Complete Norway – Northern Lights - 16 Days From Oslo to Bergen

Arrive in Oslo and spend the day exploring the historical and beautiful Norwegian capital. Its compact size makes it ideal to discover and experience the best, the city has to offer. For the cultural lovers, the Bydgdøy peninsula is home to several museums like the outdoor museum, Folkemuseet and the Viking ship museum. Downtown Oslo, is bustling with trendy restaurants, bars, cafes and open spaces such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Ekeberg Park. At the heart of the city is the Royal Palace, home to the Norwegian Royal family since work began in 1814.

After breakfast, make your own way to Oslo Central Railway Station to commence your ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ adventure by boarding the train to Myrdal. Enjoy one of the world's most scenic rail journeys as you travel from Oslo through farmland, past snow-covered forests and glacial peaks. At Myrdal join the famous Flåm Railway - a marvel of railway engineering, descending more than 900 metres to the town of Flåm. Take time to explore at your the town and even a visit to the local brewery or the Flåm railway museum.

After breakfast, board the ferry from Flåm to Gudvangen, enjoying the spectacular views as you pass through the narrow Nærøyfjord. Known for its snow-capped mountain peaks, deep valleys, fast-flowing rivers and thunderous waterfalls, the journey along the valley from Gudvangen to Voss is as beautiful as it sounds. For those wanting a view to remember, take the Voss Gondola to the summit of Mount Hanguren (820 metres above sea level). The panoramic views of the snow covered valley and surrounding areas are more than worth the journey.

Spend the morning exploring Voss, before taking the train for the last bit of your journey to Bergen. Once you arrive in Bergen, take the afternoon to explore this colourful gateway to the fjords. Bergen was founded in 1070 AD, and retains a great deal of its character, charm and history. Visit the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with colourful wharfs dating back to the 14th century. You may enjoy a stroll in the cobblestone alleyways, a bite at an outdoor café or restaurant, a trip on the Fløibanen funicular or a visit to the famous fish market.

Following breakfast and another chance to explore this picturesque city, join the ship at the port to begin your voyage towards the Arctic circle and the Northern Lights. After we depart, enjoy a tasty dinner buffet made from fresh coastal produce. We sail north from Bergen along the Viking route of Hjeltefjord. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing as you admire the spectacular landscapes from the deck or in our panorama lounge. Seven of our ships along the Norwegian Coast have Hurtigruten Guides. You are welcome to join them on hikes during many of our port stays or enjoy onboard lectures and activities.

Enjoy the early morning in the breathtaking Nordfjord, followed by a delicious breakfast. We then sail past West Cape for our approach to Ålesund. Art Nouveau city Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and famed Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. Our tour to the aquarium includes a visit to see resident penguins before we continue to nearby Mount Aksla for an amazing view. Mountains and roses Molde is known as the ‘City of Roses’ because of its lovely municipal gardens. This attractive coastal town has an amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called ‘the Molde Panorama’.

Charming Trondheim is home to great history and a rich cultural life. Magical, medieval and modern Founded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim today is a unique mix of the ancient and modern. Join our optional excursion to the soaring Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s only gothic cathedral and the burial place of St. Olav (Tryggvason). Marvel at the cathedral’s exquisite works of art, architectural details and medieval statues. Excursions for every taste From September to May, experience Trondheim with a unique carriage tour on the world’s northernmost tram line. You can also explore Trondheim by kayak on the River Nid or experience the city by bicycle. You can also join the Hurtigruten Guides for a hike to discover more of the area. Back on board In the afternoon, the ship sails northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær lighthouse, islets and rocky reefs. After sailing through the narrow channel of Stokksund, we head towards charming Rørvik.

