The Oslo to Bergen Train – What You Need To Know

Most travelers who visit Norway begin with the capital, and commonly, people choose to travel from Oslo to Bergen by train, known as the Bergen Line.  The Bergensbanen, or Bergen Line, would be considered a world wonder in any other country. This route connects Norway’s two most important cities.

Technically, you could drive from Oslo to Bergen. You’ll need a rental car and be ready to go 288 miles, which will take at least 7 hours. Once you start heading through the terrain, it can be treacherous. If you travel to Norway in the winter, you will also have to contend with darkness. It’s pitch black by 5 p.m. I would not recommend driving from Oslo to Bergen. The thought of it evokes flashbacks of driving in Iceland.

You can also fly from Oslo to Bergen. Flying takes an hour and costs approximately $100.  Or, you can take the train from Oslo to Bergen.

Having researched the three options, I read several reviews stating that the train ride from Oslo to Bergen is Europe’s most beautiful. This alone enticed me to take the train. My goal? To see the remote areas and why this journey is so famous.

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About The Oslo to Bergen Train – The Bergen Line (Bergensbanen)

Over 308 miles, the Bergensbanen crosses some of Europe’s most inhospitable terrain in six and a half hours. Considering that it climbs to 1,200 meters, building the railway between 1875 and 1909 was not an easy task. Winter storms are difficult to navigate. As such, more than 180 tunnels had to be carved out of the gneiss, and funding for what appeared to be an impossible project had to be secured. We should be grateful to the engineers and navvies who worked on the project to find a solution.

If you want to experience Norway at its best, take a train ride. The Oslo to Bergen train trip, which takes about 7 hours, offers you one-of-a-kind views of Norway along the way. Most know that the Oslo-Bergen Railway offers scenic beauty; villages, fjords, rivers, and the picturesque Norwegian countryside are just some things you can see as you travel.

NSB, the Norwegian National Railways, operates well-equipped, safe, and comfortable trains between cities. The trains depart from the center of Oslo (Oslo S Station) and arrive in the heart of Bergen (at Bergen Central Station), making it easy to reach both stations using public transportation and to navigate the city once you arrive. 

There is no better way to see the beauty of Europe than on a journey along the Bergen Line. On its way to Europe’s most extensive high mountain plateau, the Hardangervidda plateau, the road crosses the Hardangervidda National Park.

What Is Bergen, Norway, Famous For?

Bergen, Norway, is renowned for its diverse attractions. Some of the most notable things the city is famous for:

• Bergen, located on the west coast of Norway, is surrounded by stunning fjords, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations for those seeking natural beauty.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Bergen’s historic harbor, known as Bryggen, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular attraction in the city.
• Cultural Heritage: Rich cultural heritage, with several museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing its history and traditions.
• Music Scene: Bergen boasts a thriving music scene, with several music festivals held throughout the year, including the Bergen International Festival.
• Cuisine: Seafood cuisine, with various restaurants serving fresh, local fish dishes.
• Rain: Bergen also has rainy weather, earning it the nickname “The City of Rain.” However, despite the rain, the city’s natural beauty continues to attract many visitors each year.

Oslo to Bergen Train Logistics

If you are planning to take the Bergen Line (Bergensbanen), here’s what you need to know:

• One way costs around $46 per person, but we booked way ahead.
• Buy your tickets online in advance.
• Save some money and skip the NSB Komfort upgrade. It’s about $11 per person extra, and you are paying for tea, coffee, and newspapers.
• Please ensure you have printed your tickets or your booking code, as you’ll need to purchase new tickets if you do not.
• You will join the train in the city center at Oslo S (Oslo Central Station).
• It’s a 7-hour train ride, but it’s the most comfortable one I’ve ever taken.
• There are multiple luggage compartments in each cabin.
• You don’t need any cash; they accept credit cards.
• Be mindful of the daylight hours. For example, if traveling in winter, you don’t want to depart any later than noon. It would be pointless without daylight.

How Do I Get Tickets?

The primary train operator in Norway, Vy, offers tickets for purchase up to 90 days in advance. It is wise to book tickets in advance, especially during holidays and busy periods. You can also buy tickets at Oslo S (Central Station) or Bergen Station.

Ticket Booking and Prices

Passengers can book their Oslo to Bergen train tickets through the Norwegian State Railways (NSB) website or mobile app. The booking process is straightforward, allowing passengers to select their preferred travel date and time, as well as their seating class.

The prices for the Oslo to Bergen train vary depending on when you purchase your ticket. Generally, the earlier the booking, the cheaper the fare. Passengers can choose between the standard class and the more luxurious Komfort class, which offers wider seats and more legroom.

It is worth noting that discounts are available for children, students, and seniors, with some offering up to 50% off the regular fare. Additionally, NSB offers a “Minipris” fare, a discounted fare for passengers who book early and are flexible with travel dates.

Passengers can also purchase a “Norway in a Nutshell” ticket, which includes the Oslo to Bergen train journey, as well as other scenic routes and attractions in Norway. This ticket is popular for tourists who want to see the best of Norway’s natural beauty.

Oslo Central Station

The journey begins at Oslo Central Station, located in the heart of the city. The station is easily accessible by public transportation and offers a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and luggage storage. The train departs from platform 4, so passengers must arrive at the station at least 15 minutes before departure.

Finse Station

Finse Station is located at an altitude of 1,222 meters above sea level and is the highest station on the Oslo to Bergen train route. The station is situated in the heart of the Hardangervidda National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Passengers are advised to bring warm clothing, as the temperature can drop significantly at this altitude.

