Bergen to Southwold: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The drive from Bergen, Norway, to Southwold, UK, spans over 1,200 kilometres, crossing two countries, sea crossings, and a patchwork of landscapes. It is one of the more unusual road trips in Europe, blending fjords with farmland.

A lesser-known fact: the section from Bergen to Stavanger follows the ancient Kongevegen (King's Road), a historic route used since the 17th century. This road was built to connect the royal residences, and parts of it still exist as narrow, winding stretches.

Driving time from Bergen to the Hirtshals ferry (Denmark) takes about 7 hours, then a 2-hour crossing, followed by 10 hours from Denmark to Southwold via the A1 and M25. Total driving (excluding ferry) is around 17 hours.

Route Overview at a Glance

For travelers asking how long to drive Bergen to Southwold (excluding ferries), the road portion is about 900 km, taking 11-12 hours of pure driving. But the question is it worth driving Bergen to Southwold is answered by the diversity of scenery: from Norway's fjords to Denmark's flatlands and England's coastal cliffs.

Our guide will help you identify the best stops Bergen to Southwold and uncover things to do between Bergen and Southwold. Use our how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities for a tailored experience.

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel costs vary significantly: Norway has expensive petrol (around £1.80 per litre), while Denmark and UK are cheaper (£1.40-£1.60). Plan to fill up in Denmark if possible.

• Gas stations in Norway are sparse on rural stretches (E39); fill up in towns like Haugesund or Sandnes.
• Denmark has many 24-hour unmanned stations along the E20.
• UK fuel prices are highest near motorway services; use supermarket petrol stations for savings.

Toll Roads and Payment

Norway has several tolls on the E39 (AutoPASS system), which bill your license plate automatically. You can pay later online, but ensure your rental car has the device.

• Price example: Bergen–Stavanger tolls total about 130 NOK (£10).
• Denmark has no tolls except for the Storebælt Bridge (355 DKK, £40) and Øresund Bridge (expensive; use ferry instead).
• UK road tolls include the Dartford Crossing (£2.50) but mostly toll-free.

Ferry Crossings

The key logistical challenge: You need two ferries (Kristiansand–Hirtshals and Esbjerg–Rotterdam) or one (Bergen–Newcastle, but that route is longer). Book in advance for summer.

• Kristiansand–Hirtshals: Fjord Line or Color Line, 2 hours, cars from €80-150.
• Esbjerg–Rotterdam: DFDS overnight ferry, 14 hours, cabins recommended, cars from €120-200.
• Alternative: drive via Sweden and the Øresund Bridge, but it adds 2 hours.

Climatic Conditions and Route Aesthetics

Weather is a major factor. Norway's coastal roads can have fog and rain in summer; in winter, snow is likely. Denmark is windy. UK is mild but damp.

• Best months: May-September for daylight and road conditions.
• Winter driving requires winter tyres in Norway (mandatory Nov-Apr).
• Route aesthetics: the most scenic stretch is the E39 from Bergen to Stavanger, especially the stretch near the Hardangerfjord.

Infrastructure Safety and Road Quality

Norwegian roads are generally well-maintained but narrow in places. Denmark has excellent motorways. UK roads vary (A-roads can be congested).

• Tunnels: there are many tunnels in Norway, some with sharp bends. Headlights mandatory.
• Emergency phones: available every 2 km on motorways in Denmark and UK.

Family and Child Suitability

Great for families with older kids (7+). Activities include nature hikes, beach stops, and ferry rides.

• Norway: Science Centre in Stavanger and the aquarium in Bergen.
• Denmark: Legoland in Billund just off the E20 (detour 30 min).
• UK: Southwold's beach huts and arcade– child-friendly.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Pets are allowed in many Norwegian and Danish hotels, and on ferries (some require kennels).

• UK pet rules: microchip, rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment (if coming from non-EU).
• Rest stops: many rest areas have walking areas for dogs.

Fatigue Management and Rest Zones

Long driving with ferry breaks. Plan 2-3 rest stops per driving day.

• Norway: Rastplass (rest stops) every 30-40 km, often with tables and toilets.
• Denmark: service centers every 20 km on E20 with cafes.
• UK: motorway services every 30 miles, but they can be crowded.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Off the beaten path near Bergen: the old town of Odda and the Trolltunga hike (requires 10-12 hours). Near Stavanger: the Flor og Fjære botanical garden on a island (ferry required). In Denmark: the abandoned WWII bunkers at Hanstholm. In England: the ruined castle at Framlingham.

• Odda: reachable via road 550 (winding, but gorgeous).
• Flor og Fjære: book ahead, includes lunch.

Norway: Fjords and Waterfalls

The drive from Bergen to Stavanger along the E39 passes through the Hardangerfjord region. Stop at the Steinsdalsfossen waterfall (free, accessible from the road).

• Lysefjord viewpoint at Preikestolen: a short hike from the car park, but requires 2 hours. Worth it for the sheer drop.
• Local commerce: roadside stalls sell fresh goat cheese (geitost) and berries in season.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

This route touches one UNESCO site: the Rjukan-Notodden Industrial Heritage Site (optional detour). But strictly on the path: the Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf in Bergen is a site itself.

• Bryggen: colourful wooden buildings dating from 1702, now shops and museums.
• Near Stavanger: the Jæren beaches are not UNESCO, but are protected landscapes.

Denmark: Flatlands and Windmills

After the ferry to Hirtshals, the E39 to Esbjerg crosses Jutland. The landscape is flat, with endless fields and wind turbines.

• Skagen Odde: northernmost point of Denmark, with a unique light that attracted painters.
• Local food: stop at a bakery for smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches).

England: Suffolk Coast and Countryside

From the Hook of Holland (if you take the Rotterdam ferry), drive to Southwold via the M25 and A12. East Anglia is flat, with heaths and marshes.

• Southwold's pier and lighthouse are iconic. Walberswick beach is a nature reserve.
• Local commerce: Southwold Brewery ales are a must-try.