Guide to Bergen

Things to see and do in Bergen

From the Bergensers’ proud and friendly nature to the Hanseatic wharf’s iconic buildings, Bergen is a melting point for all things Norwegian. Get a real taste of the locals’ way of life by discovering some of the best things to see and do in Bergen.

Activities

Mountain hikes

Surrounded by seven breathtaking mountains, Bergen is every hiker’s dream⁠External link. Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a veteran at clambering up big hills, you’ll fall in love with the different hiking trails suited for all ages and levels of fitness.

As a novice hiker, you might prefer the family friendly Vardetangen hike in Austrheim, which only takes about an hour. If you’re experienced, test your prowess on the challenging Dronningstien – a seven-hour hike that caps off with rewarding panoramic views at the summit.

Kayaking in Bergen

Kayaking and rafting in Bergen⁠External link are a great way to experience the wild and beautiful rivers that flow through the region. There are several places where you can rent a canoe or get a package deal on canoeing activities, especially during summer. Expect to spend somewhere between two to four hours a day on different guided kayaking trips, depending on what you’re looking for.

Glacier hikes

Norway has about 1,600 glaciers, with Bergen home to Folgefonna, the third largest glacier in the country. Here, there are a lot of exciting glacier tour activities to engage in, from crawling through ice tunnels to walking on blue ice. A glacier hike in Bergen’s Folgefonna⁠External link takes about five to six hours to complete, gifting you with scenic views of the North Sea, the Rosendal alps and the Fjords.

Biking in Bergen

Explore the majestic mountain landscape and beautiful coastline of Bergen while biking around the region⁠External link. Rent a bike and follow Bergen’s bicycle paths to a myriad of exciting activities such as swimming, local events, and restaurants serving Norwegian cuisine.

Sightseeing

UNESCO – World Heritage site Bryggen

The World Heritage Site Bryggen⁠External link is a wonderful remnant of Norway’s incredible Hanseatic past. Visit this iconic place tracing their history to as far back as the 11th Century. Or take boat tours to explore one of the earliest ports in Northern Europe.

Funicular railway – Fløibanen

The Funicular railway in Bergen⁠External link is a six-minute, must visit tour to the top of Mount Fløyen. This iconic Railway has been transporting people to the mountain for over 100 years, providing spectacular panoramic views of the city below.

Edvard Grieg Museum Troldhaugen

The Edvard Grieg Museum⁠External link was once home to iconic composer Edvard Grieg for 22 years. The former gardening hut-turned-museum is where Grieg composed some of his finest works. Explore the exhibition centre for an insight into Grieg’s day-to-day life and his classical music career in the late 19th Century.

Hotels in Bergen

Alver Hotell

Alvervegen 100, 5911 Alversund
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Fjords, the Alver Hotel is the perfect place to begin your Bergen adventure. Enjoy a pleasant stay in one of the most comfortable and colourful interiors, equipped with essentials such as a private bathroom and hair dryer. Once well rested, explore what Bergen has to offer, from fishing trips to sightseeing.

Bergen Børs Hotel

Vågsallmenningen 1, 5014 Bergen
Enjoy elegant and modern rooms at this exclusive designer hotel. The suites feature a bedroom separate from the living area for extra space and comfort. You’ll also be right in the heart of Bergen, providing easy access to the city’s most iconic sights and sounds. The hotel also has unique dining experiences with restaurants such as the gourmet Bare by Pak and the tasty new restaurant Fresquito.

Bergen Harbour Hotel

Finnegårdsgaten 6, 1. etasje, 5003 Bergen
Staying at the Bergen Harbour Hotel means that you’ll only be a few minutes away from the city’s most eclectic tourist attractions. Enjoy continental breakfasts at the Soya restaurant or discover authentic Chinese dishes at Dim Sum. Or if you’d prefer a more exciting outdoor adventure, simply take the Fløyen Funicular from just down the street.

Home Hotel Havnekontoret

Havnekontoret Slottsgaten 1, 5003 Bergen
Enjoy a stay right in the heart of Bryggen – the UNESCO-listed wharf that’s booming with centuries-old Norwegian history and culture. Wake up to delicious breakfast options or head up to the hotel’s tower to take in the 360 views of the Bergen center. Tour the iconic Slottsgaten street below, where you can discover different stores filled with endless activities for the day.