Exploring Norway by Train: From Spectacular Fjords to Scenic Mountain Railways
Norway is a country where the scenery often feels almost too dramatic to be real. Towering mountains, deep blue fjords, cascading waterfalls and colourful coastal towns create landscapes unlike anywhere else in Europe. While many visitors choose to explore Norway by car or cruise, travelling by train offers an entirely different perspective. Its railway routes pass through remote mountain landscapes, peaceful valleys and spectacular countryside, allowing you to appreciate the scenery without worrying about navigating unfamiliar roads. For me, that’s what makes Norway such a wonderful destination for a rail adventure. The journey itself becomes one of the highlights of the holiday, with unforgettable views waiting around almost every corner.
Why Explore Norway by Train?
One of the greatest advantages of travelling through Norway by rail is the opportunity to experience landscapes that can be difficult to appreciate from the road.
The country’s railway network connects major cities such as Oslo and Bergen while also passing through some of its most impressive natural scenery.
A Norwegian rail holiday offers the chance to combine these scenic journeys with time exploring historic cities, traditional villages and the country’s famous fjords.
Rather than rushing between destinations, you can enjoy the changing landscapes from your seat, watching forests give way to mountains and valleys as the train continues through the countryside.
It’s an especially appealing way to travel if you enjoy a holiday that balances sightseeing with a more relaxed journey.
The Bergen Railway: One of Europe’s Most Scenic Routes
The railway between Oslo and Bergen is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys.
Taking approximately seven hours, the route crosses the mountainous landscapes of southern Norway, passing forests, lakes and vast open plateaus.
One of its most impressive sections is the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, where the scenery becomes increasingly remote and dramatic.
During winter, much of this landscape is covered in snow, creating an almost Arctic atmosphere. In summer, the mountains and valleys reveal a completely different character, with green hillsides and clear mountain lakes.
The journey also provides access to Myrdal, the mountain station where passengers can connect with one of Norway’s most famous railway experiences.
Discover the Famous Flåm Railway
Few train journeys in Norway are as memorable as the Flåm Railway.
Connecting Myrdal with the small village of Flåm, this remarkable route descends through dramatic mountain scenery towards the shores of Aurlandsfjord.
The journey takes approximately one hour, travelling past steep mountainsides, waterfalls and beautiful valleys.
One of the highlights is Kjosfossen waterfall, where trains normally make a short stop, allowing passengers to admire the powerful cascade.
For travellers considering a Flam rail holiday, the experience offers a wonderful opportunity to combine one of Europe’s most impressive mountain railways with the spectacular fjord landscapes surrounding Flåm.
Despite its relatively short distance, this is a journey that leaves a lasting impression.
Experience the Beauty of Norway’s Fjords
No journey through Norway would feel complete without spending time exploring its famous fjords.
These dramatic waterways, carved by glaciers over thousands of years, are among the country’s most recognisable natural attractions.
Flåm sits at the end of Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the magnificent Sognefjord, and provides an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding region.
From here, visitors can enjoy fjord cruises, admire the mountain scenery or simply spend time appreciating the peaceful atmosphere of the village.
The nearby Nærøyfjord is particularly impressive, with steep mountains rising dramatically above the narrow waterway.
Combining a scenic railway journey with a fjord cruise is one of the best ways to experience Norway’s contrasting landscapes from different perspectives.
Explore Bergen’s Colourful Waterfront
Bergen is another destination that deserves a place on any Norwegian itinerary.
Surrounded by mountains and located on the country’s western coast, the city is known for its colourful waterfront buildings, maritime history and welcoming atmosphere.
The historic Bryggen district is one of Bergen’s most recognisable attractions, with traditional wooden buildings lining the harbour.
Visitors can also take the Fløibanen funicular to Mount Fløyen for wonderful views across the city and surrounding coastline.
Bergen makes an excellent place to finish a rail journey, offering the opportunity to enjoy Norway’s cultural attractions after several days exploring its natural landscapes.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Norway by Train?
Norway’s railway journeys offer something different throughout the year, making the best time to visit largely dependent on the experience you’re hoping for.
Summer is particularly popular, with longer daylight hours providing more time to enjoy the scenery and explore destinations along the route.
Autumn brings beautiful colours to the forests and valleys, while winter transforms the mountain landscapes into a spectacular snowy wilderness.
Spring is another appealing option, particularly as waterfalls become more powerful with the seasonal snowmelt.
Whatever the season, it’s worth remembering that Norwegian weather can be unpredictable, particularly in mountainous areas, so allowing some flexibility in your itinerary is always sensible.
Discover Norway at Your Own Pace
What makes Norway so special is the variety of landscapes you can experience within a single journey.
One day you might be exploring Oslo’s cultural attractions, the next travelling across a remote mountain plateau before descending towards a peaceful fjord village.
By combining the Bergen Railway, the Flåm Railway and time exploring the fjords, it’s possible to experience some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery without spending hours behind the wheel.
For me, that’s the real joy of discovering Norway by train. The destination is always worth looking forward to, but the journey itself is often the part you’ll remember most.
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