Need a scenic European getaway filled with fjords, fish markets, and old-world charm? Head to Bergen! Known as the "Gateway to the Fjords," Bergen is Norway’s second-largest city and one of its most picturesque. With colorful waterfront buildings, historic streets, and easy access to nature, Bergen blends rich culture with stunning natural beauty.
Bergen, Norway Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Take the Fløibanen Funicular and hike Mount Fløyen – Ride to the top and explore forested trails with panoramic city and fjord views.
- For History Buffs: Tour Bryggen Wharf – Walk through this UNESCO World Heritage Site of colorful Hanseatic buildings dating back to the 14th century.
- For Shoppers: Visit the Fish Market and nearby boutiques – Browse seafood stalls, souvenirs, and local crafts in the city center.
- For Couples: Cruise the fjords on a boat tour – Sail into Hardangerfjord or Sognefjord for romantic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and tiny villages.
- For Families: Explore the Bergen Aquarium – See penguins, sea lions, and marine life with interactive exhibits and family activities.
Best Time to Visit Bergen, Norway
The best time to visit Bergen is in late spring to early autumn (May–September), when the weather is milder and daylight is longer for sightseeing and fjord cruises. July and August offer festivals and the most sunshine, though light rain is always a possibility.
How to Get to Bergen, Norway
- If you are traveling by plane: Bergen Airport, Flesland (BGO) is located about 30 minutes from the city center, with light rail and buses available.
- By Train: Take the scenic Bergen Railway from Oslo for a breathtaking 7-hour journey through the mountains.
- By Boat: Hurtigruten coastal ferries and express boats offer access to Bergen from other parts of the Norwegian coast.
Where to Stay in Bergen, Norway
- Recommended for Families: Scandic Ørnen – Family-friendly hotel with breakfast, central location, and modern rooms.
- For Couples: Opus XVI Hotel – Elegant boutique hotel in a historic building near Bryggen and harborfront restaurants.
- For Budget Travelers: Citybox Bergen – Clean, minimalist accommodations at affordable rates close to central Bergen.
Best Things to Do in Bergen, Norway
1. The Floibanen Funicular
Ride to the top and admire panoramic sights on an exciting Bergen trip.
A funicular is a railway track that goes straight up a mountainside. The Floibanen Funicular takes you over 450 feet up the side of Mount Floyen to see the beauty of Norway. It takes approximately six minutes to reach the top, and once up there, hiking and vista viewing should be in mind. There are six stops along the Funicular since many locals use this as a mode of transportation and not just a sightseeing tool. The top of the mountain also houses a restaurant, souvenir shop, and park for the whole family to play and take refreshment.
Vetrlidsallmenningen 21, 5014, Bergen, Norway, Phone: 47-55-33-68-00
2. Rosenkrantztarnet
Climb historic towers and explore medieval rooms during an unusual attraction visit.
The Rosenkrantz Tower was once home to King Eric Magnusson until 1299. This tower is considered the most important historic monument in all of Norway. With a history starting around 1270, the tower has changed, rebuilt, and escalated in size and grandeur since then. Today’s guests can climb all the narrow stairways to reach the top of the tower for a gorgeous look over Bergen and the waters. Given the piecemeal building of the tower, the rooms all vary in size, and the ceilings and floors do not match from room to room. It remains a piece of the Bergenhus fortress, so be sure to check out the rest of the fortress during your visit.
Bergenhus 4, 5003 Bergen, Norway, Phone: 47-55-30-80-38
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
3. Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf
Walk along colorful wooden buildings and discover rich history on a romantic stroll.
Bryggen is Norwegian for dock, so visitors should expect plenty of gorgeous buildings with a view of the water. The original dock, and some of the surrounding building date back to the Middle Ages. Though fires have ravaged the site, most of the current buildings are still over 300 years old. Today, guests can check out the famous Fish Market, Bergenhaus Fortress, shops, and restaurants on the Wharf. The most popular attraction on the Wharf may be the brightly colored row of buildings. In fact, UNESCO named Bryggen a World Heritage site in 1979 because of its age, importance, and architecture.
Bryggen, 5003 Bergen, Norway, Phone: 47-55-55-20-200
4. Bastant Stolegaten
Savor hearty local fare and enjoy an affordable lunch in Bergen’s heart.
When you’re ready to get some Brunch in Bergen, you may want to check out Café Bastant. AS a bakery, pub, and restaurant, Café Bastant is a triple threat to your hunger. The bakery at Bastant creates delicious rolls, loaves of bread, pastries, and cakes that can be preordered or purchased on the spot. Popular cakes, like the Suksesskake, known as the Success Cake, are offered year-round. Food and baked goods can be selected for delivery, meaning you won’t even have to leave your hotel to get some of Bastant’s best goodies. Some popular sandwiches to order are the shrimp with mayo, lemon, and dill, or brie with fig jam, apricots, and grapes.
