Bergen to Trondheim Road Trip – Ultimate Guide (updated 2024)

Prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Norway’s pristine landscapes on this unforgettable self-drive road trip from Bergen to Trondheim. Experience iconic viewpoints, travel world-famous roads, including five of Norway’s sensational Scenic Routes, and delve deep into Viking history.

Over nine days, drive along scenic routes surrounded by Norway’s untouched natural beauty. Each turn reveals stunning views and is filled with cultural experiences in this land of the Vikings.

This journey is more than just a drive; it explores Norway’s rich history, showcased through its renowned architectural sites and thought-provoking sculptures.

Let’s get into gear and look at the day-by-day breakdown of this road trip, detailing each stop, interesting things to see and suggested accommodations.

Map: Bergen to Trondheim with Scenic Routes and Attractions

How to Use This Motorhome Route Map

To use this map, expand it using the square symbol on the top right-hand side and then look to the key on the left-hand side. You will find the corresponding position on the map by clicking each location. 

1. To use this interactive map effectively, click the square icon in the upper right corner to expand.
2. A key will appear on the left, guiding you through various locations.
3. Red lines denote the different Norway Scenic Routes
4. Blue circles (🔵) denote an attraction;
5. Green circles (🟢) denote waterfalls;
6. Black circles (⚫️) denote hikes
7. Purple circles (🟣) denote the main towns
8. Yellow circles (🟡) denote alternative options

Planning Your Bergen to Trondheim Road Trip

The best time to embark on this road trip is between summer and autumn when the roads are clear of snow and the days are long—up to 19 hours of sunlight—to maximize your travel experience.

Bergen and Trondheim airports are international gateways, making them convenient starting points. This trip is best enjoyed by self-drive, allowing you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Car rentals and motorhome hire are available in both cities, offering various options to suit your travel style.

If your journey includes chasing the Northern Lights, you must venture an additional 900km north from Trondheim to the magical Lofoten Islands, latitude of 66ºN, where the auroras blaze across the night skies.

9-Day Road Trip Itinerary – Bergen to Trondheim

This nine-day itinerary is meticulously planned to allow ample time to appreciate each attraction without feeling rushed.

Having lived in Norway and based in Skudeneshavn for years, we’ve extensively explored the panoramic landscapes along Norway’s Scenic Routes.

Our insights have shaped this road trip, ensuring you enjoy the best of what Norway has to offer. In our eyes, the landscapes from Bergen to Trondheim are spectacular.

Day 1, 2 – Bergen

🛌 Accommodation Option in Downtown Bergen: Skostredet Hotel

Kick off your Norwegian adventure in Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage City that is the perfect gateway to the fjords. Spend your first two days exploring natural wonders and vibrant city life.

Bergen is renowned not only as the gateway to the Norwegian fjords but also for its rich historical architecture and vibrant markets.

Take this chance to join a fjord cruise, one of Norway’s signature experiences, and explore the city’s numerous attractions.

Check out just a few of the fantastic reviews of the above cruise:

• Marissa (March 2024): ‘This is a must-do activity! It was awesome!! Beautiful views, don’t miss it!’
• Prashant (June 2024): ‘Loved every minute of the cruise!’
• Unknown (June 2024): ‘Great fjord excursion! The scenery was amazing‘

Bergen Fish Market

This vibrant and bustling market, located by the harbour, is one of Norway’s most famous outdoor markets.

Renowned for its fresh seafood, it also offers a variety of other local produce and handicrafts. Visitors can sample local delicacies like smoked salmon and king crab or purchase traditional Norwegian gifts.

Bryggen

The iconic Bryggen has been the heart of Bergen since the 12th century. A vibrant part of the medieval city, it was a vital part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire.

Today, its colorful wooden houses, now UNESCO World Heritage Listed, host museums, shops, and restaurants, transforming Bryggen into a bustling cultural hub for tourists and locals alike.

Despite being ravaged by several fires over the centuries, the area has been meticulously restored, preserving its historical charm and continuing to enchant visitors.

St. John’s Church

St. John’s Church, with its striking red-bricked exterior, is a landmark in Bergen.

Completed in 1894, it’s known for its neo-Gothic architecture and impressive interior, which includes beautifully stained glass windows and a high, arched ceiling, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

It is the tallest building in Bergen, with a height of 61 metres and seating for 1250 people.

Musikkpaviljongen

Located in central Bergen’s Byparken, Musikkpaviljongen is a stunning white iron structure with an intricate Moorish design. It is also a cultural spot where local musicians often perform.

Its surrounding park, filled with vibrant flower beds and serene walking paths, provides a perfect picnic spot.

