Norway in Two Weeks: Fjords, Art and Cities of Contrast
Two weeks in Norway offer a rare combination: dramatic landscapes, rich history, and cities that feel worlds apart. From Oslo’s confident urban energy to Bergen’s relaxed maritime charm, I discovered a country that is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.
We began with a flight easyJet from Manchester to Oslo, arriving into a city of wide boulevards, bold architecture, and a lively waterfront. For our stay, we chose the Scandic Oslo City, perfectly located for walks along the harbour and easy bus access to the museums. Breakfast and a simple dinner, were both included, which made a thoughtful addition that allowed us to spend lunchtime sampling local cuisine elsewhere without worrying about costs.
Oslo’s cultural offerings are abundant. The Munch Museum did not disappoint; seeing The Scream alongside other works in a building designed to reflect the artist’s intensity was unforgettable, the views were also fantastic and a rooftop bar made a great place to relax. The History Museum revealed Viking treasures and medieval artefacts, while the Folk Museum, with its medieval stave church, offered a quiet glimpse into Norway’s past. The Kon-Tiki and Fram Museums celebrated the country’s history of exploration, and a walk atop the Oslo Opera House provided panoramic views across the fjord and city skyline, a moment that lingers in memory.
Next came the seven hour journey from Oslo to Bergen on the Vy (formerly NSB) train (https://www.vy.no/en), one of the world’s great rail routes. Forests gave way to high plateaus, mirror-like lakes, waterfalls, and tiny villages, revealing a number of breathtaking vistas. The train itself was comfortable, efficient, and surprisingly good value.
Bergen, by contrast, exuded a gentler pace. The Magic Kloverhuset Harbour Hotel was our base for seven nights, a comfortable retreat with a panoramic window overlooking the harbour and an excellent breakfast. The city, shaped by centuries of maritime trade and devastating fires, offers both history and charm. Its colourful Bryggen buildings, cobbled streets, and relaxed seaside rhythm make strolling through the harbour an everyday pleasure.
Cultural exploration in Bergen was a delight. The Fish Market bustled with chatter, seafood, and fresh air, while local bars served craft beers that were as distinctive as the city itself. At the Bergen Folk Museum, traditional buildings told the story of rural Norway, and the KODE Museums held another collection of Munch’s works, offering fresh perspectives after Oslo. Music lovers will find solace at Troldhaugen, Edvard Grieg’s lakeside home, where his composing hut whispers the inspiration behind Norway’s most beloved melodies.
The highlight of our Bergen stay was the Mostraumen fjord cruise, booked via GetYourGuide. Sailing through narrow fjords, past waterfalls tumbling from cliffs, and past villages seemingly carved into the mountainside, the scale and serenity of the landscape were humbling. It is moments like these that make Norway unforgettable.
Returning to Oslo for four final nights provided an opportunity to see the capital with fresh eyes. With the Oslo Pass in hand, we accessed museums and transport with ease, revisiting favourites and discovering new corners. The city’s layers, Viking history, 19th-century architecture, and contemporary art—felt even more compelling after the calm of Bergen.
Norway is a land of contrasts. Oslo, modern, dynamic, and steeped in history. Bergen, relaxed, maritime, and atmospheric. Between them, landscapes of stunning beauty unfold: high mountains, serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and fjords that seem carved from another world.
Practical Information
Flights: easyJet from Manchester to Oslo
Hotels:
- Scandic Oslo City (Oslo) – breakfast and simple dinner included; central, walking distance to harbour, near buses to museums, surrounded by excellent bars.
- Magic Kloverhuset Harbour Hotel (Bergen) – comfortable, panoramic harbour view, excellent breakfast.
Transport:
- Vy (formerly NSB) – Norway’s national train company, including Oslo–Bergen line (https://www.vy.no/en)
- Mostraumen fjord cruise – booked via GetYourGuide
