mourning their graves.
• The Royal Palace – I do recommend taking a tour if you have the time and inclination towards history like me!
• Oslo Cathedral – I found myself on the beautiful cathedral lawn with a cup of hot tea – another wonderful spot to take a nap in the sun.
• Vikingskipshuset – This is the Viking Ship Museum and a bit of a trek on the west side of Oslo. But holy smokes, you can see a real-life Viking ship. Enough said on this one.

➡️ I recommend this Customized Private Tour so you can really dive into the culture, history, and local hot spots. ⬅️

Day 3: Drive from Oslo to Stavanger

This is a big driving day, traversing most of southern Norway. Grab some snacks and enjoy the drive and views of the cutest wooden houses along the way. This will take you about 7-8 hours, and I took the most direct route.

PRO TIP: If your drive takes you along the southernmost tip of Norway, don’t miss taking a lunch break at the Lindesnes Lighthouse . This is Norway’s oldest lighthouse, dating back to 1656. Cute museum, a few quickie hiking trails around to stretch your legs. Not a must, but definitely a notable mention.

If I were to do it differently, I would opt to be carless in Oslo for a couple of days and fly from Oslo to Stavanger where I would start my road trip and rent a car. I reason that the drive from Oslo to Stavanger in the next few days is a huge 8-hour trek, and while it’s pretty depending on what route you take, it’s hellishly long.

Where to Stay in Stavanger

You’ll also stay in Stavanger for 2 nights, and I recommend lodging near the town center.

📍 Luxury: Hotel Victoria – Right on the water, with a fantastic view of the pier, cozy and elegant decor, and a cute lounge & bar area. 📍 Mid Range: Sea Story by Frogner House – a more modern option; I love this spot for the stunning bathroom and the floor-to-ceiling windows for morning coffee peeking over Stavanger. A classic Nordic apartment.

Day 4: Preikestolen Hike & Lyse Fjord Cruise

Your morning will be dedicated to the Preikestolen Hike, one of the more iconic hiking trails on this southern Norway road trip itinerary for 10 days. Go early in the morning to avoid the rush of people, and make sure to pack a lunch, water, and your camera. I’m a moderately fit American, and I would say this hike was easy – it took me about 3 hours roundtrip and the views were breathtaking!

Hike : Preikestolen Hike (Pulpit Rock) Distance : 5 miles, out & back Time Needed : 3-4 hrs Difficulty : Moderate Pro Tip: Be on the trail by 9 am. Perks : fantastic fjord views at the end, and iconic pictures from what looks like a drop cliff into the fjord.

Your afternoon is all about the Lyse Fjord. Around 3 pm, there’s a cruise that departs from Stavanger Harbor. Get on that cruise to see the Lyse Fjord and Preikestolen from the water. It’s so cute and is only a couple of hours. Get your tickets ahead of time at Rodne Fjord Cruise .

My Favorite Restaurants in Stavanger 👉 Fisketorget Stavanger – a fish market with a little restaurant inside, I recommend the fish soup for lunch 👉 Renaa Michelin Restaurant – first Michelin in Stavanger, excellent Norwegian classics. It’s a bit pricey (about $150 per person without the wine pairing), but OMG! Reservation is required, so book a few days ahead!

Day 5: Drive from Stavanger to Bergen

Another drive day along the coast of Norway with stunning views. This one will take about 6 hours.

When you arrive in Bergen, grab a snack/beer to go and take the funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen here . You can enjoy a beautiful sunset and equally gorgeous views of Bergen with your adult beverage in hand.

Instead of taking the funicular down, walk the path to the bottom – it will only take you 30 min and the forest reminds me of something out of a Grimm’s fairytale. Norwegians love trolls, so you’ll see these naughty little imps everywhere, as they are part of the local culture.

Where to Stay in Bergen

You’ll be in Bergen for 2 nights as well.

📍 Luxury: Det Hanseatiske Hotel – Historic hotel giving rustic luxury, right in the heart of Bergen. Fantastic breakfast. 📍 Mid-Range: Hotel Oleana – Another classic building refurbished with the Nordic modern design right in the city center. Fantastic bar area.

Day 6: Be a tourist in Bergen

I started the morning with breakfast and a cruise through the Bergen Fjords . My best recommendation here is to bundle up, because you’ll want to be on the outside deck admiring the little towns you pass by, and the nature that will be sure to impress.

In the afternoon, I joined a Walking Tour in Bergen: Past and Present – and it was the perfect blend of history, sights, and storytelling to have you falling in love with the town.

From there, it’s a “choose your own adventure” for the day. Rent a bike or find a hiking trail nearby, get day-wasted at the port, or just Netflix & chill.

My Favorite Restaurants in Bergen: 👉 Bryggeloftet & Steune Restaurant : Locally recommended & oldest traditional Norwegian restaurant in Bergen. Great for dinner, the steak is fantastic! 👉 Pergola Italian & Wine Bar : Another gem, located down a narrow alleyway. 👉 Bjerk : for lunch or dinner, really nice views of the pier. 👉 Olivia Italian  – Italian comfort food for when you’re tired of Norwegian (which is a real thing)

➡️ My Best Thing To Do in Bergen is to take the Mostraumen Bergen Fjord Cruise ! ⬅️

Day 7: Drive from Bergen to Loen

This drive is quite long as well, about 6 hours, but you’ll be graced by the gorgeous coast of Norway again. I recommend an early start so you can get to Loen by 3 pm. I loved packing a lunch in Bergen to take with me – this way I could stop anywhere along the road where it was gorgeous (and there are plenty of spots) to enjoy my meal.