Stolegaten 8!, 5003 Bergen, Norway
5. VilVite Bergen’s Science Centre
Engage with hands-on exhibits and spark curiosity on a fun kids adventure.
VilVite is a fantastic attraction to visit when you’re in Bergen. It is fun and educational for the whole family, and you are pretty much guaranteed a great time. They believe that learning through play helps you learn better and retain new knowledge, so all exhibitions are hands-on. One of the most popular exhibits in the G-Force, which is the only one like this in Europe. The Creative Garden gets visitors into a technology-building setting, where everyone can experiment and build. Science shows are performed every weekend for families, which often include flames and explosions.
Thormohlens Gate 51, 5006 Bergen, Norway, Phone: 47-55-59-45-00
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
6. Aksdal I Muren
Browse unique designs and shop for stylish gifts on a quick sightseeing stop.
With an average high of 64 degrees during the summer in Norway, you may find that you require some warmer clothing than you originally planned. Whether you want a taste of Norwegian style, warmer clothes, or just to shop for something new, Aksdal I Muren is the place to go in Bergen. Aksdal has been selling jackets and other cold-weather items since 1883. They sell some popular European brands, such as Barbour and Blaest Rainwear. No matter what, be sure to consider when you’re visiting, since the weather can get quite wet and cold. You may find yourself in need of galoshes, raincoats, or scarves.
Ostre Muralmenning 23, 5012 Bergen, Norway, Phone: 47-55-24-24-55
7. KODE Art Museum of Bergen
See impressive collections and admire modern masterpieces on a cultured weekend escape.
KODE is more than just one building, it is a group of museums and composer homes in the Bergen area. The Art Museum of Bergen, in particular, crosses four buildings. Each is called KODE, with a respective number. KODE 1 is where most of the permanent exhibits are housed, KODE 2 is where the temporary exhibits are shown, KODE 3 is where the Edvard Munch and other Norwegian artists are hung, and KODE 4 is the children’s art museum. Though some travel is required to hit all four buildings, they are worth it for the whole family.
Rasmus Meyers Alle 9, 5015 Bergen, Norway, Phone: 47-53-00-97-04
8. Fantoft Stavkirke
Visit this reconstructed wooden church and look at its unusual Norse architecture.
Fantoft Stavkirke is a stave church located in Bergen. With roots back to 1150, this historic church is worth a tour when visiting Bergen. Stave churches were once a huge part of Norway, but the Fantoft Stavkirke saw a tragedy in 1992 when a fire burned it to the ground. Not to be disheartened, the church was rebuilt to look exactly as it once did in 1150. Be sure to check out the amazing architecture and the old Norse elements, like the dragon heads that adorn the steeple. This is not open year-round, only during the summer months.
Where to Eat in Bergen, Norway
- Recommended for Families: Pingvinen – Cozy bistro offering hearty Norwegian comfort food in a casual atmosphere.
- For Seafood Lovers: Enhjørningen Restaurant – Upscale seafood in a historic Bryggen setting with fresh local catches.
- For a Casual Meal: Trekroneren – Bergen’s most beloved hot dog stand, serving gourmet sausages with unique toppings.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Music Fans: Bergen International Festival (May–June) – Celebrate music, dance, opera, and theatre with top international performers.
- For Food Lovers: Bergen Food Festival (September) – Sample the best of western Norway’s seafood, baked goods, and local products.
- For Holiday Cheer: Bergen Christmas Market (December) – Enjoy lights, food stalls, and festive rides in the heart of the city.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Bergen, Norway:
- For Nature Lovers: Mount Ulriken (15–20 min) – Ride the Ulriksbanen cable car for sweeping views and alpine hiking.
- For Scenic Views: Fantoft Stave Church (20 min) – Visit this beautifully reconstructed medieval wooden church set in peaceful woods.
- For a Coastal Escape: Askøy Island (30 min) – Cross the Askøy Bridge for quiet beaches, fishing villages, and fjord views.
- For Garden Strolls: Arboretum and Botanical Garden (Milde) (30 min) – Explore flower gardens and forest trails near the sea.
- For Culture & Art: Lysøen Island and Villa (Seasonal boat, 30 min) – See the Moorish-style home of violinist Ole Bull, nestled on a serene island.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Bergen located?
- Bergen is one of the Southwestern coastal cities in Norway.
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Was Bergen ever the capital of Norway?
- Yes, Bergen was once the capital of Norway, but today it is a popular tourist destination.
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What makes Bergen a unique travel destination?
- Bergen offers a mix of old and new in one unique city, making it an exciting place to explore.
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What kind of food can visitors expect in Bergen?
- While fresh seafood is a specialty, Bergen also offers a diverse range of cuisine due to its international population.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Bergen?
- Bergen is a great destination for hiking, diving, and boating, offering plenty of outdoor adventures.
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What other activities should be on a visitor’s list in Bergen?
- While outdoor activities are popular, shopping and sightseeing should be at the top of your list when visiting Bergen.
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