10 Scenic Destinations Near Voss: Train-Accessible Norwegian Getaways

Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, is a charming coastal gem nestled between seven mountains and fjords. Known as the 'Gateway to the Fjords,' it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban culture. The city's colorful wooden houses along Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcase its rich Hanseatic history. Bergen's vibrant fish market, numerous museums, and lively arts scene make it a cultural hub. The surrounding landscape provides ample opportunities for hiking, fjord cruises, and scenic railway journeys. With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery, Bergen is an ideal base for exploring western Norway's fjords and mountains.

How to get there from Voss. From Voss, take the Bergen Line train directly to Bergen. The journey is scenic and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive via the E16 highway, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Bus services are also available, with a similar travel time to driving.

How to travel to and from Bergen. Bergen Airport Flesland offers good connections to major European cities and some direct flights to the US. The airport is well-connected to the city center by light rail. Bergen is also a major cruise port and has excellent train connections to Oslo, making it easy to continue your journey or return home.

Major activities. Explore Bryggen wharf, ride the Fløibanen funicular to Mount Fløyen, visit the KODE art museums, take a fjord cruise, shop at the fish market, hike in the surrounding mountains, enjoy the Bergen Aquarium, and experience the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra.

Recommended restaurants. Bergen offers diverse dining options. Try fresh seafood at the Fish Market or upscale restaurants like Lysverket. For local cuisine, visit Pingvinen or Bryggen Tracteursted. Kafé Kippers offers great views with your meal. Don't miss Bergen's coffee culture at Det Lille Kaffekompaniet or Kaffemisjonen.

Flåm, nestled in Norway's fjord region, offers a picturesque gateway to natural wonders. This tiny village, situated at the inner end of the Aurlandsfjord, is renowned for its stunning scenery and the famous Flåm Railway. Visitors are drawn to its dramatic landscapes, surrounded by steep mountains, thundering waterfalls, and deep fjords. Flåm serves as an ideal base for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nærøyfjord and embarking on outdoor adventures. Its charm lies in the perfect blend of serene nature and thrilling activities, making it a must-visit destination for fjord enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

How to get there from Voss. From Oslo, take a train to Myrdal, then transfer to the scenic Flåm Railway. Alternatively, drive via E16 and RV50. From Bergen, take a bus or drive along E16. Fjord cruises from Bergen are also available. The Norway in a Nutshell tour offers a comprehensive journey combining train, bus, and boat travel to Flåm.

How to travel to and from Flåm. Flåm has good connections to major Norwegian cities. Regular trains run to Oslo and Bergen. Buses connect to nearby towns. The nearest airport is in Sogndal, about 2 hours away. For international travel, it's best to return to Oslo or Bergen for flights to the US.

Major activities. Ride the Flåm Railway, cruise the Nærøyfjord, hike to Brekkefossen waterfall, visit the Flåm Railway Museum, kayak on the fjord, cycle the Rallarvegen, explore Otternes Farm Cultural Heritage Site, and take a RIB boat tour.

Recommended restaurants. Ægir BrewPub offers Viking-inspired cuisine and craft beers. Flåm Marina & Apartement Cafe serves local dishes with fjord views. Flåmstova Restaurant provides traditional Norwegian fare. For quick bites, try Flåm Bakery or Toget Cafe.

Sogndal, nestled in the heart of Norway's fjord country, offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This charming town, situated along the Sognefjord, serves as a gateway to stunning landscapes and glaciers. Sogndal is perfect for travelers seeking authentic Norwegian experiences, from hiking and skiing to exploring local culture. Its compact size allows for easy exploration, while the surrounding mountains and fjords provide a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.

How to get there from Voss. From Bergen, take a 4-hour scenic drive along the E16 and RV5. Alternatively, catch a direct bus from Bergen Bus Station, which takes about 4.5 hours. For a more scenic route, take the express boat from Bergen to Sogndal, enjoying fjord views during the 4-hour journey.