Bergen Station

The journey ends at Bergen Station, located in the city center. The station offers a range of facilities, including shops, restaurants, and luggage storage. From here, passengers can easily explore the city and its attractions, including Bryggen Wharf, the Fish Market, and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Overall, the Oslo to Bergen train route is a must-see for anyone visiting Norway. The stunning scenery and comfortable journey make it an unforgettable experience.

The Cabins On The Oslo to Bergen Train

I had read that it was worth splurging on the premium cabin (NSB Komfort). We upgraded but ended up in the wrong seats. Unbeknownst to us, the same seat numbering applies to all cabins. We did not realize this until the conductor told us we were in the wrong cabin.

You would never know because the economy section is immaculate! We looked at the premium cabin. Sure, the seats are slightly more prominent, but these cabins are almost always full. We would have had to share a quad – no, thanks! Lucky for us, the conductor suggested we move to the rear cabin with open quads and no sprogs! Speaking of sprogs, there is a sprog cabin. Yep, you read that right. The sprog cabin has a playroom and a TV!

Regular Cabin

Komfort Cabin

Sprog Cabin

Seats On The Bergen Line

The seats are incredibly comfortable and recline almost halfway back — offering plenty of leg space and ample overhead storage for luggage. All seats have power outlets; you need a power adapter, and you’re all set.  The quad seating has a table, and all seats have a footrest. The seats also have comfy headrests.

The New PlusNight Lie-flat Seats 

You will enjoy privacy from your fellow passengers due to your single seat’s angled position and a wraparound seat shell. Lay your seat completely flat when you’re ready to turn in after reading a book or watching a movie.

• Every seat features an exclusive privacy pod, a small table, a reading lamp, and a USB charger.
• The seats have the following dimensions when laid completely flat: length, 203 cm. The width at the shoulder is 65 cm, and the chair is 81 cm at its widest.
• A free night-time amenity pack, including a simple blanket, earplugs, and an eye mask, is available in your carriage.

Bathrooms On The Oslo to Bergen Train

I’m not even sure where to begin with this one. You all know I have a thing for bathrooms! I was in shock over how modern, roomy, and, most importantly, clean the bathrooms were—ventilated with built-in hand dryers.

They have purse hooks and all sorts of things, like something from the future. The bathroom on the train was better than the average public restroom in the US. Something that made me belly laugh was that a young Indian family reacted similarly. They said, “Wow, it’s so clean.” Unless you’ve ridden a train in India, you won’t get the humor in that. Comparing the two would be like comparing apples and oranges.

The Café On The Bergen Line

The train has a fantastic café. You can dine in or take your meal to go. The café has a full menu. You can order a cooked meal or pick up a sandwich to go. There are also fresh-baked goods, fruit, and a variety of drink choices. You can also order beer or wine, which must be consumed inside the café.

Travel Duration and Frequency Of The Oslo to Bergen Train

The train ride from Oslo to Bergen takes approximately 7 hours. The distance between the two cities is around 308 miles (496 kilometers). The train journey offers scenic views of the Norwegian countryside, including fjords, mountains, and valleys.

The frequency of trains between Oslo and Bergen varies depending on the season. There are up to 5 trains per day in the summer months, while there may be fewer trains in the winter. Be sure to check the schedule to plan your trip accordingly.

Vy, the Norwegian state-owned railway company, operates the train service between Oslo and Bergen. The trains are modern and comfortable, equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a restaurant car. First-class tickets offer additional benefits, including larger seats and complimentary meals.

The Scenery During The Oslo to Bergen Train Ride

While beautiful, I’m not sure we needed seven hours of it. I also can’t say it was a must. Overall, I was more impressed with the train than the scenery.

I did see the fjords and all the lone homes dotting the landscape. And I don’t have a frame of reference to compare to. Perhaps I would have had a different take if I had experienced more train rides throughout Europe.

Scenic Highlights

The Oslo to Bergen train journey is one of the most scenic routes in the world. The train ride takes passengers through some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes, including mountains, fjords, and valleys.

One of the journey’s highlights is the Flåm Railway, a branch line connecting the mainline railway with the village of Flåm. The Flåm Railway is one of the steepest railway lines in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Another highlight of the journey is the Hardangervidda plateau, Europe’s most extensive mountain plateau. The plateau is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including reindeer, Arctic foxes, and wolverines. The train ride through the plateau offers passengers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Norway up close.

The journey also takes passengers through the Naeroyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fjord is famous for its narrow passages, cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. The train ride through the fjord offers passengers a unique perspective of the fjord’s natural beauty.

Where To Stay In Bergen

Bergen offers a wide range of accommodations. I stayed at the Magic Hotel Korskirken. I chose this hotel because it was just 2 minutes away from the water, included breakfast, had excellent reviews, and featured spacious beds. Yes, space is like in a scene from Star Trek.

I would stay here again in a heartbeat. You navigate the charming cobbled streets to get to this gem and walk through the square with the Ludvig Holberg Statue. Once inside, you enter via a shared doorway to a grocery store. At first, I thought this was odd, but it turned out to be a bonus. We had everything we could need and then some. Imagine waking up needing aspirin: boom, run downstairs, and you are all set.

FAQs About The Oslo to Bergen Train

Things To Do In Bergen

Closing Thoughts

The train journey from Oslo to Bergen is a convenient and enjoyable way to travel between the two cities, offering breathtaking views of Norway’s natural beauty.

I would have regretted it if we had not taken the train. It appealed to me on many levels, the experience being the main lure. Overall, I enjoyed the ride and loved the train. If all public transportation were like this, I would never drive again. Would I do it again? No, but that’s easy to say now that I have done it. Do I regret doing it?  No!

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