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Days 1\u20132: Road Trip Along the Southern Coast from Kristiansand to Stavanger<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
From Kristiansand, follow the southern coast of Norway all the way to Stavanger. Along the way, you\u2019ll pass charming coastal towns, scenic viewpoints, sandy beaches, and small islands scattered across the sea. These are some of the best stops to make along the route:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mandal<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The southernmost town in Norway is known for its wide sandy beach, Sj\u00f8sanden<\/em>, and its charming town center filled with white wooden houses. From Kristiansand, it\u2019s about a 45-minute drive to Mandal. For us, this was the perfect first overnight stop<\/a> after the ferry crossing. A good opportunity to rest up before hitting the road the next morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Lindesnes, you\u2019ll find the oldest and southernmost lighthouse<\/a> of Norway. Built in 1656, it\u2019s still manned today. From the rugged rocks surrounding the lighthouse, you can enjoy sweeping views over the North Sea. The visitor center provides fascinating insights into the lighthouse\u2019s history and its importance over the centuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sogndalstrand is a historic fishing village with colourful wooden buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. A salmon river runs through the village, making it a favorite among anglers, while local art galleries and workshops add a creative vibe. Stay at the Sogndalstrand Kulturhotell<\/a>, where you\u2019ll sleep in beautifully restored wooden houses right by the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stavanger is not only the center of Norway\u2019s oil industry but also a lively and surprisingly cozy city. Explore the old town (Gamle Stavanger<\/em>) and the Norwegian Petroleum Museum<\/a>. End your day with a delicious dinner in the old harbor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Excursion<\/strong>: Not far from Stavanger lies the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). The hike to this popular viewpoint takes about four hours round trip and rewards you with a spectacular view over the Lysefjord. It\u2019s best to start early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n From Stavanger, head north towards the Hardangerfjord, a region famous for its spectacular waterfalls, charming villages, and vast fruit orchards. These are the highlights:<\/p>\n\n\n\n On the way to Odda, you\u2019ll pass L\u00e5tefossen, a twin waterfall dropping 165 meters down from the mountains with impressive force. The waterfall lies right along Route 13, and there\u2019s a small parking area where you can stop. It\u2019s definitely worth taking a short break to admire this natural spectacle up close. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Continue your journey towards the Hardangerfjord to reach Ulvik, a picturesque village beautifully situated by the water and the perfect base for exploring the region. Follow the Fruit and Cider Route, which takes you past local farms such as Syse Gard<\/a>, where you can sample homemade cider. There\u2019s also a caf\u00e9 and a small shop selling fruit, juice, cider, and other regional products. Moreover, Ulvik is a true hiker\u2019s paradise, with scenic trails that wind along the fjord and into the surrounding mountains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Following the National Tourist Route Hardanger towards Bergen, you\u2019ll come across Steindalsfossen, a remarkable waterfall you can actually walk behind without getting wet. A short path leads you to the back of the falling water, offering a unique perspective on the 50-meter-high cascade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After the natural splendour of the Hardangerfjord, it\u2019s time to discover Norway\u2019s second-largest city. But don\u2019t worry, even here, nature is never far away. Bergen<\/a>, often called the capital of the fjords,<\/em> combines a rich history with a lively harbour and charming wooden houses. Surrounded by seven mountains, the city offers the perfect blend of urban life and nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The historic harbor district of Bryggen is the iconic heart of Bergen and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The colourful Hanseatic houses take you back in time. Wander through the narrow alleyways lined with old warehouses, now home to creative shops, galleries, studios, and cozy caf\u00e9s and restaurants. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Just a short walk from Bryggen is the Fish Market. Here you can taste fresh salmon and seafood or pick up local products and souvenirs. It\u2019s one of the city\u2019s main tourist attractions, which is reflected in the higher prices. The covered market at Mathallen is open year-round, while the outdoor market operates only in the high season (early May to late September). <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Fl\u00f8ibanen funicular takes you to the top of Mount Fl\u00f8yen in just a few minutes. For those who prefer to be active, it\u2019s also possible to hike to the top. A forest trail from the city center takes about an hour. On the summit, you\u2019re rewarded with panoramic views over the city, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains. Fl\u00f8yen is the starting point for several hiking trails, and you\u2019ll also discover a troll forest, a restaurant, and some lovely picnic spots. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Art lovers will enjoy Bergens Kunsthall<\/a> and KODE<\/a>, a collection of art museums that includes works by the famous Norwegian painter Edvard Munch. In addition, Bergenshus Fortress, one of Norway\u2019s oldest fortresses, is also worth a visit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Accommodation Tip<\/strong>: For a stay in the heart of Bergen, Hotel Oleana<\/a> is an excellent choice. This colourful boutique hotel is within walking distance of the main attractions. Some rooms are on the smaller side, but the beds are comfortable, and the breakfast buffet is extensive and well-prepared. