Best Things to Do in Bergen
Introduction
Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, beautifully amalgamates the charm of a quaint European town with the breathtaking natural vistas that the Scandinavian country is renowned for. Amidst the misty fjords and seven encircling mountains, lies an array of attractions waiting to be explored. This guide uncovers the top 10 must-do activities that will make your journey to Bergen an unforgettable one.
Be sure to take a look at our other guides to the Norway and Europe at the end of this article. Enjoy!
5 Key Takeaways
- Rich Historical and Cultural Landscape: Bergen’s charm lies in its harmonious blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From exploring historic sites such as Bryggen and Bergenhus Fortress to delving into artistic wonders at KODE Art Museums, the city offers a unique cultural experience.
- Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures: Bergen is the gateway to some of Norway’s most impressive fjords, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, fjord cruising, and mountaintop excursions via the Fløibanen Funicular and Ulriken Cable Car.
- Vibrant Nightlife and Culinary Scene: Bergen has a lively nightlife with numerous bars and clubs, as well as cultural performances at the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Den Nationale Scene theatre. Additionally, the city offers an array of culinary experiences, from traditional Norwegian dishes to fresh seafood at the Fish Market.
- Year-Round Destination: While the best time to visit Bergen is from May to September, its indoor attractions like Bergen Aquarium and various museums make it a viable destination throughout the year.
- Practical Tips for Visiting: Despite being known for its rainy weather and expensive lifestyle, Bergen offers a safe and welcoming environment for travellers. Proper planning, including getting the Bergen Card for unlimited travel, considering meal planning options, and respecting local etiquette, can enhance the travel experience.
1. Explore Bryggen - The Hanseatic Wharf
History of Bryggen
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bryggen, has been the bustling nerve centre of the city since the 14th century. With a story closely tied to the Hanseatic League’s mercantile empire, Bryggen’s wooden structures, coloured in vibrant hues, offer a glimpse into Bergen’s prosperous trade history.
Things to do at Bryggen
Stroll down the cobbled alleys, peek into boutique shops selling local handicrafts, or delve into history at the Hanseatic Museum. The wharf is a visual treat, particularly during twilight when the lights reflect off the harbour, casting an enchanting glow over the area.
Related article: Bryggen Ancient Harbour
2. Visit the Bergen Fish Market
Experience at the Bergen Fish Market
A vibrant testament to Norway’s rich maritime culture, the Bergen Fish Market is a feast for the senses. Located in the heart of the city, it offers an array of fresh local produce, from Atlantic cod and king crab to whale meat and a variety of cheeses.
Gastronomic Delights at the Market
While you can buy to cook at your leisure, you may also savour the seafood delicacies prepared on the spot by skilled vendors. Complement your meal with locally produced berry wines for a truly authentic Norwegian culinary experience.
3. Mount Fløyen and the Fløibanen Funicular
Getting to Mount Fløyen
No trip to Bergen is complete without a ride on the Fløibanen Funicular up to Mount Fløyen. The journey begins from the city centre and in just eight minutes, takes you 320 metres above sea level.
Related article: Best Time To Visit Norway
Spectacular Views from the Top
The panoramic view of Bergen, with its terracotta roofs, the deep blue fjords, and the surrounding mountains is nothing short of awe-inspiring. It’s also an ideal spot for hiking or picnicking amidst nature’s splendour.
4. Discover the Old Bergen Museum
Walking through History
Step back in time at the Old Bergen Museum, an open-air museum that recreates the 19th-century cityscape. With 50 wooden houses adorned with period furniture, it offers an insightful journey into Bergen’s past.
Highlights of the Museum
Witness historical re-enactments, explore vintage shops, or enjoy a traditional Norwegian meal at the museum’s restaurant. From May to September, the museum hosts a plethora of activities for children, making it an ideal family destination.
5. Enjoy the Bergen Aquarium
Marine Life Exhibits
At the Bergen Aquarium, you can come face-to-face with penguins, seals, crocodiles, and a myriad of colourful fish species. The aquarium houses one of the most extensive collections of marine life in Europe.
Interactive Shows
Apart from the marine exhibits, the aquarium also hosts daily feeding shows, seal training sessions, and a 3D movie about the deep sea, ensuring a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.
6. Wander around KODE Art Museums
Art Collection
Art enthusiasts can spend hours wandering through the four KODE Art Museums, home to one of Scandinavia’s largest collections of art and artefacts. The collection spans across centuries, including contemporary art, music history, and antique furniture.
Key Exhibits
Don’t miss the works by renowned artists like Edvard Munch and JC Dahl, and the unique silver treasure collection. The museums also host temporary exhibitions and concerts throughout the year.
7. Relax in Bergen's Parks and Gardens
Byparken
Byparken, the city park, is the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon. With a picturesque lake, blooming flower beds, and the city’s music pavilion, it’s an oasis of tranquillity amidst urban life.
Mount Floyen's Forest Park
For a more adventurous day, head to the forest park on Mount Fløyen. Here, you can walk through a fairytale world of Norwegian folklore characters, carved from wood, making it a favourite among young visitors.
8. Take a Fjord Cruise
Majestic Fjords
Experience Norway’s spectacular fjord scenery by taking a fjord cruise. Navigate through narrow inlets, flanked by towering cliff faces, where waterfalls plunge into the emerald-green water below. The view is an absolutely mesmerisingexperience, an ode to the stunning Norwegian landscapes.
