Things to Do in Bergen

Categorized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf is one of the most popular places to visit in Bergen. The region boasts of studios, restaurants, boutique shops, and much more. It is this area that reflects the colorful personality of Bergen.

The lively colors along with the friendly ambiance make you want to visit this place again and again. Don't miss out on the enchanting alleyways and the wooden houses! Moreover, here you can get English-language tours and understand the culture of Bergen intimately.

Hearing the adventurous tales of the Hanseatic merchants and their lives in the medieval era will no doubt transport you back to those days. You can explore the ancient ruins, check out the museum and sample the delicious local cuisine. The perfect blend of old and modern culture will leave you utterly mesmerized.

Location: Bryggen, 5003 Bergen

Timing: No restriction on timings

Situated at an altitude of 319 meters, Mount Fløyen exists in the northeast part of Bergen. With picturesque views from the mountain-top, Mount Fløyen has quickly garnered public attention. From here, you can admire the magnificent views of the underneath city and the area that surrounds it.

The ethereal beauty of nature coupled with the tranquil ambiance will immediately put your soul at peace. It is the perfect place to admire nature and get away from the chaotic buzz of the city. Moreover, you can also trek or hike your way up to the peak.

But, if physical adventure is not your idea of fun, then you can use the Fløibanen. It is a funicular railway, which measures 844 meters in length. While you use the Fløibanen, make sure to take in the breathtaking beauty of nature surrounding the vehicle.

Location: Vetrlidsallmenningen 21, 5014, Bergen

Established in 1885, Troldhaugen is now one of the most appealing Bergen Norway places to visit. It was actually the house of the most renowned composer in Norway - Edvard Grieg for around 22 years, where he lived with his wife.

The museum comprises exhibitions, cafes, and concert halls that the tourists can observe through guided tours led in either groups or individual bases. It is the place where Grieg retreated to make his masterpieces. You can also listen to his music in the Troldsalen, which is a performance hall that can house 200 people.

Location:  Troldhaugen 65, 5232 Paradis-Bergen

Timing: Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Entry fee: NOK 130 per adult

Built in 1704, the building which houses the Hanseatic Museum has witnessed multiple historical events and has stood the test of time. It is one of the most well-preserved houses in Bryggen. The Hanseatic Museum was opened in 1872 and now offers guided tours of the entire building. In the museum, you will find several items that depict and portray the lives of the German merchants that were part of the Hanseatic League.

From the year 1350 to 1750, these merchants made trades in grains and stockfish and lived here. The weapons, artifacts, and other furnishings will mesmerize you and take you back to the bygone era. Used as assembly halls by the Hanseatic merchants, you will find the Schøtstuene near the St. Mary's Church, which contains more exhibits.

Location: Finnegården 1a, 5003 Bergen

Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm

Entry fee: NOK 130 per adult (in summer)

Bergenhus Fortress is undoubtedly one of the best places in Bergen to visit on your Norway trip. This medieval building has the oldest and the most well-constructed walls of the country, which was mainly a gun platform. It is still one of the most appealing structures in the entirety of Scandinavia.

The fortress was previously the royal palace at the time Bergen was credited as Norway's capital. Inside, you will find two impressive structures - Rosenkrantz Tower and Håkonshallen (Haakon's Hall). Get ready to be in awe of the architecture that still stands from the Viking era.

The historical magic coupled with magnificent architecture will leave you spellbound. Today the castle is open for site visiting and still has civilian and military tenants. The ground conducts many activities like large rock concerts, operative performances, cultural events, and art exhibitions.

Location: Vågen, 5003 Bergen

Timing: 6:30 am to 11 pm

Considered as one of the biggest museums for music, art, and books, the KODE museums will satisfy your artistic urges. There are four different locations that house various types of exhibitions and collections. KODE 1 displays some of the permanent collections of the museum, which includes the Singer Collections as well the Silver Treasure.

Now, the KODE 2 houses various changing exhibits and is also famous for the well-stocked art book shop. In the KODE 3, you will find large volumes of collections by the well-renowned Edvard Munch. KODE 4 is home to Kunstlab, which is a children's interactive museum and offers various installations of Modern art.

