Bergen City Guide - Travel Handbook to Norway's Rainiest City
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Travel Notes: Destinations: Europe: Norway - Bergen Travel Guide.
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Travel Guide For Visitors to Bergen
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Discover why colourful wooden houses, world-class museums and dramatic fjord landscapes make Bergen the most captivating city in Norway; even in the rain. Share on Facebook
Norway's Second Largest City
Surrounded by mountains and fjords, Bergen is a historic city located on the west coast of Norway.
The second-largest city in Norway, after Oslo, Bergen was founded by King Olav Kyrre in 1070, as Bjørgvin; meaning 'the green meadow among the mountains'.
Driving Distances in Europe
Making The Most of a Visit to Fjordland
If you've ever wondered what it feels like to live inside a postcard, Bergen might just be your answer.
This UNESCO World Heritage city serves up a perfect blend of medieval charm, modern culture, and some of the most spectacular natural scenery you'll find anywhere in Scandinavia.
Yes, you'll probably get wet - Bergen receives rain on roughly 200 days a year - but trust us, that's all part of the charm.
Make Bergen Your Next Norwegian Adventure
Nestled between seven mountains and multiple fjords, Bergen isn't just Norway's second-largest city; it's arguably its most atmospheric.
The historic Bryggen wharf, with its iconic timber buildings leaning into each other like gossiping neighbours, tells the story of Bergen's 900-year history as a major trading port.
Today, it's your gateway to the Norwegian fjords and a destination that rewards curious travellers with outstanding seafood, world-class museums, and enough cultural attractions to keep you busy between downpours.
Getting to Bergen - Your Transport Options
Flying to Bergen
Bergen Airport (BGO) is known for its stunning surroundings and serves as a gateway Bergen and the Norwegian fjords.
The airport is located about 20 kilometres south of the city centre, with direct flights from major European cities including London, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen.
The airport express bus (Flybussen) runs every 15-20 minutes and takes roughly 30 minutes to reach the city centre, costing around 120 NOK for adults.
Arriving by Train
The Oslo-Bergen railway line ranks among Europe's most scenic train journeys, winding through mountains, valleys, and past the famous Flåm branch line.
The journey takes about 7 hours; perfect for soaking up Norway's dramatic landscapes whilst enjoying the comfortable seating and onboard café.
Ferry Services
If you're travelling from Denmark, DFDS operates overnight ferries from Copenhagen to Bergen, whilst Fjord Line runs services from Hirtshals in Denmark.
These ferries offer cabins, restaurants, and the chance to arrive in Bergen feeling refreshed rather than jet-lagged.
Where to Stay in Bergen - Neighbourhood Guide
Bryggen and City Centre
Staying in Bergen's historic heart puts you within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants, and shopping.
Expect to pay premium prices for the convenience, but you'll save on transport costs and have the city's medieval atmosphere right on your doorstep.
Best for: First-time visitors, culture enthusiasts, those wanting to explore on foot.
Fløyen and Fløibanen Area
The neighbourhoods around the famous funicular railway offer stunning views and quick access to hiking trails.
Properties here tend to be more expensive but provide that quintessential Bergen mountain-meets-sea experience.
Best for: Hikers, photographers, romantic getaways.
Nordnes Peninsula
This residential area offers a more local feel whilst remaining close to the city centre.
You'll find the Bergen Aquarium here, plus excellent seafood restaurants and peaceful walking routes along the waterfront.
Best for: Families, travellers seeking a quieter base, seafood lovers.
Popular Hotels in Bergen
Bergen's Must-See Attractions
Bergen Fish Market
Operating since the 1200s, Torget (the Fish Market) remains Bergen's beating commercial heart.
Modern vendors sell everything from fresh King crab to reindeer sausages, whilst restaurants prepare seafood dishes using ingredients bought metres away.
Best visiting times: Morning for freshest selections, lunch for prepared foods.
Bryggen - The Hanseatic Heart
Bergen's most famous attraction needs no introduction, but it deserves your time.
These 14th-century wooden buildings once housed German merchants and now contain museums, shops, and restaurants.
The Bryggen Museum, beneath the wharf, reveals archaeological finds and tells the story of medieval Bergen life.
Top tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best photographs and fewer crowds.
Fløibanen Funicular and Mount Fløyen
This century-old funicular railway carries visitors 320 metres above sea level in just 6 minutes, revealing panoramic views across Bergen's rooftops, harbour, and surrounding mountains.
At the summit, you'll find hiking trails, a café, and playground facilities.
Opening hours: Daily from 7:30 AM, closing times vary seasonally.
Cost: Adult return tickets from 60 NOK.
KODE Art Museums
This network of four buildings houses one of Norway's most impressive art collections, including works by Edvard Munch, Picasso, and Bergen's own Nikolai Astrup.
The museums also showcase decorative arts, design, and rotating contemporary exhibitions.
Museum highlights: Munch's early works, Astrup's distinctive Western Norwegian landscapes.
Bergen Food Scene - Beyond Fish and Potatoes
Budget-Friendly Options
Norwegian dining can strain budgets, but Bergen offers alternatives.