Lille Lungegårdsvannet

Directly opposite Musikkpaviljongen, Lille Lungegårdsvannet is an octagonal man-made lake in the centre of Bergen surrounded by museums, galleries, and theatres, making it a cultural and scenic hotspot.

The fountain in the middle and the art installations around it add to its charm, especially when lit up at night. At one point, Lille Lungegårdsvannet was considered for the central area of Bergen and has been preserved in its current form.

Mt. Fløyen

One of Bergen’s seven mountains, Mt. Fløyen, offers the city’s best views.

The funicular ride to the top is a journey that provides panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The summit has numerous hiking trails, a restaurant, and a large playground, making it ideal for families.

It is easily accessed via a 6-minute ride on the Fløibanen funicular, just a three-minute walk from the central Fish Market.

Tickets can be bought on the Fløibanen app.

You may want to consider this highly-rated walking tour of Bergen.

They’re fun, and you learn things you might not have known. We’ve done many, especially during our year-long motorhome adventure across Europe.

Attractions Within a Day’s Drive of Bergen

Extend your exploration to these nearby attractions within a day’s drive from the city, offering further insights into Norway’s cultural and natural heritage.

Borgund Stave Church (220km from Bergen, 3hrs 20 mins drive)

Borgund Stave Church, built around 1181 AD, is a masterpiece of medieval Norwegian architecture with its detailed carvings and ornate timber construction. Due to its easy accessibility from Bergen, it is the most visited stave church in Norway.

We paid to enter the church and saw the stave church’s inner structure, which resembles the skeleton of a Viking ship.

The visitor centre, 150m from the church, provides precious insights into its history and the construction techniques of the era. Beside the Borgund Stave church is Norway’s only remaining bell tower.

The new community church is nearby and now holds all church services.

Looking for a more intimate experience?

Take a Tour: Take a look at this 5.5-hour guided tour, which departs from Flåm and includes the Borgund Stave church and Stegastein viewpoint. It’s rated ⭐️ 4.7/5.

Kongevegen (King’s Road) – Walk Vindhellavegen

The King’s Road is an important historical route that once connected the most important cities in Norway. Kongevegen was originally used as an access road for horses and carts between Bergen and Oslo in Norway, linking the east part of the country to the west.

The Vindhellavegen section, a short 1.7-kilometre steep section of the longer Kongevegen, is renowned for its dramatic and scenic views, especially its preserved stone walls and old road markings.

To access Kongevegen, start by the Borgund Stave Church and walk behind the new, red church nearby. Signs make it easy to find the start of Vindhellavegen on King’s Road, just 200 meters up the nearby hill.

Interestingly, at the beginning of the Vindhellavegen walk near Borgund Stave Church, the road includes four consecutive 180-degree turns, ingeniously built to reduce the steepness.

The walk along Vindhellavegen is moderately difficult (due to steep inclines) and takes approximately one hour from Borgund Stave Church to Rimskjold, where parking and toilet facilities are available. Alternatively, you can park at Borgund and walk back via Rimskjold, which is a two-hour return walk.

This route is open and accessible from May to November.

Lærdal Tunnel (200km from Bergen, 3hrs drive)

Lærdal Tunnel holds the accolade as the world’s longest road tunnel at 24.5 kilometres. As tunnels go, it’s an interesting drive with multiple open, cavernous areas lit by blue and yellow light interspaced throughout the tunnel.

We found it interesting as we had not experienced such a thing before.

Why the blue, yellow and green tunnel lighting?

A study was undertaken to see how to reduce driver anxiety when driving this long tunnel. Results showed that combinations of blue, yellow, and green lights increased driver safety and comfort. 

Hopperstad Stave Church (168km from Bergen, 2hrs 40 mins drive)

The Hopperstad Stave Church was built around 1130 AD and is considered one of Norway’s oldest stave churches. The walls are adorned with paintings and are believed to date back to the 13th century.

The church has been heavily restored, and its design emulates the Borgund stave church. As with all the stave churches we’ve visited, it is in a picturesque setting.

Vangsnes Historic Village Dwellings (180km from Bergen, 2hrs 50 mins drive)

Alongside Sognefjord lies the village of Vangsnes, with its now-protected wooden buildings. These multi-coloured structures were used as meeting places for people to share news.

We wandered by the different buildings to read the information plaques about each site’s history. We had not heard of these structures before, so we found this to be yet another interesting facet of Norway’s history.

Steinsdahlsfossen (74km from Bergen, 1hrs 10 mins drive)

Steinsdahlsfossen is one of the most visited waterfalls in Norway.

