Round trip from Stockholm to Norway
Two Week Road Trip: Explore exciting highlights in Norway
Marielle Janotta
08.05.2024
∼ 15 min. read
Days: 14
Total distance: ~ 2.400 km
Travel to the diverse Norwegian cities of Trondheim and Ålesund and experience some of the country's most beautiful natural wonders.
In this article, you will find our 14-day road trip from Stockholm to Norway, where many exciting natural highlights and great cities await you.
Table of contents
Round trip from Stockholm to Norway
Day 1: Stockholm
Your road trip starts after your arrival in Stockholm and will take you all the way to Norway. To pick up your campervan, you will need to go to the Coop parking lot in Vinsta. To get there, take the subway to Johannelund station and walk to the pick-up point in just a few minutes.
And off you go! The first stage of your road trip takes you almost 250 kilometers north, where you will reach the beautiful Swedish Baltic coast around Söderhamn in the evening.
On the way, you will soon pass the Swedish city of Uppsala, which is definitely worth a stopover. Uppsala is a charming university city with St. Erik's Cathedral, the tallest church building in Scandinavia. How about a walk in the Botanical Gardens or a visit to the neighboring Uppsala Castle? The Gustavianum Museum, which is part of the university, is also worth a visit. In the afternoon, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the cafés and parks by the river Fyrisån before making your way to Söderhamn.
Once you arrive in Söderhamn, you have a large selection of campsites and free pitches in the area. You will also find supermarkets here to stock up on supplies for the two-week trip ahead. Bear in mind that food prices are significantly higher in Norway so shop before you cross the border after day 3.
On the first day, your road trip takes you past the beautiful city of Uppsala. Copyright: Samir Hadi / imagebank.sweden.se
Day 2: Snäckens Naturreservat
After spending the first night in your campervan and hopefully starting the day with a steaming cup of coffee, the journey takes you to the first natural highlight. It's only a 30-minute drive from Söderhamn to Snäckens Naturreservat, so you'll have plenty of time to hike and explore.
An idyllic landscape of rocks, dunes, wild beach bays and breezy pine forests awaits you here. The trees are shaped by the stormy coastal climate and do not grow particularly tall and sometimes quite crooked. However, many of them have been growing here for more than 300 years. The extensive, quiet pebble and sandy beaches are ideal nesting grounds for numerous bird species, which you can observe on your excursion.
You finally set off around midday and drive along the coast to Sundsvall before your road trip takes you west. After a total of 300 kilometers, you reach your destination for today in Östersund, where you spend the night.
Pure nature awaits you on the second day of your round trip in Snäckens Naturreservat. Copyright: Arvid Skywalker / Unsplash
Day 3: Östersund
After a restful night, the last day in Sweden awaits you for the time being before you roll across the Norwegian border tonight. Reminder - don't forget to do your shopping ;)
But first you have time to explore Östersund - an interesting city with a picturesque location on Lake Storsjön. Set off on a long walk along the lakeshore or visit the Jämtli open-air museum, which gives you an exciting insight into the history of the region. On the island of Frösön, you can also visit a viewing tower and enjoy the view of Östersund and Lake Storsjön.
While the Storsjöyran Festival awaits you in Östersund in summer, in winter the city is transformed into a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts with excellent cross-country ski trails.
After getting to know Östersund, your journey now continues to the Norwegian city of Trondheim, which you reach after 260 kilometers.
The third day of the road trip is spent at the beautiful Lake Storsjön and in the city of Östersund. Copyright: Peter van der Meulen / Unsplash
Day 4: Trondheim
Your first morning in Norway begins in Trondheim, one of the oldest cities in the country, which is characterized by both historic buildings and modern elements. The city impresses with its picturesque location on the Trondheimsfjord and its many sights. For example, visit Nidaros Cathedral, a Gothic-style church dating back to the 13th century, and be impressed by its impressive architecture. Stroll through the charming Bakklandet district, which is definitely worth a detour with its colorful wooden houses, cafés and small boutiques. The city's most famous photo spot also awaits you here, as you gaze at the historic house fronts from the Old Town Bridge.
Trondheim is also known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous theaters, museums and galleries. This includes the Trondheim Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Norwegian and international works of art. Here you can discover paintings by Edvard Munch, Christian Krohg and other important artists. The museum also offers changing exhibitions of contemporary art. A must for art lovers!
Other worthwhile attractions await you in the area around Trondheim. How about a visit to Munkholmen, a charming island with a historic fortress and magnificent fjord views? The Bymarka hiking area is also worth a trip and takes you through dense forests in the middle of Norwegian nature.
In the afternoon, you make your way to Eide, where you look for a place to spend the night after almost 200 kilometers. The first ferry crossing of your journey awaits you between Halsa and Kanestraum. Bear in mind that you may have to queue here and need a little more time.
On the fourth day, the Norwegian adventure begins in the exciting city of Trondheim. Copyright: Simon Williams / Unsplash
Day 5: Atlantic Ocean Road
After breakfast, you are just 20 kilometers away from the first Norwegian Scenic Route of your road trip. These are particularly beautiful routes that promise an exciting drive along scenic highlights in Norway.