In Loen, take the sky lift up , and enjoy the views. There are a few short hiking trails around the top, and I highly encourage a couple of hours walking around, especially as you’ve just spent the better part of the day in a car… stretch those legs!

Where to Stay in Loen

This is only a one-night stay because it’s been a long ass drive and you’re in a pretty place to stop.

📍 Luxury: Hotel Alexandra Loen – A bit of a splurge, but for one night, the sauna and dinner with a view are worth it. 📍 Mid Range: Hotel Loenfjord – Right on the fjord, I loved the nice porch you can drink wine from.

Day 8: Geiranger Fjord & Skagefla Hike

The drive from Loen to Geiranger is 2.5 hours. You’ll be staying in this little town for 2 nights, so we’ll take it easy today.

Lunch Recommendation: Get a good early lunch (including their award-winning sour beer) at Brasserie Posten before your fjord boat tour.

The early afternoon boat tour of the Geiranger Fjord will be relaxing and pretty, so take it easy. On the way back to port, the boat will stop at a random-looking place along the edge – this is Skagehola.

If you’re up for it – this is where you get off for the Skagefla Hike . It’s about a 45-minute hike up some seriously steep stone steps, but worth the views of the “Seven Sisters” Waterfall from the top – hello, UNESCO World Heritage Site! From here, you go back down the steps and get back on the boat – the pick-up service is included as part of your ticket.

Once you’re off the boat, there is an amazing serpentine scenic drive, maybe about 30 minutes total, that takes you to this viewpoint – highly recommend it!

Where to Stay in Geiranger

This little Norwegian town is your home base for 2 nights before you head back down to Olso on the last day.

📍 Luxury: Hotel Union Geiranger – Get the Fjord view room, one of the prettiest hotels in town, I recommend enjoying the spa on the property, especially after the hikes. 📍 Mid Range: Hotel Utsikten – higher ground in town, a great option as well, fantastic porch with great views of the fjord.

Day 9: Åndalsnes, Trollstigen & Romsdalseggen Hike

This will be a big day, so make sure you have a hearty breakfast and pack some lunch snacks. Geiranger to Andalsnes takes 2.5 hours, and Romsdalseggen is a full-day hike, end to end. That said, this was the most beautiful hike of my life, and I will never forget it.

The Romsdalseggen Hike starts in the town of Andalsnes, at the main bus stop. Try to catch the 9 am or 10:30 am bus to the trailhead. It is a 20-minute bus ride, but try to buy bus tickets ahead of time as buses get packed for this trail.

Hike : Venjesdalen to Åndalsnes via Romsdalseggen Distance : 6.6 miles, end to end Time Needed : 5-7 hrs Difficulty : Hard Pro Tip: When you get to the end and you’re at the hut having a beer, take the gondola down, it is NOT worth hiking the final 1 hour steep downhill. Perks : The most beautiful hike of my life, except maybe the Dolomites .

You’ll start with a steady uphill for 2 hours, but trust me, the views get better and better, especially after you scramble up the very top of the mountain and across its ridge. On the descent, when you get to the ski lift, have yourself a beer and enjoy the view – you earned it!

From the top at the hut, there are 2 options:

• Ride the ski lift down. If this is your choice, have a second beer and smile… you’ve done well!
• Walk 40 min on a steep downhill trail to the bottom. This is what I did, and it destroyed me. If you choose this one, may the odds be in your favor… you will not feel your legs for the next 3 days!

TREAT YOURSELF: Dinner recommendation in Andalsnes at Sodahlhuset . You’ve earned it!

On the drive back to your home, you’ll go up through one of the most scenic roads on this Norway road trip itinerary… Trollstigen .

I know you’re tired, but stop at the lookout point at the top and take in the view. Make sure to take the walkway (5 min walk) to the very end where you can see the valley in all its majestic grandness. Today was a good day.

Day 10: Drive from Geiranger to Oslo

While the drive is not nearly as gorgeous as what you’ve done and seen on this southern Norway road trip, it’s still scenic and cute! It should take you all day to get to Oslo, about an 8-hour drive.

From here, it’s just about catching a flight back home.

South Norway Road Trip Map

This was my route, but if I were to do it again , I might fly directly from Oslo into Bergen or Stavanger and start my Norway road trip itinerary for 10 days there – simply to remove a chunk of driving and make more room for hiking days.

If you love mountains but want to be a bit more cost-conscious than Norway can offer, consider staying on the European mainland and check out my Switzerland to Italy Road Trip . Insane hikes and we only spent $3.5K total for 2 people in 14 days! 🥳

Renting a Car in Norway

Norway is geographically long, and there are many ways to get around – rent a car, take the train, fly from one city to another, etc. No wrong way to do it, really – just depends on the time you have, your budget, and your transportation preference.

I opted to rent a car for 10 days and enjoyed the hell out of the gorgeous scenery along the coast of southern Norway. Honestly, it was a treat driving in Norway! Here’s what I used to find a good option, it’s my go-to for pricing comparison.

