Bergen Norway Travel and Tours | Keytours Vacations

Discover Bergen's Wonders

Bergen is famous for its vibrant cultural life; fans of music, theater, art, and marketplaces will find Bergen a haven of creativity. The second largest city in Norway, it is located in the far west of the country, and is an ideal gateway to visit the famed fjords nearby.

Current Weather

54.09 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 52.95 °F / 54.09 °FFeels: 53.28 °F Humidity: 87%5 Day Forecast

Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

The city of Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains based around its harbour. In the Bergenhus district, there are well-preserved medieval buildings. On the other side of the harbour is the Klosteret area, which has beautiful 18th-century wooden houses and charming alleys where you can take a stroll out to the Nordnes peninsula. The city centre extends from the main square, Torget, to the Nygård area, where most shops and restaurants can be found. Bergen was involved in trade with countries all over Europe and was awarded its city charter as early as 1070 by King Olav Kyrre. Contacts with the Hanseatic League allowed Bergen to export fish and import important supplies of grain. In the harbour, which is called Vågen, you can still see parts of the Bryggen, the old Hanseatic Wharf. The old wooden buildings are on the UNESCO world heritage list and have been damaged by fire several times. From March to May, you can hear drummers marching through the streets – this is the Buekorps, a relic from the days when every Norwegian city had its own militia, but nowadays, it is children who make up the teams of drummers. Bergen has a rich cultural scene and two major festivals: Bergen Festspel and Nattjazzen. The composer Edvard Grieg grew up here and his home, Troldhaugen, has been turned into a museum. In recent years, a number of artists from Bergen, including Kings of Convenience, Annie and Röyksopp, have achieved international success.

Useful information

Population:

285,900 (2021)

Currency:

1 Norwegian krone = 100 öre

Emergency Info:

Police: 112
Fire brigade: 110
Ambulance: 113

Opening Hours:

Shops are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm and on Saturday from 9am to 3pm. Many shops are closed on Sundays. The banks are open from 9am to 3:30pm, but most stay open later on Thursdays.

Do & See

Bryggen

Lining up the eastern side of the Vågen harbour is Bergen's most famous postcard, Bryggen. A series of colourful wooden buildings, which once housed the trading offices of the Hanseatic League. Over the years, Bryggen has been ravaged by many fires, and in 1702 the entire city was reduced to ashes. Its rebuilding followed the foundations that had been there since the 12th century, which means that Bryggen was able to retain its medieval architecture. In 1979, the area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. And today, Bryggen is home to museums, shops, restaurants, and pubs.

Fjellskål Fisketorget

For over 800 years, the fish market in Bergen has been a meeting place for merchants and fishermen. Here you will be able to buy the freshest fish and choose from the largest selection of seafood. The market consists of several indoor fish counters as well as restaurants.

Fløyen (Fløyfjellet)

From the fish market, you can take the cable car up to one of the seven mountain peaks and enjoy the breathtaking view! The cable car climbs 320 metres up the mountain, and you can either take an invigorating walk down or, in winter, go down by sledge.

KODE — Art Museums and Composer Homes

KODE is one of Scandinavia's largest museums for art, craft, design, and music. It features more than 43,000 art objects, ranging from paintings, drawings, sculptures, installations and videos to musical instruments, furniture, artisanal handcraft, and design. All can be experienced in four museum buildings in Bergen city centre and in the homes of the composers Ole Bull, Harald Saeverud, and Edvard Grieg.

Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

Feast your eyes and fill your camera roll with Norway's postcard-perfect scenery on this fjord tour from Bergen. Head along the narrow Mostraumen fjord to see some of western Norway's most spectacular landscapes. Spot wildlife, including seals and goats, and sample the fresh mountain water.

Mount Ulriken

Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, the highest of which, at 643 metres, is Mount Ulriken. Take the cable car up to the top or if you're feeling adventurous, choose one of the routes to the summit and conquer the mountain on foot or by bike.

The Bergen Aquarium

Sea creatures can be seen in their natural setting at the Bergen Aquarium–Norway's largest aquarium as well as one of the city's biggest tourist attractions. It is home to Europe's largest collection of fish species and primitive marine creatures together with basins for seals, penguins, and sea birds.

USF — Cultural Centre

This former sardine canning factory is now a unique cultural meeting place. It includes schools for dancers, filmmakers and scriptwriters, a design office, and artist studios, along with stages, exhibition halls, and one of the best cafés beside the sea.

Dining

Bryggeloftet & Stuene Restaurant

If you want the opportunity to try exotic dishes such as smoked whale and reindeer, Bryggeloftet is the right place to be. They really know how to serve fish and game, it’s not inordinately expensive, and it boasts harbour views. In winter, you can enjoy traditional stockfish.

Daily Pot

Daily Pot is Bergen's amazing vegan restaurant, located only a 2 minute walk away from the city centre. The dishes on the menu focus on healthy, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. The head chef and owner carefully selects what is on offer for the week.

