Things To Do
in Bergen
Bergen, situated on the west coast of Norway, is surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque fjords, creating a stunning natural backdrop. The city is known for its colorful wooden houses, vibrant cultural scene, and historic Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore charming cobblestone streets, visit traditional fish markets, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and sailing.
With a rich history dating back to the Viking Age, Bergen offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Hvordan har du det?" - How are you?
- "Ha en fin dag" - Have a nice day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in Bryggen, the historic wharf area filled with colorful wooden buildings. Take a leisurely stroll and visit the local artisan shops.
Visit the Hanseatic Museum to learn about Bergen's past as a trade center. Enjoy lunch at one of the nearby cafes.
Take a scenic walk along the waterfront. Enjoy a traditional Norwegian dinner at a local restaurant.
Take the Fløibanen funicular early to the top of Mount Fløyen. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords.
Explore various hiking trails that start from the summit. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
Head back down the mountain and relax at a local pub. Share your hiking stories over a pint of Norwegian beer.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including fjords, mountains, and coastal views.
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous museums, festivals, and events.
- Mild climate compared to other cities in Norway, especially during winter.
- Vibrant food scene with fresh seafood and local cuisine.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking.
- High cost of living, including housing and daily expenses.
- Frequent rain, which may not be appealing to everyone.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors outside of tourism and shipping.
- Public transportation may be less extensive compared to larger cities.
- Isolated location may make travel to other regions more time-consuming.
Best Activities in Bergen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning natural landscapes and hiking trails around Bergen, such as Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken.
Take a boat tour to experience the breathtaking fjords and coastal scenery in the region.
Enjoy cycling along the scenic routes and coastal paths in and around Bergen.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bergen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bergen
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Bergen and the surrounding area, accessible by a funicular or hiking trail
Historic wharf with colorful wooden houses, offering picturesque waterfront views
One of the city's seven mountains, providing stunning views over Bergen and the fjords
Former home of composer Edvard Grieg, set in a beautiful lakeside location perfect for photography
Food in Bergen
Bergen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Norwegian dish made from stockfish that has been soaked in a lye solution for several days, then rinsed and boiled to create a gelatinous texture. It is typically served with bacon, potatoes, peas, and mustard sauce. Recommended place to try: Enhjørningen Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Also known as klippfisk balls, this dish consists of mashed potatoes mixed with fish and formed into balls, often served with bacon, sausage, and mushy peas. Recommended place to try: Potetkjelleren Restaurant.
A creamy and flavorful fish soup made with a variety of locally caught fish, shrimp, and mussels, cooked in a rich broth with vegetables and herbs. Recommended place to try: Fjellskål Fisketorget.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bergen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located near the harbor, the Fish Market is a vibrant hub of fresh seafood, fruits, and local delicacies. Visitors can indulge in an array of freshly prepared seafood dishes, including shrimp sandwiches, fish burgers, and grilled salmon.
An indoor food court featuring a diverse selection of international cuisines, craft beers, and innovative street food. The venue offers options for all dietary preferences, making it a perfect spot for groups with varied tastes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bergen, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others.
It is common practice to remove shoes before entering someone's home in Bergen as a sign of respect for their living space.
In business and social settings, it is important to acknowledge hierarchical structures and show respect to those in positions of authority.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bergen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bergen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bergen, Norway, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of satisfaction for exceptional service.
In Bergen, Norway, electronic forms of payment such as credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is also commonly used, but many establishments prefer electronic payment methods. Contactless payments are increasingly popular, and mobile payment apps are widely used as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bergen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Bergen with long days, mild temperatures, and numerous outdoor activities. Expect crowded streets and higher accommodation prices due to peak tourist season.
Bergen starts to bloom with flowers, and the city is less crowded compared to summer. The weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain showers.
A beautiful time to visit Bergen with colorful autumn foliage. The weather starts to cool down, and tourist crowds diminish. However, there may be more rain during this season.
Visiting Bergen in winter offers a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes. It's the best time for winter activities like skiing, but expect shorter daylight hours and cold temperatures.
Bergen at Night
Hiking in Bergen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular mountain located right by Bergen, offering stunning views over the city and surrounding fjords. The hike can be reached by the Fløibanen funicular or by foot.
One of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen, Løvstakken provides a moderately challenging hike with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
The tallest of the seven mountains of Bergen, Ulriken offers a more strenuous hike. You can also take a cable car to the top for breathtaking views.
A lovely hiking area near Bergen with various trails suitable for different skill levels, showcasing beautiful nature and tranquility.
A scenic hiking spot with well-marked trails, located close to the city. Perfect for a quick nature escape without venturing far.
A lesser-known mountain with relatively easy trails. Ideal for families looking for a quiet hike with views of Bergen's harbor.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bergen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bergen by plane.
The main international airport serving Bergen, located approximately 18 kilometers south of the city center.
An international airport located approximately 200 kilometers south of Bergen, serving the city of Stavanger.
Norway's largest international airport, located about 465 kilometers northeast of Bergen, serving the capital city of Oslo.
An international airport located approximately 250 kilometers north of Bergen, serving the city of Ålesund.
An international airport located approximately 300 kilometers southeast of Bergen, serving the city of Kristiansand.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Bergen, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant demographic group including individuals from countries like Poland and Lithuania.
A notable refugee demographic, with a community that contributes to Bergen's cultural diversity.
This group includes refugees and immigrants from countries such as Syria and Iraq.
Comprising communities from countries like India and Pakistan, involved in various sectors.
A smaller but growing demographic group, often engaged in business and academia.
Includes individuals from various European nations, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
A diverse group representing various nations across the African continent.
The Soul of Bergen
Discover the essence of Bergen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Bergen, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base. The city's primary football club, SK Brann, has a rich history and a large following.
Handball is another popular sport in Bergen, with both men's and women's teams participating at various levels. The city hosts numerous handball clubs and events.
Ice hockey has a strong presence in Bergen, with local teams competing in national leagues. The sport attracts many young players and fans.
Skiing is a favored outdoor activity in Bergen due to its proximity to mountains and winter sports facilities. Both alpine and cross-country skiing are popular among residents.
Cycling is a growing sport in Bergen, with many enthusiasts enjoying the city's scenic bike paths and surrounding nature. There are clubs and events that promote cycling activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bergen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bergen is accommodating to vegetarian and vegan preferences, with many restaurants and cafes offering dedicated menus featuring creative plant-based dishes. Notable places with vegan options include Bare Vestland and Renaa:Matbaren.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find numerous gluten-free options across the city, from restaurants specializing in gluten-free cuisine to cafes offering gluten-free baked goods. 1887 and Lysverket are known for their exceptional gluten-free offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bergen with these cultural adventures.
