Bergen

What are the most recommended things to do in Bergen?

  • Explore Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Take the Fløibanen funicular to Mount Fløyen for panoramic city and fjord views
  • Visit Bergenhus Fortress and Rosenkrantz Tower
  • Tour the Fish Market and taste local seafood
  • Discover art at KODE Art Museums and Composer Homes
  • Take fjord cruises to nearby fjords like Sognefjord or Hardangerfjord
  • Hike trails around Mount Ulriken and Mount Fløyen

Introducing Bergen

Bergen is the capital of Hordaland County, Norway, the second largest city in Norway, and the largest and most beautiful port city on the west coast of Norway. It was selected as the "European Capital of Culture" by the United Nations in 2000. It has a mild and rainy climate and is known as a "Rain City".

Bergen, Norway's second-largest city and the capital of Hordaland County, is also the largest city in western Norway. Nestled on a steep fjord line on Norway's west coast, nestled between a harbor and seven mountain peaks, the city borders the Byfjord, a bay that connects directly to the Atlantic Ocean. Bergen is a picturesque harbor city. Warm winds from the Gulf Stream make it a rainy region.

Climate and best time to travel

Bergen is famous for its rainy season, so the best time to visit is from May to September, when the rainy season is relatively less.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Bryggen

Tyskebryggen, also known as the German Dock (Tyskebryggen), is a series of Hanseatic commercial buildings on the east side of Bergen Fjord in Norway. The rows of colorful buildings in front of the dock create a unique urban landscape. It was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1979.


Fløyen

Located east of Bergen, at an altitude of 320 meters, the summit offers panoramic views of the enchanting Bergen landscape, nestled between the mountains and the fjord. The mountain is crisscrossed with hiking trails, making it ideal for hiking. There are also cafes, restaurants, and a playground for children. The Fløy Cableway, which leads up to the mountain, is one of Norway's most famous attractions; no visit to Bergen is complete without a ride on the Fløy Cableway.


Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet I Bergen)

One of the largest aquariums in Northern Europe, this one opened in 1960. Its unique location affords it a diverse collection of animals rarely seen in other aquariums worldwide. Over 60 display tanks house a variety of fish and marine invertebrates, while outdoor ponds provide playful opportunities for seals, penguins, reptiles, and monkeys. The aquarium showcases typical Norwegian aquatic life and even features a glass tunnel for viewing sharks. Wandering through the aquarium is like swimming in the ocean.

It is recommended to play for about 4 days


Most Popular FAQs for Bergen

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Bergen, founded in 1070, was a key center for the Hanseatic League and Norway's second-largest city. It is known for its historic wharf, cultural heritage, and as a gateway to fjords.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located on Norway's west coast. Accessible via Bergen Airport (Flesland) by airport bus or taxi; walking and local buses are convenient within the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions: 09:00–17:00; best months: May–September for milder weather and longer daylight.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Fløibanen funicular: ~NOK 180–360 round trip
  • KODE Museums: NOK 120–180
  • Tickets can be bought online or at the site

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Recommended for Fløibanen and popular fjord tours, 1–2 weeks in advance during peak season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 days to see main attractions, museums, and take fjord excursions.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Bryggen Wharf
  • Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken viewpoints
  • Fish Market
  • KODE Art Museums
  • Bergenhus Fortress

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours available in English, Norwegian, and other European languages; audio guides offered at some museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Mount Fløyen and Fløibanen lookout
  • Bryggen waterfront
  • Mount Ulriken via cable car or hiking trails
  • Harbor and fjord views during cruises

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Bryggen, visit Fish Market, take Fløibanen to Mount Fløyen, explore KODE museums, and finish with a fjord cruise or Mount Ulriken hike.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Some museums and Fløibanen offer extended hours in summer; fjord evening cruises are available.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak tourist season is June–August; weekdays and shoulder seasons (May, September) are less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and benches widely available in city center and main attractions.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most city attractions are accessible; funiculars and some museums accommodate wheelchairs; hilly terrain may be challenging.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments widely accepted; cash rarely needed.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Traditional seafood restaurants at Fish Market
  • Cafes and bakeries in Bryggen and city center
  • Modern Norwegian cuisine restaurants nearby

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, several vegetarian, vegan, and halal-friendly restaurants exist in the city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Luxury: Hotel Norge, Clarion Hotel Admiral
  • Mid-range: Scandic Ørnen, Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz
  • Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in city center

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Sognefjord or Hardangerfjord day trips
  • Edvard Grieg Museum and Troldhaugen
  • Fantoft Stave Church

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Norwegian wool products, sweaters, and mittens
  • Traditional crafts and wooden items
  • Local food items like salmon or brown cheese

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Bergen Airport for domestic and international flights
  • Train to Oslo via scenic Bergen Railway
  • Ferries or buses to fjord towns and nearby villages