1 Explore Historic Bryggen

Bryggen is one of Bergen’s most iconic sights and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colorful wooden buildings lining the harbor. These old merchant houses date back to the 14th century when the Hanseatic League controlled trade in the region. Walking through this area feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow alleyways, wooden structures, and small artisanal shops selling everything from traditional crafts to souvenirs. In the backstreets and hidden courtyards behind the main row of buildings you’ll find small museums and cafes.

2 Ride the Floibanen to Mount Floyen

Mount Floyen is a must-see when you’re in Bergen, and the best part? It’s super accessible. Get on the Floibanen funicular, which takes you up to the top of Mount Floyen in about 6-7 minutes. The views from the summit are stunning, offering a panoramic look at the city, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains.

Once you’re at the top, there’s a lot to do. You can grab a coffee and enjoy the view, take a short hike, or even rent a bike if you’re feeling more adventurous. The trails around Mount Floyen are well-marked, and you can even hike all the way back down to the city center if you want a scenic walk.

3. Visit the Fish Market (Fisketorget)

Bergen’s Fish Market is a great place to experience Norwegian cuisine firsthand. Located right on the harbor, it’s a lively spot where you can pick up fresh seafood like salmon, king crab, and shrimp. Many stalls also offer ready-to-eat dishes, so it’s a good place for a casual lunch or snack. Although definitely geared towards tourists, here are even some local delicacies like reindeer or whale meat.

4. Learn Some History at the Hanseatic Museum

Located in one of the original buildings on Bryggen, the Hanseatic Museum is actually pretty interesting – it shows the lives of German merchants who controlled Bergen’s trade for over 400 years. You can get a realistic feel for the cramped living quarters and strict working conditions of the time. The museum does an excellent job of explaining the role of the Hanseatic League and how it influenced Bergen’s development. Even if you’re not much into history, the authentic setting makes it worth the visit.

5 Climb to the Top of Mount Ulriken

If you’re up for a more challenging hike, head to Mount Ulriken, the tallest of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen. You can either hike up (which takes about 1.5-2 hours) or take the Ulriksbanen cable car for a faster ascent. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular—think endless fjords, mountain peaks, and, on a clear day, even a glimpse of the North Sea.

There are several hiking trails once you’re at the top, including a popular route to Mount Floyen if you’re up for a longer adventure.

6 Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet i Bergen)

Bergen Aquarium is perfect if you’re traveling with kids, but it’s also fun for adults interested in marine life. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including seals, penguins, and fish native to the Norwegian coastline. They also have informative exhibits about Norway’s marine environment and conservation efforts.

Tip: the penguin feeding and seal shows are highlights, so try to time your visit around one of these events.

7 Take a Fjord Tour

You can’t visit Bergen without experiencing the magic of Norway’s fjords. There are plenty of boat tours leaving from Bergen’s harbor that will take you into the heart of the fjords. One of the most popular tours is the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which includes a boat trip through the fjords as well as a scenic train ride on the famous Flåm Railway and which you can replicate much cheaper yourself – see here how).

How to get there

By Plane | The easiest way to get to Bergen is by flying into Bergen Airport (BGO), also known as Flesland Airport. There are direct flights from major European cities like London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Stockholm, as well as frequent domestic flights from Oslo and other Norwegian cities. From the airport, it’s just a 20-30 minute journey to the city center by:

– Light Rail (Bybanen): The most affordable option, costing around NOK 40-50 ($4-5), with trains departing every 10 minutes.

– Airport Shuttle (Flybussen): A bit quicker than the light rail and costs around NOK 130-150 ($12-15).

– Taxi: If you prefer convenience, a taxi ride to the city center will cost approximately NOK 400-500 ($40-50).

By Train | If you’re already in Norway, taking the train to Bergen is one of the most scenic options. The Bergen Line (Bergensbanen) from Oslo to Bergen is often considered one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. The 7-hour ride takes you through dramatic landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and rivers. You can book tickets through Vy (Norwegian Railways), with prices ranging from NOK 300-800 ($30-80) depending on the class and time of booking.

