The most common way to travel within Norway is by plane. But it's not the only option. Here's what you need to know about intercity and coach services in Norway.
Perhaps it was the stress of the time (2020-2022), but I have definitely noticed an increase in solo travel to Norway over the past year. The most obvious one is by people who are traveling and visiting several places.
We have seen such travelers using trains before. Norway's trains are slow, so most locals fly, but it's a great option for tourists.
As a result, some of Norway's railways, especially the famous Bergen line, are packed with tourists in the summer. But if the trains are crowded or inconvenient, there's another option for getting around Norway that many tourists overlook.
Introduction to the Norwegian intercity bus network
Traveling by bus is not suitable for everyone. During busy periods, Norwegian motorways can be frustratingly slow. However, most intercity buses are modern and comfortable, with free Wi-Fi and basic bathroom facilities.
Best of all for tourists, fares are often the cheapest way to travel between two cities. However, there are important caveats to bus travel. The network is not comprehensive, with several carriers across the country.
This can make planning your trip a bit of a hassle, especially if you want to visit smaller places. There may also be bus services, but they may be infrequent.
Two major carriers to consider are Vy Express and Nor-Way Bussekspress. Both operators have route maps, which makes at least rough planning a little easier. Let's look at each in turn.
Vi Express
Vy Express buses are double-decker and have more seating than regular buses. The seats have plenty of legroom and a fold-down leg rest. Most buses have free Wi-Fi and charging ports (either regular electrical outlets or USB).
Some services offer more spacious “Plus” seating located on the top floor. Perfect for long distance trips or trips where you want to enjoy beautiful scenery.
Featured Vy Express routes
Although primarily designed for local residents, the Vy Express bus network offers a variety of routes that cater to a variety of tourist interests, from beautiful fjord views to access to popular hiking trails. Here's an overview of some notable routes:
Interested in long-distance bus travel? Check Vy Express route network, timetable, and fares (affiliate link)
Oslo – Bergen (via Kristiansand, Stavanger and Haugesund): One of the longest bus routes in the country, taking approximately 13 and a half hours and covering approximately 850 km, including two ferry crossings between Stavanger and Bergen. The double-decker buses have spacious seats and offer great views, especially from the upper deck seats in the front.
Oslo – Ursteinvik/Moroy: It takes about 10 hours to travel from Oslo via Lillehammer and Øjer, passing through Gudbrandsdalen, Lom and Strinefjället, then to Nordfjord on the fjord coast and Strine in Mølloy. Highlights include access to Jotunheimen from Lom and adventure sports in Loen.
Oslo – Forde (via Sogndal): This route, which takes about eight and a half hours to travel, highlights the stark contrast between the plains of eastern Norway and the fjords of the west. If you're a mountain lover, you'll love Gol or Hemsedal, or if you're drawn to the fjord landscape of the Sognefjord, you'll love Lardal or Sogndal, perfect for those looking for an active mountain holiday.
Bergen – Ålesund (via) Forde): Approximately 9 hours and 45 minutes. Includes 3 ferry crossings while enjoying expansive fjord views. This journey crosses the Sognefjord and Nordfjord, the gateway to the coastal region.
norway bussexpress
The other main option in the southern half of Norway is Nor-Way Bussekspress. Many of our services serve popular ski and hiking resorts.
Some buses are double-decker, others are smaller, but all have comfortable seats. Premium options such as more comfortable and spacious seats are available on some routes.
Featured Routes of Bus Sexpress in Norway
The Norwegian Express bus network is primarily designed for local residents, but also offers routes for tourists. From scenic fjords to mountain views, here are some of the best routes for tourists.
Oslo – Haugesund/Bergen: Travel time is approximately 8.5 hours to Bergen and 8 hours and 15 minutes to Haugesund. This route connects Oslo and Seljestad, from which passengers can travel to Odda and Bergen. Odda is the base camp for the Trolltunga hike and the reason why many travelers use this service.
Oslo – Stavanger (via Arenal, Kristiansand and Flekkefjord): A 9.5 hour journey between Oslo and Kristiansand. Over 100 departures a week take you to the beautiful coastal towns of Flekkefjord and Stavanger. This route is perfect for families and we recommend stopping in Kristiansand for activities suitable for all ages.
Oslo – Valdres: This route, known as the Valdres Express, connects Oslo with three destinations in the hiking paradise of Valdres, with daily departures throughout the year. It takes about 5 hours to get from Oslo to Aldalstangen and about 3 hours and 47 minutes to get to Beidstaelen.
Bergen – Sogndal (via Voss, Flåm and Lardal): It takes about 5 hours, with stops in Voss, Flåm and Lardal. This route allows for a combination of bus and train via the famous Flåmsvarna, as well as boat trips between Flåm and Bergen.
Bergen – Forde: A 3 hour 25 minute journey (including 2 ferry crossings) with both mountain and fjord views.
Bergen – Stavanger (via) Stold, Haugesund): Approximately 4.5 hours from Bergen to Haugesund and Stavanger. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of the fjord and countryside.
Long distance bus trip in Northern Norway
If you're an astute observer, you'll have noticed that none of the major intercity bus companies serve northern Norway. In the north, the service is integrated into public transport operated by county authorities.
This actually makes it easier to plan your trip, as you can use the national transport planner En Tur, which also covers trains and local buses.
international bus routes
From Oslo Bus Terminal, you can travel abroad by bus to Denmark, Sweden and Germany. Depending on your carrier, downlink connections may also be available.
Vy Express operates regular flights between Oslo and Copenhagen, and companies such as Flixbus also offer international routes.
FAQ: Bus travel in Norway
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about traveling by coach and coach in Norway.
Interested in long-distance bus travel? Check Vy Express route network, timetable, and fares (affiliate link)
Are seats reserved? On long-haul services, you can select your seat in advance and have the opportunity to upgrade. Seats may be available on some short services.
Can I buy or bring food on board? No food or drinks are sold on Norwegian buses. In fact, you are not allowed to communicate with the driver while the bus is running. However, passengers can bring their own food and drinks. Some long-distance routes include comfortable breaks where you can purchase food, while others include ferry crossings where you can purchase food and drinks on the ferry.