Check and Compare Cars in Norway with: ➡️ DISCOVER CARS ⬅️

The wildest thing I encountered on the way were these sheep. If you can, go diesel when you rent a car, it’s cheaper in Norway.

Is Driving in Norway Easy?

Yes! Especially in the July or August months. The roads are in excellent condition. There should be paid public parking lots everywhere.

While driving, tolls or ferry rides are automatically logged by the auto pass on your car, you’ll get the tab when you return the rental. Super seamless, you honestly don’t have to do anything except keep driving!

A few things to keep in mind: Driving as an American in Europe: Documentation & Rules of the Road .

How long does it take to drive from one end of Norway to the other?

So this depends on the weather, random sheep blocking a highway, and the pace you set. Check out the map above to see my route, but here are the drive times for the key points on my Norway road trip, keeping in mind I drove this in August when the skies were sunny with a touch of rain here and there.

• Oslo to Stavanger (for Pulpit Rock & Lyse Fjord): 7 hours
• Stavanger to Bergen : 5 hours
• Bergen to Loen : 5 hours
• Loen to Geiranger (for UNESCO Skagefla Hike): 1 hour
• Geiranger to Andalsnes (for Romsdalseggen Hike): 2.5 hours
• Geiranger to Oslo : 8 hours

The longer drives are a bit brutal, but here are 7 Unique Ways to Pass the Time , including games and deep-dive discussion questions.

South Norway Road Trip Tips

I had a lot of questions when I first started planning this trip, especially as I was traveling solo. Here are a few frequently asked questions and resources.

Is Norway good for a road trip?

Yes, and a fantastic option if you want to push yourself outside of your comfort zone when it comes to hiking – and be rewarded with some of the most fantastic views of fjords, idyllic wooden houses, and mountains in the world.

I’ve put together a few Pros and Cons of Roadtrips & Why I Love Them that ring true for this route through Southern Norway.

Do I need Travel Insurance for Norway?

While Norway is safe, this road trip involves a lot of driving, hiking, and overall hard-core adventuring. There are a few options out there, so take a couple of minutes to review the 5 Best Medical Insurance Policies for Europe . I use SafetyWing because it’s affordable and flexible (I can get it for a week or a month, etc.) See what fits for you, here is the link.

This is what I use ➡️ SAFETYWING: Travel Medical Insurance ⬅️

When is the best time to go on a road trip in Norway?

The best times to get the most sun and really see the beauty of southern Norway is in July & August.

Is Norway expensive?

The short answer is yes… but it doesn’t have to be. Here is the cost breakdown for my solo 10-day trip:

• Car Rental : $600
• Lodging : $1,500
• Food   & Drink : $1,000

If you’re hitting up restaurants every day, you can expect a meal without alcohol to range from $30-50. The best bet is to go grocery shopping (Billa, DM Supermarket) and cook at home or buy snacks for the road.

Alcohol is expensive. Beer is sold everywhere, and the local brews are delicious. However, wine and liquor are controlled by the government and ONLY sold in special Wine Monopoly stores (I’m serious!), which are open only at specific times. No wine/liquor is found in any supermarkets.

Lodging can average around $150 a night for hotels or AirB&B, but private rooms in hostels (which are super clean) or homes can be a more budget-friendly option.

Norway is also a country that lets you put a tent just about anywhere as long as you are not an inconvenience, which is what makes tent life a fun, cheap way to go if you’re into it!

What to Pack for a Norway Road Trip

While July and August are mostly sunny and bright, the weather in Norway can be unpredictable. I’ve put together some great tips on how to pack Cute and Comfy Road Trip Outfits in another article, but here’s the gist of what you need.

• Rain Jacket – lightweight and waterproof, and ideally packs really small so you can carry it with you everywhere.
• Layers – from warm leggings, jeans, to a few t-shirts and sweaters. But also pack a pair of shorts and a sundress for just that one perfect sunny day!
• Hiking Boots & Socks
• Hiking Backpack or Daypack – where else are you going to put that rain jacket and snacks?!
• A Bathing Suit – for those opportune sauna moments or if you’re crazy enough to jump into one of the many lakes on this road trip.
• Reusable Water Bottle – a must.

Wrap-Up: 11 Iconic Things You’ll See in Southern Norway

In a nutshell, this is one of my favorite road trips because of all the hikes and scenic views packed into a short 10-day road trip.

✔️ Oslo – The capital city, and if you do it right, you can see the famous Munch Museum (including the famous painting The Scream ), the Oslo Opera House, and even a Viking ship!

✔️ Lindesnes Lighthouse – Oldest lighthouse in Norway, think 1600’s. Located in the definition of Southern Norway on your route from Oslo to Stavanger.

✔️ Preikestolen – Aka “Pulpit Rock” and one of the more iconic hiking trails and photo opp along the trip. ✔️ Lysen Fjord – Gorgeous Fjord along with a spectacular view of “Pulpit Rock” from the water.

✔️ Bergen – Iconic colorful houses along the port and the cutest town ever.

✔️ Loen Skylift – One of the steepest cable cars in the world, with spectacular views of Loen in the heart of fjord country.

✔️ Romsdalseggen Hike – Best views on this trip and one of the more challenging/rewarding hiking trails I’ve done so far.

✔️ Trollstigen Road – The famous serpentine mountain road in southern Norway.

✔️ Geiranger Fjord – With beautiful views of the “Seven Sisters” Waterfall and Skagefla Mountain.