The Fish Market provides reasonably priced prepared foods, whilst bakeries like Godt Brød offer excellent sandwiches and pastries.
Breakfast Buffets: Many hotels include substantial breakfasts that can sustain you until dinner.
Modern Nordic Dining
The city's restaurant scene has evolved considerably, with establishments like Lysverket and Bare Vestland putting contemporary twists on traditional ingredients.
Expect creative presentations of local game, foraged ingredients, and innovative seafood preparations.
Traditional Norwegian Cuisine
Bergen's coastal location means exceptional seafood features heavily in local cuisine.
Try reindeer at traditional restaurants like Bryggeloftet & Stuene, or sample fresh fish soup at the historic Fisketorget.
Day Trips from Bergen - Exploring the Fjords
Flåm and Nærøyfjord
This classic Norwegian fjord experience combines the dramatic Flåm Railway with boat trips through UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.
Full-day tours from Bergen typically include transport, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Hardangerfjord
Known as the 'Queen of the Fjords', Hardangerfjord offers spectacular spring blossom displays and numerous hiking opportunities.
The area produces much of Norway's fruit and provides a gentler landscape compared to the more dramatic western fjords.
Stavanger and Pulpit Rock
While requiring an early start, day trips to Stavanger combine charming old town exploration with the option to hike to Preikestolen 'Pulpit Rock'; one of Norway's most photographed natural formations.
On the Edge of Norway, close to the mighty North Sea coastline, you'll find the Stavanger region with its long stretches of beaches, fjords and mountains
Bergen Weather - Embracing the Rain
Bergen's reputation for rainfall isn't exaggerated; the city receives around 2,250mm annually.
However, this creates the lush landscapes and dramatic atmospheric conditions that make Bergen photography so striking.
Best Months to Visit Bergen
May through September offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, though rain remains possible year-round.
Packing Essentials for a Visit to Bergen
Waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes with good grip, layers for temperature changes.
Getting Around Bergen
Cycling Options
Bergen City Bike offers rental stations throughout the city, though the hilly terrain and frequent rain make cycling more challenging than in flatter destinations.
Public Transport
Bergen's bus system, operated by Skyss, connects all major districts and attractions.
The Bergen Card includes public transport plus museum entries, often providing good value for active sightseers.
Walking Bergen
The city centre remains highly walkable, with most major attractions within comfortable walking distance.
However, Bergen's hills can be steep, so factor in extra time and energy for uphill sections.
Bergen Shopping - From Souvenirs to Scandinavian Design
Local Food Products
Take home Norwegian specialties like cloudberry jam, aquavit, or high-quality smoked salmon.
Bergen's food halls and markets offer the best selections and often provide vacuum packaging for travel.
Modern Scandinavian Design
Bergen's shopping districts feature contemporary Scandinavian design stores, including Norwegian brands like Oleana (luxury knitwear) and Bjørk (outdoor clothing designed for Norwegian conditions).
Traditional Norwegian Crafts
Look for authentic Norwegian woolens, particularly Dale of Norway sweaters, wooden rosemaling items, and Sami handicrafts.
The shops along Bryggen offer tourist-focused selections, whilst local markets provide more authentic options.
Planning Your Bergen Visit - Practical Tips
Budget Considerations
Norway ranks among Europe's most expensive destinations.
Budget approximately £80-120 per day for mid-range accommodation, meals, and activities.
The Bergen Card can provide savings on multiple attractions.
Currency and Payments
Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK).
Card payments are accepted virtually everywhere, often preferred over cash.
How Long to Stay
Three to four days allows time to explore Bergen's main attractions, take a fjord day trip, and experience the city's cultural offerings without feeling rushed.
Language
While Norwegian is the official language, English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Bergen's Cultural Calendar
Bergen Food Festival - Matfestival
September brings food enthusiasts together to celebrate local and international cuisine, with particular emphasis on seafood and traditional Norwegian dishes.
Bergen International Festival
Held annually in late May/early June, this prestigious arts festival features music, theatre, and dance performances by international and Norwegian artists.
Night Jazz Festival - Nattjazz
This intimate jazz festival typically occurs in May, featuring performances in venues throughout Bergen's historic centre.
Why Bergen Gets it Right
Bergen succeeds in balancing historical preservation with modern innovation, creating a destination that feels both authentically Norwegian and internationally sophisticated.
Whether you're drawn by the UNESCO World Heritage sites, the access to spectacular fjord landscapes, or simply the charm of those colourful wooden buildings reflecting in the harbour, Bergen delivers an experience that justifies its reputation as Norway's most beautiful city.
The rain might be frequent, but it's rarely torrential, and those dramatic clouds rolling over the seven mountains create some of the most atmospheric urban landscapes you'll find anywhere in Europe.
Pack your waterproofs, embrace the weather, and prepare to discover why Bergen has been capturing hearts for over nine centuries.
Ready to Explore Bergen
Check current flight prices, browse accommodation options, and start planning your Norwegian adventure today.
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