How to travel to and from Sogndal. Traveling from Sogndal can be challenging due to its remote location. The nearest major airport is in Bergen, about 4 hours away by car or bus. For international flights, you may need to connect through Oslo. Consider combining your visit with other Norwegian destinations for more efficient travel planning.

Major activities. Hiking in Jostedalsbreen National Park, skiing at Sogndal Skisenter, kayaking on Sognefjord, visiting Urnes Stave Church, exploring De Heibergske Samlinger open-air museum, and taking fjord cruises.

Recommended restaurants. Enjoy local cuisine at Fjøra Restaurant & Bar, savor fresh seafood at Malin Restaurant, try traditional Norwegian dishes at Sogndal Lodge & Guiding, or grab a quick bite at Raspeballen Café.

Aurland is a picturesque fjord village nestled in the heart of Norway's Sogn og Fjordane county. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Aurland offers breathtaking views of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the larger Sognefjord. The village is famous for its traditional Norwegian architecture, including the iconic Stegastein Viewpoint, a modern architectural marvel offering panoramic vistas. Aurland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, and the nearby Flåm Railway, one of the world's steepest train rides. The village's rich cultural heritage, seen in its historic buildings and local crafts, makes it a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Norwegian experience.

How to get there from Voss. From Oslo, take a 5-hour train ride to Flåm, then a 10-minute bus or taxi to Aurland. Alternatively, drive 4.5 hours from Oslo via E16. From Bergen, it's a 2.5-hour drive or a combination of train and bus via Voss and Flåm.

How to travel to and from Aurland. Aurland has no airport, so travel out requires a journey to larger cities. Bergen Airport (2.5 hours) or Oslo Airport (5 hours) are the nearest international hubs. Train and bus connections are available, but schedules can be limited. Renting a car offers more flexibility for departures.

Major activities. Visit Stegastein Viewpoint, explore Aurlandsfjord by kayak, hike local trails, ride the Flåm Railway, visit Aurlandsskoen shoe factory, explore historic Otternes Farm Yard, enjoy fjord cruises

Recommended restaurants. Aurland River Restaurant offers local cuisine with fjord views. Duehuset Pub serves casual fare. For traditional Norwegian dishes, try Marianne Bakeri og Kafe. Limited options, so reservations recommended.

Myrdal is a small mountain station in Norway, situated at the intersection of the Bergen Line and the Flåm Railway. It's not a traditional city, but a crucial transit point for travelers exploring the stunning Norwegian fjords. Myrdal's charm lies in its breathtaking surroundings, offering panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. It's a gateway to some of Norway's most spectacular natural scenery, including the nearby Flåm valley. While there's little in terms of amenities, Myrdal's significance as a transport hub and its location amidst awe-inspiring landscapes make it a noteworthy stop for those seeking to experience Norway's raw, untamed beauty.

How to get there from Voss. Myrdal is accessible primarily by train. From Bergen or Oslo, take the Bergen Line train directly to Myrdal station. If staying in Flåm, board the famous Flåm Railway for a scenic journey to Myrdal. There are no roads leading directly to Myrdal, emphasizing its remote, unspoiled nature.

How to travel to and from Myrdal. Myrdal is not an exit point for international travel. To return to the US, you'd need to take a train to larger cities like Bergen or Oslo, which have international airports. The journey from Myrdal to these cities is straightforward by train, making onward travel manageable despite Myrdal's remote location.

Major activities. Myrdal itself offers limited activities. The main draw is the spectacular train journey, especially on the Flåm Railway. Hiking enthusiasts can explore nearby trails. Photography opportunities abound with the stunning mountain scenery. For more activities, continue to Flåm or other nearby destinations.

Recommended restaurants. Myrdal has minimal dining options. There's a small cafe at the station offering basic refreshments and snacks. For proper meals, it's best to plan ahead or dine in nearby towns like Flåm or Voss, which offer a wider range of restaurants and local cuisine.

