Top 6 Things To Do In Bergen, Norway

Bergen was the second stop on our summer road trip around Norway. Surrounded by mountains and fjords, and filled with colourful buildings, Bergen is a beautiful compact city. We had only 24 hours to explore this vibrant city, and here we share some of the best things to do in Bergen. Bergen has a lot going for it – historic Bryggen at its centrepiece, a stunning location amongst mountains and fjords, interesting museums and a booming food scene.

Whether you have just a day or a week, here are the best things to do in Bergen.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN BERGEN

1. EXPLORE THE WATERFRONT

Bergen is built around its harbour. Lined with colourful buildings, markets, cafes and shops, its a perfect place to start your Bergen exploration.

The Torget Fish Market should be your first stop. Right alongside the harbour and just a stones throw from Bryggen, you’ll find this atmospheric fish market. Selling everything from fish and chips, to calamari, fish cakes, prawn salads and fish soup.

There’s also an “extension” to the fish market,  where you’ll find a covered restaurant-style space where you can sit and have a meal, while watching the world go by.

Further around the harbour are lots of market stalls selling all manner of food items, from seafood and fish to reindeer burgers and fruit.

Top Tip: Consider buying a Bergen city pass for discounts and savings on transport and attractions in and around Bergen. Cards are available in 24, 48 or 72 hour increments.

2. WANDER AROUD BRYGGEN

Bergen’s oldest quarter, Bryggen, runs along the eastern shore of the harbour, in long parallel rows of gabled, colourful buildings. The current 58 buildings (25% of the original) date from after the 1702 fire, although the building pattern is similar to that used in the 12th Century. These wooden buildings were used as combined business premises with living quarters and warehouses. Each building had a crane for loading and unloading ships and a large room where employees met and ate.

This UNESCO World Heritage site has become a haven for artists and craftspeople and there are unique and interesting shops at every turn down the wooden alleyways. The atmosphere of a waterfront community remains, and losing yourself in Bryggen is one of Bergen’s pleasures.

3. EXPLORE THE HANSEATIC MUSEUM

This interesting museum provides an opportunity to explore the world of the Hanseatic traders. Housed in a rough timber building dating from 1704, it highlights the contrast between the living and working conditions of the merchant sailors and apprentices, and the comfortable lifestyle of the trade partners!

You can find more information and opening times on the Hanseatisk Museum website.

Top Tip: The Bergen card provides discounted entry into the Hanseatic Museum.

4. HEAD TO THE TOP OF MT FLOYEN ON THE FLOIBANEN FUNICULAR

For an unbelievable view of the city of Bergen, ride the 26 degree Floibanen Funicular to the top of Mt Floyen. If you only have a short time in Bergen this is a must-do. You can hike to the top but it is great fun to ride the funicular. The views from Mt Floyen, at 320 metres high, across the city are amazing, even when its drizzling!

We opted for a return family ticket on the funicular which cost  285 NOK for a family of five (discounts apply with the Bergen city pass) but there is so much to do on Mt Floyen that you could easily spend the whole day.

Top Tip: Plan to spend several hours on Mt Floyen as there is so much to do here, particularly with kids.

5. ENJOY ONE OF THE MANY GREAT ACTIVITIES ON MT FLOYEN

There are a number of well marked hiking trails on Mt Floyen. All the possibilities are mapped out on the free Walking Map of Mt Floyen which can be obtained from the Bergen tourist office.

There are a number of great playgrounds for kids on Mt Floyen. I think we tried them all out! Make sure you get to the adventure playground in the forest and the troll garden.

Other options include mountain biking, kayaking, and zip lining which are all at an extra cost.

Lastly ensure you visit the Mt Floyen goats, resident on the mountain.

6. EAT AT THE HARBOUR SIDE

Every visit to Bergen should include eating somewhere along the waterfront, whether it be at the Fish Market or one of the many street stalls selling everything from fish and chips to reindeer burgers. We had lunch at the Fish Market where we had the most delicious fish soup. Dinner was an amazing paella at a nearby street stall. Eat great seafood and watch the world for by – what could be better?

WHERE WE STAYED

Bergen has plenty of accommodation options, catering for all budgets.

Ole Bull Hotel & Apartments Apartment style accommodation right in the heart of Bergen. Bergen Fish Market and the Bryggen district are just 10 minutes walk from the Ole Bull. We had a two bedroom apartment with a sofa bed in the living area, as well as a small kitchen area. These apartments are ideal for staying in Bergen as they are centrally located so you can easily walk everywhere, and very family friendly with large comfortable apartments.

 

So, this is our guide to the best things to do in Bergen. Hopefully, it will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city in Norway.

FOR MORE IN NORWAY:

Top 10 Things To Do In Stavanger, Norway

Hiking to Pulpit Rock with Kids

Hiking to Florli 4444: A Hike With A Difference!

AND FOR MORE GREAT EUROPEAN CITIES:

The 32 Best European Cities To Visit with Kids

Have you been to Bergen? Let us know your recommendations of things to do in the town. 

Any post on this site may contain affiliate links which earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you.