Bergen

Bergen Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Overview

Welcome to our detailed travel guide for Bergen, Norway! This beautiful city nestled between seven mountains offers an enchanting blend of urban sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown to help you make the most of your trip.

Places to Go

  1. Bryggen: A historic district with colorful, gabled wooden buildings dating back to the 18th century. Don’t miss the Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene - a traditional Hanseatic merchant’s house.

  2. Fløibanen Funicular: Take a funicular ride up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of Bergen. You can also visit Hiking Centre Vinden for maps and information about hikes in the area.

  3. Bergen Aquarium: Learn about marine life from Norway’s coast and around the world. Don’t forget to visit the penguins!

  4. Mount Ulriken: Reach Europe’s highest-altitude cable car station with a breathtaking view of Bergen and the fjords.

  5. Fisketorget Fish Market: Experience the lively atmosphere as fishermen sell their fresh catch. Try some local seafood!

  6. Bergen Cathedral (Domkirke): A historic church dating back to 1150, offering a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

  7. Lille Lungegårdsvannet Park: A popular green space in the city center, perfect for picnics, bike rides, or boating.

Activities

  1. Fjord Cruise: Explore the stunning Norwegian fjords, perhaps even spotting whales and dolphins!

  2. Hiking: With seven mountains surrounding the city, there are numerous hiking trails catering to all levels.

  3. Kayaking: Discover Bergen’s harbor or venture out to the fjords for a unique kayaking experience.

  4. Art Nova: Visit this contemporary art museum for a diverse collection of Norwegian and international artworks.

  5. Norwegian Canning Museum: Learn about the history of Bergen’s canning industry and its significance in preserving fish.

Where to Eat

  1. Fish Market Restaurants (Landet, Pingvinen): Enjoy fresh seafood at these popular restaurants overlooking the Fish Market.

  2. Café Opera: A charming café offering a variety of dishes, with an excellent view of Bryggen.

  3. Fløio: Dine on Nordic cuisine while taking in the views from Mount Fløyen.

  4. Mathallen: Food hall featuring a wide range of eateries and food stands.

  5. Bergens Penicillin Brewery: Taste local craft beers in this industrial-chic brewpub.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Norge: A historic hotel located next to the train station, offering modern rooms with city or fjord views.

  2. Thon Hotel Bristol: Centrally located with a beautiful art nouveau façade, providing comfortable accommodations.

  3. Lysverket Hotel: A boutique hotel housed in a former power plant, featuring stylish rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

  4. First Hotel Marin: Offering views of the harbor and Bryggen, this modern hotel features an on-site restaurant and sauna.

  5. Flesland Guesthouse: A budget-friendly option with private rooms, located a short bus ride from the city center.

Things to Know

  1. Bergen’s weather is unpredictable, even in summer. Pack layers and waterproof clothing.

  2. The official language is Norwegian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

  3. Bergen’s public transportation system (BY-banen) consists of trams, buses, and a light rail service. Purchase a rechargeable card for convenience.

  4. Tipping isn’t customary in Norway; service charges are usually included in the bill.

  5. The city is relatively compact, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.

Transportation

  1. Fly: Bergen Airport Flesland is served by numerous international and domestic airlines.

  2. Train: Bergen is connected to Oslo and other cities in Norway via the scenic Bergen Line.

  3. Bus: Express coaches connect Bergen with other Norwegian cities, as well as neighboring countries like Sweden and Denmark.

  4. Boat: Fjord cruises depart from Bergen’s harbor, while local ferries connect the city to its surrounding islands.

Tips

  1. Visit in summer for longer daylight hours and milder temperatures.

  2. Invest in a Bergen Card for free admission to museums, discounted transportation, and other perks.

  3. Explore the historic districts of Nygårdshallen and Gamlehaugen.

  4. Attend the International Festival of Chamber Music (early June) or Bergen Pride (mid-August).

  5. Hike to Mount Ulriken at sunrise for a magical experience.

  6. Embrace the Norwegian love for nature and respect local customs when visiting.

We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Bergen! Enjoy your journey, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with us. 😊