Best things to do in Bergen
Find out more about those top places in Bergen
If you're searching for a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and quirky charm, let us introduce you to Bergen, Norway’s unofficial ambassador of cool (and yes, probably rain). Nestled between seven stunning fjords and hemmed in by pine-clad mountains, Bergen is a dream destination for lovers of nature, history, and seafood so fresh it might still wink at you.
Bergen Travel Guide: Where History Meets Fjords and Fish
Founded way back in 1070—yes, it’s older than your favorite Viking series—Bergen started out as Norway’s royal capital and a bustling Hanseatic seaport. Today, it proudly holds the title of Norway’s second-largest city, but don’t let that fool you—this place feels like a cozy time capsule with just the right amount of modern edge.
Top Attractions and Things to Do in Bergen
Let’s be honest: the top attraction in Bergen is Bergen itself. But if you're building your must-see list, here are the places to visit and things to do that will make your trip memorable (and your Instagram pop).
Bryggen: The Star of the Postcard
You haven’t truly seen Bergen until you’ve strolled along Bryggen, the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. These colorful wooden buildings once housed Hanseatic merchants but now serve up cafes, artisan shops, and more photo ops than you can shake a selfie stick at. It's sightseeing gold, basically.
Mount Fløyen and the Fløibanen Funicular
Want to earn sweeping panoramic views without sweating up a storm? Hop on the Fløibanen funicular and soar up Mount Fløyen. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll find hiking trails, troll sculptures (it’s Norway, after all), and that crisp mountain air that somehow makes you feel healthier just by inhaling.
The Fish Market: A Seafoodie's Playground
This isn't your average fish market—it’s a full-on travel guide to Norway’s seafood scene. Try fresh shrimp, salmon, or even a whale steak if you're feeling adventurous (don’t worry, it’s legal here). It's both a top attraction and a snack stop.
KODE Museums: For the Culturally Curious
Art lovers, rejoice. The KODE Art Museums are a collection of galleries featuring works from Munch (yes, The Scream guy) and other Nordic greats. Who knew moody fjords inspired such expressive brushstrokes?
Things to Do in Bergen for Nature Lovers
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Take a fjord cruise – Sail past cliffs, waterfalls, and jaw-dropping scenery that looks suspiciously like a desktop background.
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Go hiking around the Seven Mountains – Bergen is basically a hiker’s playground. Pick one mountain, or if you're feeling heroic, tackle all seven.
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Explore the Hardangerfjord – One of Norway’s most famous fjords is just a ferry ride away. Pack snacks, wear layers, and prepare to be wowed.
Bergen: Big City Vibe, Small Town Heart
Despite being a big player on the Norwegian map, Bergen still oozes small-town charm. Its cobblestone alleys, student cafés, and lively music scene add a metropolitan edge to its medieval roots. Even the weather gets in on the fun—Bergen is famously rainy, but locals just grab an umbrella and smile. You should too.
Final Thoughts
Bergen isn’t just a place, it’s a vibe. It’s where history and hipness hang out together, where sightseeing means scenic overload, and where every corner offers something delicious, beautiful, or downright magical. So, whether you're putting together a full travel guide or just looking for the top attractions to check off your list, Bergen should definitely be on your radar—preferably under a waterproof jacket.
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Bryggen
Bryggen is an ancient wharf city in Bregen that has a history of being the biggest trading center of the city in the 12th century. Because of this, it made it to the enviable list of UNESCO'S World Heritage Sites. The radiant colors of the place can be confused for rainbows. Bryggen was once ruled by the Hanseatic league also in the 12th century and one can still find traces of their time in the corners and alleyways of the city.
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Fløyen
The fun begins even before you get to the top of Mount Fløyen. You'll have to take the Fløibanen Funicular, which already attracts enough tourists on it own. On top of the mountain is a mind-blowing view of the world before you. The mountain has trails around it so you can move around on it to see the world from the different angles and sides of the mountain.
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Ulriken
Of all the mountains that surround Bergen, Mount Ulriken is the tallest. The panoramic view of nature from the top of the mountain will remain fresh in your memory for a very long time. In fact, you can even get to see other planets from the far away outer space with the right telescope. But that's not all about the place. People taking tours to this place will have to get to the mountain top in cable cars. Isn't that just nice?
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Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene
About 400 years ago, the Hanseatic merchants dominated the trading systems of Norway. If you still check the right places in Norway today you'll still find traces of the Hanseatic merchants, and the Hanseatic Museum in Bergen is one of those places. You will be given a tour of the whole museum where you'll get to learn more about the Hanseatic merchants and their way of life.
