Interrail passes are a great value way for European residents to explore their continent by rail, and Norway is no exception. Here’s how it works.
Travelling by train is one of the most scenic ways to explore Norway. From snow-dusted mountains to lush valleys, railways wind through some of the country's most dramatic terrain, and it’s all surprisingly easy to access with an Interrail pass.
For European residents, Interrail offers a flexible and cost-effective way to experience Norway’s natural wonders without the need to rent a car or book expensive domestic flights.
Whether you're planning a slow journey up the coast or a cross-country adventure packed with panoramic views, this guide explains how to make the most of Interrail in Norway.
What is Interrail, and Who Can Use It?
Interrail is a rail pass for European citizens or residents, allowing flexible train travel across 30 participating countries. If you’re from outside Europe—including the USA, Canada, or Australia—you’ll need a Eurail pass instead, which offers similar benefits.
Interrail offers two main types of passes:
- The Global Pass, valid in multiple countries (ideal for a broader Scandinavia trip).
- The One Country Pass, which gives unlimited access to the national rail network of a single country, such as Norway.
Important: Norwegian residents can’t use the One Country Pass for Norway. Instead, they can use it in other countries like Sweden or Denmark.
Why Interrail Makes Sense in Norway
Norway is beautiful but expensive, especially when it comes to transport. Domestic flights may save time, but they miss the dramatic scenery. Long-distance trains are slow, but that's exactly the appeal.
“Exploring Scandinavia by train is arguably the best way to see these beautiful countries,” wrote Laura Cody of Travelling Weasels. “With the time and annoyance I saved … I was able to explore even more of these cool countries.”
Norway’s main rail lines pass through some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe, and an Interrail pass allows you to hop between cities and remote towns without worrying about individual ticket prices.
How Interrail Works in Norway
The Norway One Country Pass offers a set number of travel days within a one-month period. You can choose between 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 travel days. On each travel day, you can take as many trains in Norway as you like.
Sample prices (subject to change):
- 3 days: €145
- 4 days: €167
- 5 days: €188
- 6 days: €206
- 8 days: €239
You’ll need to make seat reservations for long-distance journeys, which cost €6.30 per train. This is especially important during peak season or when booking scenic trains like the Bergen Line.
You can start your travel at any time after midnight on the first day of validity. Journeys must be completed by midnight of the last day.
You’ll also need to log your trips using Interrail’s mobile app or paper travel diary. If a journey isn’t recorded, it may not be considered valid if you’re checked by staff.
Top tip: The Flåm Railway is not included in Interrail passes, but you do get a 30% discount on the fare. Read more about the Flåm Railway here.
Interrail passes are flexible, but they’re not entirely carefree. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Reservations: Required on most long-distance trains in Norway. Reserve early during holidays or summer.
- Seat Comfort: Norwegian trains are known for comfort, with sockets, cafés, clean toilets and even play areas for kids.
- Booking: Use the Interrail app or Vy.no to check timetables and make reservations.
Norway’s Top Destinations by Train
Norway’s railway network is not dense, but it punches far above its weight when it comes to scenic drama. These are the standout lines to consider:
Oslo to Bergen (Bergensbanen):This world-famous route crosses the Hardangervidda mountain plateau and reaches over 1,200 metres above sea level. In winter, snowfields stretch for miles; in summer, it's all green valleys and rushing rivers.
Oslo to Trondheim (Dovrebanen): Crossing Gudbrandsdalen valley and passing the iconic Dovrefjell mountains, this Oslo to Trondheim route is also the gateway to the Rauma Line if you change at Dombås.
Trondheim to Bodø (Nordlandsbanen): This is mainland Norway's longest train journey and the only one to cross the Arctic Circle. It takes you through forests, lakes, and remote northern landscapes.
Dombås to Åndalsnes (Raumabanen): Often overlooked, this short but spectacular branch line features towering cliffs, waterfalls, and fjord views. The Rauma Railway is a true hidden gem.
Narvik to Sweden: While not part of the Norwegian network, the route between Narvik and Kiruna (Sweden) with connections on to Stockholm is covered by Interrail. It's the northernmost train line in the world with scheduled passenger service.
When to Travel: Seasons and Sights
Norway’s landscapes transform dramatically with the seasons, and train travel offers a front-row seat to the changing scenery.
Summer, from June to August, brings the most reliable weather and long daylight hours—perfect for admiring high mountain plateaus and shimmering lakes under a bright northern sun.
Autumn arrives with bursts of golden and red foliage, especially striking in forested valleys along routes like the Dovre Line. Fewer tourists during September and October also make it a more relaxed time to travel.
Winter, lasting from November through March, turns the country into a snowy wonderland. The Bergen and Dovre lines are especially beautiful, with snow-dusted peaks and frosted trees creating a postcard-perfect backdrop.
Spring, from April to May, brings its own charm, as melting snow gives rise to gushing waterfalls, blooming wildflowers, and green valleys just beginning to wake from the long winter.
Is Interrail a Good Way to See Norway?
If you plan to take multiple long-distance train journeys within a month, Interrail can offer fantastic value. Even a single round trip from Oslo to Bergen and back could cost over €200 at full fare, which is about the same as a 4-day pass.
But the true value lies in flexibility. Want to jump off in a mountain town for a spontaneous overnight stay? Interrail makes that easy. For students, photographers, and anyone wanting to take it slow, the pass unlocks a richer experience
Norway rewards those who linger. With an Interrail pass, you’re free to chase the midnight sun to Bodø, linger by a fjord in Flåm, or wake up to snowfall in a quiet mountain village.
So if you’re ready to see Norway slowly, beautifully, and on your own terms, the Interrail pass might just be your ticket to ride.