Today we cross the Arctic Circle, marking your best chance to see Northern Lights. We mark the occasion with a fun Arctic Circle ceremony on deck. Forces of nature Ørnes is the site of Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen. We then sail along the beautiful coast of Helgeland to Bodø, where you can experience Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful maelstrom, by small boat. Majestic Lofoten That afternoon, the 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall looms on the horizon, ushering us towards majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches. Meet the Vikings At Stamsund, visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you are welcomed into the chieftain’s house for a real Viking feast. Going organic Between Stamsund and Svolvær, you can experience life on an organic herb and cheese farm, or visit the Lofoten’s only craft brewery, in Svolvær. As we sail through the narrow Raftsund, we stop at the entrance to Trollfjord, a dramatic natural wonder that should not be missed.

We briefly dock at Risøyhamn, Harstad and Finnsnes in the morning. Polar history and beer We then sail to the Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Join our `Polar History Walk´ in winter to learn more about explorers and Arctic hunters, and taste beer from the world’s northernmost brewery. Beyond your imagination Throughout the winter, complete your stay in Tromsø with a thrilling dog-sledding ride, as huskies pull you over the frozen landscape past stunning views of the snowy plateaus. The only light during the polar night comes from headlamps, the starry sky, and, if we’re lucky, the magical Northern Lights. Why not have some winter fun by joining a cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventure, or go deep-sea fishing on an Arctic fjord? All year, you can join the Hurtigruten Guides for hikes and discover more of the Tromsø area. Sailing from Tromsø, we continue to search for the Northern Lights.

Experience the North Cape After a brief stop in Hammerfest, we arrive in Havøysund the world’s northernmost fishing village. One of the most popular excursions is a visit to the North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent marked by the photogenic globe monument. Sailing north and Northern Lights The ship continues north into the heartland of the Sámi people. Visit Kjøllefjord, where you can learn about the Sámi way of life and hear traditional joiking (song). In winter, you can join an unforgettable snowmobile trip across snowy plains and perhaps spot the Northern Lights in the starry sky.

We arrive early into Vadsø before docking in Kirkenes - the ship’s turning point for the return journey. Streets with Russian names The Russian border is a just few kilometres from Kirkenes and you’ll notice local road signs in both Norwegian and Russian. There are many ways to visit the Russian frontier: canoeing, hiking or bus. Winter wonder Kirkenes offers a wide range of classic winter activities, like dog-sledging, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and visiting an Arctic Ice Dome. Southbound and down As the ship starts its voyage south, remember that you’ve seen only half of what Norway’s coastline offers. The ports we visited by night going north are now seen by day. Ice dipping Docking again at Vardø, we may invite you to swim in the icy Arctic Ocean in winter. We then cruise along Varanger peninsula to Båtsfjord and Berlevåg, home to a famous male choir of local fishermen.

Around midnight we dock at Mehamn with the option to join in winter a snowmobile trip to hunt the Aurora. Meridian Column Following a stop at Honningsvåg, the ship continues then to Hammerfest, where you can see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column. You can also join a mini-mountain expedition and learn about local polar hero Adolf Lindstrøm. Old Skjervøy With a brief stop at the old trading post of Skjervøy, we return to Tromsø, just in time to enjoy a midnight concert at the Arctic Cathedral. You may want to drop by Ølhallen, a classic pub for a friendly beer.

We arrive in Harstad, where you can join the excursion A taste of Vesterålen. Amazing scenery The island groups of Lofoten and Vesterålen offer some of the most stunning natural scenery of the entire voyage. Lofoten is renowned for its steep mountains, sandy beaches, wild nature and picturesque fishing villages. Hurtigruten’s birthplace We make a short stop at Risøyhamn, to deliver passengers, groceries and mail, and then continue to Stokmarknes, where Hurtigruten was founded more than 125 years ago. Go ashore and visit the Hurtigruten Museum. Continuing south, we slip through a passage into the narrow Raftsund, past peaks rising 1,000 metres from the sea. Spectacular Trollfjord We now reach spectacular Trollfjord, only 2 km long, 100 m wide and surrounded by majestic mountains. If possible, we sail inside, where the dramatic landscape inspires images of fairy tales and trolls. Just north, you can opt to see sea eagles up close by boat. Heart of Lofoten At Svolvær, you can select several excursion options. We then proceed to Stamsund along the massive Lofoten wall.

