Norway is a land of Vikings and fjords, Aurora Borealis and the Midnight sun, snow, oil, and fish. These few words mostly contain everything the average tourist knows about this Scandinavian country. But that’s just the beginning. Norway is much more than the land in the Arctic Ring, which reminds you of landscapes covered with eternal snow and ice.
The number of tourists coming to Norway is on the rise. And the number of those who return to this country over again to get to know it better is also growing. Apart from its unrealistically beautiful and diverse nature, Norway also boasts an authentic culture, history, and architecture. You can best discover that by visiting its cities.
You must not skip Bergen on that road trip. Centuries ago, this picturesque town was one of the leading trade centers of northern Europe. Today, it preserved the remains reminiscent of that period (the old town of Bryggen), which is also the biggest attraction of Bergen. But it’s just one of the many in this town.
Although Bergen is walkable, you can’t visit all the famous sites in it in a short time. It can be exhausting and time-consuming. So when you want to make the most of your stay in a place, you can check out Goautos Bergen, rent a car, and become your own tour guide.
Benefits of Touring Bergen by Car
If you were to tour a town like Bergen by bus or tram, it would be a kind of adventure. But, honestly, public transportation in this city is pretty good, clean, and punctual, so it’s all a matter of good organization. Bergen also has cable cars and gondolas to get you to tourist attractions such as the peaks of the surrounding Ulriken and Fløyen mountains.
But when you want to explore any city, area, or country on your own, renting a car is the best option. Not only does a four-wheeler come in handy as you can pick it up as soon as you arrive in Bergen, but you will have greater freedom and control. Plus, you can manage your city touring time as you want.
Ulriken and Fløyen mountains are ideal for winter sports and outdoor activities lovers. If you have an adventurous spirit, you will want to ski or walk. You need equipment for that. Do you really want to haul it with all the time while being stuck with other people on the bus or gondola?
Probably no. Instead, get a rental car, pack your gear and embark on an outdoor adventure. Luckily, the peaks of mentioned mountains are accessible by car.
Why Rental Cars?
A rental is an excellent choice if you have no set itinerary and don’t want to be stuck in traffic. It gives you the ability to take your time and go wherever you want. You can use shortcuts, side roads, and some non-standard routes to avoid congestion and congestion. That can happen to you in Bergen, especially on access roads, so it’s good to know what alternatives you have.
When choosing a rental, always ask if the car includes a GPS. A GPS device navigates around traffic and finds the shortest routes. It helps you stay updated with traffic conditions and avoid getting stuck in jams. Some car hire companies offer these features when booking online. If not, feel free to ask on the spot.
Besided being better organized, you can tour Bergen it with style. Car rental allows you to choose whichever model you want, with all the features you need. So you can have unforgettable moments driving Bergen and the rest of Norway in the latest mid-size SUV or luxury sedan.
For those who prioritize savings, economy and compact cars are available. Rental companies in Norway have a large fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles. This country invests a lot in renewable energy and reducing pollution. So if you opt for this four-wheeler, you’ll do something good for the planet. And you can drive it without stress, as Norway has an excellent network of superchargers.
Who Can Rent a Car in Norway?
There are many rental car companies in Norway with various vehicles for everyone’s needs. Still, you must know the rules for driving in this country. You will need to have a valid driving license and be 21 or older. Most companies will charge you an extra fee for young drivers if you’re under 25. Also, some car categories, like full-size SUVs and minivans, have age restrictions.
An international driving license is necessary when you rent a car in Norway. Keep it together with your national license and proof of insurance when driving. A driver must have a clean record to rent a vehicle and at least one year of driving experience.
You need a credit or debit card when renting a four-wheeler. All rental companies pre-authorize credit cards at pick-up to cover toll roads and other fees mentioned in a rental agreement. Paying toll this way enables you to avoid congestion at toll booths.
The reserved amount can sometimes be higher than you think, so always have enough money on your cards. Don’t worry; the excess will be returned in a few hours after settling all debts. But just in case, have some cash with you for tolls, fuel, and unexpected costs.
Vehicle Check
You booked a vehicle online a few weeks ago and came to the office to pick it up. Before that, check the rental agreement and ensure that all the details are correct. Also, it’s recommended to inspect the vehicle. If there is any damage, signs of wearing, or signal warning, you must note that to the agent. If you think that can disturb you while driving, you can ask for a replacement car.
You also need to know whether the car has winter or studded tires for driving in the winter month, warning triangles, and fluoro-vests. Norway car rental companies usually take good care of their fleets, implying regular maintenance and tire replacement. Make sure to check this, as driving on snowy roads in Norway with summer tires can be fined and risky.
Insurance Options
Rental companies sometimes use sneaky methods to persuade people to buy their insurance policy for a rental vehicle. For example, they set high excesses, i.e., the amount you have to pay if a car is damaged or broken. As a result, the policies they sell are costlier than when bought from insurance companies.
You can avoid being ripped off by buying an independent excess policy. This third-party insurance can be a lifesaver in case of any traffic accident. But you should sign up for a newsletter alert from a car rental company to get updates on the weather and road conditions.
Whether you’re a tourist or a local in Bergen, renting a car is an essential part of your trip. By choosing a rental car in Norway, you can visit various tourist sites and get the most out of your time in this amazing country. It’s a more comfortable yet costlier option than a bus or taxi. Still, you can get a favorable deal for early booking and comparing different companies’ offers.
About The Author
Jim Pullman
Jim Pulman has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community. He is also passionate about automobiles.