It differs from other waterfalls because it offers a walkway behind the falls that continues to a viewpoint. Free parking is just a couple of hundred metres from the falls.

Kinsarvik (150km from Bergen, 2hrs 10 mins drive)

The Kinsarvik church is located in the small village of Kinsarvik. It is one of the oldest stone churches in Norway, built around 1160 A.D. The tourist information centre is in a beautiful white building.

Kinsarvik is the starting point for a hike of Dronningstien (HM Queen Sonja’s panoramic hiking trail) across Hardangervidda National Park and down into the village of Lofthus. We can attest to the views on this hike – simply astounding.

If you enjoy hiking, then you’re spoilt for choice in Norway. We’ve completed these 10 fabulous Norwegian hikes, which vary in difficulty from easy-family-friendly for those with children to demanding for those with hiking experience.

Bergen Accommodation Option:

When searching for accommodation options in downtown Bergen, many establishments do not offer on-site parking. So, like us, you will need to find the closest public carpark.

However, parking is still offered at places like the Skostredet Hotel, in downtown Bergen.

Day 3 – Gaularfjellet Utsikten Lookout, Vallestadfossen

📍Bergen ⇢ Gaularfjellet Utsiken Lookout ⇢ Vallestadfossen: 240km (4 hour drive)
🛌 Accommodation Option: Tuftegarden (near Vallestad)

Join the Gaularfjellet Scenic Route

Gaularfjellet Scenic Route

The short 30-minute ferry ride from Vangsnes to Dragsvik will soon have you arriving on the northern shore of Sognefjord, the start of the Gaularfjellet Scenic Route. An hour’s drive north will signal the start of the climb to the Gaularfjellet Utsikten viewpoint. 

This somewhat futuristic-looking concrete viewing platform reaches out into the void at 700 metres above sea level and offers spectacular views of the winding ascent and valley far below.

Vallestadfossen

A roughly 30-minute drive from Utsiken’s viewpoint is the wide and powerful Vallestadfossen, which descends 35m in a series of cascades. It’s easily visible from the road.

Be aware that there is no dedicated parking spot to view Vallestadfossen so you’ll need to judge the right spot to pull off the road.

Accommodation Option:

Day 4 – Byrkjelo’s Gloppen Skulpturpark, Loen, Dispaholmen, Gamle Strynefjellsvegen (Grotli)

📍Vallestadfossen ⇢ Gamle Strynefjellsvegen (Grotli): 370km (6 hour drive)

🛌 Accommodation Option: Grotli Høyfjellshotell

Byrkjelo

Byrkjelo is a village 20 kilometres north of Skei. Right by the roadside and in the middle of town, there is an interesting and eclectic mix of sculptures in what is called the Gloppen Skulpturpark.

All of these sculptures have been hand-crafted by one artist. A real feat as some are very big sculptures approaching 3 metres. The Gloppen Skulpturpark spans the bubbling little Storelva River.

Loen

Loen is a small village that is 45 kilometres north of Byrkejo. Loen is located in the very east of Nordfjord and close to the mighty Jostedalsbreen Glacier in Jostedalsbreen National Park.

Jostedalsbreen glacier is Europe’s largest, with an area spanning 800 square kilometres. In past times, Jostedalsbreen was an important transit route for people travelling between the eastern and western fjord areas of Norway. 

The easiest and quickest way to access views of Jostedalsbreen is by taking the Loen Skylift cable car, which carries tourists from Nordfjord to the peak of Mt Hoven. The 1011m trip takes a mere 5 to 7 minutes, and the cable car arrives at Mt Hoven’s Mountain Station.

At the top, there are panoramic views overlooking Jostedalsbreen Glacier and Nordfjord. From here, you can either hike alone or take a guide to explore the mountain.

Dispaholmen

Dispaholmen is a small, picturesque, rocky islet in the still waters of Strynevatnet. This place has the tranquility of a zen garden. You have to stop and spend at least an hour here.

Access to Dispaholmen is via a narrow, stony beach. The islet is lightly wooded, with a rocky shoreline that plunges into the lake’s deep, green depths.

It is a stunning location to photograph. If you’re short on ideas consider my road trip photography article for inspiration.

Gamle Strynefjellsvegen

Join the Gamle Strynefjellsvegen Scenic Route

Gamle Strynefjellsvegen is a 27-kilometre historic scenic route running between Videsæter and Grotli. This road was built in the late 19th century of hand-cut stones with long rows of guard stones and crosses the mountain Strynefjellet.

The drive has stunning views of Langvatnet and Heillstuguvatnet lakes. When fog envelops the mountain, it can be quite atmospheric.

