Welcome to Bergen. Norway’s second-largest city and your ticket to the fjords of the Norwegian West Coast. The City of Seven Mountains is renowned for its rich history, stunning nature, and opportunity for adventure in its own backyard. In addition to being a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important harbors in the country, Bergen is renowned for its excellent hiking opportunities right in its immediate surroundings.
Though Bergen is one of Europe’s rainiest places, don’t let that turn you away, because this former capital is fit for every traveler. Backed with a unique atmosphere, Bergen has no shortage of museums, art galleries, cultural events, and dining opportunities. With a youthful vibe and small-town charm, beautiful Bergen is packed with unique experiences. Norway? Yes, way! If you have the opportunity to visit only one place in Norway, visiting Bergen should be high on your list. Let’s dive into 10 experiences to have in Bergen, Norway.
Jump to…
- 1. Norway in a Nutshell Tour
- 2. Lunch at the Fishmarket
- 3. Go for A Hike
- 4. Stroll through Historical Bryggen
- 5. Explore the Culinary Scene
- 6. Party like a Local
- 7. Celebrate the 17th of May, Norway’s National Holiday
- Discover Lake Skomakerdiket
- 9. Do Yoga on a Mountain
- 10. Visit the Aquarium
- Honorable Mentions
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1. Norway in a Nutshell Tour
Norway in a Nutshell Tour is legendary. It covers all the bases by taking you on a cruise through Norge’s breathtaking UNESCO-protected fjord and mountain scenery, followed up by a train ride on one of Europe’s most scenic railways. It will run you around $195 USD, but hey, Norway is expensive and this popular full-day tour should not be missed when in Bergen.
If you’re looking to save some cash, you can even re-create your own DIY version by booking the bus, train, and ferry independently. It’s been said the train ride from Oslo to Bergen is one of the most beautiful railway journeys in all of Europe.
We indulged in a few too many Hansa brews the night before so we selected the round trip with return to Bergen. However, there are options for one-way trips from Bergen to Oslo where you can further your journey and check out the nation’s capital. Most tours are fully customizable, and run all-year-round, giving you access to some of Norway’s most beautiful fjord scenery.
Starting the day trip from Bergen, the first leg is a scenic train journey to Voss, on the Bergen Railway. From Voss, you’ll hop on a coach bus and drive through tiny mountainside villages while soaking in the endless landscapes heading towards Gudvangen.
The bus will arrive in Gudvangen. Next, it’s time to switch the mode of transportation and hop on a ferry vessel to cruise the majestic fjords.
The cruise is highlighted by the narrow Nærøyfjord and the picturesque Aurlandsfjord. Nærøyfjord is one of the narrowest fjords in the world and is included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It’s by far the most spectacular arm of the Sognefjord. At one point, it’s only 250 meters wide! Nærøyfjord is surrounded by mountain tops towering more than a thousand meters above its tranquil waters.
So sit back, take in all its glory, and more photos than you can count. Up next is Aurlandsfjord, the world’s second-longest fjord, offering stunning views no matter what the season.
Post cruise, you’ll arrive in the small village of Flåm which is nestled in the innermost part of the Aurlandsfjord. Flåm is a popular cruise port and doubles as the perfect place to take a time out on your tour. We opted to sample a few local beers at the brewery in town before hopping back on track to board the legendary Flåm Railway for the next leg of the journey.
All aboard The Flåm Railway! Offering spectacular panoramic views to some of the untouched and mesmerizing nature in the Norwegian fjord landscape. From the Flåm Railway, you’ll arrive in Myrdal. Here, you’ll change trains to the Bergen Railway completing your trip back to Bergen, or continuing on to Oslo on a one-way trip. This tour is an action-packed day and offers a glimpse into Norway’s diverse landscape.
2. Lunch at the Fishmarket
Fish and Fjords, it’s what Bergen does, and the fish market is the perfect place to grab a delicious meal on a budget. It’s also a great opportunity to take in the local culture of Bergen and experience life on the harbor. You can sample some exotic dry sausages sold here, including, elk, whale, and reindeer sausage. That’s right, you read that correctly. Norway is one of only three countries that still hunt whales commercially. Just don’t try to bring them on the airplane with you, TSA in Customs won’t be having it, we learned that one the hard way.