Enhjørningen Fiskerestaurant

References to the Enhjørningen (Unicorn) appear in documents from the time of the Hanseatic League. Nowadays, it is a small, comfortably furnished restaurant that specialises in excellent fish and shellfish dishes. The mussel soup with curry, garlic and saffron is definitely worth trying.

Pingvinen

This cosy, traditional Norwegian gastropub offers real comfort food to help you wait out the rain. The dishes are based on local ingredients like fish or lamb and locally sourced vegetables. The rustic and relaxed atmosphere has attracted tourists and locals alike for many years.

Skyskraperen Restaurant

The Skyskraperen Restaurant is located at the top of Mount Ulriken, with a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. The menu offers traditional, hearty Norwegian dishes during the day and a selection of dishes with a modern twist at night. This is the perfect location to enjoy a meal after a hike or a ride in the cable car.

Suppologen

Always on the hunt for new, delicious, healthy recipes, the suppologist travels around the world to bring excellent flavours back home with him. Suppologen is Bergen's soup shop that offers a large selection of creations inspired by the typical soups of different countries, all at reasonable prices.

To Kokker

To Kokker is the kind of restaurant you would like to take home with you! It serves typical, high-quality Norwegian dishes in a picturesque building which is appealingly crooked and genuinely cosy. Try their wild Norwegian venison with blackberry sauce which is very popular with the locals.

Cafés

Baker Brun

Baker Brun bakery is the perfect location to enjoy some afternoon coffee with a pastry. They offer freshly baked treats such as cinnamon buns, cakes, and pastries. Be aware that this place can become a bit crowded in the afternoon, but the wait is definitely worth it.

Café Opera

Café Opera is a lively café and restaurant in the heart of Bergen, offering a great selection of simple, fresh, and tasty food (both Norwegian and international) at reasonable prices. It attracts a mix of locals and tourists, and at night, Café Opera turns into a club hosting live bands and DJ nights.

Det Lille Kaffekompaniet

Det Lille Kaffekompaniet is a popular coffee shop in Bergen with a history that is not at all as small as the name might suggest. Founded in 1996 by four students, DLK quickly became a local favourite for excellent coffee. Then as today, the focus is on a close relationship between owners, baristas and guests, forming a tight-knit community of coffee lovers.

Godt Brød

Godt Brød is a popular bakery with several locations across Bergen. It has been awarded a prize for its organic bread. Apart from their tasty bread, they have brownies, cookies, and a selection of sandwiches. They also offer delicious, freshly baked breakfast options.

Landmark

The Bergen Art Museum has a department called Landmark, where musical happenings, electronic experiments, and art exhibitions are held. The café is elegant and pleasant and serves marvellous Sunday breakfasts as well as a changing lunch menu prepared with seasonal and local products.

Bars & Nightlife

Apollon Platebar

Apollon Platebar not only offers a variety of tap beer but also a large selection of types of vinyl. Try local beers while you browse through classic rock, folk, psychedelia, indie & metal. The combination of a record store and bar creates a unique atmosphere you should not miss.

Café Opera

Café Opera functions as a café, pub and club, and hosts top-class domestic and international DJs. They offer a delicious selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The venue has been in existence for more than twenty years, and still attracts party-goers. Check out their website to learn more about upcoming events.

Dyvekes

Dyvekes wine bar is a hidden gem located on one of Bergen's oldest streets. It might be a bit difficult to find at first, but once you've made it, you will be able to enjoy a large selection of delicious wines in a cosy, 16th-century atmosphere. The knowledgeable waiters will help you with your selection.

Ginial Bar

In addition to a large selection of beer, the major attraction of Ginial Bar is the extensive gin menu. You can choose from a wall of gins from all over the world to add to the drink of your choice. The bartender will happily help you with your decision and make a recommendation.

Henrik Øl og Vinstove

Henrik Øl og Vinstove is a pleasant bar where guests can spend their time people-watching or reading newspapers and magazines while waiting for their friends to arrive. The staff is friendly, and the bar offers a good range of local beers.

Magic Ice Bar Bergen

Experience the magical atmosphere of this bar made entirely out of ice. It is the work of renowned ice carvers and a venue you should not miss. You will be provided with a warm poncho and gloves upon entering. All that is left to do is enjoy your welcome drink served in an ice glass, while you admire the incredible ice sculptures.

Shopping

Bergen Steinsenter

Bergen Steinsenter is located in the heart of Bergen, Bryggen. Browse through a beautiful selection of stones, minerals, fossils & jewellery and find something truly unusual and unique. The different crystals make for a perfect gift or souvenir to take home with you.

Bryggen Husflid

A sweater from Bryggen Husflid will equip you perfectly for the cold Norwegian weather. It is located in an ancient wooden building that is listed as one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites. They have been providing handmade Norwegian knitwear for over 25 years.

Farmers' Market

The Farmers' Market in Bergen is held twice per month on Saturdays right at the harbour (check the website for specific dates). This is the place to try new foods and shop for local specialities. Producers and farmers come to the market to sell everything from meat and smoked salmon to cheese, bread and pastries.