The so-called “Atlantic Ocean Road” is one of them and connects the islands of Straumsholmen, Skarvøya, Hulvågen, Skipsholmen, Lyngholmen, Eldhusøya, Geitøya, Storholmen, Litllauhøya and Roholmen. The 8 km long road is known for its breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. Drive along the road and stop at the viewing platforms to enjoy the fantastic scenery. If the weather gods are not on your side today, that's not so bad. The route is particularly impressive in stormy weather, when the waves crash against the bridges. If you drive the road in both directions, you will always discover new photo spots and perspectives along the way.
Your road trip then continues inland, where you will experience Norway's imposing mountains up close for the first time. After 100 km and another ferry crossing, you reach the small town of Åndalsnes, where you spend the night by the Isfjord with a fascinating mountain view.
On the fifth day, your round trip takes you along the famous Atlantic Ocean Road. Copyright: Marielle Janotta
Day 6: Trollstigen
Today you are going to get to know one of Norway's most famous sights - so what are you waiting for? There, where snow still glistens on the slopes well into summer, narrow hairpin turns lead you up the Trollstigen after just 25 minutes by car.
The winding roads and spectacular waterfalls of Trollstigen create an unforgettable landscape. Opened in 1936 and initially consisting only of gravel roads, Trollstigen now attracts around half a million travelers from all over the world every year. Once you have made it past the turns, you should definitely stop at the visitor center. After a short walk, you will reach a viewpoint 400 meters above the road. Enjoy the magnificent view and watch the cars wind their way through the hairpin turns.
Due to the long winter, the Trollstigen is only open from May to October. Many passages are very narrow and in some places only one lane can be used. Make sure you drive with foresight and use the passing points to let oncoming vehicles through.
At midday you follow this route for another 120 kilometers to Ålesund, where you will spend the night tonight.
Norway's next famous road awaits you on the Trollstigen. Copyright: Marielle Janotta
Day 7: Ålesund
This morning you have time to take a closer look at the harbor town of Ålesund. The town is known for its unique Jugendstil architecture and is spread over several islands. During your visit, don't miss the view from the summit of Aksla. You don't need to be particularly mountain-savvy for this, as 418 steps lead you all the way up from Byparken City Park. Nevertheless, sturdy footwear and a bit of stamina are necessary for a successful ascent.
Another worthwhile attraction is the Atlantic Sea Park, a seawater aquarium on the city's rocky coast, where you can get to know many different sea creatures. For architecture enthusiasts and fans of strolling through pretty alleyways, Ålesund is one of the most beautiful towns in Norway. The old town, from the harbor to Hellebroa Bridge and Ålesund Church, is definitely worth a visit.
In the afternoon, you should already be on your way to your next destination. It is so impressive that it is worth planning a little more time here. From Ålesund, your road trip continues along the picturesque coast. Take the ferry from Sulesund to Hareid and after a total of 2 hours you will finally reach your destination on the island of Runde, where you can set off on your first exploratory hikes.
Don't miss the phenomenal view from Aksla in Ålesund. Copyright: Nicolai Berntsen / Unsplash
Day 8: Runde
Today your travel day is all about nature, as Runde Island is home to thousands of seabirds, including the cute puffins you may have seen in a wildlife documentary.
Runde has excellent hiking opportunities with marked trails that lead you to the best vantage points to observe the local birdlife. Enjoy the sweeping views of the open sea and surrounding islands. The picturesque cliffs and steep slopes offer breathtaking photo opportunities. In the high season between May 1 and August 31, you can also take part in a boat tour to discover the birds from the water.
Your journey then takes you back inland, where you will visit one of Norway's most famous fjords. After a 2-hour drive, you will reach the ferry port of Hellesylt, where you will now travel by ferry to the unique Geirangerfjord. Where cruise ships usually sail and explore the breathtaking nature, your ferry route will also pass. And along the way, you can marvel at the world-famous “Seven Sisters” waterfalls and watch sea eagles circling in the sky.
In the town of Geiranger you have reached today's overnight spot. Here, for example, you will find a fantastically beautiful campesite.
Exploring nature on the island of Runde on the eighth day of the road trip. Copyright: Chris-Håvard Berge / Unsplash
Day 9: Geiranger
Today you start the day with a wonderful fjord view and can enjoy your breakfast right by the water. After a stroll through the small village of Geiranger, where you are sure to find a little souvenir, you make your way to the most beautiful Geirangerfjord viewpoints.
If you wish, you can take a detour with your camper to Ørnesvingen Viewpoint or drive directly to Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint, which is on your itinerary anyway. Afterwards, there are lots of hairpin turns through the rugged rocky slopes, transforming your road trip into a breathtaking sightseeing tour. In no time at all, you will reach the Dalsnibba Utsiktspunkt at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, which on a clear day gives you an unforgettable view over the Geirangerfjord and the mountains.
Now you have 2.5 hours of driving ahead of you through the Norwegian highlands. As you pass snow-covered areas and glacial lakes, you will feel like you are in another world. Dombås is your final destination for the day.