By Car | Driving to Bergen can be a fantastic way to explore the Norwegian countryside, but keep in mind that some routes involve ferries, tunnels, and winding mountain roads. If you’re driving from Oslo, it’s a 7-8 hour journey, while from Stavanger, it’s about 5 hours. Be prepared for tolls along the way and beautiful but often narrow and winding roads, especially in the fjord regions.

By Bus | Several bus companies, such as Nor-Way Bussekspress and Vy Bus, offer routes to Bergen from other Norwegian cities. Traveling by bus is a good option if you’re coming from cities like Stavanger or Trondheim. While the journey can be long (about 5-6 hours from Stavanger), it’s more budget-friendly, with tickets costing between NOK 300-600 ($30-60).

By Ferry | For a unique experience, you can arrive in Bergen by ferry. Hurtigruten, known for its coastal cruises, operates daily ferry services along Norway’s coast, with Bergen being one of the main stops. This is a more leisurely option and offers stunning views of the coastline, fjords, and islands along the way. Ferries also connect Bergen to nearby towns like Stavanger and the fjord regions, perfect if you want to explore the western coast of Norway by water.

Pro tip |  If you have time, the combination of train and ferry (Norway in a Nutshell tour) from Oslo to Bergen is a fantastic way to see some of the best scenery Norway has to offer, including the fjords and mountains.

Where to stay

Budget | If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, Marken Guesthouse is a solid choice. Located just a short walk from Bergen’s city center and train station, this hostel offers both private rooms and dormitories at reasonable rates. It’s clean, comfortable, and has a cozy communal area where you can meet fellow travelers. You’ll also have access to a shared kitchen, which is a great way to save on dining costs in an otherwise pricey city. Book well in advance, especially in summer, as this hostel is popular with budget travelers and backpackers.

Midrange | For a charming, midrange option, Hotel Park Bergen is a great choice. It’s located in a historic building near the University of Bergen, just a short walk from the city center. The hotel offers individually decorated rooms with a cozy, boutique feel and a great breakfast spread in the morning. Guests love the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the fact that it’s slightly away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas. Ask for a room on the upper floors for a better view of Bergen’s scenic rooftops and mountains.

Boutique | For a more boutique experience, Det Hanseatiske Hotel is an excellent option. Located right in the heart of Bryggen (the old Hanseatic wharf), this hotel offers rooms full of character with a mix of historic charm and modern comfort. The exposed wooden beams and rustic decor give it a traditional Norwegian feel, but with all the modern amenities you need. Plus, you’ll be staying steps away from some of Bergen’s top attractions, like the Hanseatic Museum and the Fish Market. Book a room with views of Bryggen for an authentic Bergen experience.

High-End | Opus XVI is one of Bergen’s top hotels. This upscale hotel is housed in a grand historic building, offering spacious and elegantly designed rooms. Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance of most of the major attractions, but it also feels secluded and peaceful. The hotel also offers an excellent on-site restaurant and impeccable service. Perfect for those looking to indulge in some Norwegian luxury.

Cost of travel

Bergen can be pricey, but it offers something for every budget. For accommodation, budget travelers can expect to pay around NOK 300-500 (€25-45) per night for hostels or guesthouses, while midrange hotels range from NOK 800-1,500 (€70-130). Luxury stays cost upwards of NOK 2,000 (€170) per night.

Food prices vary from NOK 150-250 (€13-22) for a meal at a casual cafe, while dining at midrange restaurants costs around NOK 250-400 (€22-35). Public transport is affordable, with fares around NOK 40-50 (€3.50-4.50), and the Bergen Card offers discounts on attractions and free public transport. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend NOK 700-1,000 (€60-85) per day, while midrange travelers might spend NOK 1,500-2,500 (€130-215).