How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Bergen Norway
Are you planning a trip to Norway and wondering if you should include a visit to Bergen? What are the best things to see and do? How much time will you need? How should you create your itinerary to make the most of your trip?
Be inspired by this guide as you plan your next adventure to Bergen, Norway!
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Welcome to Bergen, known as the City of Seven Mountains. This historically significant Norwegian city was founded hundreds of years ago as a fishing and trading port. Wander the historic streets, admire the unique architecture and sample local seafood at the market.
Situated seaside, visitors to Bergen are rewarded with breathtaking views of fjords and mountain peaks. Natural landmarks offer endless outdoor recreational activities. Bergen is the perfect place to base yourself to access nearby hiking trails and day trip destinations.
Bergen’s Main Attractions
Below is a sample of the best things to see and do in Bergen. Find inspiration for your trip here!
How Many Days to Spend in Bergen
Do you prefer to pack in as much as possible in a short period of time or travel at a more leisurely pace?
Are you visiting in the summer when there are plenty of daylight hours for exploring?
Are you travelling luxuriously or on a budget?
Exploring the town of Bergen can be done in one full day. If you plan to hike nearby or cruise the fjords, spend a few extra nights here using this beautiful town as your base. Take into consideration your arrival and departure time when creating your itinerary. Even if you only have a short period of time, exploring Bergen and its nearby natural attractions will certainly be worthwhile!
If you are continuing on to see other parts of the country during an extended stay, check out these recommended Norway itineraries:
When to Visit
The best time to visit Bergen truly depends on what you want to see and do during your trip. Decisions are often influenced by the timing of festivals and events, affordability and seasonal weather conditions.
Do you want to see the Northern Lights? Admire Norwegian Fjords? Discover unforgettable hiking trails?
The majority of travellers arrive in the summer months to explore the nearby fjords and hiking trails. Summer travel offers more hours of sunlight, warmer temperatures and more favourable road and trail conditions. Expect to find higher prices for airfare, accommodation, attractions and car rentals during this time. Book activities and accommodation well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
It’s possible to visit Bergen year-round. Off-peak season is more affordable but the chance of experiencing wet, dreary weather is much more likely. Visitors will need more luggage space for warm layers of clothing and rain gear. Consider having a flexible itinerary to accommodate for inclement weather that may hinder travel plans. Reduced daylight hours mean less time for exploring. Opening hours for restaurants, museums and other attractions will also be reduced.
To plan your perfect holiday to Bergen, use this summary to understand Norway’s seasons:
Spring – March, April, May
Summer – June, July, August
Autumn – September, October, November
Winter – December, January, February
How to Get Around
Bergen has a compact city centre which makes it easy to get around on foot. Buses, taxis and bicycles are also available. If you don’t have your own vehicle, tour companies operating in Bergen make it easy and affordable to access Norway’s most popular fjords and hiking trails.
Walking
Bergen is a relatively small city with the main tourist attractions located within walking distance to each other. There are pedestrianized streets for increased safety. Join a walking tour to learn more about the history of Bergen, see the highlights and connect with a local guide that can answer all your questions.
Bus
Bergen Busstasjon is the main bus terminal in Bergen. This is also the arrival and departure point for the Airport Bus (Flybussen). The Airport Bus (Flybussen) is a convenient way to travel between the city centre and Bergen Flesland Airport (BGO). The journey from the airport to the city centre takes approximately 30 minutes.
Alternatively choose to purchase a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. Tours stop at all the major landmarks while providing audio commentary.
Bergen Railway Station
The Bergen Line or Bergensbanen is one of the most beautiful train journeys in Europe connecting Bergen to the capital city of Oslo.
Bergen Light Rail
Trains depart from Bergen city centre connecting tourists to the Bergen Flesland Airport (BGO). This journey is covered with the purchase of a Bergen Card.
Bergen Bysykkel
Bike sharing service available daily from 5am-midnight. Stations are scattered throughout the city making it easy to explore Bergen like a local. Cover more ground cycling than you would on foot.
Fjord Line
Ferry linking the towns of Bergen and Stavanger. This journey along the Norwegian coastline takes approximately 6-7 hours (one-way). Book your Fjord Line cruise here.
Bergen Card
Offers free or discounted pricing for museums, attractions, sightseeing tours, events, shopping, restaurants and transportation. Purchase online, at selected hotels or at the Tourist Information Centre in Bergen. Learn more about the Bergen Card here.
Where to Stay
There are a number of unique districts in Bergen that each cater to a specific type of traveller. Regardless of whether you are on a tight budget, only in town for a few days or visiting with children there are many accommodation options available. Keep in mind that Bergen is a popular tourist destination in the summer months, so book early to secure your preferred location at the best price.
1. Sentrum
The best place to stay in Bergen for first-time visitors is the City Centre. Accommodation options in this area are within walking distance to the harbourfront, all of the city’s main attractions and transportation hubs (train, light rail, bus, ferry). Nearby attractions include: Byparken, West Norway Museum of Decorative Art, Bergen Kunsthall & Kode.
2. Bryggen
This is the historical district of Bergen, established during ancient times. Stay here if you want to be in the heart of the city surrounded by great restaurants, museums and waterfront views. Nearby attractions include: Fisketorget, Bergenhus Fortress & Mount Fløyen Funicular.
3. Nordnes
This is a great location for families visiting Bergen, offering a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Bergen’s main attractions remain within walking distance. Nearby attractions include: Nordes Park, Aquarium & Nordnes Sjøbad.
Start Booking Your Trip
Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Bergen, Norway!
- Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld.
- Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
- Book your flight with SkyScanner.
- Book activities with Get Your Guide.
- Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with G Adventures.
- Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.
Recommended Reading
Have any questions about planning your trip to Bergen, Norway? Please share your questions or comments below!
