Hello! We are joining our son as he finishes a conference in Oslo around September 11. We'll likely stay for 9 nights. What are the absolute things to do for that period of time at that time of year? I asked chat GPT and it told me Days 1-3 in Oslo; Days 4-6 in Bergen or the fjord region and 2 nights in Flam. Does this sound like a good plan? How cold will it be during this time frame and would you add/delete anything to this potential itinerary? Thank you for your insight.
Posted by
Chicagoland
2383 posts
I suggest you pick up a good guidebook or 2 from your local library or bookstore to give you an idea of what there is to see and do in Norway.
Are you renting a car or traveling solely by public transportation?
Chat GPT has suggested you take the popular Norway in a Nutshell route between Oslo and Bergen via the dramatic Naeroyfjord. It's an efficient and scenic way to see mountains and fjords of Norway by public transportation-trains, ferry and bus.
You can DIY or purchase a package with FjordTours. The trip can be done in 1 long day or you can break the journey in several locations along the way. Since sunset in mid September will be around 7 pm, an overnight in Flåm would be advisable to allow you to travel the entire trip in daylight. With an overnight, you could add the excursion to Stegastein Viewpoint, which will give you spectacular views overlooking the fjord.
Flåm is a small, but pricey, village on the Aurlandfjord. IMO, 2 nights in Flåm is one night too many unless you are planning to go kayaking or hiking.
Of course, there are other options for travel from Oslo by train or bus such as the Dovre Railway connecting in Dombås to the scenic Rauma Railway to Åndalsnes and then on to the coastal town of Ålesund, possibly including the Trollstigen.
If you decide to rent a car, you have many more possibilities. Keep in mind that the mountain areas could see snow.
Mid September is definitely fall in Norway. Typically Oslo has daytime highs of about 60 and Bergen will probably be cooler and wetter. Plan to pack with layering in mind.
Enjoy your planning!
Posted by
104 posts
Jeanm may be right, but I"m going in a few weeks and spending one night in Aurland and two in Flam. One day I will do the RIB boat to Undredal (goats and cheese - well, hope to see the goats!). I also want to get to the Stegastein Viewpoint. I may think I ended up with too much time, but I really wanted to slow down a bit and just soak it all in! The Norway in a Nutshell is the central point of my trip.
Posted by
Chicagoland
2383 posts
marnamc2, I'm sure you'll have a great time. Flåm is in a lovely setting. But again, IMO, the town itself does not offer much in the way of charm. Stupidly busy and crowded with tourists during the day, especially if there are cruise ships in town, and deadly quiet at night.
You may want to add the Borgund Stave Church since you'll have more time in the area.
Enjoy your trip!
Posted by
286 posts
We did the RIB boat (with the goats and cheese). We had a super time. Otherwise, Flam is just a beautiful little town with not much going on.
Posted by
London
1486 posts
I'll respond on the temperature question- I was actually in Oslo on those exact dates several years ago, and we were in Bergen in late August last year. I'm someone who gets cold easily and was comfortable with a light jacket over a light jumper on both visits. In late August it was still warm enough to eat outside during the daytime. Good luck with your planning!
Posted by
1 posts
We are spending a night in Flam in mid September, and when I looked it appeared that the kayaking tours were closed for the season. Recently I came across a fun looking place called the Fjord Farm there which has traditional music performances and a small restaurant and tasting activity.
Posted by
Chicagoland
2383 posts
sgoldfield, there are several options for kayaking the Aurlandfjord through the end of September..
Norways Best offers a 3 hour trip.
Njord Kayak Center had several options.