Why choose self-driving in Norway
Norway, the natural scenery is simply amazing! Glaciers, fjords, mountains, lakes, one step at a time, it feels like driving in a painting. Moreover, there are few public transportation services here, and the time is not flexible. Many beautiful scenery is missed while waiting for the bus. Self-driving is different. You can stop whenever you want. When you see the beautiful wildflowers on the roadside or the misty mountains in the distance, you can pull over at any time and get off the car to take pictures. The degree of freedom is super high, and you can take in all the beauty of Norway.
Don’t be careless before the trip
- Documents and clothing
First of all, you have to bring your passport, which is the “pass” to go abroad. Don’t forget your driver’s license. If it is a domestic driver’s license, you must get a certified translation in advance. The weather in Norway is like a child’s face, changing at any time. It may be sunny the moment before and snowing the next second, so you have to bring more warm clothes, down jackets, assault jackets, thick scarves, gloves, just in case. - Things about car rental
It is more reliable to choose a big brand car rental company, such as Hertz and Avis, which have outlets at the airport and downtown, making it convenient to pick up and return the car. As for the car model, if there are many people and a lot of luggage, SUV is the first choice, with large space and good passability. If there are only two people, a small car is enough and fuel-efficient. Be sure to buy enough insurance, such as collision insurance, theft insurance, etc., just in case. When picking up the car, carefully check whether there are scratches on the body, familiarize yourself with the operation of the car, and don’t be in a hurry when you get on the road. - Navigation and route planning
Download Google Maps or Tantu offline maps on your mobile phone. Some remote mountainous areas have poor signals, so offline maps come in handy. Popular self-driving routes, the first recommendation is the Western Fjord Line, Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord are so shocking to see all the way; there is also the Atlantic Road, the road winding on the sea, which is beautiful for taking pictures. Plan your daily itinerary in advance, don’t be too tired, and leave some time for sudden beautiful scenery.
Let’s go! Start a dream journey
- Bergen: Charm blooms
Fly to Bergen, and the fresh sea breeze hits you as soon as you get off the plane. Go to the fish market first, there are all kinds of fresh sea fish and seafood snacks, and a king crab leg, which is so fresh that your eyebrows will fall off. The colorful wooden houses at Bryggen Pier are like houses in fairy tales. It is very pleasant to walk along the beach and watch the seagulls soar. - Voss: The fusion of nature and adventure
It takes a short drive from Bergen to Voss. The lake is so clear that you can see the bottom, and it is surrounded by mountains. This place is a paradise for outdoor sports. In summer, you can hike through the forest valley; in winter, you can ski and fly down the snow track; if you are brave, try skydiving and overlook the earth. The feeling will be unforgettable. - Sognefjord: The magnificent beauty that shocks the soul
Further ahead, Sognefjord makes a shining appearance. It is the “big brother” among the Norwegian fjords. Standing on the observation deck, you can see the bottomless canyon, the blue sea water is like a gem, and the waterfall rushes down from the mountains, which is magnificent. Take a cruise ship, go deep into the fjord, the breeze blows on your face, and listen to the roar of the waterfall, as if time has stopped. You can also take a small train and slowly shuttle through the mountains, with picturesque scenery all the way. - Elf Road: Thrilling Ride in the Clouds
Then challenge the Elf Road, which has many bends, steep and narrow, like a giant dragon coiled on the mountain. Driving up, there are cliffs on one side and towering peaks on the other side, and your heart is in your throat. However, when you reach the top of the mountain, overlooking the valley shrouded in clouds, it is so beautiful that it is suffocating. The thrills along the way are worth it. - Atlantic Road: A Romantic Date with the Ocean
Finally, drive to the Atlantic Road, the road floats on the sea like a ribbon, and the waves beat the bridge piers. It is most beautiful in the evening, when the sunset dyes the sky and the sea orange-red. Taking pictures here, every picture is a blockbuster. Find a roadside parking spot, quietly watch the sea, listen to the sound of the waves, and feel the romance of Norway.
Self-driving tips
- Remember the traffic rules
Some traffic rules in Norway are different from those in the United States. For example, when you encounter a “STOP” sign, you must stop for three seconds; vehicles in the roundabout go first, don’t cut in; the speed limit in the city is 30-50 km/h, and about 80 km/h in the suburbs. The speeding fine is very heavy, so don’t take chances. - Ferry riding strategy
There are many fjords in Norway, and ferries are indispensable. Buy tickets online or at the ticket booth at the pier in advance, queue up to board the ship according to the signs, park the car after boarding the ship, and you can go to the deck to enjoy the scenery. Pay attention to the timetable and don’t miss the ship.
A self-driving tour in Norway is really like a dream. The beautiful scenery, excitement, and romance here are intoxicating everywhere. Dear friends, don’t hesitate, pack your bags, set foot on this Nordic land, and start your dream self-driving trip. Believe me, this will definitely be an unforgettable memory of a lifetime!
