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Nestled on Norway's southwestern coast, Bergen is a picturesque city with a rich history, vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural surroundings. Affectionately known as the ‘capital of the fjords’ and home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are so many Bergen activities and attractions to enjoy.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff or an art lover, Norway’s second-largest city certainly has something special in store for you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the best things to do in Bergen, so you can make the most of your visit to this enchanting city!
1. Explore Bryggen Wharf
If you’re wondering what to do in Bergen, a trip to Bryggen Wharf is a must. The iconic heart of Bergen and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic harbor district is famous for its colorful Hanseatic wooden buildings lining the waterfront.
Once popular across Northern Europe, the old wooden urban structures you can see at Bryggen are the last remaining buildings of the former town. Here, you can enjoy one of the best things to do in Bergen: wandering along the harbor and through the narrow alleyways, exploring quaint shops, cozy cafes and museums, including the brilliant Hanseatic Museum.
2. Ride the Floibanen Funicular
For the best view of Bergen, you can take a ride on the Floibanen Funicular to Mount Floyen. Within a six-minute journey, you’ll be at the top of the mountain, enjoying breathtaking vistas of the city, fjords and surrounding islands.
At the summit, you can stroll along the various hiking trails, enjoy the beautiful outdoors or get a bite to eat while savoring the incredible views at the mountaintop cafe. Perfect for a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, taking the Floibanen Funicular is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bergen for good reason!
3. Hike in the Mountains at Damsgardsfjellet
If you’re looking for active things to do in Bergen, the mountains surrounding the city provide excellent hiking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. We highly recommend the underrated Damsgardsfjellet route for an amazing hike away from the crowds. There are also iconic trails like the Vidden Trail, Mount Ulriken and Mount Rundemanen routes with varying levels of difficulty and breathtaking views of the city, fjords and the North Sea.
Taking a hike in Bergen’s surrounding mountains is one of the best Bergen activities for nature lovers and, if you want to take it to the next level, you can rent a motorhome in Bergen to enjoy peaceful nights under the stars where you can stay in the perfect base location for a hike.
4. Visit the Fish Market (Fisketorget)
One of the most popular outdoor markets in the whole of Norway, Bergen’s Fish Market has existed since the 1200s! Located at the heart of Bergen, the Fish Market is a bustling hub of seafood vendors, restaurants and fruit and veg stalls.
At Bergen’s Fish Market, you can sample fresh seafood in traditional Norwegian dishes, such as fish soup and fish cakes. The ideal place for seafood lovers to immerse themselves in Bergen's culinary culture, the indoor section of the Fish Market is open all year round, while the outdoor section is open during the summer months.
5. Discover Bergen's Aquarium
Bergen Aquarium offers an exciting opportunity to explore Norway's marine life. As one of the top Bergen attractions and the largest aquarium in Norway, Bergen Aquarium is home to a whole range of exhibits featuring fish, penguins, seals, sea lions, crocodiles and snakes.
When visiting Bergen Aquarium, you can choose whether you prefer to buy your ticket online or at the door, although we recommend purchasing your ticket beforehand during the peak tourist season of summer. With a cinema, venue for birthday parties and dining room with views of the fishes, visiting Bergen Aquarium is a brilliant thing to do in Bergen for all the family.
6. Stroll Through Bergen's Parks: Byparken and Nygardsparken
Bergen is blessed with beautiful parks and green spaces, which are perfect for taking a leisurely stroll for a bit of relaxation during your busy days of sightseeing. One of the most accessible and peaceful things to do in Bergen, taking a walk in the city’s parks is sure to give you a much-needed nature hit during your time in the city.
We recommend taking a short break when you’re in the city center to wander round Bergen's first park, Byparken, and enjoy the views of the picturesque pond, statues and vibrant gardens. The largest park in Bergen, Nygardsparken, is another splendid park to explore. Close to the University of Bergen, this park contains a stunning lake and lush greenery.
7. Tour Troldhaugen Edvard Grieg Museum
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Bergen, Troldhaugen Edvard Grieg Museum offers the chance to visit the former residence of renowned and internationally-acclaimed Norwegian composer, Edvard Grieg. Here, you can explore the composer's villa, his composing hut by the lake and the museum dedicated to his life and work.
