When undertaking the scenic Norway in a Nutshell journey, your ability to pick seats varies depending on the specific train segment. Generally, if you book the tour yourself, you have the option to choose seats on certain sections of the Bergen Railway, while seat selection on the Flåm Railway is not possible.
Understanding Seat Selection for Norway in a Nutshell
Optimizing your seat choice can significantly enhance your experience, offering better views of the stunning Norwegian landscapes. Here's a breakdown of how seat selection works for different parts of the journey:
Seat Selection on the Bergen Railway
If you are booking the Norway in a Nutshell journey on your own, you can choose your seats when reserving tickets for the Bergen Railway sections. This applies to key routes that are part of the tour, such as:
- Bergen to Voss
- Bergen to Myrdal
- Oslo to Myrdal
This flexibility allows you to select preferred seats in advance, which can be crucial for securing desirable window views.
Seat Selection on the Flåm Railway
For the iconic Flåm Railway, which runs between Myrdal and Flåm and is renowned for its steep gradient and spectacular scenery, direct seat selection is not possible when booking. Passengers are typically assigned seats upon boarding or seating is on a first-come, first-served basis within the carriages.
Practical Tips for Securing a Window Seat
Even when direct seat selection isn't an option, or if you want to ensure the best possible window view on any train segment, here are some practical tips:
- Arrive Early: For sections where seats are not pre-assigned or if you're hoping to grab a specific window spot, arriving at the platform well in advance of the departure time and being among the first to board can significantly increase your chances of securing a desirable window seat.
- Queue Strategically: When boarding begins, observe which carriages appear less crowded or position yourself where you anticipate the best views will be once on board.
- Book Independently: As mentioned, booking your Norway in a Nutshell journey as individual train segments (rather than a packaged tour) often provides more control over seat selection for the Bergen Railway portions.
Overview of Seat Selection Options
To summarize the seat selection possibilities for the train segments of Norway in a Nutshell:
| Train Segment | Seat Selection Option (When Booking Independently) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bergen Railway (e.g., Bergen to Myrdal) | Yes, possible to choose seats | Recommended for securing preferred spots, particularly window seats. |
| Flåm Railway (Myrdal to Flåm) | No, not possible to choose seats | Seating is generally assigned or first-come, first-served within the carriages. |
By understanding these nuances, you can better plan your Norway in a Nutshell adventure and maximize your chances of enjoying the breathtaking scenery from a prime vantage point.
