Ferries from Germany to Norway
If you're looking on how to travel from the UK to Norway you can also consult our guide from the UK to Norway.
These are the best routes from Germany to Norway
Route to Kiel for the Direct Ferry to Oslo:
- Drive to Kiel in Germany for the direct ferry to Oslo, offering a convenient and scenic journey.
Travel via Denmark:
- From Germany, continue north to Hirtshals, Copenhagen, or Frederikshavn, where you can take ferries to various Norwegian ports.
Starting from the UK?
- Take one of the ferries to Holland:
- From Holland, drive to Kiel or Denmark to connect to Norwegian ferries.
By planning your route via the continent, you'll find several excellent options for reaching Norway.
Map: ferry from Germany to Norway
There is only one direct crossing from Germany to Norway. The crossing from Kiel to Oslo. Further down below you can find some alternatives.
About the crossings from Germany to Norway
Travelling from Germany to Norway offers several options, depending on how much driving you want to do. You can choose between long ferry crossings with minimal driving or shorter crossings with more driving. Here's a summary of the main routes:
1. Direct Ferry: Kiel to Oslo
- The only long-distance ferry from Germany to Norway.
- A comfortable cruise ferry with luxury facilities and onboard entertainment.
- Ideal for those seeking a relaxing journey.
Cruising in Comfort: Long-Distance Ferry Options from Germany to Norway
The Kiel-Oslo Crossing with Color Line
- Journey: Operates overnight, offering a relaxing start to your holiday.
- Onboard Amenities:
- Dining: A range of restaurants to suit all tastes.
- Entertainment: Live shows, bars, and activities for children.
- Comfort: Luxurious cabins and plenty of space to unwind.
- Holiday Begins Onboard: The cruise ferry transforms your travel into an enjoyable part of the trip.
Flexible Travel Options
- Round Trip Variation: Sail from Kiel to Oslo and return via Denmark, as many ferries connect Norway and Denmark. Or return from Gothenburg in Sweden to Kiel.
- Cost-Effective Planning: Compare fares and consider alternative departure days, as prices increase as boats fill up.
2. Via Denmark: Hirtshals and Frederikshavn
Drive to the Fast Ferries in Northern Denmark
Northern Denmark offers excellent ferry routes for travellers heading to Norway. These routes provide a mix of fast crossings and scenic journeys to destinations like Stavanger, Bergen, and Oslo.
Key Information:
- Affordability: These routes are often more cost-effective compared to long-distance ferries.
- Flexibility: Choose from quick ferries to southern Norway or longer crossings to western destinations like Stavanger and Bergen.
- Drive about 220 miles from the German border (Flensburg) to northern Denmark, 5 hours from Hamburg.
- Best for those who enjoy driving and flexibility.
3. Via Sweden
Another option for self-drivers is to go through Sweden. From southern Sweden to the Norwegian border, it is about 300 miles. You do have to get into Sweden first. This can be done with a direct ferry connection, but you can also go to Sweden via Denmark.
- Drive or take a ferry to southern Sweden and continue about 300 miles to the Norwegian border.
- Entry into Sweden is possible via:
- A direct ferry from Germany.
- Travelling through Denmark first.
4. Alternative via Copenhagen
- Ferry to Oslo from Copenhagen (Denmark) is available.
- Requires an additional drive to Copenhagen, making it slightly less convenient.
Tip: Use our ferry route map to plan the best option based on your preferences for driving and sailing. Each route offers unique advantages for your journey to Norway!
Drive from Germany to Norway via Sweden
There are several ways to reach southern Sweden, but they can be roughly divided into two main routes.
You can drive all the way to Norway via the bridge between Denmark and Sweden, which connects the cities of Copenhagen and Malmö. While it is possible to drive to Copenhagen, many people prefer to take the shorter and relatively cheaper ferry crossings from Rostock to Gedser or Puttgarden to Rødby. Please note that a toll is required for the motorway to Copenhagen. If you purchase a ticket with Scandlines for these crossings, you can also buy a ticket for the bridge at the same time.
The second route involves taking one of several ferries that go directly from northeastern Germany to Sweden. Keep in mind that upon arrival in Sweden, you will still have more than 310 miles (500 kilometres) to drive if you are heading towards Norway.
On board, ferries and route map
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- Kiel to Oslo route
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- Kiel to Oslo
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- Kiel and Copenhagen to Oslo
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- Aboard the Color Line
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- The luxurious cruise ships from Color Line on the Kiel Oslo route
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- Color Line ferry to Norway
Travel tip Norway
Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go. The weather in Norway can be unpredictable and it’s important to be prepared for any conditions. Also, make sure to bring warm clothing and rain gear just in case. Finally, don’t forget your camera! Norway is a beautiful country with stunning scenery that you won’t want to miss.
Prices and availability for this crossing.
What is the sailing schedule and the best alternative?
To check the sailing schedule and timetable for this crossing, and to find the best alternative, simply fill in the booking module for ferries to Norway. This tool will provide up-to-date options, times, and routes to suit your travel needs.
