Things to Do
Fløyen is one of Bergen’s seven surrounding mountains, standing 400 meters above sea level. A great way to get a beautiful view of the city is to take the funicular railway called Fløibanen up to the Fløyen mountain, taking you 320 meters above the sea. This railway takes between 4-8 minutes. From there, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Bergen’s center and nearby areas. At the top you will find a restaurant, gift shop, café, adorable goats walking around, a lovely playground for the kids and great hiking opportunities.
You can also hike to the top instead of using the funicular railway, making it a rewarding trekking experience. Although the paths can be a bit steep and may leave you a little sweaty, there are multiple routes to pick from, and most don’t require any special gear or even hiking boots in some instances. The Fløibanen opened in 1918 and is a big tourist attraction in the city. It is also a transportation service for the kindergarten near the top of Fløyen, and the hillside residents living in the houses along the mountainside. The funicular is wheelchair accessible, and dogs are welcome onboard.
Opening hours Fløibanen:
Monday – Friday: 07:30 – 00:00
Saturday – Sunday: 08:00 – 00:00
Public holidays 08:00 – 00:00*
*Opening hours Christmas & New Year’s:
Christmas Eve: 09:00 – 16:00
1 & 2 Christmas Day: 09:00 – 20:00
New Year’s Eve: 09:00 – 23:00
New Year’s Day :09:00 – 20:00
Bergen Aquarium, called Akvariet i Bergen in Norwegian, is an aquarium located at Nordnes in Bergen. Here you can encounter everything from sea lions, crocodiles, fish, snakes, penguins and many other fascinating species. It’s a great place to visit with children, a partner, or just on your own. It has lots of different aquariums, exhibitions, a cinema, restaurant, gift shop and also a playground.
The aquarium is open 361 days a year and is only closed on 17th of May (the Norwegian Constitution Day), 24th of December, 25th of December and on New Year’s Eve. Tickets are available for purchase both on-site and online, with presentations offered in Norwegian and English.
Opening hours:
1 September – 30 April
Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
1 May – 31 August
Monday – Sunday: 09:00 – 18:00
Closed:
17 May, 24 December, 25 December, 31 December.
Fisketorget/Bergen fish market
However, in 1972, as part of a city development plan, the market’s square footage was reduced amid local protests, reflecting a shift in the area’s commercial landscape. Today, at Fisketorget you will find the freshest seafood, all with views of the historic Bryggen (Bergen Wharf). From May 1st-September 30th the square is full of different food stalls preparing fresh seafood, where you can browse the market and sit down to eat on the benches inside the tents. In Mathallen, the indoor food market located right next to the square, you’ll discover two lovely restaurants: Fjellskål and Fish Me. Here you can relax and enjoy a freshly prepared meal, or browse the selection of seafood to take home and cook yourself. Whether you choose to dine in or bring the finest local ingredients back to your own kitchen, Mathallen offers a delicious taste of Bergen’s seafood culture.
On alternate Saturdays, the market expands with a local farmers’ market, where you’ll find artisanal cheeses, organic meats, freshly baked goods, honey, and seasonal produce. Fisketorget is more than just a fish market.
Centered around the elegant Elsesro summer house, built by renowned shipbuilder Rasmus Rolfsen for his wife, Elsebe, the museum offers a rare glimpse into Bergen’s past. Since 1949, Gamle Bergen has been a part of the Bergen City Museum, showcasing traditional one- and two-story timber buildings with clapboards and tiled roofs, carefully relocated here from across the city.
Stroll through the cobblestone paths to discover period homes of bakers, merchants, watchmakers, skippers, craftsmen, and more, each evoking the unique stories of Bergen’s social classes, trades, and customs. Highlights include the famed Martens’ Baker’s House, originally built in 1728. It was run as a bakery right up until the big explosion incident during the war in April 1944. The badly damaged building was donated to Gamle Bergen, which rebuilt it as its first building in 1947.
Don’t miss the park surrounding the museum, an idyllic spot for a leisurely walk or picnic (though please remember, open flames and barbecues are not allowed). Nearby, the Sandviken Sjøbad offers the chance to swim at Elsesro’s historic waterfront.
