Bergen is a city on Norway’s southwestern coast, surrounded by mountains and fjords, including Sognefjord, the longest and deepest in the country. Bryggen is a historic area with colorful wooden houses that were once part of the Hanseatic League’s trade network. The Fløibanen Funicular takes visitors up Fløyen Mountain, offering great views and hiking trails. The Edvard Grieg House is where the famous composer lived. The KODE art museums around Lille Lungegårdsvannet lake display works by artists like Edvard Munch. The Bergen City Museum includes heritage sites, such as Old Bergen, with its reconstructed wooden houses. The busy fish market near the port sells seafood, fruit, flowers, and crafts. Fantoft Stavkirke is a rebuilt 12th-century wooden church with detailed carvings and dragon heads. The Bergen Aquarium has a shark tunnel and views of the port.
Bergen – places to visit in Bergen
Bryggen
Bryggen, also known as Tyskebryggen, is a collection of historic Hanseatic buildings along the east side of Vågen harbor in Bergen. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes notable buildings like Bellgården, Svensgården, and St. Mary’s Church, the oldest and tallest in the area.
Bergenhus Fortress
Bergenhus Fortress is one of Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortresses, located at the entrance to Bergen’s harbor. It was originally King Øystein’s estate before becoming a fortress in the 12th century. Today, it hosts cultural events, including concerts and theater performances.
Bergen Aquarium
Located on the Nordnes peninsula, Bergen Aquarium is home to over 300 species, including fish, marine invertebrates, seals, penguins, and even reptiles and monkeys. It’s a popular tourist attraction, offering a variety of exhibits and outdoor ponds.
Siljustøl
Siljustøl is a museum in Ytrebygda, Bergen, once the home of composer Harald Sæverud. The museum showcases his personal belongings, including his grand piano, and the outdoor area where he found inspiration for his music.
Fløyen
Fløyen, also known as Fløyfjellet, is one of Bergen’s city mountains. At 400 meters above sea level, it offers stunning views of the city. The Fløibanen funicular takes visitors up to the mountain, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Fløibanen
Fløibanen is a funicular railway in Bergen, transporting visitors from the city center to the top of Fløyen mountain. It offers scenic views and access to mountain walks, making it one of the city’s top attractions.
Ulriken
Ulriken is the tallest of Bergen’s Seven Mountains. Visitors can take the Ulriksbanen aerial tramway to the top, where they can enjoy views from a TV tower and a restaurant, along with hiking trails of varying difficulty.
Fantoft Stave Church
Fantoft Stave Church is a reconstructed 12th-century church originally built in Fortun, near Sognefjord. It represents the unique Norwegian stave church style, combining traditional Norse and early Christian architecture.
Lysøen
Lysøen is an island in Os, known for Villa Lysøen, the home of violinist Ole Bull. The villa is now a museum and hosts concerts during the annual Bergen International Festival. Guided tours are available from May to August.
Gamlehaugen
Gamlehaugen is a mansion in Bergen that serves as the residence of the Norwegian Royal Family in the city. With a history dating back to the Middle Ages, it features a mix of fortress and castle styles and includes Rococo, Neo-Renaissance, and Baroque furnishings.
Best time to visit Bergen
The ideal time to visit Bergen is between May and September. During these months, the weather is mild and enjoyable. You can explore the city comfortably without harsh weather conditions. This period offers the best chance to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing.