The serene surroundings, including Lake Nordas, add to the charm of this cultural gem. If you’re visiting Norway in summer, one of the best things to do in Bergen is attend one of the daily concerts at Troldhaugen held here during the summer months. This living museum in Bergen is a must-visit for any Greig fans and music lovers.
8. Discover Bergenhus Fortress
Dating back to the 13th century, Bergenhus Fortress is a historic landmark that once housed the royal residence. One of the oldest stone fortifications in Norway, Bergenhus Fortress is an amazing place to visit in Bergen to explore medieval architecture and learn about the city's military history in the attached museum.
You can enter Bergenhus Fortress for free but, if there’s a special event taking place, such as a concert or other cultural event, a paid ticket may be required. Attracting thousands of tourists each year, exploring Bergenhus Fortress is one of the most popular Bergen activities for visitors to this stunning and historic city.
9. Take a Breathtaking Fjord Cruise to Rosendal or Mo
As the gateway to some of Norway's most beautiful fjords, including the famous Næroyfjord, Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord, Bergen is the perfect place to take a fjord cruise. Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of these deep, glacier-carved valleys as you glide along in a boat.
Many fjord cruises also offer stops in charming coastal villages, such as Rosendal and Mo, as well as opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. If you have a few hours free and you’re wondering what to do in Bergen, we can definitely suggest a fjord cruise as an amazing way to see the city!
10. Experience Bergen International Festival
If you're wondering what to see in Bergen at different times of the year, Bergen International Festival should definitely be on your list for spring! Norway's premier cultural event, Bergen International Festival features an array of world-class performances, including music, dance, theater and visual arts.
Hundreds of events are held at various venues throughout the city each May/June for Bergen International Festival. Dating back to the 1950s, Bergen International Festival is the longest-running music and theater festival in Norway and the largest of its kind across all the Nordic countries.
11. Learn at VilVite Bergen Science Centre
Perfect for families and curious minds, VilVite Bergen Science Centre is a hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits, fun workshops and amazing science shows to enjoy. Covering a wide range of topics, from physics and chemistry to robotics and the natural world, VilVite makes for a fun and educational stop for visitors of all ages.
Here, you can go on a virtual expedition underwater, witness some fiery experiments and code your very own computer game. Sounds cool, right?! One of the best things to do in Bergen for all the family, VilVite also has a cafe and shop to explore.
12. Walk Through Trollskogen Troll Forest
Trollskogen, or the ‘Troll Forest’, is a mystical woodland located on Mount Floyen. Exploring the enchanting trails of the Troll Forest adorned with sculptures of trolls and mythical creatures is one of the most magical things to do in Bergen for both children and adults alike.
Home to beautiful scenery and a bit of fairytale magic, the Troll Forest is definitely a unique walking trail to take. Here, you can witness the importance of trolls in Scandinavian folklore as powerful woodland beings thought to dwell in caves and mountains among the trees.
13. Explore KODE Art Museum
KODE Art Museum is actually a group of four museums showcasing an impressive collection of Norwegian and international art. You can explore contemporary, classical and design art at these institutions, which are spread throughout Bergen.
These museums often host temporary exhibitions, making each visit a unique experience. With exhibitions including works by Edvard Munch and live concerts in Norwegian, visiting KODE is one of the most interesting things to do in Bergen to experience a slice of authentic Norwegian culture.
14. Visit Fantoft Stave Church
When considering what to see in Bergen, we recommend visiting the stunning and historic Fantoft Stave Church for a glimpse into the traditional architecture of Norway. Originally built in 1170, the Fantoft Stave Church you can see today has been totally rebuilt since it was set alight in 1992. See if you can spot the wish stone in the wall from the original church.
15. Indulge in Bergen’s Local Cuisine
No visit to Bergen is complete without savoring the local Norwegian dishes. Bergen is the perfect place to sample some traditional Norwegian food, as this former UNESCO City of Gastronomy is home to many world-class restaurants and talented chefs.
Some Bergen specialties to try include raspeballer (potato dumplings), klippfisk (dried and salted cod) and farikal (mutton stew). Pair your meal with aquavit or a local craft beer for an authentic culinary experience.
16. Swim in one of Europe’s best diving pools at AdO Arena
One of the best things to do in Bergen for keen swimmers and divers is making a visit to the 50m AdO Arena pool. Located in the city center, this pool is known as one of Europe’s best diving pools. With super fun water slides, a 5m diving area and even SUP board and kayak rental, AdO Arena is the perfect place for water enthusiasts.