Visit Gamle Bergen Museum year-round to immerse yourself in the heritage of this captivating city. And while dogs are not allowed inside the museum buildings, the outdoor grounds welcome you to explore Bergen’s bygone days at your own pace.
For more information and tickets.
Opening hours:
21 May – 14 September
Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00
Ulriken is Bergen’s highest peak, standing majestically at 643 meters above sea level and offering panoramic views of the city and nearby fjords. Reach the summit effortlessly with the Ulriksbanen gondola, or for the more adventurous, choose from multiple scenic hiking trails leading to the top.
At Ulriken’s peak, visitors can experience the stunning Skyskraperen Restaurant. Recently expanded and renovated, the restaurant serves season based dishes, giving you a taste of Norway with beautiful views.
The summit also features a café, perfect for a refreshing stop after a hike or gondola ride.
For hiking enthusiasts, Ulriken offers a network of trails suitable for most skill levels, ranging from gentler paths to steeper routes. One of the most popular hikes is the journey from Ulriken to Fløyen across the scenic Vidden plateau—a 5-hour trek that offers breathtaking views and rugged terrain.
Whether you’re seeking a quick stroll in nature or a day-long adventure, Ulriken delivers an refreshing experience high above Bergen.
Bryggen Wharf
Bryggen’s iconic wooden structures have survived numerous fires over the centuries, the most recent being in 1955. After each fire, the area was meticulously reconstructed, following the traditional urban layout and techniques that give Bryggen its unique charm. The narrow wooden passageways and distinctive row buildings with gabled facades still evoke the wharf’s medieval origins, creating a historic cityscape that transports visitors back in time.
In addition to its historic allure, Bryggen is a lively cultural district brimming with modern-day attractions. The Bryggen Museum, Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene showcase artifacts from the Hanseatic period, while nearby Håkonshallen, Rosenkrantztårnet and Bergenhus Festning reflect Norway’s medieval architecture. Just behind Bryggen, St. Mary’s Church, dating back to the 12th century, adds to the area’s rich cultural tapestry.
Modern artisans and designers have transformed the historic warehouses into boutiques and studios offering unique, locally crafted items, from jewelry and textiles to books and photography. Visitors will find a vibrant mix of shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants nestled within Bryggen’s courtyards and narrow alleyways, even an escape room called Bryggen Escape hides within.
Fantoft Stave Church is a stunning replica of a traditional Norwegian stave church. The current structure, completed in 1997, stands as a tribute to its predecessor, which tragically burned down on June 6, 1992.
The original church, known as the Fortun Stave Church, was built around 1170 in the village of Fortun in Luster. It was first documented in 1323, though some believe it may have initially stood in Bolstadmoen near Skjolden. In the late 19th century, the church faced demolition due to its small size. Thanks to the efforts of conservator Anders Lorange and funding from Consul Fredrik G. Gade, the church was relocated to Fantoft in 1883.
During its move and restoration, the Fortun Stave Church underwent significant changes. Inspired by Borgund Stave Church, Lorange and his team reconstructed the building to reflect what they believed to be its original medieval design. However, later studies revealed possible inaccuracies in the restoration.
The 1992 fire, believed to be an act of arson, destroyed most of the church within minutes, leaving only a charred skeleton of the once-majestic structure. Despite this devastating loss, the decision to rebuild was made. Using traditional techniques and drawings of the original church, skilled craftsmen faithfully reconstructed the stave church. It was consecrated once more in August 1997.
Opening hours:
15 May – 16 September
Monday – Sunday: 10:30– 18:00
17 September – 1 October
Monday – Sunday: 10:30 – 16:00
Closed:
17 May
Located in Bjørnafjorden, just a short trip from Bergen, you can discover the island of Lysøen. Once the summer retreat of renowned violinist and composer Ole Bull, this unique destination is now a museum that forms part of the Kode Museums.
Designed in 1873 by architect Conrad Fredrik von der Lippe, the villa showcases a striking blend of Swiss and Moorish architectural styles, inspired by Bull’s global travels.
The island remains open year-round. From May to September, boats depart from Buena Pier to Lysøen, or you can visit anytime with your own boat.