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Sognefjord is Norway\u2019s longest and deepest fjord, with several stunning side arms. Visiting this region is one of the highlights of your Southern Norway itinerary. Explore the most beautiful fjords, glaciers, and viewpoints on a road trip through a truly enchanting landscape. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The N\u00e6r\u00f8yfjord is a 17-kilometer-long branch of the Sognefjord. The fjord is exceptionally narrow, flanked by steep mountain walls rising dramatically from the water, making it one of the most spectacular fjords in Norway. You can explore the fjord on a boat trip or fjord cruise between Fl\u00e5m and Gudvangen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, drive along the impressive Aurlandsfjellet, connecting L\u00e6rdal with Aurland. The route takes you through breathtaking mountain scenery, with the highlight being the Stegastein viewpoint, a platform soaring 650 meters above the Aurlandsfjord. The Aurlandsfjellet is also known as the \u201cSnow Road\u201d and is only open in the summer; outside this period, you can take the L\u00e6rdal Tunnel, the world\u2019s longest road tunnel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From the idyllic village of Solvorn, take the ferry to Urnes on the eastern shore of the Lustrafjord to visit Norway\u2019s oldest stave church. This wooden church dates back to the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further along the fjord, you\u2019ll find the impressive Feigefossen, a waterfall with a free fall of 218 meters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Excursion<\/strong>: This region is also home to Jostedalsbreen National Park, which contains several impressive glaciers. You can take a guided walk<\/a> on the Nigardsbreen Glacier or visit the Glacier Museum<\/a> in Fj\u00e6rland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Continue north towards the Nordfjord and the famous Geirangerfjord. Along the way, you\u2019ll drive through a varied landscape of deep fjords, crystal-clear lakes, and steep mountains. Without a doubt one of the most beautiful stretches of your Southern Norway itinerary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Near Loen, at the end of the Nordfjord, lies Lovatnet, an incredibly beautiful lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and waterfalls. Due to glacial deposits, where meltwater carries tiny stones and clay that reflect sunlight, the water has a striking pearly green colour. Along the lake, you\u2019ll find several viewpoints and picnic spots. Sadly, Lovatnet also has a tragic history: in 1905 and 1936, landslides caused massive waves that wiped out several villages along the lake forever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Geirangerfjord is one of Norway\u2019s most iconic fjords. Take a fjord cruise<\/a> or a kayaking trip<\/a> to admire spectacular waterfalls such as The Seven Sisters and The Bridal Veil from the water. Along the steep mountainsides, abandoned farms cling to the rocks, silent witnesses of the past. Afterwards, drive into the mountains for a breathtaking panorama over the fjord and surrounding peaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Accommodation Tip<\/strong>: A fantastic base for exploring this region is Overvoll Farm<\/a>. Stay in a traditional Norwegian farmhouse and enjoy a hearty breakfast or dinner prepared by the hostess using local and organic ingredients. The farm is just a 15-minute drive from Hellesylt, where you can board a cruise on the Geirangerfjord. <\/p>\n\n\n\n After the impressive fjord landscapes, the journey continues inland. Along winding mountain roads, you\u2019ll reach Lom, a picturesque mountain village on the edge of Jotunheimen National Park. From there, continue on to Lillehammer, best known as a winter sports destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the mountain village of Lom, you\u2019ll find one of Norway\u2019s largest and most beautiful stave churches. The church dates back to the 12th century but was rebuilt and expanded in the 17th century. Inside, you can see a large collection of paintings by Eggert Munch, a distant relative of the famous artist Edvard Munch. In summer, the church is open daily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Lillehammer has a rich winter sports tradition. The Olympic Park, built for the 1994 Winter Olympics, can still be visited today. One of the highlights is the Lysg\u00e5rdsbakken ski jump, which you can climb for an unforgettable view over the city and Lake Mj\u00f8sa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To conclude your Southern Norway itinerary, you\u2019ll explore Oslo, a vibrant, multicultural city with plenty to offer: from modern architecture and museums to lively neighborhoods and beautiful natural surroundings. Here are some must-see highlights: <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Oslo Opera House is an architectural masterpiece, inspired by Norwegian nature. The building is finished with granite and marble and seems to rise from the Oslofjord like an iceberg. Visitors can climb the roof, which offers panoramic views over Oslo\u2019s skyline and the harbor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Vigeland Park, you\u2019ll discover over 200 sculptures by the Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland. The bronze, cast-iron, and granite figures depict the human life cycle and a wide range of emotions. Around one million visitors come to the park each year, making it one of Norway\u2019s most popular attractions. The park is free to enter year-round, perfect for a relaxing stroll in any season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Oslo is home to numerous world-class museums, such as the Munch Museum<\/a> or the Nobel Peace