3. Go for A Hike
Join the locals and hike Mt. Fløyen! Fløyfjellet is one of the city mountains in Bergen and has some of the best views from the top. Bergen isn’t called the City of 7 Mountains for nothing and you can hike to all seven peaks of Lyderhorn, Damsgårdsfjellet, Løvstakken, Ulriken, Fløyen, Rundemannen, and Sandviksfjellet.
If you’re feeling really ambitious, you can set the whole day aside and conquer them all. For a less intense day, a majority of the mountains can be accessed via a cable car ride. Want to make the most of your sightseeing? Located only four hours away is the famous Trolltunga Rock on the western edge of the Hardangervidda plateau.
4. Stroll through Historical Bryggen
Historical Bryggen, the image synonymous with Bergen and its history. This section of the city consists of a series of Hanseatic heritage buildings that line the eastern side of the Vågen harbor. Though the original buildings burned down in a fire, Bryggen still remains one of the most Instagram-able spots in the city. A perfect place to get acquainted with your new surroundings.
We may also add there’s plenty of quality people watching to be had due to the abundance of tourists from the many cruise ships that dock for the day.
5. Explore the Culinary Scene
Culinary experiences are a good reason to visit Bergen, which is why it is rated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. In 2015 it was awarded this title, one of only 37 in the world. This honor recognizes some of the best food cities in the world by celebrating creativity when it comes to cuisine and their culinary scene. On a budget or looking for a late-night snack? You’ve got to try a sausage from Trekroneren. This place is an institution in Bergen fast food and their nightlife, staying open until 4 am. The specialty, is a Reindeer Hot Dog, Scandinavian style. Don’t knock it til’ ya try it!
6. Party like a Local
Norwegians reign supreme when it comes to the pre-game and are terribly slow at getting to the bar early. This is most likely due to the high alcohol prices and enjoying the quality time spent with friends before hitting the town. Most venues close at 2 or 3 am, but if you show up before 11, you’ll most likely be the only person there. But not to worry, the party will arrive sooner than later, because in Norway, locals enjoy hanging together in cozy surroundings.
During the winter, Bergen is its darkest, with the sun rising around 9 am, and setting around 3 pm, so it will certainly feel like a long night out. One of our favorite local spots in Bergen to grab a drink is a bar called No Stress and they certainly nailed the name with the laid-back vibe. In 2015 it was Norway’s Best Bar and is one of the best cocktail bars in the city. They even have Mario Kart on Nintendo 64 to play. Felix is another cool local hangout to grab a drink and catch some live music. Friday and Saturdays are the nights to party but you can also find some great deals during the week which are very popular among the local university students.
7. Celebrate the 17th of May, Norway’s National Holiday
Syttende Mai AKA Norway Day. The 17th of May is the Norwegian Constitution Day and the National Day of Norway. Observed on May 17th, this is the biggest party of the year and everyone, we mean everyone, comes out to celebrate. Shops and main roads in the city close and the streets are filled with party-goers dressed to the nines to celebrate and watch parades and bands march by.
You can expect champagne for breakfast as you revel in your fair share of day drinking and good times. Follow that up with never-ending ice cream and hot dogs. Before long you’ll think you’re part Viking. It’s a genuinely good time and a unique glimpse into Norwegian Culture. If you have the chance to partake in a 17th of May celebration, make it happen, you’ll be very glad you did.
Discover Lake Skomakerdiket
The perfect place to picnic or take a peaceful walk in the woods. There are even free canoe rentals in the summertime! Just follow the signs from Fløibanens top station to reach the picturesque lake surrounded by the forest.
9. Do Yoga on a Mountain
The only thing better than Yoga is Yoga with a view. This is an incredible way to start your day and feel the good vibes and energy of Bergen. Free Yoga sessions are held at the top of Mount Fløyen weekly during the spring and summer seasons.
Visit Fløyen’s Facebook Page or Fløyen’s Official Site for more details. Bonus points for getting a good stretch in while enjoying a sunrise over the city.
10. Visit the Aquarium
Bergen is home to the biggest aquarium in the country. The Bergen Aquarium is the National Aquarium of Norway and is home to over 300 species. It’s a nice 15-minute walk from the fish market passing through Nordnes, one of Bergen’s oldest neighborhoods.
Visiting the aquarium is a great activity for one of those overcast or rainy days.
Honorable Mentions
- Ulriken Cable Car
- Bergen Fest
- Fantoft Stave Church
- Fløibanen Funicular
- Bergenhus Fortress
- KODE. Museum
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