Unfortunately the villa is currently undergoing renovations and the museum is therefore temporarily closed.
Overlooking Nordåsvannet in Bergen, Troldhaugen was the beloved home of Norway’s famed composer Edvard Grieg and his wife, Nina. Built in 1885, this scenic retreat inspired some of Grieg’s best-known works, like Morning Mood and In the Hall of the Mountain King.
Today, Troldhaugen invites music lovers to explore Grieg’s villa, composing cabin, and gravesite. The museum also features Troldsalen, an intimate concert hall hosting classical music performances. There is also a café at the museum.
Opening hours:
Wednesday – Friday: 11:00 – 18:00
Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00
Note: Temporary tour hours in the villa, 11:00 – 16:00.
Explore The Fjords!
Set sail on a 3–3.5-hour journey through the breathtaking Osterfjord to the narrow, scenic Mostraumen straits. Departing from Zachariasbryggen near Bergen’s famous Fish Market, this fjord cruise offers stunning views of Bryggen Wharf, Old Bergen, and the harbor before venturing into the majestic mountain and fjord landscapes.
Pass between towering cliffs, navigate through strong currents, and get up close to cascading waterfalls. At the heart of the fjord lies Modalen, one of Norway’s smallest municipalities, surrounded by pristine nature and rich wildlife.
Travel aboard a modern, eco-friendly catamaran with spacious decks, indoor seating, and a kiosk offering baked goods, snacks, and drinks.
Experience Norway’s fjords up close, all year round, on this unforgettable cruise!
Duration:
3 – 3.5 hours.
Departure:
Zachariasbryggen, near the Fish Market in Bergen.
Experience the Beauty of Sognefjord and Fjærland on a Day Cruise from Bergen.
Embark on a 13-hour journey through the breathtaking Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Start with a scenic cruise from Bergen to Balestrand, gliding along the majestic Sognefjord. From Balestrand, continue on a guided boat ride through the serene Fjærlandsfjord, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine waters.
In Fjærland, explore the Norwegian Glacier Museum with its interactive exhibits about glaciers and their impact on the planet. The highlight of the day is a visit to the spectacular Bøyabreen glacier, an offshoot of the larger Jostedalsbreen glacier. Admire the glacier’s stunning icy facade from a nearby vantage point, feel the crisp mountain air, and capture beautiful photos of this natural marvel.
As the day winds down, return to Balestrand by boat, soaking in the peaceful views. Finish your adventure with an evening cruise back to Bergen. Perfect for travelers seeking unrivaled scenery and a glimpse into Norway’s glacial history.
Duration:
12 hours 45 minutes
Departure:
Zachariasbryggen, near the Fish Market in Bergen.
Season:
May – September
Explore the Magic of Hardangerfjorden and Vøringsfossen. Discover the beauty and power of Norway’s natural wonders on a journey through the spectacular Hardangerfjord. Cruise through stunning fjordscapes, passing waterfalls, fruit orchards, and towering mountains as you make your way to Eidfjord. Along the way, charming village stops provide opportunities for unforgettable photos.
In Eidfjord, an electric bus awaits to take you to the Norwegian Nature Center, where exhibits and a breathtaking panoramic film reveal the secrets of Norway’s fjords, glaciers, and waterfalls. From there, the adventure continues through the winding roads of Måbødalen to the spectacular Vøringsfossen waterfall. With its dramatic 182-meter drop, Vøringsfossen offers awe-inspiring views and a humbling sense of nature’s grandeur. You’ll have over an hour to experience the waterfall’s misty spray, the roar of its cascading waters, and the surrounding mountain vistas.
On the return trip, visit Steinsdalsfossen, a waterfall where you can walk behind the curtain of water for a truly close up experience. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings, browse for souvenirs at the nearby souvenir shops, or relax with coffee and snacks at a cozy café.
Whether you start your journey in Bergen or one of the fjord villages like Norheimsund, Lofthus, Ulvik, or Kinsarvik, this tour offers a seamless blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable sights in the heart of Norway’s fjord country.
Duration:
13 hours
Departure:
Bergen busstasjon
Season:
May – September