Bergen to Bodø Road Trip: Ultimate Guide to Norway's E39

The drive from Bergen to Bodø along the E39 and E6 covers roughly 1,200 kilometers and spans seven ferry crossings. It is one of Europe's most spectacular coastal routes, crossing the Arctic Circle at 66°33' N near Saltfjellet.

Unlike a simple point-to-point journey, this trip requires careful planning due to ferry schedules and variable weather. The journey typically takes 3-4 days of driving, allowing for key stops.

Key highways: E39 from Bergen to Trondheim, then E6 north to Bodø. Ferries include Halhjem-Sandvikvåg, Knarvik-Steinestø, and others. Total driving time is around 20 hours without stops.

For assistance in planning, consult how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road quality on E39 and E6 is generally high, but sections of single-lane road with passing places exist, especially on ferry approaches. Tunnels are common; some are long (over 5 km) and unlit. Use headlights at all times.

• Speed limits: 80 km/h on most sections, 60-70 km/h on narrow roads. Enforcement is strict.
• Winter driving: October-April requires winter tires and caution. Snow clearance is efficient but delays occur.
• Family suitability: Many stops have playgrounds and family-friendly attractions. The Science Center in Trondheim and Atlantic Sea Park in Ålesund are great for kids.

Pet-friendly: Most ferries accept pets in designated areas; some charge a fee. Hotels and cabins often allow dogs. Rest stops with grassy areas for dog walks are common.

Fatigue management: Plan stops every 2 hours. Recommended rest zones include Gaularfjellet viewpoint, Dovrefjell National Park, and Saltfjellet rest area. Ferry rides double as short breaks.

The E39 is Norway's main west coast highway, featuring a series of fjords requiring ferry crossings. Each ferry has a timetable, and some require reservations during summer. Ferries are included in the road network and are generally reliable.

• Ferries: Halhjem-Sandvikvåg (60 min), Knarvik-Steinestø (30 min), Ølensvåg-Hjellestad (20 min), and more. Check schedules on ferje.no.
• Toll roads: Several tunnels and bridges have tolls, payable via AutoPASS or online post-trip.
• Fuel stations: Common along E39 and E6, but sparse between Mo i Rana and Bodø (around 150 km gap). Plan ahead.

Driving time from Bergen to Bodø is about 20-22 hours pure driving, but with ferries and stops, budget 3-4 days. The best time to drive is May to September for longer daylight and milder weather.

Is it worth driving Bergen to Bodø? Absolutely for the scenery, but be prepared for a slow pace due to ferries and winding roads.

The route crosses three distinct geographical zones: the fjord landscape of southern Norway, the mountainous coast of Møre og Romsdal, and the high Arctic plateau of Nordland. Each offers unique vistas.

• Fjords: Sognefjord, Nordfjord, and Trondheimsfjord are visible from the road or short detours.
• Mountains: Trollstigen (toll road) near Åndalsnes, and the Dovrefjell range near Oppdal.
• Arctic Circle: Marked by a globe monument on E6 at Saltfjellet, where reindeer often roam.

Local commerce includes roadside farm stands selling berries, cheese, and crafts. In larger towns like Ålesund and Trondheim, seafood restaurants offer fresh cod and salmon.

Natural attractions: Geirangerfjord (UNESCO), a 30-minute detour from E39; Runde bird island near Ålesund; and Lofoten islands if you extend from Bodø.