✔️ Skagefla Hike – A UNESCO World Heritage site and where a lot of those pictures on Instagram come from. An absolute gem of a hiking trail on this southern Norway road trip!

✔️ Atlantic Ocean Road – The rollercoaster road through an archipelago (ie, water and land) that will make you applaud the civil engineering in this country!

PRO TIP: If you only have 7 days, think about skipping Oslo and Stavanger in order to do justice to a Road Trip from Bergen to Alesund .

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

Plan Your Trip to Southern Norway: Best of Southern Norway Tourism

Essential Southern Norway

Southern Norway Is Great For

The great outdoors.

Eat & drink

Art & history

High-octane

Hiking & camping

Top 10 Attractions in Southern Norway

Southern Norway is full of attractions and things worth your visit. It was hard narrowing it down, but here is my 10 favourite things to do in the South.

Benjamin Moeyersons

12. november 2018.

Southern Norway is probably the most known, accessible, well-established tourism destination of Norway. Nonetheless, the region does have a vast area of places to choose from on your trip to Norway. With Oslo and Bergen as biggest airports to fly to, they will offer you plenty of perfect starting points to commence your journey! To make your life a bit easier we have created a list of Top 10 things to visit in Southern Norway:

1. Lindesnes Lighthouse

The pinnacle of the south of Norway as it is located at the actual southernmost point of Norway. Being the oldest of all lighthouses in Norway it dates back to 1655 when it was first lit. Did you know that every lighthouse has a unique sequence of light? This because, back in the day, people at sea would be able to recognize the sequence of light to pinpoint where they are. (so that back in the day, before smartphones gps and other positioning devices would be able to identify where they were.

The lighthouse also gives you the opportunity to learn more about the development of lighthouses, maritime culture, and how they used to make light in the lighthouse before electricity existed. 

2. The Kilden Performing Arts Centre

What if you are into cultural experiences but are on a very tight schedule and thus don’t have much time to visit all the different symphony orchestras, theatres, operas, and cultural organizations around Southern Norway? Kilden Performing Arts Centre has the solution as it houses all of them in the same place.

With the architecture being recognized on an international level it is definitely pleasure for the eye that just draws you right in to pay a visit.

3. Heddal Stave Church

The wooden masterpiece that towers above all others. Heddal Stave Church is the largest stave church in Norway. Built in the 1200s, it is still in use today! Located West of Notodden on the way to Haugesund the ore-pines used come from the woods of Heddal and are the base of the magical atmosphere created by the carved portals and architectural formations.

4. The Parks of Oslo

Coming up with one top thing to do in Oslo is very hard if not impossible. That is why my top thing to do in Oslo is wander around the parks. There are numerous parks to be found in Oslo that each have an entirely different identity and will offer you some rest throughout all of the other visits but at the same some more insight into local culture and history.

When you’re blessed with ending up there on one of the good weather days, don’t hesitate to go to the grocery store, buy a “engangsgrill” (one-time-bbq), bring a blanket, and have a wonderful picnic. Our top choice of parks are: Frogner Park. Being Oslo’s biggest park you won’t only see tourists around here but also plenty of Norwegians in their day-to-day life. It is also home to the largest sculpture park in the world.

The Palace Park on the other hand surrounds the Royal Palace and seen that you find yourself in the capital of Norway you might as well go say Hi to King Harald V. As last park we would recommend the Botanical Garden. More than 1800 different plants in combination with collections of trees, sculptures and picturesque houses will make your senses go loco.

5. Following in the footsteps of Henrik Ibsen

Even though Henrik Ibsen, the founder of modern realistic drama and one of the world’s best-known authors, has passed away little more than a century ago, his presence can still be felt today.

Be it through his plays that are still performed, or the Ibsen museum where you can see the pharmacy that he worked in, or through the inspirational route through Norway where you have the chance to follow Ibsen’s footsteps and explore what inspired Ibsen’s Peer Gynt. 

6. Summer Island Paradise

I know I know, I can feel you frowning already. However, when you’re not looking for the over-crowded, entirely full of white sand, and way too hot beaches of the Mediterranean, Southern Norway is your thing as it will offer you the exact opposite! As a counter offer you will get totally secluded, rocky glazed, and at a perfect temperature to go sunbathing and ocean dipping.

The first two aspects will be included in the package at all times, the weather will be depended on how much you have the weather gods on your side. Nonetheless, you will be able to just take your kayak, tiny little boat or any other means of water transport and head out to the island of your dreams.

If you do end up meeting that one other person on your island, the right to roam gives you unrestricted access to all outlying fields and islands along the archipelago of Southern Norway and Norway as a whole. (Of course some properties are private and they should be respected at all times).

7. Bryggen Bergen

As second largest city in Norway Bergen is home to numerous activities and sites to visit. Bryggen is yet another addition on Norway’s list of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. Having had to cope with a range of fires throughout time, Bryggen has risen up yet another time.

Being the foundation of the very first buildings of what now is the city of Bergen the great fire of 1702 has been buried in the back of people’s minds. It is actually where the Germans have been dominating trade from for over 400 years starting from around the year 1360. As import and export offices you will be able to walk around overhanging houses and narrow alleyways to make your way through the historical part of town.