When driving towards Grotli, the initial part of the climb begins on a paved road and later reverts to gravel when nearing the top at around 1100m altitude.

Be warned that vehicles of greater 8 metres and 8 tonnes are banned from driving Gamle Strynefjellsvegen from Grotli to the Sogn og Fjordane county boundary.

Accommodation Option:

Day 5 – Dalsnibba Viewpoint and Geiranger Skywalk, Geiranger Church, Ørnesvingen Viewpoint

📍Gamle Strynefjellsvegen (Grotli) ⇢ Ørnesvingen Viewpoint: 45km (1 hour drive)
🛌Accommodation Option: Grande Fjord Hotel

From Grotli, rejoin the main road 15 and head north to the start of the Geiranger-Trollstigen Scenic Route. The first stop is the Dalsnibba mountain viewpoint, 20 kilometres from Grotli.

Join the Geiranger-Trollstigen Scenic Route

Dalsnibba and Geiranger Skywalk

Dalsnibba is a mountain that provides breathtaking views of Geirangerfjord from the Geiranger Skywalk structure at an altitude of 1500m. To access Europe’s highest fjord view, payment will need to be made at a toll booth near the mountain base.

Unfortunately for us, the low-altitude clouds hid the panorama but looking at the magnificent images of others, the Geiranger Skywalk has to be included on a Bergen to Trondheim road trip.

Geiranger Church

The Geiranger Church in the town of Geiranger is just a 20-kilometre drive from Dalsnibba. Built in 1842, the Geiranger Church sets itself apart from other churches because of its attractive, octagonal-shaped design.

This bright, white, wooden church has beautiful views down into Geirangerfjord. It’s common to see cruise ship passengers walking up to the church from the nearby harbour.

The views here are so good that Geirangerfjord has also claimed a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Ørnesvingen Viewpoint

Want the best views of Geirangerfjord? Drive north from Geiranger up the mountain towards Eidsdalon on the steepest stretch of road, Ørnesvegen (or Eagle Road), to reach the Ørnesvingen viewpoint. Ørnesvegen is named for the eagles that once called the mountain peak home.

You’ll need to go through a twisty ascent of 11 hairpin bends to reach here before reaching the Ørnesvingen viewpoint. Magnificent panoramas of Geiranger, Geirangerfjord, and the famous Seven Sisters Waterfalls unfold in front of you from the glass-decked viewing platform.

The Seven Sisters Waterfalls were said to resemble the hair of seven women. The image on the right below shows them in the background. The falls are naturally more visible from May to July during the snow melt.

A boat trip on Geirangerfjord is the best way to observe this popular attraction.

Accommodation Option:

Day 6 – Trollstigen, Trollkiosken

📍Ørnesvingen Viewpoint ⇢ Trollkiosken: 70km (1.75 hour drive)
🛌 Accommodation Option: Trollstigen Resort

Continue on the Geiranger-Trollstigen Scenic Route

Trollstigen

A short ferry crossing at Eidsdal is all that breaks up the drive from Geiranger to the start of the world-renowned Trollstigen Scenic Route, Norway’s most visited tourist road.

We loved it so much that we added it to our list of top Europe road trip routes that we’ve driven.

What makes Trollstigen famous?

Trollstigen mountain road descends from an altitude of 852 metres with 11 hairpin bends offering spectacular uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. It is one of the most dramatic and iconic scenic routes in Norway.

Trollstigen translates to ‘trolls path’.

Each bend has a name and is usually that of a foreman involved in the construction team.

The Trollstigen road is free to drive, and opening times depend on snowfalls. It is usually open between mid-May and September. Hiring an electric bike and walking are also popular ways to enjoy Trollstigen.

At the top is a huge parking area, a restaurant, a toilet block and souvenir shops.

What’s a scenic drive in Norway without a waterfall?

Stigfossen waterfall plunges down the mountainside right by the restaurant but is most dramatic when seen from the viewpoint at the end of the second hairpin from the top.

Trollkiosken

At the bottom of the descent is the Troll Kiosken and camping site, where you can grab some great photos of trolls in hilarious poses. And it’s in a beautiful setting nestled by the mountains.

If you haven’t noticed them, an interesting feature is the grass-covered roofs, which help improve the insulation of the buildings.

Accommodation Option:

Day 7 – Bike Art, Stone Age Rock Carvings, The Atlantic Road, Kristiansund

📍Trollkiosken ⇢ The Atlantic Road ⇢ Kristiansund: 250km (5 hour drive)
🛌Accommodation Option: Thon Partner Hotel Parken

Completing the Geiranger-Trollstigen Scenic Route is a warm-up for yet another of Norway’s stunning scenic routes. Heading towards the coastal town of Molde and roughly 100 kilometres away is the start of The Atlantic Road.