Celebrate crossing the Arctic Circle with a `taste´ of Arctic tradition – a fun ceremony highlighted by a spoonful of cod liver oil. Mountain with a hole As we sail along the Helgeland coast, you’ll see the strange mountain Torghatten, famous for its distinctive hole in the centre. The opening is 160 m long, 35 m high and 20 m wide, and was created during the ice age. If the weather allows, join a hike with your guides up the mountain. Myths and legends We also sail past the Seven Sisters mountain range – with peaks up to 1,100 m high. The story goes that seven beautiful troll sisters got caught out at sunrise and turned to stone, thus the seven beautiful peaks. UNESCO heritage We next make a short stop at Nesna, before moving on to Sandnessjøen. Charming coastal town Brønnøysund is a pretty little town that offers a charming high street and marina. You can join an excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre for an interesting tour and taste of fresh salmon.

We revisit Trondheim to further explore it´s colourful history! Be sure to join our excursion Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral to learn more about one of the most sacred buildings in all of Norway. Fishing, scenery and excursions From there we call at Kristiansund, a city spread across four islands with an excellent harbour that has been active since the Stone Age. Today, it is Norway’s ‘cured cod capital’ because of its centuries-old export of dried fish. Be sure to join an excursion to Bergtatt marble mine, which includes going inside a mountain and sailing across an illuminated subterranean lake, before enjoying a meal in the mine´s ‘Grand Hall’. Norwegian Alps Those choosing to stay on board at Kristiansund will cross the open sea to Molde, known as Norway's ‘City of Roses’. Along the way, you will take in the steep peaks of the Romsdal Alps on the horizon.

During the night, the ship calls at Ålesund, Torvik and Måløy, but before we dock in Bergen, there is some fascinating scenery ahead of us. Glaciers and lush farmland We sail through picturesque Nordfjord beneath Jostedal Glacier. This rugged coastal region features farms with fruit orchards and glacial fingers that stretch towards glistening lakes. In the morning, we call at Florø. Back to Bergen We navigate the mouth of the mighty Sognefjord and enjoy superb views of the island-studded coastline before you disembark in Bergen. We hope you will take home memories of stunning nature, wildlife and fascinating culture, and we hope to see you onboard again in the near future! Enjoy even more of Norway To see more of Norway, we highly recommend our excursion Bergen City Sightseeing (only sold on board) or join one of our Post-programmes to experience more Norwegian cuisine, culture and scenery.

The day-by-day programme will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your coastal voyage in Norway, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary, which is why every voyage with The Hurtigruten Coastal Express is unique.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 121.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 577

Built/Refurbished: 1993/2016/2023

MS Kong Harald is a tribute to Norway’s reigning monarch and his lifelong love of the sea. Named after King Harald V, a three-time Olympic sailor, this hybrid-powered ship offers both tradition and innovation. Refitted with advanced green technology in 2023, it now features battery packs and efficient engines that reduce emissions by up to 25%, alongside modern Arctic-inspired interiors that reflect Norway’s natural elegance.

Life aboard is warm and inviting, embracing the Norwegian spirit of koselig. You’ll find three restaurants, a bakery and ice cream bar, panoramic lounges, two outdoor hot tubs, a fitness room, sauna, and the Explorer Bar for relaxing with a view. The Expedition Team offers fascinating insights and guided excursions along the Norwegian coast. With its cosy cabins, eco-conscious upgrades, and maritime charm, MS Kong Harald blends sustainability, comfort, and cultural discovery.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 123.3 m

Passenger Capacity: 473

Built/Refurbished: 1996/2016/2022

MS Nordkapp, named after Norway’s iconic North Cape, has been a proud part of the Hurtigruten fleet since 1996 and was refurbished in 2016 with a sleek Arctic-inspired design. The ship features three distinct restaurants serving local Norwegian cuisine, a cosy bakery, a panoramic Explorer Lounge & Bar, a sauna and fitness room, and two outdoor hot tubs with stunning coastal views. With a warm, Nordic atmosphere, MS Nordkapp offers a relaxed and immersive way to experience the dramatic Norwegian coast.