17. Visit Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Dating back to 1765, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the world’s oldest orchestras. The famous Norwegian composer and pianist, Edvard Grieg, was closely associated with this philharmonic. From May to September, you can experience this musical wonder for yourself at the striking Greighallen concert hall in Bergen city centre. Internationally renowned conductors and musicians perform with the philharmonic, making this a top-quality Bergen attraction to enjoy.
18. Have Fun at Hoyt and Lavt Adventure Park
One of the best things to do in Bergen for kids, a trip to Hoyt and Lavt Adventure Park promises adventurous fun for all the family. Here, you can climb and zipline through the treetops, clear climbing obstacle courses and soak in the incredible views of Bergen city and the surrounding mountains. There’s even an opportunity to do a free fall drop! You’ll find the adventure park located 11 km from the city centre in the middle of the forest.
19. Discover Bergen’s Maritime Museum
Learn more about Norway’s relationship with the sea and Bergen’s rich shipping history at Bergen Maritime Museum. With a Viking ship model and exhibitions on school ships and shipbuilding, this museum is an amazing thing to do in Bergen to learn more about the city’s maritime roots. You can learn all about the significance of ships in Viking society as symbols of wealth and power, how shipping played a vital role in Bergen’s development all the way from the Iron Age, and much more!
20. Tour Havra Farm
Get to know the locals’ stories on a guided tour of Havra Farm, which is one of the best preserved cluster farms in Norway. Located on the stunning island of Osteroy, 30 minutes from Bergen city centre, Havra Farm has been a farming site since the Bronze Age – yes, really! At this unique and historical Bergen attraction, you can discover how a traditional Norwegian farm operated and how local resources were used.
21. Take a Class at JM Atelier Art School
For creative types, a wonderful thing to do in Bergen is to take an art class at JM Atelier Art Studio. From watercolour classes to travel sketching workshops, the art school offers classes for complete beginners all the way to those with advanced art skills. All the materials are provided so you can simply go along and create a lovely handmade souvenir to bring home with you!
22. Visit Rosenkratz Tower
As the most important monument in Norway from the Renaissance period, Rosenkratz Tower is well-worth a visit. Serving as a residence and fortified tower, this amazing Bergen attraction was built in the 13th century for King Magnus Lagbote. Today, you can explore the dungeons, the cannon attic and climb the winding staircase to the roof, where you can enjoy an incredible view over Bergen.
23. Rent a Bike and Cycle Round the City
Whether you choose to take a guided cycling tour of Bergen or prefer to go on your own cycling adventure, exploring the city by bike is a brilliant thing to do in Bergen to experience the landmarks, attractions and surrounding nature in peace. Bergen is actually home to the world’s longest bike tunnel, Fyllingsdalen bike tunnel, which runs for 3 km (an 8-10 minutes bike ride) by Lake Store Lungegardsvannet. A must-see Bergen attraction for cyclists!
24. Visit Magic Ice Bar
A fun thing to do in Bergen for all ages, visiting the Magic Ice Bar in Bergen city center gives you the chance to immerse yourself in an icy winter wonderland. You can marvel at incredible ice sculptures inspired by famous international artworks, and enjoy a drink served in an ice glass. Worried about the cold? Don’t be! You’ll get a winter poncho and gloves to wear inside to keep toasty and warm.
25. Explore Bergen’s Boutiques and Independent Shops
Fancy a chill afternoon walking around town? A laid-back thing to do in Bergen is to get to know the city while exploring some local shops and discovering unique handcrafted items. From Norwegian-made knitwear at Dale of Norway, to an open factory where you can see artisans making jewellery and household items at Arven Gold and Silver Ware Factory and Shop, Bergen has it all!
Discover All the Amazing Things to Do in Bergen For Yourself!
Who wants to explore Bergen’s historical sites, scenic fjords and artistic treasures? We definitely do! Let’s get started with planning the perfect Bergen trip by exploring transport and accommodation options, then it’s time to plan your own list of things to do in Bergen, using this guide to our favorite Bergen activities as inspiration.
Have you considered renting a campervan for your Norway road trip? A camper, SUV or motorhome will give you the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore Bergen and the rest of Fjord Norway’s stunning landscapes in your own time. You can check out our range of affordable and reliable campervan rentals in Norway today to get ready for your epic Bergen adventure, woohoo!
