After the Bergen City Marathon: Oslo

The Route: Bergen → Oslo → Oslo Airport Logistics: One long train journey with a reserved seat, then three nights in one hotel. Check the timetable for your date. Marathon Month: April Duration: 3 nights

Bergen station ──(Bergen Line, a long day)──> Oslo (3 nights) ──(airport train)──> Oslo Airport

The Bergen Line runs from Bergen railway station to Oslo through the mountains, and it is a journey in itself. A runner who finishes on Saturday can spend Sunday in a reserved seat with a window and arrive in Oslo with legs that have had a day's rest. Treat the train as the main event and Oslo as the place to unwind.

April in Norway. Spring is cool and variable, and snow can lie on the mountain section. Check the timetable and any disruption notices on the rail operator's site for your date, since the mountain route can be affected by weather.

Getting there

Book a seat on the Bergen Line well ahead, and choose a window seat. The journey takes most of a day, so check the departure and arrival times for your date. Journey times vary, so check them before you book. Bring food and a warm layer.

Night one: arrive

Stay near Oslo's central station so the airport train and the local transport are close. Compare cancellable rates and ask about luggage storage. After a long day on the train, keep the evening to a meal and a short flat walk.

Day two and three: slow city days

Oslo's centre is compact. Choose one museum or one waterfront walk a day and book the rest of the time as rest. Check opening hours for April, because many museums close one day a week. Level indoor venues with seating are the better choice after a marathon and a long train.

Eating

Check which restaurants are open on the Sunday and Monday you are there, and book dinner ahead.

Getting home