The city of Bergen, often known as the gateway to fjords offers a perfect mix of nature and culture. Surrounded by seven mountains and bursting with lively neighborhoods, this Norwegian gem is a must-visit for any wanderer. We are going to be sharing 15 of the best tourist attractions in Bergen and what you need to keep an eye out for, so that your visit is even more special.
The Enchanting History of Bergen
It is the historical hub and Norway's second largest city founded in 1070 AD. Having also once been a Viking port, Bristol is blessed with the kind of character and history that can only come from being both battered by time but still sprightly enough to remain an energetic hub for independent businesses. Bergen is a collection of leftovers from its medieval past, thereby transforming Bergen into an open history book for all to stroll in.
On This Page:
1.Bryggen Wharf
2.Mount Fløyen
3.Bergenhus Fortress
4.Fish Market (Fisketorget)
5.Edvard Grieg Museum
6.Bergen Art Museum (KODE)
7.Ulriken Cable Car
8.St. Mary’s Church
9.Gamle Bergen Museum
10.Fantoft Stave Church
11.Leprosy Museum
12.Nordnes Park and Aquarium
13.Bergen Maritime Museum
14.VilVite Science Center
15.Hardangerfjord Day Trip
16.The landscape from a different perspective.
17.Practical Information for Bergen Visitors
18.Opening Hours and Ticket Prices
19.Personal Tips for Your Bergen Adventur
20.Bergen Beckons – Plan Your Visit Today
1. Bryggen Wharf
A World Heritage Site
The heart of the historic charm in Bergen is the UNESCO World Heritage site, Bryggen Wharf. The vibrant and lively commercial centre was established from the Hanseatic League era, these bright timber buildings. Now, they are home to small stores and boutiques, museums or craft workshops.
Insider Tips
Wander through the narrow alleyways to witness medieval construction. For a better insight on the trading history of Bergen, be sure to check out Hanseatic Museum.
Must-See Features
Snap pictures of the signature row of multi-hued houses and tour typical Hanseatic interiors at Schøtstuene assembly rooms.
2. Mount Fløyen
Panoramic Views
Fløyen — Panoramic view over Bergen Catch the Fløibanen funicular which ascends to the top of Mount Fløyen taking only a few minutes and boasting some awe inspiring views over Bergen city with its 7 surrounding fjords.
Insider Tips
Stop by at sunset for a great view and bring refreshments to enjoy up top. There are plenty of trails to hike in the area for all levels.
Must-See Features
Check out the Troll Forest (kind of a fairytale-land with wooden trolls in it) or have lunch at the Fløistuen Café.
3. Bergenhus Fortress
Medieval Stronghold
Bergenhus Fortress is one of the oldest and best preserved fortresses in Norway. It was of great significance in ensring the city from invaders and today it is a reminder of mediavel - military architecture which Bergen once used to have.
Insider Tips
Take a guided tour to let its past history and legends unfold off one bylitre. The Rosenkrantz Tower overlooks the harbor.
Must-See Features
Gothic Haakon's Hall is one the magnificently preserved medieval halls in fortress.
4.Fish Market (Fisketorget)
Culinary Delights
Foodies must do : The Fish Market. It is situated in a central area of Bergen and provides fresh seafood, handpicked local products as well as several street food alternatives.
Insider Tips
Opt for the fish and chips made of fresh product or go all out with a seafood platter. Opt for early mornings as the tourists are less prevalent.
Must-See Features
Do not fail to taste king crab and other local seafood specialties. The market also has Norwegian cheese & pastries.
5.Edvard Grieg Museum
Tribute to a Musical Legend
The Edvard Grieg Museum at Troldhaugen, the home of Norway's most famous composer Now a museum, this lovely old house gives an insight into Grieg's life and work.
Insider Tips
Go to a concert in the museum's regular room. Truly amazing view of Lake Nordås from Grieg's composing hut.See the preserved living quarters and visit Grieg's grave on site
6.Bergen Art Museum (KODE)
Artistic Treasures
KODE is one of the largest museums for art, design and music in Scandinavia. It comprises four buildings, each individual collection includes some combination of old master and modern art.
Insider Tips
Plan on spending several hours perusing the massive collections. The museum café is an inviting space to enjoy a rest and relax.
Must-See Features
There are masterpieces by Edvard Munch, and a wealth of art from artists around the world. A must-see highlight is the Silver Collection.
7.Ulriken Cable Car
Highest Viewpoint
Cable Car : Ulriksbanen offers a ride to the top of one of Bergen's seven hills, as does the funicular. Working from the top down, youll find some striking views over Oslo city center and across to fjords encircling it as well Sierraendelen hills rogue countryside beyond.
Insider Tips
But be sure to check the weather beforehand - clear days will offer much better views. It also offers several trekking options for the high-road trekkers.
Must-See Features
Sky: skraperen Restaurant for A View With Your Meal. Sample the local cuisine and admire magnificent views.
8.St. Mary’s Church
Romanesque Beauty
The 12th-century complex of St Mary's Church is Bergen's oldest building. It is famous for its unique architecture and impressive altarpiece of this Romanesque church.
Insider Tips
Drop by during a service to feel the acoustics and mood. The church is a sanctuary away from the city chaos.
Must-See Features
Witness the detailed frescoes and intricate wooden work that can be viewed inside this church. Noteworthy elements of interest are certainly the altarpiece.
9.Gamle Bergen Museum
Open-Air History
The open-air museum Gamle Bergen Museum recreates life in old Bergen. The museum is composed of 50 buildings made up from wood and showing different aspects in the daily life.
