Please, we need help planning an itinerary in W. Norway. We will be leaving from Oslo on May 27th and fly out of Bergen early morning on June 9th (14 days). We love to hike, bike, kayak and hope to take some ferries in fjords and trains/buses to see beautiful scenery. We can also rent a car if needed. We want to string together an itinerary that makes sense. We like to experience local culture and want to stay away from large cruise ship and super touristy areas. Also willing to pay for someone who knows the area to help us figure out the best routings while we book our own accommodations. We do want to take the Oslo-Bergen rail with the side trip to Flåm.
Posted by
Currently Oklahoma, usually Paris
11500 posts
And look at our host here's suggestions for planning:
Posted by
OP
3 posts
We want to focus mainly on W. Norway. What are your highlights to recommend for a 10 day trip? The Rick Steves itineraries covers all of Scandinavia for longer time periods. And yes, we realize that this isn't a travel agency and we are doing our homework as well as reaching out to folks who have been there to get their opinions. We like to spend at least a few days in each spot. W. Norway is tricky because of the many forms of transportation to get around, including the ferries that run on a schedule. Any advice is much appreciated!
Posted by
Currently Oklahoma, usually Paris
11500 posts
I would highly suggest getting Rick's Norway guidebook. I have been to Norway three times and couldn't have planned any of my trips without his excellent guidance.
Posted by
2070 posts
2015 we stayed in Bergen for 3 nights, took the ferry to Flam for one night so we could take the rigid inflatable boat tour on the Naeroyfjord, 4 nights in Balestrand to hike, rented a car and drove to Solvorn for 3 nights to hike, bike and take the glacier hike on Nigardsbreen, returned car to Balestrand, took the ferry back to Flam, picked up the Flamsbana to Myrdal, transferred to train to Oslo, 3 nights in Oslo. Balestrand no longer has a car rental agency. I don’t know where else you could get one.
Posted by
Washington DC
30627 posts
Lodging in the places around Flam with public-transportation connections tends to get booked up many months ahead of time. If you really want to spend one or more nights in that area, you should begin immediately to look for a room. You're traveling early enough that you may find something. It will not get easier if you wait.
You could start exploring on booking.com, where the reviews tend to be pretty reliable. You may well save money by booking directly with a hotel, though.
Posted by
Northern Minnesota
1077 posts
Nordic Visitor has many different self-driving tours you can look at for inspiration in creating your itinerary, or you can pay them to help you plan your trip. Be warned that Flam is one of those areas you said you want to stay away from.
The Facebook group, Norway - Tips for Travellers is another good place to ask questions and find information.