8. Hiking Preikestolen, Kjerag or Trolltunga

These three hikes are a definite must for the sporty and outdoorsy people amongst you. Giving you overviews over fjord like you’ve never seen before, enabling you to connect with nature on a whole other level, and being rewarded by making it to the top of the pearl jewels of the South. But don’t worry, if they happen to be too far away after all or not really what you are looking for there are plenty of other hikes to be done all over the south of Norway.

9. Meeting moose at Elgtun

Even though Norway is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, they won’t always come and play peekaboo with you unfortunately. However, at the Landeskogen Peace Center in Bygland they have found a solution. Literally translated, Elgtun means “Moose yard”. Here you will be able to not only see, which is already very special, but also meet the actual kings of the forest! Orvar, Olga, Elvira, and Frøya (the names of the 4 moose) are waiting for you and are eager to meet you.

10. Vøringsfossen

With a free fall of no less than 475 feet (145m) it would be quite the jump. Add to that its location in the middle of Hardangervidda national park, and the narrow and very steep valley of Måbødalen giving you the great recipe for Norway’s most famous waterfall. When making it to the top of the waterfall you’ll be rewarded with a view further than you’ll eyes will be able to reach and as breathtaking as when standing there on the ridge looking down this majestic mass of water. 

Bonus:  As a bonus for those of you already planning ahead, Southern Norway is going to become home to the world’s largest underwater restaurant. Opening up to the public in 2019 in Lindesnes the award-winning architect firm will house you having dinner at a full 5 meters below sea level, time to let the bubbles out!

People also like this

Discover more

Local tips about Norway

Discover hidden gems and some of the best travel tips shared by locals on Wonderguide.

Sharing is caring!

• Wonderguide

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

E-Newsletter

Hiking in southern norway.

Southern Norway is a paradise for those who love to experience nature on foot, and the mild climate allows for hiking throughout much of the year. In each municipality, you will find beautiful new day trip cabins with fantastic views that are popular hiking destinations. Another great hiking trail is the Barnevandrerstien, which stretches across large parts of Sørlandet in various stages. Additionally, there is a diverse selection of shorter or longer hikes to choose from, so there is something for everyone.

The Child Wanderer Path in Southern Norway

The Child Wanderer Path is a 136 km long continuous path that carries on a sad but educational history. As the path is today, it is divided into 7 stages and can be combined with trains and accommodation at some places.

The Daytrip Cabins

During 2024, you will find an attractive and similar type of day trip cabin in each of the 25 municipalities in Agder. The purpose of the project is to establish attractive destinations in the local environment that can contribute to more outdoor life, more physical activity and better public health…

Hiking - all year round!

Taking a hike in Southern Norway in winter can be a fantastic experience, with unique landscapes and a calm atmosphere. Here are some suggestions for winter trips in Southern Norway:

Coastal walks: Explore coastal paths and beaches, and enjoy the fresh winter air and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Popular coastal areas for winter walks include the beaches in Kristiansand, Mandal and Arendal.

Forest tours: Southern Norway is known for its beautiful forests, which become even more enchanting in winter. Put on warm clothes and wander through snow-covered paths, surrounded by tall trees and a peaceful atmosphere. Setesdalsheiene and Baneheia near Kristiansand are good alternatives for winter walks in the forest.

City walks and viewpoints: Southern Norway's cities have their own charm in winter. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets decorated with festive decorations, visit local markets and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of cafes and shops. The old town in Kristiansand, the picturesque streets of Risør and the lively center of Arendal are great places for city walks in winter.

Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, wear sturdy footwear and take the necessary precautions for winter walking, such as being aware of slippery surfaces and changes in weather conditions.

Coastal walks

Coastal path in grimstad.

Kyststien - The coastal path in Grimstad stretches along the beautiful and diverse…

The Coastal Route in Farsund and Lista

The coastal path runs through the protected landscape areas and areas with bird…

Town walks and lookout points

Varbak panoramic lookout point.

In the centre of Farsund lies an amazing lookout on a hill which is approximately a…

Risørflekken sea beacon

Risørflekken is Risørs most famous landmark as it was used by sailors…

Go for a walk (approx. 3 km) on the former island naval base of Odderøya, now…

Forest and mountain hikes

Baneheia outdoor area.

Baneheia extends right up to the Kvadraturen in Kristiansand, and is a much used…

These and many more trails are situated in a magnificent terrain where parts of the…

Ti på Topp Grimstad

Toppturer i kvinesdal, toppturer i kristiansand: den omvendte båt, topptur til skuldra, plan your trip to southern norway.

happy when abroad

your compass to happy adventures

Southern Norway Road Trip Itinerary – How to spend 2 weeks in Norway

Wild nature, majestic mountains, endless expanses – this is Norway for me. With only 5.4 million inhabitants but a size as big as Japan, Norway’s landscape is shaped by thousands of lakes, forests, mountains, and tiny villages. The best way to explore the picturesque land of fjords is by campervan. Norway is the ideal destination for an epic road trip since only driving through the beautiful landscapes is an adventure in itself. Especially if you’re searching for a deeper connection to nature, challenging hikes with the best views, and outdoor adventures in general – Norway should be on your list!

I’m sure it would take several months to explore all the famous beautiful places in Norway and maybe years to discover its countless hidden gems. The truth is most of you (including myself) are not able to spare that amount of time (and money lol). That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best places you can visit on a Southern Norway road trip within two to three weeks.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. Without costing you anything extra, the small commission will help me produce more free content for you. For more information, please refer to my  privacy policy .