Different Cruise Options
Companies like Norway in a nutshell® offer a variety of cruise options. Choose from day-long excursions or multi-day voyages, which include the majestic Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord.
Recommended tour: Fjord Cruise
9. Experience Bergen's Nightlife
Best Bars and Clubs
After a day of sightseeing, unwind at one of Bergen’s lively bars or clubs. Hectors Hybel and No Stress are popular choices, serving a wide range of cocktails, beers, and wines.
Cultural Performances
For a culturally enriched evening, catch a live performance at the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra or enjoy a show at the Den Nationale Scene theatre, one of Norway’s oldest.
10. Savour Local Cuisine
Popular Norwegian Dishes
No visit to Bergen would be complete without trying traditional Norwegian dishes. Savour Klippfisk (dried and salted cod), Raspeballer (potato dumplings), or the classic Fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew).
Best Places to Eat
For a high-end dining experience, visit Lysverket or Colonialen. For budget-friendly options, try Pingvinen or the food stalls at the Fish Market.
Recommended restaurant: Olivia’s Restaurant
Other Things to Do in Bergen
Visit the Bergenhus Fortress: One of the oldest and best-preserved stone fortifications in Norway. Don’t miss the Rosenkrantz Tower, offering a panoramic view of the city and harbour.
Edvard Grieg Museum Troldhaugen: Visit the home of Norway’s famous composer, Edvard Grieg. Located by the beautiful Nordås Lake, the museum hosts concerts and offers guided tours.
Stroll around Nordnes Park: This city park is a great place to relax, with several benches, a swimming pool, and fantastic views of the surrounding fjords.
Explore Håkon’s Hall: Erected by King Håkon Håkonsson, it was the largest and most imposing building of the royal residency in the 13th-century when Bergen was the political centre of Norway.
Visit St. Mary’s Church (Mariakirken): Bergen’s oldest existing building and a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.
Fantoft Stave Church: Although a reconstructed version, this church provides insight into Norway’s Christian history and its unique stave architecture.
Shop at Galleriet Shopping Centre: It’s one of the biggest and most central shopping centres in Bergen, where you can find a wide range of shops and cafes.
Spend a Day at Bergen Science Centre VilVite: An exciting place, especially for children, with interactive exhibits on technology, climate change and the natural sciences.
Bergen Cathedral (Bergen Domkirke): Attend a concert or simply marvel at the stunning architecture of this centuries-old cathedral.
University Museum of Bergen: The museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from archaeology, anthropology, and natural history.
Take a walk around Lille Lungegårdsvannet: This small lake in the centre of Bergen is surrounded by a public park and is a lovely place for a leisurely walk.
Visit the Theta Museum: A secret room, which tells the story of the Theta Group’s resistance during the Second World War.
Practical Tips for Visiting Bergen
Weather: Bergen is known for its rainy weather, with over 200 days of rainfall a year. Make sure to pack waterproof clothing and an umbrella no matter what season you’re visiting.
Currency: Norway uses the Norwegian krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including in taxis and at street markets.
Public Transport: Bergen has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, trams, and ferries. You might consider getting the Bergen Card for unlimited travel on public transport within the city.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Norway, but it’s customary to round up the bill in restaurants if you’re satisfied with the service.
Language: The official language is Norwegian, but English is widely spoken, so communication should not be a problem.
Safety: Bergen is generally safe, but like any city, it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Food: Eating out in Norway can be quite expensive. If you’re travelling on a budget, consider buying groceries and making some meals yourself.
Outdoor Activities: If you plan to go hiking or skiing, make sure to check the weather forecast and inform someone about your route and expected return time.
Local Etiquette: Norwegians value punctuality, so try to be on time for any appointments or meetings. They also appreciate personal space, so try to respect this when interacting with locals.
Electricity: Norway uses Type F outlets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. You may need a travel adapter if your devices use a different type of plug.
Opening Hours: Many shops, attractions, and some restaurants might be closed on Sundays, so plan your activities accordingly.
Drinking Water: Tap water in Norway is clean and safe to drink, and it’s often of higher quality than bottled water.
Final Thoughts
Bergen, with its harmonious blend of history, culture, and mesmerising landscapes, offers an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left its shores. From exploring historic sites, delving into artistic wonders, savouring fresh seafood, to soaking in panoramic vistas, Bergen leaves you with memories that are as rich and vibrant as the city itself. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Bergen adventure today!
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Related articles: Best Time To Visit Norway
Recommended websites: Visit Norway , Norway Government
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time to visit Bergen? The best time to visit Bergen is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and most attractions are open.
How many days do I need in Bergen? Ideally, a 3 to 4-day trip should allow you to explore most of Bergen’s major attractions at a leisurely pace.
Is Bergen expensive to visit? As with many Scandinavian cities, Bergen can be quite expensive compared to other European cities. However, there are budget-friendly options available too.
Can I see the Northern Lights from Bergen? While it’s possible, Bergen is not the ideal location to see the Northern Lights due to its coastal weather. For the best viewing, head north to Tromsø or Svalbard between October and March.
Is English widely spoken in Bergen? Yes, most Norwegians speak excellent English, and you should have no issues communicating in English in Bergen.
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