Bike Art

Before reaching Eidsvåg, many old, brightly coloured bicycles were brought back to life by being hung from street lamp posts. Some of the bikes are partially submerged in the earth with colourful flower pots on them, while others are in precarious positions.

It certainly adds a colourful touch to the green landscape.

Stone Age Rock Carvings – Bogge Petroglyphs

Near the village of Bogge is a large collection of prehistoric rock art. The 15 square metres area has many petroglyphs (signs and symbols) depicting animals and fishing painted on a large flat-surfaced rock face.

The best carving that dominates the rock face is that of a large elk.

It’s free to visit.

The Atlantic Road

Join the Atlanterhavsvegen Scenic Route

The Atlanterhavsvegen, or Atlantic Road, is a 36-km stretch of road that will take you island-hopping across the Atlantic Ocean over beautiful, arching bridges and sweeping stretches of tarmac.

It’s free to drive. An obvious and essential stop is at Eldhusøya island, more or less the central island on this drive. Here you can walk an elevated walking path around the small island, visit the cafe and access toilets.

Wild weather is known to bring waves that crash into the island and over the road. Now, that would make for some dramatic photographs.

However, there was no such drama or ‘wild’ during our drive; just blue skies and calm seas.

Accommodation Option:

Day 8, 9 – Trondheim

📍Kristiansund ⇢ Trondheim: 200km (3.5 hour drive)
🛌 Accommodation Option: Comfort Hotel Trondheim

Trondheim blends its rich historical heritage and vibrant contemporary lifestyle, making it one of our top city picks in northern Norway. This city, once the first capital of Norway, was established in 977 AD by King Olaf I.

It boasts many wonderful sights, including the impressive Nidaros Cathedral, the picturesque old town area of Bakklandet with its colourful wooden houses and welcoming cafés, and the vibrant riverbanks of the Nidelva, lined with iconic warehouses.

There’s always more to discover in Trondheim, not just for its historical significance but also as a popular educational centre with a substantial student population. Whether delving into the city’s storied past or enjoying a walk along the Nidelva River, Trondheim is the essence of old and new Norway.

Related: ▶︎ Discover why we think Trondheim is worth visiting here.

Accommodation Option:

Overnighting During Our Road Trip

When booking accommodation in Norway, note that some budget options do not include sheets and pillowcases as standard, and these may incur an extra charge. It’s important to check the booking details carefully or ask the question directly.

My planning of the Bergen to Trondheim or Trondheim to Bergen road trip included the stops listed below. To save money, we spent some nights sleeping in the car.

I have also added these locations to the map above for easy reference (marked with a red house icon).

Stops along the route:

• Stop 1: Bergen (the hotel we stayed in is now closed).
• Stop 2: Lunde, Skei i Jolster (Lunde Turiststasjon).
• Stop 3: Trollstigen (slept in the car).
• Stop 4: Varmbu (slept in the car just before Trondheim).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there to see between Bergen and Trondheim?

There is much to see between Bergen and Trondheim including world famous iconic attractions such as Trollstigen, Geirangerfjord and The Atlantic Road.

How do I get from Bergen to Trondheim?

This 9-day self-drive road trip itinerary includes many fabulous and famous attractions that are reflective of quintessential Norway.

Is it worth going to Trondheim?

Yes. It is a beautiful must-visit location. Not only will you immerse yourself in the history of Norway’s ancient capital, but enjoy the stories behind the captivating street sculptures, old traditional colourful buildings and why this city won the 2022 accolade as the ‘European Region of Gastronomy’. Trondheim is an exquisite city.

How many days do you need in Trondheim?

Two days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Trondheim. This gives you time to see the best of what this beautiful city has to offer.

Bergen to Trondheim Road Trip… That’s a Wrap

As our journey from Bergen to Trondheim concludes, we hope you feel inspired to explore Norway’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage for yourself. This route offers more than just scenic drives—it invites you to experience Norway’s history, culture, and natural beauty firsthand.

Whether you gaze over the amazing Trollstigen, drive the Atlantic Road, explore historic Trondheim or cruise through the fjords near Bergen, there’s endless adventure and amazing landscapes to discover.

Take your time, venture off the beaten path, and make your journey through Norway uniquely yours. We hope it sparks your next great adventure.

Have you visited Norway? Do you have places that you would love to see? We’d love to hear about it – drop a comment below.

Explore more of Norway ▶️ Check out great places to visit in Norway here.

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