Table of Contents

Quick Facts about Norway

Southern norway road trip itinerary, 1. kristiansand/ mandal.

If you are coming to Norway by ferry from Denmark , Kristiansand will be your first stop in Norway. The sixth-largest city in Norway is often referred to as the capital of the south and is home to around 112,000 people. If you don’t necessarily want to spend the first night in Kristiansand, then it is worth driving the 45km (around 50 minutes) to Mandal. Mandal is the southernmost city in Norway and enchants with its typical old, white wooden houses and the natural recreation area Furulunden.

Camping site recommendation : Topcamp Sjosanden

2. Lindesnes Lighthouse

Along the South Coast of Norway, a stop at the beautiful Lindesnes Lighthouse is a must. The lighthouse, which was built in 1655, is not only Norway’s oldest but also the southernmost lighthouse on the mainland. After a short climb, you can let your gaze wander over the beautiful coast. Of course, you can climb up the lighthouse as well. But hold on to your hair – it’s usually pretty windy! 😀

3. Stavanger

Even though Stavanger is the fourth largest city in Norway, it exudes the charm of a small town. Especially in the colorful city center, where cute little shops are lined up in pretty wooden houses. The historic old town with its cathedral from the 12th century is perfect for strolling around. Well, I guess it’s not without reason that Stavanger was named the European Capital of Culture in 2008. Read my post on the best things to do in Stavanger for more inspiration!

Camping site recommendation : Olberg Camping

4. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)/ Lysefjord

Enjoying the view from Preikestolen was one of my absolute highlights during my 3 weeks in Scandinavia . The hike to Preikestolen (also referred to as Pulpit Rock) is not very long with a total of 8km , but at the beginning, you have to conquer some steep stone steps. However, once at the top, you will be rewarded with a wonderful view over the Lysefjord. If the weather is clear, you can let your gaze wander far over the mountain peaks and admire the glittering fjord, which lies around 600 meters below. On the top of Preikestolen, you really feel like being above the clouds – an indescribable feeling. I recommend starting the hike very early (around 6 am) in order to avoid large crowds on the rock and also to only have little “oncoming traffic” when climbing all the way up.

Camping site recommendation : Camping Preikestolen

Enjoy Preikestolen and Lysefjord from water during this Scenic Fjord Cruise to Lysefjord and Preikestolen from Strandkaien, Vågen. You will sail silently aboard an electric boat from Stavanger along the beautiful Lysefjord to Preikestolen. Admire the Hengjanefossen waterfall, the Vagabond’s Cave and the famous and mighty Preikestolen.

5. Haugesund

The area of Haugesund is the perfect stopover between Preikestolen and Bergen. Not far from the city center, there is a huge monument, which was built in honor of the millennial birthday of the country of Norway as well as in honor of the country’s first Viking king Harald Schönhaar.

Camping site recommendation : Haralshaugen Camping AS

Bergen , Norway’s second-largest city, attracts many tourists every year and is known as the “gateway to the fjords”. In Bergen, you can marvel at traditional colorful wooden buildings in Brygge, take the mountain railway to the top of Fløyen, or visit the famous aquarium. One of the things to know before visiting Bergen is that you should definitely bring an umbrella. With an average of 248 rainy days a year, Bergen is the rainiest city in Europe.

Camping site recommendation : Lone Camping AS

7. Voringsfossen

Voringsfossen waterfall can be found in the middle of the mountains. With a height of 183 meters, it is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Norway. Since August 2020, visitors can walk over a breathtaking bridge and marvel at the falling water below them. Also worth seeing is the Norsk Natursenter Hardanger (10 kilometers away), an interactive museum about Norway’s nature, culture, and origins of the country.

Camping site recommendation : Eidfjord Hytter

8. Folgefonna Nationalpark

Norway is one of the best adventure travel destinations worldwide. And Folgefonna National Park offers a variety of adventurous outdoor activities as well as different hiking trails and beautiful photo spots. For example, you can take a (guided) hike up to the glacier, linger at the beautiful Bondhusvatnet Lake, which is even considered a drinking water lake, or visit the fairytale valley Buartal.

9. Trolltunga

The Trolltunga hike is one of the most popular ones in the country and one of the best outdoor adventures in Norway you can experience. Taking a photo of the famous Trolltunga rock formation is definitely a must on your Norway trip! However, the 20–28-kilometer hike should not be taken lightly. Additionally, it is advisable to start the hike as early as possible. Not only to escape the crowds but above all to make it back in time. 10 to 12 hours should be planned for this hike in any case. It is also important to have enough food and water as well as a good day hiking backpack with you and to wear the right hiking equipment.

There’s also the option to walk up with your camping equipment on the back and to find a nice camping spot on top of the mountain so that you can come back the next day. You can find detailed information and tips on the Trolltunga hike on Norway’s Tourism website . Even though this hike is quite strenuous and demanding – the efforts will pay off! Throughout the whole hike, you will be rewarded with fantastic views. In my opinion, nothing describes the feeling of having finally made it to the top and being able to enjoy one of the most beautiful views in Norway.

Camping site recommendation : Trolltunga Camping

Oslo, the vivid capital of Norway, should also be on your agenda. Must-see attractions in Oslo include the Royal Palace, the Viking Ship Museum, the Akershus Fortress, and the Opera House. You can find more suggestions in my blog post about how to spend two days in Oslo .