Marvel at the Geirangerfjord from Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint on your Norway round trip. Copyright: Marielle Janotta
Day 10: Dovrefjell National Park
It's best to start the day early as an impressive excursion to Dovrefjell National Park with its alpine landscapes and diverse flora and fauna awaits you. Here you will find an extensive network of trails with great hiking opportunities, allowing you to get to know the wilderness better. Keep your eyes wide open along the way and you might spot some of the impressive musk oxen that live here freely and were reintroduced many decades ago.
The “Snøhetta” viewpoint, which is located in the middle of nature, is particularly worthwhile. It is a 1.5 km and 30-minute walk from the parking lot to the viewpoint, where you may be lucky enough to spot reindeer or musk oxen. On the way back, you can stop off at the Wild Reindeer Visitor Center, where you will find an exhibition and lots of interesting information about the national park.
Important: The Visitor Center and Snøhetta Viewpoint are only open between mid-June and October. As this area is an important habitat for wild reindeer and musk oxen, the animals need plenty of rest in the colder months to find suitable grazing areas. In addition, snowfall is always to be expected in the low season due to the high altitude.
In the afternoon, your route takes you back to Dombås and finally to Lillehammer, where you arrive after a total of 2.5 hours. Here you will find several campsites, rest stops and opportunities for free overnight parking in the area.
The tenth day of your Norway road trip takes you to Dovrefjell National Park. Copyright: Hans Petter Sørensen / FarOutFocus – Visit Norway
Day 11: Lillehammer
The place where you start your day today was the site of the 1994 Winter Olympics. But Lillehammer has even more to offer! Visit the open-air museum Maihaugen and learn more about the history of Norway, enjoy the view of Lake Mjøsa and the birdlife at the Bird Watching Tower or spend time with cultural impressions at the Lillehammer Art Museum. If you want to feel a bit of the Olympics, the “Norges Olympiske Museum” or a trip to the Lysgårds ski jump is the right thing for you.
Another excursion tip is Hunderfossen Adventure Park, an amusement park that opened in 1984 and offers more than 60 attractions. The park became famous after the release of the movie “Troll” and the Netflix series “Lilyhammer”.
Now your journey continues southwards as you drive along the long shore of Lake Mjøsa. Look out for a pretty stretch of beach on the way and relax before turning east and reaching your destination for today in Elverum after just under 90 km.
Hunderfossen Adventure Park is located around 20 minutes by car from the Norwegian city of Lillehammer. Copyright: Joakim Mangen - Hunderfossen
Day 12: Elverum
Your day starts today at the swirling Glomma River, the longest river in the country, which stretches 621 kilometers through Norway and finally flows into the Oslofjord. Furthermore, Elverum is a charming destination for history and nature enthusiasts. The “Norwegian Forestry Museum” is a highlight of the town and shows the history of Norwegian forestry, hunting and fishing. There is also an open-air museum on the opposite bank of the river.
As Elverum is otherwise a rather quiet little town, it is worth taking a trip to Korpreiret Gorge, which you can reach in 25 minutes by car. There is an almost 6 km circular hiking trail here, which starts at the “Korperud” parking lot and leads to two impressive waterfalls.
In the afternoon, after driving around 120 km, you will reach the Swedish border again just before the small village of Grundforsen. Whether you spend the night on the Norwegian or Swedish side is up to you.
The twelfth day of the road trip is spent along the River Glomma, the longest river in Norway. Copyright: Christina R. Stryger / Unsplash
Day 13: Falun
If you want to get up early today, you can visit the nearby Fulufjället National Park. The landscape is characterized by tundra and can be explored on numerous hiking trails. There are several entrances to the park, the most famous of which is at Björbäcksstugan, near the impressive 93-metre-high Njupeskär waterfall. On the 3.9 km long circular hiking trail “Njupeskärsleden” you will find great viewpoints, picnic areas and the information center “Naturum Fulufjället”. A map with all parking lots, hiking trails and facilities can be found here.
Otherwise, after a leisurely breakfast, you can set off directly towards Falun, where you will arrive after just under 3 hours. Falun is a very famous Swedish town, as it is home to the large historic copper mine, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. Get to the bottom of the mining history or take part in exciting underground tours.
In the evening, you can find a relaxing spot to spend the night on the shores of Lake Runn, which is right next to the town of Falun.
On day 13 of the trip, on the way back to Stockholm, you will reach the Swedish town of Falun with its famous copper mine. Copyright: Peter Trones / Unsplash
Day 14: Stockholm
It's almost time to say goodbye. After leaving Norway already behind you, you will reach the starting point of your road trip in the Swedish capital Stockholm today. After less than 3 hours of driving, you finally roll back into the Coop parking lot and the drop-off point for your campervan.
If you still have time, you can explore beautiful Stockholm or otherwise start your journey home. We hope that you will take many unforgettable memories home with you and have enjoyed your Norway road trip to the absolute fullest!
In Stockholm endet dein Norwegen Roadtrip nach 14 Tagen. Copyright: Marielle Janotta
_edited.png)