Location: Rasmus Meyer’s allé, Bergen

Timing: Tuesday-Friday 11:00 to 16:00, Saturday-Sunday 11:00 to 17:00

Entry fee:  NOK 150 per adult

With an altitude of 643 meters, Mount Ulriken is the tallest mountain in Bergen. The unparalleled visuals of nature make it one of the most charming places to visit in Bergen Norway. If you have a passion for adventure and love to explore new areas, then hiking to the peak of Mount Ulriken will be an amazing experience.

Along the trail, you will encounter mesmerizing views that will make your trip even more memorable. From the top, you can see the majestic mountains, the enchanting fjords, gorgeous lakes, and a unique frame of the city elbow. Moreover, there are multiple trails to satisfy the thrill-loving spirit within you.

You can start the hike from different starting points. However, the climb is quite steep and can cause relative pain. Furthermore, you can also opt for the Ulriken cable car and enjoy the thrilling 7 minute experience.

Location: Haukelandsbakken 40, 5009 Bergen
Timing: Preferably in the morning

Opened for the public in the year 1946, the Old Bergen Museum was constructed in an effort to protect the historical buildings of Bergen. During the 19th century, Bergen had mainly wooden buildings that were vulnerable to fire outbreaks. In order to preserve the old culture of the city, the old Bergen Museum came into existence.

Now, it overlooks the preservation of 55 such wooden homes. Located in the Sandviken, you can now explore the 19th century and take in the magnificent architecture that was prominent in that era. On the carefully designed roads, you will find the original houses that reflect the history of Bergen. Furthermore, the museum also organizes events that offer more information about the bygone era in an effort to educate the tourists about the long-lost culture.

Location: Elsesro, Nyhavns Veien 4, 5042 Bergen

Timing: Closed for the season

Entry fee: NOK 120 per adult

One of the most top-rated places to visit in Bergen is the University Museum of Bergen. It is famous for housing some of the most popular collections. Here, you can admire the Cultural History Collection and the Natural History Collection. Apart from that, you can also take a tour of the Seafacing Museum.

The artistic beauties will leave you in awe of it. There is also a Botanic Garden that you can visit here. If you are a nature lover, then a visit to Nygårdspark is a must. There are various types of flora that will compel you to wonder at their beauty. Moreover, you must not miss the chance to observe the Norwegian Arboretum. It is an impressive collection of around 5,000 plants from different parts of the world.

Location: Haakon Shetelig plass 10, 5007 Bergen

Timing: 10 am to 4 pm

Entry fee: NOK 120 per adult

Are you curious to explore the world of technology and science? Then, visiting the VilVite Bergen Science Center will be like a dream come true. The extensive exhibition in this science center will mesmerize you to a great extent.

Here, you can visit with your family and indulge in some quality bonding time with them. It is the perfect place to create new memories while having fun and exploring science. There are above 100 exhibits and virtual expeditions that you can observe.

Moreover, you can also partake in the workshop that takes place in the Creative Garden. Furthermore, they recently opened a new exhibition that has VR installations for exciting illusions. It will help you create new memories for the trip.

Location: Thormøhlens Gate 51, 5006 Bergen

Timing: Open every Saturday and Sunday between 10.15 am – 1.15 pm and 2 pm – 5 pm

Entry fee:  NOK 190 per adult

Timing: Weekdays from June to August

The best way to explore the city of Bergen is to visit Market Square in the early hours. Wake up at the crack of dawn and rush to the busy quays. There, you will find the local fishermen and the 700-year old Torget, also known as the Fish Market.

The buying and selling of different varieties of fishes and the overall liveliness will depict an accurate picture of everyday life in Bergen. You can also explore the Fish Market, where you will come across shellfish, vegetables, fruits, and different types of fishes.

Moreover, you can shop for handmade crafts as souvenirs from here. The lively colors of the building and the bustling of the people make it one of the most popular places to visit on your Bergen trip.

Location: Grensegrenden 1, 5035 Bergen

Timing: Any time you want (preferably in the morning)

Lisøy Island is one of the best places in Bergen to explore and understand its culture even more. This spectacular island is located on Fana, which is a suburban area in Bergen. Apart from the ethereal beauty of nature that surrounds this island, it is also home to the well-renowned violin player, Ole Bull.

