Join Solos as we head to Norway and go from Oslo to Bergen. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure through Norway’s iconic scenery by train and boat, blending city exploration with immersive experiences in nature. Whether you’re captivated by fjords, enchanted by historic villages, or mesmerized by mountain vistas, this tour showcases the best of Norway’s natural and cultural treasures.
Today we arrive into Oslo, the capital of Norway and transfer to the hotel. We will have time to get to know our surroundings and then gather later for a welcome drink and dinner.
This morning we will have a tour of Oslo, the vibrant city nestled between the Oslofjord and lush, forested hills. Known for its rich cultural scene, stunning architecture, and close proximity to nature, Oslo offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. We will take a stroll along Oslo’s harbour promenade, which shows a contrast of the new and old city, each with its own characteristics and unique experiences. Known for its architecture, we will visit Oslo Opera House, and the newly developed district, Tjuvholmen, which features buildings drawn by some 20 different renowned architects. We will see the city’s historical landmarks, medieval castle, Akershus Fortress, which was built in the late 1290’s by King Haakon V to protect the city.
After breakfast we will head to Oslo train station and take the train to Mydral, where the journey takes us through some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, serene lakes, and majestic mountains. The ever-changing scenery ensures that there’s always something beautiful to look at out the window.
Once we reach Mydral, we will board the Flam Railway, a renowned and scenic railway line in Norway, often considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. It connects the mountain station of Myrdal with the village of Flåm, located deep in the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord. We will be treated to panoramic views of some of Norway’s most breathtaking scenery. Upon the journey we will witness towering mountains with majestic peaks that rise above the railway, offering dramatic views. Deep Valleys where the train winds through narrow, lush valleys that provide a sense of scale and grandeur. All of this and the railway runs alongside cascading rivers and numerous waterfalls, including the spectacular Kjosfossen.
This morning we leave Flam and head to Vorringfoss, one of Norway’s most famous and spectacular waterfalls, renowned for its dramatic drop and stunning surroundings. Vøringfossen is set in the picturesque Mabodalen Valley, surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. The contrast of the powerful waterfall cascading into the deep canyon below creates a breathtaking view. We will be able to view the powerful waterfall from spectacular vantage points.
We will then head to Voss, a picturesque town in renowned for its stunning natural landscapes where we will spend the night.
Beginning the day in Voss, we will transfer to Steindalfoss, but the coach journey will take us along a remarkable natural wonder, Hardangerfjord, which is is one of the most picturesque and well-known fjords in Norway. We will reach Steindalfoss, a unique natural experience that allows us to immerse ourself in Norway’s stunning landscape by walking up to and behind the waterfall itself. The waterfall is set in a lush, green landscape typical of Western Norway, making it a perfect spot for photography and enjoying nature. The combination of the waterfall, surrounding forest, and nearby river creates a serene and picturesque setting.
We will continue onto Bergen, the second-largest city in Norway.
Bergen is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and cultural heritage. We will have a tour of the city, witnessing the modern landmark and the old wooden town, the broad streets and the narrow alleyways. Some of the highlights on this tour are Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic wharf area that dates back to the Hanseatic League’s trading empire in the 14th century. The colourful wooden buildings, narrow alleyways, and historic charm make it one of Bergen’s most iconic landmarks. We will also visit the Fish Market, located in the heart of Bergen, the Fish Market is a bustling place where you can sample fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Norwegian delicacies. It’s a great spot to experience the local culture and cuisine. Also on the tour we will visit one of the oldest and best-preserved fortifications in Norway, Bergenhus Fortress, St. Mary’s Church and the beautiful City Park.
This afternoon we have free time, we can relax in the city or head to Mount Fløyen which offers spectacular views of Bergen and the surrounding area. We can reach the summit by taking the Fløibanen funicular, which departs from the city centre.
Today we board a cruise from Bergen for a spectacular fjord cruise. We will set sail for Osterfjord, which is a captivating fjord located in Hordaland county, near the city of Bergen in Western Norway. Known for its stunning landscapes, serene waters, and rich history, Osterfjord offers a quintessential Norwegian fjord experience. Osterfjord is surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and picturesque villages. The fjord’s tranquil waters and dramatic landscapes make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. We will navigate Mostraumen strait and sail up close to waterfalls where we will feel the spray of the mountain water.
This evening, we will gather for our farewell dinner.
Today we will bid farewell to Norway and head to Bergen Airport for our flight back to the UK.
We will be staying in the following hotels or a similar standard:
From Oslo Airport to Oslo it is approximately 40 minutes.
From Bergen to Bergen Airport it is approximately 25 minutes.
A reasonable level of fitness is required for this tour as there will be walking tour and on and off boats and trains.
Please note: At the beginning of your trip, your Tour Leader will ask if you would be happy to sign a photo permission form. This means that any photographs taken during your holiday can be used by Solos to share what the Solos experience is all about. It also means you have lots of memories to go home with! Details will be given at your welcome meeting.
WhatsApp Group: Just before the start of your trip, you will be sent an invite to the WhatsApp group which will put you in touch with your fellow Solos travellers and Tour Leader prior to your departure day. By choosing to join, you’re consenting to share your contact details with other members of your group. However, if you prefer not to join, that’s completely fine, and you can meet the group on your first day instead. Please note, if you have not received an email within 24 hours of departure, we recommend you check your email junk folder.
The dress code for during the day is casual. In the evenings the dress code is smart casual. Comfortable warm shoes for walking and sightseeing are recommended.
There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. In order to give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below. Your Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection to cover drivers, porters and hotel staff of €20.00. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, or taxi fares, your Tour Leader can advise of an appropriate add on.
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.
Your passport must be:
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.
If you are travelling to Norway and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.
Compulsory vaccinations: None.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.
General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
In Norway, they use the Norwegian Krone.
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”