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Marvellous Escapes · Tailor-made rail holiday

Norway's Natural Wonders

Oslo to Stavanger by rail, fjord cruise, and coach across nine days

Illustration of Norway's Natural Wonders

Marvellous Escapes offers a nine-day independent tailor-made journey from Oslo to Stavanger combining Norway's most famous rail routes, UNESCO-listed fjords, and coastal cities. You depart from a UK airport and fly into Oslo, where you spend two nights before boarding the Bergen Railway to Myrdal, then descend on the legendary Flåm Railway through mountains and fjord landscapes to the village of Flåm. From there you cruise the narrow Nærøyfjord and travel by coach and rail to Bergen, where a Hop-on Hop-off bus pass lets you explore the Hanseatic Bryggen Wharf and fish market at your own pace over two nights. Next comes a West Coast cruise to the coastal city of Stavanger, where three nights and two leisure days let you visit the Lysefjord by boat, see Preikestolen from the water, and walk the preserved Old Town. The final leg is a scenic train journey back to Oslo for your overnight before flying home. Hotels include breakfast, and 24-hour on-trip support is provided, though this is not a guided tour. It suits first-time rail travellers and independent explorers who want seamless transport and pre-booked hotels without daily group activities.

What to know before you look closer

  • This is an independent tailor-made journey, not an escorted tour; Marvellous Escapes provides 24-hour on-trip support but not daily guided activities
  • Day 8 includes a train journey from Stavanger back to Oslo; confirm the train name and route directly with the operator, as they are not specified in the package details

Day by day

  1. Day 1railovernight: Oslo

    Oslo

    Your Scandinavian rail adventure begins today with a flight from the UK to Norway's vibrant capital, Oslo. Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel and settle in for the night. Depending on your arrival time, take the opportunity to enjoy a short stroll through this modern yet historic city, perhaps along the waterfront at Aker Brygge or a visit to the iconic Oslo Opera House. Relax ahead of your exciting journey through the heart of Norway.

  2. Day 2railovernight: Flåm

    Flåm

    This morning, board the scenic Bergen Railway from Oslo and enjoy a breathtaking journey across Norway's mountainous heart. On arrival at Myrdal, change to the legendary Flåm Railway, one of the steepest and most picturesque train lines in the world. Descend through spectacular fjord landscapes, past cascading waterfalls and alpine hamlets, before arriving in the charming village of Flåm. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak in the serene surroundings of the Aurlandsfjord.

  3. Day 3railovernight: Bergen

    Bergen

    This morning, board a scenic cruise through the majestic Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its narrow, steep-sided fjord walls and cascading waterfalls. As you sail from Flåm to Gudvangen, soak up unforgettable views of towering cliffs and tranquil waters. From Gudvangen, continue your journey by coach through the picturesque Nærøydalen Valley. On arrival in Voss, board the train for the final leg of today's adventure, a relaxed rail ride to Bergen, Norway's colourful and cultural second city. After checking into your hotel, the evening is yours to explore at leisure.

  4. Day 4overnight: Bergen

    Bergen

    Today is all about exploring Bergen, a city where historic charm meets fjordside beauty. With your Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass, you can explore the sights at your own pace. Wander the iconic Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colourful wooden buildings and artisan shops. Visit the lively Fish Market, take in panoramic views from Mount Fløyen via funicular, or delve into Norwegian culture at the Hanseatic Museum.

  5. Day 5overnight: Stavanger

    Stavanger

    This morning, embark on a scenic West Coast cruise from Bergen to Stavanger, gliding past rugged coastlines, charming islands, and picturesque fjord inlets. Upon arrival in Risavika, a short coach transfer brings you to Stavanger, a lively coastal city known for its old town charm and gateway to fjord adventures. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in this historic yet vibrant destination.

