Add organization

How long does it take to drive from Oslo to Bergen, and which route is best?

Driving time, the main mountain crossings and what changes in winter.

Answered at: Checked at:

Short answer

Driving from Oslo to Bergen takes about seven to eight hours, according to Visit Bergen, which suggests crossing Hardangervidda on the national tourist route. That stretch runs 67 km between Haugastøl and Eidfjord and passes Vøringsfossen. Another option is the E16 through the Lærdal Tunnel, which closes 18:00–06:00 for upgrades from 16 November 2026.

Five epic routes along Norway's most scenic roads a red train crossing a bridge, a small airplane above and a ferry on blue water below

Why

  1. Visit Bergen puts the drive at 7–8 hours and suggests stops such as Vøringsfossen in Eidfjord, a detour to the Folgefonna glacier or a night in Voss.
  2. The Hardangervidda national tourist route covers 67 km between Eidfjord and Haugastøl, and in winter traffic may drive in convoy behind snowploughs or the road may close for short periods.
  3. Statens vegvesen will close the Lærdal Tunnel on the E16 from 18:00 to 06:00 while it is upgraded, from 16 November 2026 until 2030/31.

Details

Vøringsfossen has a free fall of 182 metres. The road over Hardangervidda may also close in winter to let reindeer graze in peace. The Lærdal Tunnel is 24.5 km long, the world's longest road tunnel, and during the night closures buses will be let through at set times. The drive from Bergen back to Oslo uses the same roads and takes about as long.

Tip

Split the trip with a night on the way, in Voss for example, as Visit Bergen suggests, and check the road status before you cross the mountains in winter.

What may differ

In winter the drive can take much longer: many scenic roads close, some until May or June, and Visit Norway recommends winter driving only for drivers with experience of winter conditions.

People also ask

  • What is the best route from Oslo to Bergen by car?
  • How long is the drive from Bergen to Oslo?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Road conditions and closures change, so check Statens vegvesen before you drive.

Five epic routes along Norway's most scenic roads
Help