Final Up to date on July 3, 2024
Famend for its gorgeous landscapes, Bergen is a gateway to Norway’s most stunning fjord landscapes. Right here’s my Bergen journey information for individuals who are planning an epic journey by way of Norway.
Bergen is blassed with landscapes of epic proportions: spectacular fjords, imposing mountains and cute Scandinavian structure. Situated on the west coast of Norway, Bergen exudes a captivating, small-town really feel amplified by the gorgeous mountains that encompass it. Its vibrant waterfront is adorned with colourful homes, reflecting its wealthy fishing heritage which permeates trendy points of interest.
On our Norway street journey, Bergen was simply the spotlight and our favourite place to go to within the area. To share every part I’ve realized about Bergen, I’ve compiled this Bergen journey information with particulars on the way to get round, the place to remain and what to do.
Bergen Journey Information
As Norway’s second-largest metropolis (behind Oslo), Bergen has some intriguing historical past. Initially referred to as Bjørgvin in Previous Norse, Bergen was the biggest metropolis in Scandinavia by 1600. On the time, the town had about 15,000 residents and was a outstanding member of the Hanseatic League, a buying and selling block in Northern Europe.
Completely located between the 2 greatest fjords in Norway, the Hardangerfjord and the Sognefjord, the town is a perfect place to begin for fjord excursions. Standing on the highest of Ulriken – with a view of the dramatic mountains, fjords and sea – it’s straightforward to see why it’s referred to as the capital of fjords. Bergen’s iconic wharf space, Bryggen, was Norway’s first UNESCO World Heritage web site, incomes the standing in 1979.
Staying at Scandic Accommodations in Bergen
On our final journey to Norway, we partnered with Scandic Accommodations, recognized for its dedication to sustainability, accessibility, and Nordic design. As the biggest Nordic lodge operator, Scandic No has a community of about 280 lodges throughout Scandinavia (together with Sweden, Norway, Finland, Germany, Poland and Denmark). They’ve a powerful concentrate on sustainability and 92 % of our lodges are licensed by the Nordic Swan Ecolable.
Whereas in Bergen, we stayed on the Lodge Norge by Scandic, a trendy and slick lodge with a grand glass exterior. Lodge Norge first opened its doorways in 1885 and has since change into certainly one of Bergen’s most outstanding lodges. In 2018, the lodge was fully renovated and reworked into a up to date hub.
Overlooking a park, the lodge has a wonderful location in central Bergen – we might stroll every part from there. The Lodge Norge Suite additionally has a sauna and a jacuzzi on the terrace, the place we spent a couple of evenings stress-free and having fun with the nice views over Bergen. Dinner on the in-house Cafe Norge was delicious and simply the very best meal we had in our total Norway journey.
The best way to Get to Bergen, Norway
By Air
Regardless of the distant really feel, Bergen is remarkably accessible, each from inside Norway and internationally. Direct flights join Bergen to over 30 key locations throughout Europe comparable to Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, London, Helsinki and Stockholm.
Bergen Airport Flesland is positioned simply 17 km from the town middle, so that you’ll soar straight into the motion. Flights are competitively priced, with a KLM flight from Amsterdam costing about $346, whereas the most cost effective direct flight from London is round $348. There are additionally a number of direct flights from the US, together with a direct flight from New York priced at round $1,224.
By Prepare
Boarding the Bergensbanen prepare from Oslo to Bergen isn’t just a journey; it’s an immersion into a few of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes. As some of the stunning prepare rides on the planet, this seven-hour voyage whisks you thru a fascinating tapestry of surroundings.
As you descend in the direction of Bergen, the vistas remodel into dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and speeding rivers. With 5 day by day departures (4 in winter), the prepare is each a sensible and picturesque selection. It options snug seating, a café carriage for refreshments, and Wi-Fi, although it’s sometimes unstable because of the 180 tunnels alongside the route.
There’s additionally an evening departure and though it presents a singular really feel, you’ll not benefit from the picturesque surroundings such as you would on a daytime prepare. The price of a prepare ticket is influenced by a number of components comparable to journey class, the timing of the reserving, and the precise ticket tariff. Sometimes, a one-way ticket on the Bergensbanen prepare prices round $110.