Here, you will find the magnificent Ole Bull's villa på Lysøen which has been open to tourists since 1973. You can opt for picnicking in the gazebo, or you can stroll along the paths hand in hand with your partner. The picturesque views that you will see here are simply mesmerizing.

Apart from that, you must conduct a tour of the Lysøen Museum. The expert guides can offer you more in-depth information about the history of the place and the various interesting events that have occurred throughout the years.

Location: Lisøy, Fana, Bergen

Known for being the Royal Residence of the Norwegian royal family, the Gamlehaugen is a marvelous structure that reflects the architecture of the Renaissance period. It now personalizes and stands fortified as the power of the royals in Bergen. The structure in itself is absolutely exquisite. Moreover, the enchanting beauty of nature encompassing the Gamlehaugen is simply breathtaking.

The tourists are allowed various tours of the house. You can visit the roof and take in the enthralling views of the surrounding area. If you love medieval-era movies and have always wanted to visit a real-life dungeon then you will find one here, and the setting will definitely not disappoint you!

Apart from that, you can also explore the well-maintained garden circling the Residence. Walk hand and hand with your partner and absorb the cultural diversity and beauty of Norway together!

Location: Gamlehaugvegen 10, 5230 Paradis, Bergen

Timing: 24 hours

If you have stamina and can tolerate physical exertion, then Stoltzekleiven is one of the most challenging yet satisfying places to visit in Bergen. It comprises about 722 steps and is a popular hiking trail that starts from Fjellveien.

Once you start climbing the stone stairs, you get the chance to marvel at the mesmerizing views. When you reach Fjellveien 13, you will be able to see the starting point of Stoltzekleiven. And after you reach the top, the magnificent views of Byfjorden and Sandviken will enthrall you.

However, the trail is relatively narrow, and hiking up on this adventurous route is not recommended during the winter as the slippery area can cause untoward accidents. However, from the Stoltzekleiven top, you can continue the journey to Mount Fløyen. It will take you about 40 minutes, and the view that greets you at the end is simply indescribable.

Location: Byfjellene, 5003 Bergen

Located in the South East part of Bergen, the Hardangerfjord passes numerous islands like Stord, Bømlo, etc. The panoramic view of fruit farms and enchanting villages along this fjord makes it worthy of the title of the Queen of the Fjords.

With a length of about 179 km, the Hardangerfjord offers unparalleled scenic visuals of majestic mountains, stunning glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. It is the kind of scenery that will satisfy the ever-growing wanderlust within you.  If you travel during the month of May, you will find fruits hanging from the trees and the flora in its full glory.

You can opt for a cruise and explore this magnificent beauty of nature. Apart from that, you can also traverse the charming villages, take in the culture of the area, and mingle with the locals while making unforgettable memories with your friends or partner.

Location: Hordaland, Western Norway

Part of the KODE 3, the Rasmus Meyer Collection houses some of the most intriguing art collections from the golden age of Norway. The museum also boasts of a huge collection of art created by Edvard Munch. If you have an artistic soul, then this is one of the most exciting places to visit in Bergen Norway for you.

Here, you can admire some masterpieces of Munch, such as - The Woman in Three Stages, Jealousy, etc. Apart from Munch, the museum also showcases some of the most brilliant works of artists like Christian Krohg, Gerhard Munthe, Hans Gude, etc.

Location: Rasmus Meyers Allé 7, Bergen

One of the most controversial state churches in existence in Norway is the Fantoft Stavkirke. It is one of the most interesting Bergen Norway places to visit. The original Fantoft Church was actually developed in the year 1150 and was later destroyed in a fire that broke out in 1992.

The suspected arsonist was an ill-famed musician by the name of Varg Vikernes. The church that you see today is an absolute reconstruction of the original one. Nevertheless, it still depicts the Norwegian cultural heritage in the most beautiful way possible.

The architecture of this state church is simply enthralling and clearly reflects the excellent talent and skill of the craftsmanship. Moreover, the area surrounding the church is shrouded in the mesmerizing beauty of nature that exudes a serene ambiance.

Location: Fantoftvegen 38, 5072 Bergen

Timing: 10:30 am to 6 pm

Entry fee: 50 NOK per adult