Do you have any questions regarding this Southern Norway Road Trip Itinerary? Are you ready to explore the land of fjords? Let me know in the comments down below.

Don’t know what to pack for this epic road trip? Make sure to take a look at my ultimate campervan packing list !

Useful Travel Resources

• 🏨 Find and book accommodation on Booking.com
• 🎡 Fill your journey with unforgettable experiences with tours on GetYourGuide
• 🚘 Need a car for your trip? Hire it with Rentalcars
• ✈️ Buy cheap flight tickets with WayAway
• 🔰 Insure your trip with Insubuy

And don’t forget to save this post for your next Norway road trip!

Sharing is caring:

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

7 Offbeat Destinations in Thailand for your Adventure Travel List

2-day hanoi itinerary: a travel guide for vietnam’s capital city, 13 things to do on rainy days in paris, 3 weeks in mexico and belize: your ultimate itinerary, discover more from happy when abroad.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

Norway travel update

• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Fjord Cruise & Train i
• Self-Drive i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Coastal Cruises i
• Northern Lights i
• Norway in a Nutshell® i
• Lofoten Islands i
• All Types & Themes

All Norway Tours

Best sellers.

• Special Offers
• Book With Confidence i
• Why book with us i
• Travel Update
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Norway at a Glance i
• Useful Information i
• Norway Attractions i
• Norway Blog i
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Tours in Southern Norway

Take a scenic train journey or road trip in South Norway, with a route that includes stays in dazzling coastal cities like Bergen and Stavanger and a chance to visit the famous fjords. Experience the best of Norway’s south coast -- and beyond -- on a custom tour planned by the Norwegian travel experts at Nordic Visitor.

Travel around Southern Norway's Coastline

A trip around Norway’s south coast is a great addition to a trip to the Norwegian fjords . Southern Norway, nicknamed “The Norwegian Riviera”, is the number one summer holiday destination for locals owing to the region’s mild weather, picturesque seaside towns teeming with little wooden cottages and idyllic rocky shoreline that's great for hiking.

The best way to take in the sights of southern Norway is with an itinerary that starts in Oslo, the capital, and takes you to Bergen on the west coast. From the historic port city of Bergen, with its incredible scenic overlooks from the surrounding mountains, you can continue south along the coast with stays in bustling oceanfront cities like Stavanger and Kristiansand.

One of the most popular options for making the journey from Oslo to Bergen is by travelling on a Norway in Nutshell® train package. This scenic trip encompasses a steep and picturesque train ride over the mountains, a short cruise on the majestic Nærøyfjord and some free time in the colourful fjord village of Flåm, among other highlights. From Bergen, we recommend taking the “coastal bus” south to Stavanger, which offers great scenery of the rugged shoreline and includes two scenic ferry crossings. From Stavanger you can continue your journey along the south coast by train back to Oslo.

For an extra scenic twist to this suggested route, you can take a train to Trondheim on the west coast and sail overnight to Bergen on a southbound Havila or Hurtigruten cruise. Train and cruise tour packages in Norway are available year-round from Nordic Visitor, and it’s a good idea to spend at least a week - ideally 11 days or longer - on our suggested route in western and southern Norway.

With 10 - 14 days or more to travel, why not expand your Norway trip to include neighbouring Scandinavian countries? Whether you travel on your own or in the company of a guided small group, Nordic Visitor makes it easy to combine visits to Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland all in one tailor-made itinerary.

Note: If you want to experience the northern lights and snowy adventures like dog sledding, we recommend visiting northern Norway in the peak winter months, December to March.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts

EXPLORE NORWAY’S SOUTH COAST

Travel along Norway’s southern coastline with a scenic journey by coach and train. These tours include overnights in cities like Stavanger and Kristiansand, as well as Bergen, Oslo and more.

Norway in a Nutshell® & Pulpit Rock

Classic norway & pulpit rock, fjord cruise & scenic train journey, scenic norway - complete, road trip & hurtigruten cruise, travel to neighbouring countries.

Why not visit Norway and Scandinavia in one trip? Check out our most popular multi-country tour packages below.

Highlights of Scandinavia

Sweden, denmark & norway, capitals of scandinavia, capitals of scandinavia & norwegian fjords, train & cruise, best of scandinavia classic, norway travel experts.

As a travel agency founded in the Nordic region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Norway. We offer a variety of tours – both independent and guided – that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights that are hand-picked by our own Norway travel experts. To ensure a stress-free trip, we handle all the local details for you – accommodation, activities, rental car, train tickets, cruise reservations and other specialist services.

Oh, and we can customise your itinerary! If you decide you want to add extra nights at a certain location, for example, your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be happy to make suggestions and modify your itinerary.

Different ways you can experience Norway

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Norway below.

Fjord Cruise & Train

Self-drive tours, guided small group, northern lights, lofoten islands, hurtigruten cruises, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Christin, United States

Best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, december 2023.

The tour was perfect and went smoothly the entire time. Communication from Nordic Visitor was timely and detailed. Would book with this tour company again.

Ian, United Kingdom

Norway road trip - complete, july 2023, memories we'll cherish forever.

