Things to Do in Bergen, Norway: Sights & Travel Tips

Things to Do in Bergen, Norway: Sights & Travel Tips

Bergen is a lively city with a rich history, nestled between Norway’s spectacular fjords and seven surrounding mountains. Wondering about the best things to do in Bergen Norway? From iconic landmarks and hidden gems to local restaurants and practical travel tips, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Things to Do in Bergen, Norway: Top Sights

Bryggen

The colourful wooden wharf houses of Bryggen are one of Bergen’s most iconic sights, telling the story of the city’s past as an important trading center during the Hanseatic era. For centuries, this was the place where German merchants traded stockfish and grain. Stroll through the narrow alleyways between the crooked wooden façades and discover cozy cafés, artisan workshops, galleries, and creative boutiques.

Fløyen & the Fløibanen Funicular

Een ritje met de kabelbaan Fløibanen brengt je in slechts enkele minuten naar de top van Fløyen, een van de zeven bergen rond de stad. Wie liever wandelt, bereikt de top in ongeveer een uur via een mooi bospad vanuit het centrum. Boven word je beloond met een prachtig uitzicht over de stad, de bergen en de omliggende fjorden. Fløyen is bovendien het startpunt van verschillende wandelroutes. Zo wandel je in amper tien minuten naar Skomakerdiket, een idyllisch meertje midden in het bos.

Fisketorget

Located right by Bergen’s harbour, Fisketorget is the city’s lively fish market. It’s not just about what’s for sale here, but about the atmosphere: the smell of fresh seafood, the traders calling out their offers, and the view of the water make it a place where you’ll want to linger for a while. Do keep in mind that prices can be on the higher side. The indoor market at Mathallen is open all year round, while the outdoor stalls only appear during the summer season.

Museums in Bergen

Bergen also has a lot to offer when it comes to art and culture. Around Byparken and the Lille Lungegårdsvann lake, you’ll find Kode, a museum complex of four buildings that takes you on a journey through art history, from ancient to contemporary art. You’ll see works by the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, as well as international names such as Picasso. You can also visit the homes of famous composers like Edvard Grieg, or explore contemporary art at Bergens Kunsthall.

Hidden Gems in Bergen You Shouldn’t Miss

Fantoft Stave Church

Just outside the city centre lies Fantoft Stave Church, a beautiful example of traditional Norwegian wooden architecture. The original church was built in the 12th century in the village of Fortun near the Sognefjord, but was moved to Fantoft in 1883. In 1992 it was destroyed by fire and later carefully rebuilt. The church is set in a peaceful forested area and is easy to reach by public transport. From early May to late September, the church is open to visitors, a wonderful opportunity to admire the intricate wood details and soak up the mystical atmosphere.

Nordnes

The Nordnes peninsula, west of the city centre, invites you to experience Bergen like a local. Narrow streets lined with colourful wooden houses and cosy squares with local cafés give the neighbourhood its distinctive charm. Highlights include the 12th-century Klosteret area and photogenic lanes such as Strangebakken. You’ll also find a lovely park, a seawater swimming pool, and Bergen Aquarium, making Nordnes a versatile and authentic part of the city to explore.

Food & Drinks in Bergen

Local Delicacies

Bergen isn’t just known for its fantastic viewpoints and historic harbour, it’s also a great place to enjoy delicious food. Many restaurants feature fresh fish and seafood on the menu, from salmon and cod to mussels and shrimp. For a first taste of Western Norwegian cuisine, Allmuen is an excellent choice. This laid-back bistro in the heart of Bergen works closely with local producers and serves seasonal dishes made to share, full of regional flavours. Allmuen also offers a fine selection of wines to perfectly complement your meal.

Coffee Break

Before or after hiking up Mount Fløyen, Det Lille Kaffekompaniet is the perfect spot for a coffee break. Open since 1996, it’s the oldest, smallest, and most charming coffeehouse in Bergen. You’ll find it tucked away in a narrow alley lined with white wooden houses, close to the Fløibanen funicular. Seating is limited, but there are a few outdoor tables where you can relax. The artisanal coffee and heavenly cakes make it well worth the stop.

Skostredet

A great place to end your day is Skostredet, a lively street filled with cosy bars and restaurants. Villani is one of our favourites. Here, you can enjoy classic Italian dishes such as Neapolitan pizza from the wood-fired oven and rich, flavorful pasta dishes. The drinks menu includes spritzers, cocktails, mocktails, local beers, and Italian wines. On sunny days, the terrace is the perfect place to linger. For a nightcap, head to Last Monkey, a vibrant cocktail bar tucked away in a nearby side street.

Things to Do in Bergen, Norway: Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit Bergen

Bergen is often called Norway’s rainy city, and the weather can be unpredictable. Still, every season has its charm. The best time to visit is from May to September, when the days are long and temperatures are pleasant. Most attractions and sights are also open during this period. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider travelling in the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn. Whatever the time of year, make sure to bring layers and rain gear so you can easily adapt to changing conditions.

Getting to Bergen

You can visit Bergen as part of a a tour of Southern Norway, but a city trip on its own is also very feasible. The city is well connected by plane, car, ferry, and train:

• By Plane: Bergen Airport, Flesland, is less than 20 kilometres from the city centre. There are direct flights from several European cities, including Amsterdam, Brussels, and London, as well as good connections to other Scandinavian destinations. From the airport, you can easily reach the city by Bybanen (light rail), which takes around 45 minutes and is the cheapest option. The Flybussen is slightly faster, around 30 minutes, but more expensive.
• By Car: Planning to drive to Bergen? Keep in mind that there are toll roads and high parking costs in the city centre. It’s recommended to create an Epass24-account in advance to manage toll payments easily. Ideally, choose a hotel or B&B with parking, or leave your car on the outskirts of the city and use public transport.
• By Boat: From Hirtshals in Denmark, a ferry takes about 17 hours to reach Bergen. Ferries also depart from Kristiansand and Stavanger. Bergen is the starting point for the iconic Hurtigruten coastal voyage, which sails along Norway’s spectacular coastline all the way above the Arctic Circle. Ships operated by Hurtigruten and Havila connect Bergen with other coastal towns such as Ålesund and Trondheim.
• By Train: The train journey between Oslo and Bergen is often considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. In around seven hours, you travel through breathtaking mountain landscapes from Norway’s capital to the fjords in the west. Book your tickets in advance for the best fares and to secure a seat, especially during the high season.

Getting Around Bergen

Bergen’s city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot, making most sights within walking distance. For trips outside the centre, the Bybanen (light rail) and local buses are convenient options. Download the Skyss Ticket app in advance to buy your tickets easily and at a good price. With the Bergen Card you can travel for free on public transport within the city and enjoy free entry to a number of museums and attractions.

Accommodation in Bergen

Bergen is not a cheap city, and accommodation prices can be high, especially during the summer months. Most hotels are located in the city centre, ideal for exploring Bergen on foot. In neighbourhoods like Nordnes and Sandviken, you’ll find charming apartments and B&Bs. Be sure to book in advance, particularly in the high season, as popular places fill up quickly.

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