A coastal city nestled between fjords and mountains, known for its colorful wooden buildings, fish market, and funicular ride to Mount Fløyen. Gateway to Norway's stunning fjords.
Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, sits between fjords and mountains on the country's west coast. The wooden buildings of Bryggen line the old wharf with their red, yellow, and white facades. You can ride the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen, taste fresh seafood at the Fish Market, or explore the KODE Art Museums. Many visitors use Bergen as a base for fjord cruises. Despite frequent rain, the city buzzes with music performances and festivals throughout the year.
Walking Through Bryggen's Historic District
Bryggen, Bergen's old wharf district, is a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 14th century. As you walk between the wooden buildings, you'll find small shops, galleries, and restaurants in structures that have been maintained and rebuilt over centuries. Visit the Hanseatic Museum, located in one of these historic buildings, to learn how German merchants lived and worked when they controlled much of Bergen's trade.
Taking the Funicular to Mount Fløyen
Ride the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen for a panoramic view of Bergen. The trip takes about 6 minutes and brings you to a height of 320 meters above sea level. At the top, you can walk on trails, eat at a restaurant, or take children to the playground. On clear days, you can see beyond the city to the fjords and mountains. Many people choose to ride up and then walk back down to the city center, which takes about 45 minutes on a marked path.
Trying Local Fish at Bergen Fish Market
Visit the Bergen Fish Market, in the city center, where merchants and fishermen have met since the 1200s. You can sample fresh seafood here, including local dishes like fish soup, smoked salmon, and fish cakes. The market is open all year, with an indoor area for the colder months. Besides seafood, you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, and locally made crafts. At the market, you can taste Bergen's food and chat with the vendors.
Viewing Art in Bergen's Museums
Visit KODE Art Museums and Composer Homes, one of the largest museums in Scandinavia, with several buildings in central Bergen. You can see works by Edvard Munch, J.C. Dahl, and other Norwegian and international artists. KODE also manages the homes of composers Edvard Grieg, Harald Sæverud, and Ole Bull. Grieg's summer home, Troldhaugen, is just outside the city and includes a museum, concert hall, and the composer's original house. These places highlight Bergen's contribution to art and its influence on Norwegian culture.
Taking Fjord Trips from Bergen
Use Bergen's location to start fjord trips. Try the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which you can do in a day or over several days. It includes a train ride on the Bergen Railway, a trip on the steep Flåm Railway, and a boat ride through the narrow Nærøyfjord. For a shorter trip, take a boat to Mostraumen, which goes through the narrow Osterfjord past steep mountains and waterfalls. These trips allow you to experience the landscapes that have made Norway's fjords famous worldwide.
Understanding Bergen's Weather
Bergen receives rain about 200 days each year, which contributes to the lush green areas around the city. Summer temperatures are mild, usually between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F). Winter temperatures often hover close to freezing, with occasional snow. Despite the rain, Bergen remains active year-round. Many indoor attractions and the covered sections of the Fish Market ensure there's always something to do, regardless of the weather. Pack waterproof clothes and layers to stay comfortable during your visit.
