The Train from Oslo to Bergen: Europe’s Most Beautiful Rail Journey

The Bergensbanen departs Oslo Central Station several times a day. On the voyage—which averages seven hours—the high-altitude railway line roars across the Hardangervidda plateau, passing landscapes more breathtaking than you can imagine. It barrels through green valleys, sparkling lakes, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, gushing waterfalls, winding rivers, dramatic fjords and a total of 180 tunnels before rolling into its terminus. To say that the train from Oslo to Bergen has the power to make you focus on the journey and forget about the destination isn't overselling it, not by a long shot.

BTW there's no wrong season to take the 308-mile trip. Fall means colorful leaves and epic leaf peeping. Winter brings snowy scenes that would leave Jack Frost speechless. Spring casts a verdant spell upon the countryside. And just thinking about the summer sun reflecting off the glacial lakes is triggering our wanderlust.

You can buy tickets up to 90 days in advance on the Vy website. In terms of seat selection, both sides of the train offers eye-popping vistas. If you want the best jealousy-inducing Instagram potential, it's advisable to reserve a spot on the left (south facing). A one-way ticket costs somewhere in the ballpark of $43—depending on the class and when you book. To us, that seems like a very fair price to pay for passage on Europe's most beautiful rail journey.