Europe > 🇳🇴 Norway
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Norway can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Norway; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Norway?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Norway?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Norway
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Bergen | BGO | |
| Haugesund | HAU | |
| Oslo | OSL | |
| Stavanger | SVG | |
| Torp | TRF | |
| Ålesund | AES |
Should You Rent a Car in Norway? 🚗🏔️
Norway is a country built for explorers — a land of fjords, waterfalls, glaciers, and dramatic mountain roads. Its public transport system is excellent, but travel times can be long and rural connections limited. So, should you rent a car in Norway? If you want full freedom to explore its wild landscapes and stop whenever the view takes your breath away, renting a car is an outstanding choice.
At first glance, Norway may seem like an easy country to travel car-free. Trains, buses, and ferries connect nearly every major town, and journeys are famously scenic. However, the most awe-inspiring spots — those tucked deep in fjords or high on mountain passes — often lie beyond the reach of regular public transport.
🚆 When You Don’t Need a Car
If your focus is on cities or popular fjord regions, Norway’s excellent rail and ferry network will take you almost everywhere.
| Destination | Why a Car Isn’t Needed | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Oslo | Compact city with good public transport | Metro, tram, walking |
| Bergen | Easy access to fjords by organised tour | Train, ferry |
| Flåm | Famous for scenic railway | Flåmsbana train |
| Tromsø | Walkable Arctic city | Walking, guided tours |
| Trondheim | Well-connected by train | Rail, bus |
➡ Ideal for travellers who prefer structured itineraries and breathtaking train journeys, such as the Oslo–Bergen line or the Arctic Circle Express.
🚗 When Renting a Car Is the Best Option
Driving in Norway offers unmatched freedom to set your own pace, reach hidden viewpoints, and travel deep into fjord country.
| Benefit | What You Can Explore |
|---|---|
| Scenic flexibility | Stop at waterfalls, lakes, and mountain trails |
| Remote access | Visit small villages and remote fjords |
| Freedom | Choose your own ferry crossings and routes |
| Adventure | Access hiking and camping areas easily |
🗺️ Popular Self-Drive Routes
| Route | Highlights | Driving Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oslo → Bergen | Fjords, mountains, waterfalls | E16 route, long tunnels |
| Atlantic Ocean Road | Famous coastal highway | Short but spectacular |
| Trollstigen Route | Hairpin bends, alpine views | Open summer only |
| Lofoten Islands Drive | Arctic scenery, fishing villages | Narrow roads, stunning views |
🚦 Driving in Norway – What to Expect
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You drive on the right-hand side
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Roads are in excellent condition but can be narrow in fjord areas
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Speed limits are strictly enforced by cameras
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Many highways and tunnels are toll roads, payable online
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Winter driving requires snow tyres and caution on icy routes
🚗 Car Rental Information
Major companies such as Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Europcar, and Budget operate at all major airports and cities including Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Tromsø, and Trondheim. Automatic cars are available but more expensive. Electric vehicle rentals are increasingly common, with Norway leading Europe in EV infrastructure.
🚕 Alternatives to Renting a Car
| Transport Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Train (Vy) | Long scenic routes | Oslo–Bergen line is iconic |
| Bus | Rural connections | Reliable and frequent |
| Ferry | Fjord travel | Essential for island routes |
| Domestic flights | Long distances | SAS, Widerøe, Norwegian operate regularly |
| Guided tours | Fjord regions | Convenient and informative |
🧭 Conclusion
Renting a car in Norway is ideal for travellers who crave independence, scenery, and adventure — especially if you plan to explore fjord country, the Arctic north, or the islands. If your trip focuses on cities and major tourist routes, trains, ferries, and buses provide an easy, eco-friendly alternative. The best choice depends on whether you want to sit back and admire the view, or take the wheel and chase it. 🚘🌄
