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I’ve been lucky enough to visit Bergen three times now, and each trip has shown me a different side of what Norway’s second largest city has to offer. Set between mountains and fjords, Bergen strikes the perfect balance between city life and nature.
From wandering the colourful harbour, taking in panoramic views from Fløyen or settling into a cosy cafe, there’s so many things to do in Bergen that it’s hard to experience it all in one visit, which is exactly what keeps drawing me back.
To help you plan your trip, here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Bergen, Norway, including must see attractions, seasonal highlights and public transport tips.
Table Of Contents
Best Things to Do in Bergen
Bryggen
Bryggen is one of the most iconic sights in Bergen. You’ve likely seen it in photos, the colourful wooden buildings lined up along the harbour are instantly recognisable and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There’s much more to Bryggen than just the façade though. Behind the historic buildings, you’ll find narrow passages and alleyways to explore, with cosy cafes, boutique shops and small art galleries.
A closer look at Bryggen’s historic wooden buildings in the heart of Bergen. 
Wandering through Bryggen’s narrow historic wooden alleyways.
Bergen Fortress
Bergen Fortress is one of Norway’s oldest and best preserved fortresses, located right along the harbour. Its history stretches back to the 13th century, when Bergen was the capital of Norway.
You can stroll freely around the grounds and visit historic landmarks such as Håkon’s Hall and the Rosenkrantz Tower, both offering insight into Norway’s medieval past.
Bergenhus Fortress, one of the oldest and most important historical sites in Bergen, Norway. 
Inside Bergenhus Fortress, exploring the historic stone chambers of Rosenkrantz Tower.
Mount Fløyen and Fløibanen Funicular
One of my favourite ways to truly appreciate a city is to see it from above. Mount Fløyen is one of the seven mountains that surround Bergen, and its close proximity to the city centre makes it easy to visit.
To reach the top of Mount Fløyen, you can either hike up from the city centre or take a ride on the Fløbainen funicular.
Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the city, harbour and surrounding fjords. There are also several hiking trails to follow, as well as a cafe and restaurant at the summit.
Stunning views across Bergen from the top of Mount Fløyen. 
The main entrance to the Fløibanen funicular that takes you up Mount Fløyen. 
Looking down the Fløibanen tracks with sweeping views over Bergen. 
Walking around the scenic viewpoint area on Mount Fløyen in Bergen.
Trekroneren
Trekroneren is a popular hot dog stand with a long history in Bergen, in fact they were celebrating their 80th birthday during my most recent visit.
You’ll find a wide range of hot dogs on offer here, but my favourite was the San Francisco sausage.
Lille Lungegårdvannet
Lille Lungegårdvannet is a small lake located in the heart of Bergen and a lovely place for a relaxed walk. It’s surrounded by art museums and cafes.
There are plenty of park benches around the lake, making it a peaceful spot to sit and unwind. You can often spot swans gliding across the water.
Kode Art Museum
Kode is a large museum complex made up of four different museums, all located around Lille Lungegårdsvann. Together, they showcase both permanent and temporary exhibitions.
A single ticket gives you access to all four museums. Kode is home to significant works by Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, best known for his famous painting, The Scream.
The entrance to Bergen’s KODE Art Museums. 
An iconic painting by Edvard Munch displayed at a Bergen art museum.
Thrift Shopping
Bergen has some excellent thrift shops and I always seem to find something whenever I go shopping here. My favourite store is Fretex, where you’ll find a huge range of women’s and men’s clothing, along with homewares and books.
If you’re planning to travel further north in Norway or visiting during colder weather, it’s a great place to pick up warm jackets or extra layers.
I also really like the UFF Second Hand Store, which has a strong selection of vintage pieces.
Gamlehaugen Castle
Gamlehaugen Castle is located just outside Bergen’s city centre and serves as the residence of the Norwegian royal family when they are visiting the city.
The castle is surrounded by expansive gardens and parkland, making it a lovely area for a scenic walk.
Fantoft Stave Church
Fantoft Stave Church is an early medieval wooden church with a unique construction and design. It looks like something out of a fairy tale and is set within a woodland area.
While the church is located outside the city centre, it’s easy to reach via Bergen’s light rail system.
Things to do in Bergen in Winter
Winter is a magical time to visit Bergen, with snow dusted streets and a cosy festive atmosphere.
If you’re visiting during winter and around Christmas, here are some seasonal things to do in Bergen.
Pepperkakebyen
Bergen is home to the world’s biggest gingerbread city, known as Pepperkakebyen. This miniature city features everything from houses to churches, all made from real gingerbread and icing.
The display is created with contributions from the local community and is a long-standing annual tradition in Bergen. Pepperkakebyen is usually open from mid-November and through December.
Bergen Christmas Market (Julemarked)
Bergen’s Christmas market takes place at Festplassen, besides Lille Lungegårdsvann, and is typically open from late November until late December.
Here you’ll find stores selling handmade crafts and other great Christmas gift ideas along with plenty of food and drink. Grab a mulled wine and enjoy wandering through the festive market.
Getting Around Bergen
Bergen is a very walkable city, and most attractions can easily be visited on foot if you’re staying in or near the city centre. If you’re looking to travel outside of the city centre or in need of transport to and from the airport, I’ve outlined the main transport options in Bergen below.
Light Rail (Bybanen)
The light rail, known locally as the Bybanen, is one of the cheapest and most convenient transport options in Bergen. Route 1 runs between Bergen Airport and the city centre (Byparken stop) in approximately 45 minutes.
You can purchase tickets using the Skyss app or from the ticket machine at the stops.
Note: A Zone A ticket covers travel between the airport and the city centre.
Airport Bus (Flybussen)
If you’re arriving into Bergen late at night, as I did, after the light rail has stopped running, or if you want to reach areas outside of the immediate city centre, such as the Jektevik Terminal or Bryggen, the Flybussen is a good option.
The bus stop is located directly outside the airport terminal, and services run frequently. You can check timetables and purchase tickets online via Flybussen
Taxi/Uber
A taxi or rideshare service is usually the fastest and most direct option, particularly if you’re travelling with luggage or prefer not to navigate public transport.
If you’re using rideshare apps, I’d recommend Uber over Bolt, as I experienced several occasions where Bolt was unable to find an available driver.
Private Transfer
If you’d prefer a stress free option, or want to avoid uncertainty around taxi availability or surge pricing, you can book a private transfer from Bergen Airport.
This option guarantees a driver waiting for you on arrival and includes assistance with luggage.
Final Thoughts: Is Bergen Worth Visiting?
Bergen is a city I keep coming back to, and every visit feels just as special as the last. Whether you’re wandering along the harbour, exploring historic streets, or heading into the surrounding mountains, there’s always something new to discover.
Add in easy transport, beautiful natural surroundings, and seasonal highlights like Christmas markets, and it’s easy to see why Bergen continues to draw visitors back time and time again. No matter when you visit, this city offers the perfect mix of culture, nature and things to do. I’m sure it’s a place you’ll fall in love with too.
