Bergen on a Budget

Norway is a stunning destination, but it can be quite expensive. However, that shouldn’t keep you from exploring the beauty of Bergen! The good news is that you can still enjoy the city and have a great time without overspending. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make your trip more budget-friendly!

Opting for a hostel instead of a hotel can significantly cut down your travel expenses. While hotels offer comfort and a touch of luxury, they can be pricey. If you’re looking to save money, a hostel is a great alternative. Montana offers budget-friendly accommodation with excellent amenities. They even have volunteers who help organize activities, social events, and guest interactions. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and more. Visit their website to check prices and availability!

If you prefer to stay closer to the city center, City Hostel Bergen and Fabryka are excellent options.

Taxis in Norway are quite expensive, so taking the bus or the light-rail system, Bybanen, is a more budget-friendly option. For an even cheaper and more active way to get around, consider using the Bysykkelen bicycles, which are available throughout the city. Simply download the app to rent a bike and ride from point A to B. Electric scooters, such as Voi and Ryde, operate similarly and are another convenient option. If you opt for the bus, purchasing your ticket through the Skyss app is more affordable than using the ticket machines around the city.

Bergen’s city center is relatively small, making it easy to explore on foot. You can see much of the city without needing any transportation.

If you’re traveling from the airport to the city center, taking Bybanen is a much more affordable option than the Flybussen (airport bus).

Food in Norway can be pricey, but here are some tips on where to shop to save a few NOK:

• Avoid 7-eleven, Narvesen, Deli De Luca and gas stations. Buy your food at grocery stores, they have much better prices!

• For grocery stores you want to avoid stores like Meny (but if you are looking for anything special they’ve got a great selection! They are just more expensive) and instead look for stores like Kiwi, Extra and Rema. Those are amongst the cheapest ones.
• Look for the low-cost brands at grocery stores. At Kiwi: First Price. At Rema: Prima. And at Extra: Xtra.

The water standard in Norway is good, which means that it’s safe to drink tap water. I would suggest bringing your own bottle and refilling it throughout the day instead of buying bottled water!

Bring a thermos cup and refill your coffee at the hotel/hostel instead of buying it at a café. Or buy instant coffee so you can make it yourself!

Alcohol is expensive either way, but there are a few things worth knowing:

• The cheapest beer is bought at the grocery store.
• At restaurants and bars alcohol is much more expensive.
• If you are a student or around that age, Hulen and Det Akademiske Kvarter is a nice place to visit. These are places for students to hang out, so both the events and beer are a lot cheaper there.
• You can buy alcohol up to 4,7% at grocery stores. Any alcohol with a higher alcohol percentage has to be bought at Vinmonopolet. A bottle of wine at Vinmonopolet is of course cheaper than a bottle of wine at for example a restaurant.
• “Fun” fact: In Norway it is common to have a pre-party(colloquially called vorspiel) before going out on a night on the town, mainly because of the alcohol prices. It is not uncommon to wait until 11/12 pm to go out at a bar.

Fløyen is a must-visit when in Bergen. You can take the funicular railway from the city center to the top, which is a fantastic experience—but it does come at a cost. The good news is that hiking up is a great (and free) alternative! There are several routes to the top, some even paved, making the hike manageable even without proper hiking gear. Plus, you’ll get a great workout and be rewarded with one of the best views of the city. 

Once at the top, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities. Kids can enjoy the playgrounds, while those looking for adventure can explore the many hiking trails in the area. Or, simply relax, take in the breathtaking view, and snap some photos. There are restrooms, seating areas, and even a restaurant and café if you’re in the mood for a treat. Just keep in mind that if you’re sticking to a budget, this might not be the best place to buy lunch, as prices can be a bit high. How about bringing your own lunch with you?

Gamle Bergen is a wonderful place to explore. While the museums have an entrance fee, walking around the area is free. It’s a charming spot with historic houses and fantastic views. Why not pack your own sandwiches and enjoy lunch in the scenic surroundings?

Bergen is perfect for hiking, with great trails like Ulriken, Damsgårdsfjellet, Stoltzen, Lyderhorn and the new Løvstien.  

On warm, sunny days, a picnic in the park is a great way to relax. Bring some snacks and a blanket and enjoy green spaces like Muséhagen, Nygårdsparken, and Nordnesparken.  

For a unique experience, check out Dragefjellet Minifestival, a small, volunteer-run festival that’s completely free to attend! While some food and activities have a cost, it remains an affordable event with concerts, activities for kids, and more. It usually takes place in August.

If you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy live music with a drink, head to Kulturhuset during their jazz or opera pub nights. You’ll get a great atmosphere and live music—without the cost of a concert ticket!  

Kulturhuset i Bergen also hosts various events, often at more affordable prices than other venues, though it varies.  

For a budget-friendly movie night, check out Cinemateket. Tickets are usually around 100 NOK, making it a great deal for a cinema experience in Norway.

Bergen is a stunning city that can be explored on a budget with smart choices. By using affordable transport, shopping wisely, and taking advantage of free attractions, you can experience its charm without overspending. Enjoy your trip and happy exploring!

For more general practical information check out our list.