We found Norway to be a fabulous country and enjoyed every minute of our trip. The scenery was fantastic, the places visited were brilliant and the people were incredibly friendly and helpful. The information pack provided by Nordic Visitor was invaluable, the route chosen for us was superb and the places we stayed in were great. Likewise, the excursions offered, especially the Rib Safari were fantastic and gave us memories we'll cherish forever. Lastly, but by no means least, Irja, our travel consultant, couldn't have been more helpful and I would like to extend a huge thank you to her for all that she did.

Anne-Mari, Finland

Best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, february 2023, unforgettable in so many ways.

It was unforgettable in so many ways, highlights after highlights. We knew to expect a lot after our trip to Iceland a couple of years ago, also organised by Nordic Visitor. Our expectations were exceeded and more. We saw northern lights three times, the food everywhere was excellent, experienced dog sledding in the moonlight and sleeping in the SnowHotel, and we saw a white reindeer! How lucky we are to have experienced all that. We have now returned home, happy and full of awe.

James, Australia

Northern lights by train and cruise, october 2023, a great experience.

Very well-organised tour and a great experience. Nordic Visitor were very professional and their experience was evident in choosing the well-located and comfortable accommodation they selected for us. Best of all we got to see the northern lights!

Jonathan, United States

Norway fjord route by car - classic, june 2023, incredibly happy.

Our travel agent, Małgorzata, was amazing to work with! She was able to add a few extra days in Oslo and arranged transportation via train to Bergen. Overall, I thought booking this vacation online and making payments was seamless. All the hotels we stayed in were nice, clean and safe! We loved the breakfast buffets, they were top notch! Also, collecting our rental car and navigating in a foreign country was seamless. We are incredibly happy that our tour package that we received at our first hotel included a physical map that had our tour highlighted.

Costel, Romania

Northern lights norway classic, february 2023, i'll be recommending nordic visitor to my friends.

The trip was really amazing. We had an absolutely superb time in Tromsø; hotel and excursions were spot on. The guide and whole the staff was really professional. Professional photos taken by the guide were really fantastic. They gave us excellent care, more than what we have experienced on any trip. Our favourite experience was the snowmobile, but catamaran trip was great too. Certainly I will be recommending it to my friends. I was very pleased that those who delivered the services showed a lot of professionalism.

Violetta, United States

Best of the norwegian fjords – express, august 2023, very satisfied customer.

This was my second experience using Nordic Visitor. I am a very satisfied customer. A few years ago we did a self-drive tour of Iceland that was just amazing. This time we did a train/cruise combo tour of Norway. Once again, I can only say you will have a fantastic experience and you will appreciate the labuor of organising and planning being handled by experts who know what they are doing. The cruises through the fjords were beautiful as were the train trips. We loved the combination of train and boat travel as each offered distinct beauty from a different perspective. The country is truly lovely and we look forward to booking future travel with Nordic Visitor!

Dian, United States

Classic norway, may 2023, extraordinary.

Extraordinary! Everything went off as planned without a hitch. Our travel guide, Juliana, was exceptional, very responsive in answering our questions and providing updates.

Oi, Singapore

Norway in a nutshell® - classic, september 2022, very satisfied with nordic visitor.

We were very satisfied with the tour and overall experience with Nordic Visitor. The hotels were strategically chosen and the quality of hotels was satisfactory. The optional tours were also highly recommended. Timings of the schedules throughout the tour were ideal and not rushed.

Julie, United States

Wonders of the norwegian fjords, august 2023, best vacation we ever had.

Our family of 5 (3 adult children) loved our Norway fjord tour. We saw the most beautiful scenery and loved each hotel. The food was delicious. Something for everyone. Our guide Al and driver Chris kept things running smoothly. We will have memories to last a lifetime. Thank you Nordic Visitor. Best vacation we ever had!

Alan, United Kingdom

Norway in a nutshell® express - winter, march 2023, an excellent decision to book with nordic visitor.

Following research, we decided to book with Nordic Visitor. This was an excellent decision. The booking process was easy and informative and Hanna was always available for guidance. The accommodation provided was top class and, importantly, convenient to the train stations from which we travelled. Our tour was amazing throughout with stunning scenery and sights.

Gailmarie, United States

Highlights of norway, july 2022, the tour gives you a fabulous overview of norway.

The tour gives you a fabulous overview of Norway. We did a lot of travel in between sights but this enabled us to have a real breadth of experience, from fjords to mountain passes, railway adventures and small boats. Our tour guide was excellent and the sights and experiences outlined for us were top-notch. The materials provided about our tour were excellent and well thought out.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Norway adventure.

The first sight that greets most visitors to Norway is Oslo, Norway’s capital city and home to...

Pulpit Rock

Rising an impressive 604 metres (1982 ft) above the Lysefjord, Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock, is...

Geirangerfjord

Considered among the most beautiful fjord in the world, the Geirangerfjord will take your...

What to bring

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all type..

What’s the weather like in Norway? You just might ..

Norwegian Language

You will get by fine with English, but here are a ..

Time & Daylight

When to expect sunrises, sunsets, northern lights ..

Our Services

Whether you travel by train, cruise ship or car in your Nordic Visitor package, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book With Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Norway travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Do you have a question about our Norway tours? Or maybe you want to customise a travel package. Whatever you need, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

10 things to do in norway in winter, why scandinavia is perfect for solo travel, in focus: 10 must-sees in norway, first hurtigruten cruise tips for your maiden voyage.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.