Oslo to Trondheim

By the Viamo editorial team · Editor Terje Moy · Last updated July 2026 · 5 min read

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Oslo to Trondheim covers roughly 500 kilometres through the heart of Norway — up through the Gudbrandsdalen valley, across the Dovre plateau and down into Trondheim's medieval harbour. It is a manageable journey in a day by almost every mode, and each option comes with its own rhythm and price point.

The quickest way: flying

The flight takes around 55 minutes in the air, and several operators run many departures daily between Oslo Gardermoen and Trondheim Lufthavn Værnes. Add check-in time, security, the taxi or bus between Trondheim airport and the city centre, and the real door-to-door figure becomes closer to three to three-and-a-half hours. Domestic Norwegian fares can be surprisingly low if you book ahead and travel light; expect them to climb sharply as the departure date approaches. Flying is best value if you are connecting from elsewhere and are already at Gardermoen — or if your time is tight and budget is not.

The scenic way: the Dovre Line train

The Dovre Line is one of Norway's most celebrated rail journeys, and for good reason. Operated by Vy, the train rolls out of Oslo S and climbs steadily through forests and wide river valleys before cresting the stark, treeless Dovre plateau at around 1,000 metres above sea level — reindeer sightings are entirely plausible. The descent into Trondheim gives you views of the fjord before the train pulls into Trondheim Sentralstasjon, right in the city centre.

Journey time is approximately 6 hours 50 minutes to 7 hours 30 minutes depending on the service. Several departures run each day, including early-morning trains that get you into Trondheim before lunch. Reservations are not compulsory on most Vy services, though booking ahead is wise in summer and around Norwegian public holidays — prices are fixed by Vy rather than demand-based, so there is no advantage to booking months early beyond securing a seat.

If you hold an Interrail or Eurail pass, the Dovre Line is covered; check whether a seat reservation supplement is required for your specific train. The train arrives city-centre to city-centre, which is a real practical advantage over the plane.

The cheapest way: long-distance coach

Coach services between Oslo and Trondheim are operated by several companies, including Vy Buss and others, and take roughly 7–8 hours depending on the route and stops. Fares are generally lower than the train and well below last-minute flight prices. The bus is the right call if you are travelling on a tight budget, or if you prefer to sleep through the journey on a night departure and save on a night's accommodation.

Departures from Oslo Galleri Oslo or Oslo Bus Terminal, arriving at Trondheim's central bus terminal. Luggage policy and comfort vary between operators; check before you book if you are carrying large bags. FlixBus also serves this corridor at competitive prices — see the FlixBus guide for tips on using the network.

The scenic slow way: driving

The road journey by the most direct route (E6 north) is around 500 km and takes approximately 6–7 hours of driving, not counting fuel stops or diversions. The E6 is a well-maintained main road for most of the route, though mountain sections can be affected by weather in winter and spring — check road conditions before you go.

The drive has plenty of temptations along the way: Lillehammer and the Maihaugen open-air museum, the Jotunheimen mountain roads if you detour west, and the Dovrefjell National Park with its musk oxen. If you are travelling as a family or with luggage, the car is often the most practical option once you factor in petrol versus multiple train tickets. Budget for road tolls — Norway has numerous electronic toll points on main routes.

Which should you choose?

The train is the most relaxed and scenically rewarding option for most travellers, arriving city-centre to city-centre with no driving or transfer stress. Choose flying if your time is genuinely limited and you can find a low fare with minimal luggage. The coach is the budget pick, especially on an overnight departure. Drive only if you want the flexibility of a car in Trondheim or plan to stop at sights along the way.

Getting around Trondheim

Trondheim is a compact city and the centre is easily walkable from the station. The Nidaros Cathedral, the old town quarter of Nedre Elvehavn and the fortress of Kristiansten are all within reasonable walking distance. Local buses and a city bike scheme cover the wider city. If you are continuing on to Bergen or another destination, Trondheim is a natural stopover on a longer Norwegian loop.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the train from Oslo to Trondheim take?

Most direct services take between about 6 hours 50 minutes and 7 hours 30 minutes, depending on which departure you take and how many intermediate stops it makes.

Do I need to book in advance for the Dovre Line train?

Booking is not compulsory but is strongly recommended in summer and around Norwegian holidays, as trains fill up. Vy's fares are largely fixed, so early booking is about securing a seat rather than saving money.

Is there a night train from Oslo to Trondheim?

There is no dedicated overnight sleeper service on this route, but some evening departures arrive in Trondheim at a reasonable morning hour. Check Vy's current timetable for the latest options.

Can I take a bus instead of the train?

Yes. Long-distance coaches take about 7–8 hours and are typically the cheapest option. Several operators serve the route from Oslo Bus Terminal, including Vy Buss and FlixBus.