Galleriet

Galleriet mostly houses large chains such as Vero Moda, Benetton and Gant, but also has a number of interesting shops such as Lene V, which sells furnishings from the Designers Guild and Cattelan, together with several shoe shops and few places to have a meal.

Julehuset

At Julehuset (Christmas House), it is Christmas all year round. This is the place to go to start your preparations, or simply if you start missing the most wonderful time of the year in the middle of August. If you are lucky, you might even get to meet Santa.

Tourist Information

Best Time To Visit

The best month to visit Bergen is May. If you want to experience a variety of different shows, live acts, concerts and exhibitions, this will be the best month to come here. While rainfall is also lowest in May, temperatures are the most pleasant in July and August; however, these months are also the busiest.

Passport/Visa

Norway can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

Bergen Airport (BGO)

Flying is definitely the best way to get to Bergen, but it’s a good idea to book well in advance. The Gaia airport bus service from Bergen Airport at Flesland runs every 15 minutes. The journey takes about half an hour, and the bus takes you to the SAS Royal Hotel Bryggen in the city centre.

Public Transport

Tickets for local buses can be bought from the bus driver or at the bus station, which also has day tickets (the latter will save you money if you plan to make more than 2 journeys within 24 hours). Travelling by bus and train is an excellent way to see the varied landscape. Norges Statsbaner, NSB, runs the line between Oslo and Bergen, which reaches heights of more than three thousand feet above sea level. The largest bus operator is NOR-Way, and Lavprisekspressen/Artic Express offers low-price services from Oslo. From Bergen, you can take the Hurtigrutten ferry to Kirkenes, and there are also ferries to Hirtshals and Newcastle.

Taxi

Bergen Taxi Phone: +47 07000 Norges Taxi Phone: +47 910 08 000

Cruise Port

Bergen is a popular cruise destination and can be considered the gate to the fjords of Norway. The wharf in Bryggen is listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Skolten Cruise Port (Vagen Harbor), the main cruise terminal, is located about 1km away from the Bryggen wharf area. This is where most cruise ships dock, larger ships may also dock at Dokken/Jekteviken Port, which is about 1km away from the Fish Market. The cruise schedule for the port in Bergen can be found here: www.bergenhavn.no There are free shuttle services available that will take you to Hurtigruteterminalen (speed boat terminal). From there, you can easily reach the city centre on foot. If you require special assistance or a wheelchair, a shuttle bus can take you directly to the city centre.

Electricity

220 V AC, 50 Hertz

Pharmacy

Vitusapotek Nordstjernen in the Bergen Storsenter is open daily until 11pm and also has an emergency service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Bergen?

The best time to visit Bergen is from May to September when the weather is milder and the days are longer. During this period, you can enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, such as the Bergen International Festival in May and the Bergenfest music festival in June. However, be prepared for rain, as Bergen is known for its frequent showers.

How many days should I spend in Bergen?

A stay of 3 to 4 days in Bergen is ideal to explore the city's main attractions and take a couple of day trips. This allows time to visit the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, the Fløibanen funicular for panoramic views, and the local fish market, as well as excursions to nearby fjords.

What are the must-see attractions in Bergen?

When in Bergen, don't miss the historic Bryggen district, the Fløibanen funicular for stunning views of the city, and the Bergenhus Fortress. Art enthusiasts should visit the KODE Art Museums, while nature lovers will enjoy a trip to the nearby Hardangerfjord or Sognefjord.

How can I get around Bergen?

Bergen is a compact city with an efficient public transportation system, including buses and the Bergen Light Rail. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center. For trips outside the city, consider renting a car or joining guided tours to explore the surrounding fjords and countryside.

What local dishes should I try in Bergen?

Bergen offers a variety of traditional Norwegian dishes. Try 'raspeballer' (potato dumplings), 'persetorsk' (pressed cod), and fresh seafood from the fish market. Don't miss out on tasting 'skillingsboller,' a local cinnamon bun, with a cup of coffee.

Are there any cultural events or festivals in Bergen?

Bergen hosts several cultural events throughout the year. The Bergen International Festival in May is a highlight, featuring music, dance, and theater performances. Bergenfest in June is a popular music festival, and the Bergen Food Festival in September celebrates local culinary traditions.

What day trips can I take from Bergen?

Bergen is a great base for day trips to explore Norway's stunning natural landscapes. Consider a fjord cruise to the Hardangerfjord or Sognefjord, a visit to the picturesque village of Flåm, or a scenic train ride on the Flåm Railway. Each offers a unique glimpse of Norway's breathtaking scenery.

Trips

Norway Private Journey

Let’s plan your next vacation

Let us take care of all the details to create the perfect trip for you. With our expertise and personalized service, we will ensure that every moment of your trip is special and unforgettable. Get ready to embark on a dream adventure!

Your Trip Plan is Empty