Trondheim to Stavanger Road Trip: A Complete Guide

Driving from Trondheim to Stavanger covers roughly 660 kilometers along the E39 highway, a route that hugs Norway's rugged west coast. The journey typically takes 8-9 hours without stops, but the breathtaking scenery demands detours. Did you know that the E39 includes seven ferries and some of Europe's longest road tunnels, such as the 24.5-kilometer Bømlafjord Tunnel? This route showcases the transition from Trøndelag's rolling hills to Rogaland's fjord-carved coastline.

The question is it worth driving Trondheim to Stavanger? Absolutely yes, for those who crave dramatic landscapes and cultural gems. How long to drive Trondheim to Stavanger depends on your pace; plan at least two days to fully immerse. Best stops Trondheim to Stavanger include historic Kristiansund, the Atlantic Road, and the charming town of Ålesund. Things to do between Trondheim and Stavanger range from hiking to fjord cruises. For more on uncovering hidden gems, check out this guide: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Geographic shifts: from Trondheim's flat agricultural lands to the steep mountains of Møre og Romsdal, then to the fjord landscapes of Hordaland and Rogaland. The Atlantic Road (Storseisundet Bridge) offers a dizzying view over the ocean. On clear days, the peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps frame Ålesund.

• East of Kristiansund: Kvernes Stave Church (12th century) – a 5-minute detour from E39.
• Near Ålesund: Mount Aksla viewpoint – a 418-step climb rewarding panoramic views.
• Near Bergen: Fløyen mountain – a funicular ride for sunset views over the fjords.

For local commerce, stop at roadside stalls selling handmade wool sweaters (typically 1500-2000 NOK) or sample rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge) at café Fjordly in Surnadal. The town of Molde hosts the Moldejazz festival in July, but the best local craft is the hand-knitted Mariusgenser, available at yarn shops in Ålesund. Don't miss the salt-cured cod (klippfisk) from Kristiansund, a delicacy revived since the 19th century.

The E39 is a mix of modern highways, scenic coastal roads, and ferry crossings. Fuel stations are abundant along the main route, but less frequent in rural stretches between Kristiansund and Ålesund. Expect to pay around 20 NOK per liter for gasoline; a full tank (50 liters) costs about 1000 NOK. Diesel is slightly cheaper at 18-19 NOK/liter. For fuel efficiency, maintain steady speeds (80-90 km/h on coastal roads) and avoid rapid acceleration.

• Total ferry costs: approximately 600-900 NOK for a standard car.
• Toll roads: several sections between Bergen and Stavanger (e.g., via E39 in Sveio).
• Recommended fuel stops: Shell at Fannrem (south of Trondheim), Circle K in Molde, and Best in Bergen.

The route includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the West Norwegian Fjords – Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, accessible via a short detour from Ålesund (40 minutes) or Gudvangen (2 hours from Bergen). The Hanseatic Wharf in Bergen is also a UNESCO site. Plan extra time to visit these highlights.

The E39 is generally well-maintained, but narrow sections near ferry terminals require caution. Night illumination is limited between Kristiansund and Ålesund, so drive during daylight. Tunnels like the Bømlafjord Tunnel (26 km) have emergency phones every 500 meters. For families, the Atlantic Sea Park in Ålesund is a must – an aquarium with interactive pools. At Geiranger, the Geirangerfjord Center offers a children's activity room.

• Pet-friendly: Most ferries allow dogs on deck; many hotels like Quality Hotel Ålesund welcome pets. Rest stops with grass areas exist at Slyngstad rest area (E39 near Vestnes).
• Fatigue management: Safe parking spots include the Rastplass at Surnadalsøra (picnic tables) and the Skodje rest area (toilets and vending machines). Plan a nap at a scenic viewpoint like Svinestranda where parking is free.

Hidden off-route spots: just 5 minutes from the E39 near Gjemnes, the abandoned farm of Reinsfjell offers a quiet hike with views of the fjord. Another secret is the Vistdal Church (1655) with its unique rose paintings, a 4-minute detour via county road 62. For a coffee break, Kaffebrenneriet in Bergen is pet-friendly and serves local brew.