Insider Tips
An immersive experience interacting with actors in period costumes. Guided tours are available who offer more in depth history.
Must-See Features
Tour the baker and schoolhouse — both displaying genuine period furnishings and decor.
10.Fantoft Stave Church
Architectural Marvel
If you look into the Fantoft Stave Church: this reconstructed medieval wooden church, represents typical Norwegian architecture. In 1992 great parts of the medieval church burned, built in a gothic style from about 1150.
Insider Tips
Come in the morning to avoid all of them and create photos like these. Forest area around here is good for a walk.
Must-See Features
The dragon head detailing and intricately carved wood work on the roof is just amazing. Its peaceful location of the church is another nice detail.
Unique Medical History
Situated in the old St. Jørgen's Hospital — and focusing on Norway's own history of leprosy treatment, The Leprosy Museum provides a pretty unique little insight into how this disease was handled (and mistreated) back in ye olde days. Featuring the notes of Dr. Armauer Hansen for his work on discovering leprosy bacterium
Insider Tips
It will be an educational and a very humbling experience visiting this place. Guided tours in the museum tell you about this.
Must-See Features
Treat yourself to a chilling look at the hospital rooms that were preserved and learn about patients firsthand. Medical history is one of the many interesting topics that features as exhibits in the museum.
12.Nordnes Park and Aquarium
Family-Friendly Fun
Outside - Nordnes Park, which offers a cozy oasis in the middle of town with nice views over the fjord. The Bergen Aquarium next door is one of the largest in Norway and has much to offer as well.
Insider Tips
Bring a picnic to have in the park before going into the aquarium. Interactive exhibits make this a great one for the kiddies too.
Must-See Features
Play with aquatic animals in Sea Lion and Penguin Point. Nordnes Park has a delightful outdoor playground for the kids.
13.Bergen Maritime Museum
Nautical Adventures
It tells the story of Norway like few things do — through its seafaring heritage, at The Bergen Maritime Museum. Exhibits include Viking ships up to current-day vessels, creating a comprehensive history of the maritime evolution.
Insider Tips
You will want to allow a few hours at least; there is much that can be seen here. The location of the museum provides stunning waterfront views.
Must-See Features
One of the best parts are the detailed ship models and old artifacts. Make sure you visit the exhibition about Norway during WW II.
14.VilVite Science Center
Interactive Learning
Ideas for Kids; VilVite Science Center is a hands-on science museum suitable for all ages. It has hands-on displays focusing on technology, science and nature.
Insider Tips
Reserve sufficient time to visit all the exhibits. Special displays and events are regularly seen at the center.
Must-See Features
Special insights: The water experiments and the robots section have been constructed quite tastefully. A 3D cinema provides an immersive experience on multiple scientific topics.
15.Hardangerfjord Day Trip
Fjord Experience
Hardangerfjord is a must-do as well (it's not Bergen proper, but it makes for a great day out!). Only a few years of the beaten path, this wonderful fjord outside Bergen hold incredible landscapesescapes.
Insider Tips
Take a guided tour to learn about the region's geology and heritage. Remember your camera as its photo opportunities are endless.
Must-See Features
Feel the power of Vøringsfossen waterfall and see apple blossom in harmony. The fjord cruises offers an amazing opportunity to get a different angle of the landscape.
Bergen Visitors - Some Practical Information
The city is easily managed, with good public transportation and a well-planned layout. While attractions are also located within easy walking distance of one another, buses and light rail are available for longer trips around the city.
Hours & TicketsThe hours of operation vary depending on the day and time of year, but ticketsupporters recommend starting first thing in themorning.
Bryggen Wharf and The Hanseatic Museum: Daily from 09.00 to seventeen. Tickets cost around NOK 100.
Fløibanen Funicular Fløibanen: From 7.30 AM to 11 PM The return trip is around NOK 125,00.
Bergenhus Fortress: 10 AM-4 PM. Admission free, guided tour 80 NOK.
Fish Market: Daily from 07h00 to 23h00. Free to enter.
Edvard Grieg Museum: 10 AM - 5 PM Tickets cost NOK 100.
KODE Art Museums : Open as usualFrom 11 AM to 5 PM. Tickets cost NOK 150.
Getting Around the City
Finally, Bergen also has an efficient public transport system that consists of buses and the Bybanen light rail. For unlimited use on public transport and entry discounts, think about buying a Bergen Card (from 235kr).
My advice for your day trip to Bergen
As someone who has been to Bergen a few times, I can tell you that it never gets old. Below are a few suggestions that I personally recommend to help make your time there even better.
Eating and Drinking
Local Favourites: The Fish Market where they sell fresh seafood; make sure to try some before you go. The flavors are unparalleled.
CAFÉS AND RESTAURANTS: DINNERAt Lysverket, enjoy an art nouveau twist on classic Norwegian dishes. Over here there is a highly recommended tasting menu.
Cafe Caos: Bergen's cafe culture is strong Coffee Style Take a rest in Det Lille Kaffekompaniet.
Photography Spots
Mount Fløyen Sunset: Breathtaking view and panoramic.
Image Text: Bryggen Wharf at Night; the wooden buildings are very beautiful when they shine during dark hours.
Hardangerfjord Hardangervidda: A postcard shot at every turn.
Cultural Immersion
Festivals: Base your visit around the Bergen International Festival or Bergenfest for a taste of local culture.
Local Markets: Local markets are the best place for some unique souvenirs and a sneak-peek into the daily life of Bergen.