The ship accommodates up to 473 guests in a variety of cabin types, from comfortable outside cabins to spacious expedition suites. Guests are accompanied by an expert Expedition Team offering lectures, excursions, and guided hikes that bring Norway’s nature, culture, and history to life. Whether you're enjoying fresh waffles at Multe or sipping cocktails as the Northern Lights dance above, MS Nordkapp is designed for a memorable, meaningful journey along one of the world’s most scenic coastlines.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 121.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 505

Built/Refurbished: 1994/2019/2024

MS Nordlys, named after the ethereal Northern Lights, embodies the magic of Norway’s Arctic skies with its vibrant, aurora-inspired art, décor, and colors, refreshed during renovations in 2019 and 2024. Accommodating 505 guests in cabins (590 including deck space), this modern Hurtigruten ship offers a cozy yet stylish ambiance with panoramic lounges, a large outdoor sun deck, and two hot tubs perfect for soaking in the breathtaking coastal scenery. Guests can unwind in comfy reclining chairs, stay active in the fitness room, or relax in the sauna, all while enjoying free Wi-Fi and a welcoming compass area with reception, shop, and Expedition Team facilities.

The onboard experience is enriched by the Expedition Team, who share their expertise on Norway’s culture, nature, and history through engaging lectures and guided hikes. Dining aboard MS Nordlys celebrates Hurtigruten’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, featuring locally sourced ingredients across three distinct venues: Torget, the main restaurant with buffet and set-menu options; Kysten, offering exquisite à la carte dining; and Brygga, a casual bistro serving Nordic-inspired dishes. The Multe bakery delights with fresh pastries and cloudberry-topped waffles. Currently replaced by MS Vesterålen until June 3, 2025, MS Nordlys promises an unforgettable journey through Norway’s iconic fjords and mountains.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 123.3 m

Passenger Capacity: 452

Built/Refirbished: 1997/2016/2022

Named for the rugged and captivating northern Norway, much of which lies above the Arctic Circle, MS Nordnorge offers a modern yet cozy retreat with its Arctic-inspired interiors, fully renovated in 2016. Accommodating 452 guests in cabins (590 including deck space), the ship features a spacious compass area with a reception, tour guide, conference room, and shop, alongside two outdoor hot tubs and a panoramic lounge perfect for soaking in Norway’s dramatic coastal vistas. Its claim to fame includes a 2011 Guinness World Record for the longest uninterrupted live TV documentary, broadcasting a 134-hour voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes.

MS Nordnorge delivers an immersive coastal experience with its Expedition Team, who share insights on Norway’s culture, nature, and history through engaging lectures and guided hikes. Dining celebrates Hurtigruten’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, sourcing local ingredients for three unique venues: Torget, offering buffet and set-menu dining; Kysten, an elegant à la carte restaurant; and Brygga, a casual bistro with Nordic flair. The Multe bakery serves fresh pastries and cloudberry-topped waffles, while the Explorer Lounge & Bar invites guests to relax with cocktails and stunning views. With amenities like a sauna, fitness room, and free Wi-Fi, MS Nordnorge ensures a memorable journey through Norway’s Arctic wonders.