Gudvangen is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Norway's fjord country. Located at the end of Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers breathtaking views of steep mountains and cascading waterfalls. Gudvangen serves as a gateway to explore the majestic Norwegian fjords, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The village's name means 'God's place by the water,' reflecting its stunning natural beauty. With its rich Viking history and modern tourism facilities, Gudvangen provides a perfect blend of cultural exploration and outdoor activities, from fjord cruises to hiking and kayaking.

How to get there from Voss. From Bergen, take the E16 highway east for about 2.5 hours (150 km). Alternatively, join the 'Norway in a Nutshell' tour, which combines train, bus, and boat travel through scenic routes. Public buses also run from Voss to Gudvangen. For a scenic approach, take a fjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen.

How to travel to and from Gudvangen. Gudvangen is not a major transport hub. To leave, most travelers return to Bergen or continue to Oslo. The nearest airport is in Bergen, about 3 hours away. Public transport options are available but can be infrequent. Renting a car provides more flexibility for onward travel.

Major activities. Fjord cruises on Nærøyfjord, visiting the Viking Village, kayaking, hiking in surrounding mountains, photography, joining 'Norway in a Nutshell' tour, exploring nearby Undredal village famous for its goat cheese.

Recommended restaurants. Limited options in Gudvangen itself. Viking-themed restaurant in the Viking Village. Café at the tourist information center. For more choices, visit nearby Flåm or bring picnic supplies. Local specialties include fresh fish and Norwegian brown cheese.

Lærdal is a picturesque Norwegian village nestled in the heart of fjord country. Known for its well-preserved wooden buildings and rich cultural heritage, Lærdal offers a glimpse into traditional Norwegian life. The village is famous for its 18th-century Borgund Stave Church, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Lærdal's location along the Norwegian Scenic Route Aurlandsfjellet makes it an ideal base for exploring the stunning fjords and mountains of western Norway. The village also boasts the world's longest road tunnel, the Lærdal Tunnel, an engineering marvel stretching 24.5 km.

How to get there from Voss. From Bergen, take the E16 highway east for about 3 hours. Alternatively, catch a bus from Bergen bus station, which takes around 4 hours. If coming from Oslo, take the train to Flåm, then a bus to Lærdal. During summer, you can also reach Lærdal by ferry from Bergen, enjoying scenic fjord views along the way.

How to travel to and from Lærdal. Lærdal is well-connected by road, but lacks its own airport or train station. The nearest airports are in Bergen (3 hours away) and Oslo (5 hours away). Regular bus services connect Lærdal to major cities, making it relatively easy to travel to other parts of Norway or return to international airports for flights back to the US.

Major activities. Visit the Borgund Stave Church, explore the Norwegian Wild Salmon Center, hike in the surrounding mountains, drive the scenic Aurlandsfjellet road, tour the historic village center, fish in the Lærdal River, visit the Sogn Folk Museum.

Recommended restaurants. Try local specialties at Lærdalsøren Hotel's restaurant, enjoy fresh seafood at Lardalscafe, savor traditional Norwegian dishes at Lindstrøm Restaurant. For casual dining, visit Koven Kafé or grab a quick bite at the local bakery.

Balestrand is a picturesque village nestled on the northern shore of the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord. Known for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage, Balestrand offers visitors a quintessential Norwegian fjord experience. The village is famous for its well-preserved Swiss-style villas, a testament to its popularity among 19th-century European artists. With its dramatic mountain backdrop, serene fjord waters, and charming local community, Balestrand provides an ideal retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in Norway's breathtaking landscapes and tranquil way of life.

How to get there from Voss. From Bergen, take a 4-hour express boat ride directly to Balestrand. Alternatively, drive 3.5 hours along scenic routes. From Oslo, take a train to Flåm, then a ferry to Balestrand. Public buses also connect major cities to Balestrand during summer months.

How to travel to and from Balestrand. Traveling from Balestrand requires connections through larger cities. Express boats to Bergen offer the most direct route to international flights. Alternatively, bus connections to larger towns like Voss or Sogndal provide access to train services to Oslo or Bergen for onward travel.