Center<\/a>. On the Bygd\u00f8y peninsula, you\u2019ll find the Norwegian Folk Museum, the Viking Ship Museum<\/a> and the Fram Museum, where you can learn all about Norway\u2019s exploration history and maritime heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gr\u00fcnerl\u00f8kka is Oslo\u2019s hippest neighborhood. Street art pops up everywhere, and old factories have been transformed into caf\u00e9s and galleries. Vulkan is the heart of the area, a sustainable urban development project featuring the Mathallen food hall<\/a> as one of its main attractions. Be sure to take a walk along the Akerselva River, which runs through the neighborhood. Along the way, you\u2019ll encounter both waterfalls and remnants of the city\u2019s industrial past, making the stroll even more interesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip<\/strong>: With the Oslo Pass<\/a> you get free access to a large number of museums and attractions. In addition, you can enjoy free public transport and special offers at shops, restaurants, and various activities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This route takes you to some of the most beautiful spots in Southern Norway. Read through a few frequently asked questions below to make sure you\u2019re well prepared for your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep in mind that completing this itinerary in two weeks means spending a fair amount of time in the car. If you wish, you can shorten the route or add extra days. The distances between overnight stops are generally no longer than 300 kilometers, which is more than enough, as you\u2019ll frequently want to stop along Norway\u2019s scenic roads<\/a> to take photos and enjoy the landscape. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, be aware of maximum speed limits in Norway: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes, Norway has several toll roads, especially around major cities. Your license plate is automatically registered with cameras. It\u2019s recommended to create an Epass24-account<\/a> in advance, which makes managing payments easy and gives you an overview of your trips. If you drive frequently in Norway, you can also get a toll tag,<\/a> which often gives you a discount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This Southern Norway itinerary also takes you through some busy cities, such as Bergen and Oslo. Parking in these cities can be expensive. It\u2019s often better to park your car outside the city center and use public transport. Use parking garages or parking apps to find a spot more easily. Some hotels also offer parking, usually for an additional fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The summer months (June to August) are ideal for good weather and long days. May and September are quieter, but some mountain passes may be closed, and ferry services could be limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLindesnes Fyr<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Sogndalstrand<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Stavanger<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Southern](\"https:\/\/intothenorth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sogndalstrand.jpg\")
Days 3\u20134: Waterfalls and Fruit Farms along the Hardangerfjord<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
L\u00e5tefossen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Ulvik<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Steindalsfossen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Southern](\"https:\/\/intothenorth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Hardangerfjord-1.jpg\")
Days 5\u20136: Bergen, the Capital of the Fjords<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bryggen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Fisketorget<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Fl\u00f8yen & the Fl\u00f8ibanen Funicular<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Museums & Culture<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"Southern](\"https:\/\/intothenorth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Bergen-1.jpg\")
Days 7\u20138: The Sognefjord Region<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
N\u00e6r\u00f8yfjord <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Aurlandsfjellet<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Lustrafjord<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/intothenorth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Lustrafjord.jpg\")
Days 9\u201310: Nordfjord & Geirangerfjord<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Lovatnet<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Geirangerfjord<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/intothenorth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Geirangerfjord.jpg\")
Day 11: Lom & Lillehammer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Lom<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Lillehammer<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Days 12\u201314: The Versatile Capital Oslo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Opera House<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Vigeland Park<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Museums<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Gr\u00fcnerl\u00f8kka<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/intothenorth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Oslo.jpg\")
Southern Norway Itinerary: Practical Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Many Kilometers Do You Drive per Day on Average in Norway?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Do You Have to Pay Tolls in Norway?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Is Parking Easy in Norway?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
What Is the Best Time to Visit Norway?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Should You Book Accommodations in Advance?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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