Vessel Type: Espedition Ship

Length: 123 m

Passenger Capacity: 507

Built/Refurbished: 1996/2016/2023

Named after the mesmerizing "polar light" of the Aurora Borealis, MS Polarlys captures the essence of Norway’s Arctic allure with its modern, Arctic-inspired interiors, refurbished in 2016. This Hurtigruten vessel, accommodating 507 guests in cabins (650 including deck space), offers an inviting atmosphere with panoramic lounges, a sun deck, and two outdoor hot tubs perfect for soaking in the stunning coastal views. Equipped with a sauna, fitness room, and a compass area housing the reception, Expedition Team, and conference facilities, MS Polarlys ensures a comfortable and engaging journey along Norway’s iconic coastline.

The onboard experience aboard MS Polarlys is enriched by the Expedition Team, who deliver lectures and lead hikes to deepen guests’ understanding of Norway’s culture, nature, and history. Dining reflects Hurtigruten’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, featuring local ingredients in three distinct venues: Torget, the main restaurant with buffet and set-menu options; Kysten, an elegant à la carte dining experience; and Brygga, a casual bistro serving Nordic-inspired dishes. The Multe bakery delights with fresh pastries and cloudberry-topped waffles. Whether sailing on a roundtrip voyage or chasing the Northern Lights, MS Polarlys offers a cozy, immersive adventure steeped in Arctic wonder.

Vessel Type: Expedition Hybrid Ship

Length: 121.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 492

Built/Refurbished: 1993/2018/2023

Named after Captain Richard With, the founder of the Norwegian Coastal Express in 1893, MS Richard With embodies Hurtigruten’s storied heritage while embracing modern sustainability. Upgraded in 2022 to a greener hybrid ship, it features advanced battery packs and efficient engines that reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 25%, alongside state-of-the-art navigation, wastewater treatment, and SRC technology that cuts NOx emissions by at least 80%. With a cabin capacity of 492 guests (590 including deck space), the ship offers a cozy, contemporary ambiance with elegant Nordic design, highlighted by beautiful art throughout and panoramic lounges showcasing Norway’s breathtaking coastal scenery.

Onboard, MS Richard With provides a rich, immersive experience with a focus on Norway’s culture, nature, and history. The Expedition Team enhances voyages with insightful lectures and guided hikes, while the Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept brings local flavors to life across three distinct dining venues: Torget, offering buffet and set-menu meals; Kysten, an à la carte fine-dining experience; and Brygga, a casual bistro with Nordic-inspired dishes. Guests can relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, unwind in outdoor hot tubs, or stay active in the fitness room and sauna. From roundtrip coastal journeys to northbound and southbound routes, MS Richard With delivers a perfect blend of tradition, comfort, and eco-conscious exploration.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 108.55 m

Passenger Capacity: 274

Built/Refurbished: 1983/2019/2022

MS Vesterålen, one of the smallest and most storied ships in the Hurtigruten fleet, offers a unique blend of tradition and modern comfort along Norway’s stunning coastline. Named after the picturesque Vesterålen archipelago and the first Coastal Express steamship from 1893, this traditional vessel carries a rich maritime heritage. Freshly refurbished in 2019 and 2022, MS Vesterålen features bright, informal public areas, upgraded Arctic Superior cabins, mini suites, and modernized amenities including a revamped restaurant, café, gym, and the scenic Fyret Panorama Lounge on deck 7. With a capacity for 274 guests in cabins (490 including deck space), the ship provides an intimate experience, emphasizing Hurtigruten’s commitment to authentic coastal exploration.

Life on board MS Vesterålen is designed to immerse guests in Norway’s culture, nature, and maritime operations through an engaging "behind the scenes" focus. Passengers can enjoy educational lectures in English and German, handpicked hikes, and insights from the onboard Tour Leader about the region’s wildlife and heritage. The ship’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen highlights local flavors, sourcing ingredients from 50 Norwegian farms and producers, served in The Restaurant with a mix of buffets and set menus, or at Kafé Galleriet on deck 4, offering traditional dishes like the signature shrimp sandwich. From iconic roundtrip voyages to northbound and southbound journeys, MS Vesterålen delivers a memorable adventure steeped in Norwegian tradition and breathtaking scenery.