Major activities. Hiking in the surrounding mountains, kayaking on the fjord, visiting the Balestrand Art Village, exploring the 12th-century St. Olaf's Church, taking fjord cruises, fishing, and cycling along scenic routes.

Recommended restaurants. Ciderhuset offers local cider and traditional Norwegian cuisine. Kviknes Hotel Restaurant serves high-quality dishes with fjord views. Balestrand Hotel Restaurant provides casual dining options. Several cafes offer light meals and local specialties.

Åndalsnes, a charming town nestled at the mouth of the Rauma River, is a gateway to Norway's stunning fjords and mountains. Known as the 'Mountaineering Capital,' it offers breathtaking views of the Romsdalsfjord and surrounding peaks. Åndalsnes is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class hiking, climbing, and scenic train rides. The town's compact size allows for easy exploration, while its proximity to natural wonders like Trollstigen and Romsdalen Valley makes it an ideal base for adventure seekers. Despite its small population, Åndalsnes punches above its weight in terms of natural beauty and outdoor activities.

How to get there from Voss. From Oslo, take a scenic 5.5-hour train ride on the Rauma Railway directly to Åndalsnes. Alternatively, drive along the E136 for about 5 hours. If flying, the nearest airport is Molde, about an hour's drive away. Local buses connect Åndalsnes to nearby towns and attractions.

How to travel to and from Åndalsnes. Åndalsnes has good transport links to major Norwegian cities. The nearest international airport is in Molde (1 hour drive), offering connections to Oslo for flights to the US and Canada. Train services connect to Oslo, making onward travel convenient. Rental cars are readily available for flexible travel options.

Major activities. Hiking to Rampestreken viewpoint, riding the Romsdalen Gondola, exploring Trollstigen, taking scenic drives through Romsdalen Valley, climbing at Troll Wall, fishing in Rauma River, visiting the Norwegian Mountaineering Centre, and enjoying the Rauma Railway journey.

Recommended restaurants. Sødahlhuset offers local cuisine with fjord views. Cafe Alexandra serves light meals and pastries. Hotel Aak's restaurant provides fine dining experiences. For quick bites, try Vertshuset or Trollveggen Camping's café. Local supermarkets are available for self-catering options.

Odda, nestled in Norway's stunning Hardangerfjord region, is a gateway to natural wonders. This small town offers breathtaking views of fjords, mountains, and glaciers. It's renowned as the starting point for the iconic Trolltunga hike, drawing adventure seekers worldwide. Odda balances outdoor thrills with charming Norwegian culture, featuring cozy cafes and historic sites. Its industrial past adds character, while surrounding waterfalls and pristine lakes create a picturesque setting. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, Odda provides an authentic Norwegian experience away from crowded tourist spots.

How to get there from Voss. From Bergen, take the E16 and Rv13 roads, a scenic 3-hour drive. Alternatively, catch a bus from Bergen bus station, which takes about 4 hours. If staying in Oslo, take a train to Voss, then a bus to Odda, a journey of about 6-7 hours. Rental cars offer flexibility for exploring the region.

How to travel to and from Odda. Traveling from Odda can be time-consuming. The nearest major airport is in Bergen, about 3 hours away by car or bus. Direct international flights are limited, often requiring connections through Oslo. Train services are available from Voss, connecting to major Norwegian cities. Rental cars provide the most flexibility for onward travel.

Major activities. Hiking Trolltunga, visiting Buarbreen Glacier, exploring Hardangerfjord by boat, photographing Låtefossen waterfall, touring the Norwegian Museum of Hydropower and Industry, skiing at Røldal in winter, and fishing in local lakes and rivers.

Recommended restaurants. Odda offers a mix of traditional Norwegian and international cuisine. Try Smeltehuset for local dishes, Rallaren Pub & Burger for casual fare, or Mamas Pizza for a quick bite. Cafe Mona serves great coffee and pastries. For fine dining, consider Brakanes Hotel restaurant.