  6. Day 6overnight: Stavanger

    Stavanger

    Today is yours to enjoy Stavanger at leisure. Wander through the beautifully preserved Old Town (Gamle Stavanger) with its white wooden houses and cobbled streets, visit the fascinating Norwegian Petroleum Museum, or explore the colourful street art scene that gives the city a vibrant edge.

  7. Day 7overnight: Stavanger

    Stavanger

    Set off today on an unforgettable fjord cruise along the Lysefjord, one of Norway's most iconic natural wonders. Sail beneath towering granite cliffs, past cascading waterfalls and remote farms, and marvel at the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) from the water, a dramatic viewpoint that soars over 600 metres above the fjord. After your cruise, return to Stavanger with time to relax or explore further at your own pace.

  8. Day 8railovernight: Oslo

    Oslo

    Today, board the train for a scenic rail journey from Stavanger to Oslo, travelling across southern Norway's diverse landscapes. Watch as rugged coastlines give way to tranquil lakes, forested hills, and charming rural villages on this relaxing and picturesque route. Arrive in Oslo, Norway's forward-thinking capital, and enjoy your final evening soaking up its vibrant culture, waterfront charm, and Nordic hospitality.

  9. Day 9

    Return home

    After breakfast, check out of your hotel, and head to Oslo airport for your return flight back to the UK. If you would like to explore more of Norway, speak to your Travel Designer.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 2Board the Flåm Railway at Myrdal for a descent through fjord landscapes past waterfalls and alpine villages to the village of Flåm
  • Day 3Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord from Flåm to Gudvangen, sailing beneath steep-sided fjord walls and cascading waterfalls
  • Day 7Take a fjord cruise on the Lysefjord, viewing the Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) rising over 600 metres above the water

Included

  • 2-nights hotel accommodation in Oslo with breakfast included
  • Overnight hotel accommodation in Flam with breakfast included
  • 2-nights hotel accommodation in Bergen with breakfast included
  • 3-nights hotel accommodation in Stavanger with breakfast included
  • Flights to and from the UK to Oslo
  • Rail from Oslo to Myrdal on the Flåm railway
  • West Coast Cruise Bergen to Stavanger Risavika and Bus to Stavanger
  • UNESCO Nærøyfjord cruise from Flam to Gudvangen
  • Hop-on, Hop-off bus in Bergen
  • Fjord cruise on the Lysefjord

Questions travellers ask

Is train travel included?
Yes. The package includes the Bergen Railway from Oslo to Myrdal, the Flåm Railway from Myrdal to Flåm, and a scenic rail journey from Stavanger to Oslo on Day 8. Trains are named in the itinerary for Days 2 and 8; the operator should confirm the specific train on Day 8.
Is this an escorted tour or independent?
It is an independent tailor-made journey. Marvellous Escapes provides 24-hour on-trip support and arranges a Hop-on Hop-off bus pass in Bergen and guided fjord cruises, but you travel between destinations at your own pace with pre-booked hotels and transport.
What is included?
Flights from the UK to Oslo and return, accommodation with breakfast in Oslo (2 nights), Flåm (1 night), Bergen (2 nights), and Stavanger (3 nights), the Bergen and Flåm railways, cruises on the Nærøyfjord and Lysefjord, a West Coast cruise from Bergen to Stavanger with coach transfer, a Hop-on Hop-off bus pass in Bergen, and the train journey from Stavanger to Oslo.
How many days and nights is the trip?
Nine days and eight nights, with a two-night stay in Oslo at the start, one night in Flåm, two nights in Bergen, three nights in Stavanger, and a final night back in Oslo before your return flight.
What is the cost?
From GBP 2,099 per person, which is approximately USD 2,803. This is the base price; speak to Marvellous Escapes about current availability and any single-supplement charges.
How much walking is involved?
The itinerary does not specify walking distances or difficulty. Days in Bergen and Stavanger are self-directed with a bus pass and leisure time, which may involve city walking. Contact Marvellous Escapes for details on physical demands.

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