By Boat or Ferry
Passing the charming coves and fjords surrounding Bergen, arriving by boat gives a singular glimpse into the town’s fishing tradition and historical past. Your ferry or boat will both dock on the cruise terminal subsequent to Bergenhus Festning, Vågen, or the Hurtigruten and Fjord Line’s terminal at Nøstet. Irrespective of the place you find yourself, you’ll end up within the coronary heart of Bergen, able to discover all that this vibrant metropolis has to supply.
There are a number of home departures led by Fjord Line, Norled, Rødne, and Hurtigruten. The value of a ticket will depend on the place you’re coming from and which operator you go for. For example, Rødne makes 14 sailings from Rosendal and fees $109 per particular person.
By Bus
A bus journey to Bergen gives a scenic journey by way of Norway’s breathtaking landscapes. On a bus experience, you’ll be handled to majestic fjords, serene lakes perched between verdant hillsides, and glimpses of quaint villages. One of many main bus firms within the nation, NOR-WAY, runs two routes from Olso to Bergen.
Aboard Haukeliekspressen, you’ll experience from Oslo and make a switch at Seljestad to catch the native 930 service that’ll take you to Bergen. Alternatively, you may take the Valdresekspressen to Fagernes after which change to the Øst-Vest Xpressen for the ultimate leg to Bergen. I like to recommend you are taking the latter as a result of the route enables you to marvel on the breathtaking fjords and mountains alongside the best way.
On common, you may anticipate to pay round $144 for a bus ticket between these two Norwegian cities. Costs might fluctuate relying on the time of day and sophistication, with tickets being dearer when bought on the day of journey. You’ll pay as little as $72 for this journey when you e book days upfront.
By Automotive
A street journey to Bergen from Oslo reveals Norway’s contrasting landscapes and driving circumstances. The journey from Oslo takes about 7-8 hours to finish. Norway has top-of-the-line street methods though many of those are slim in comparison with these within the US or different main cities in Europe.
Throughout winter, snow blankets mountain roads which results in closures in probably the most uncovered routes. Driving in winter additionally requires particular tires for security, so make sure that your rental equips you with the suitable tires. Automotive rental in Norway is surprisingly reasonably priced and it’s cheaper than taking the prepare or bus.
A 1-week automobile rental in Norway prices round $200 to $250, not together with insurance coverage. All autos driving in Norway must pay street toll fees. We all the time e book our automobile leases with DiscoverCars.com as they’ve persistently given us the very best charges and buyer assist.
Seek for automobile leases in Bergen right here!
Finest Time to Go to Bergen
The perfect time to go to Bergen largely will depend on what you’re searching for out of your expertise. The winter season (December to February) in Bergen brings chilly circumstances with temperatures dipping under 0°C with heavy snowfall. We now have been to Norway a couple of occasions in winter, and it was such a particular expertise!
Spring (March to Might) is one other fantastic season for hikers. In Spring, you’ll benefit from the nice common day by day temperatures of round 15°C. The cherry blossoms round Lille Lungegårdsvann are a sight to behold in the course of the season.
Whereas summer season (Might to September) is a well-liked window as a result of milder temperatures and an opportunity to take pleasure in outside actions, the climate could be unpredictable. Summers in Bergen convey sunny days and delicate temperatures of round 25°C however you need to nonetheless anticipate some rain.
How A lot Time to Go to Bergen?
For those who’re questioning how a lot time to spend in Bergen, 3 days are perfect for having fun with the town’s high highlights and points of interest. Through the 3 days, you may discover the charming harbor, fjords, majestic mountains, and museums at a cushty tempo. Nevertheless, when you’re planning on taking day journeys or delving deeper into the encompassing space, you’ll have to plan an additional 2-3 days.
The best way to Journey Round Bergen
By Bus
Getting round Bergen by bus is each handy and environment friendly. Proper from while you arrive at Bergen Airport Flesland, you’ll discover Flybussen ready exterior the terminal. Within the metropolis, Skyss operates a complete community protecting downtown Bergen, Osterøy, Bergen North, Bergen South, Os, Hardanger, Voss, and Austevoll.
The native buses present flexibility with well-developed routes, minimizing the necessity for a number of transfers. Getting from level A to B in Bergen on a bus is simple, guaranteeing you discover this stunning Norwegian metropolis with ease. A bus ticket on the native bus prices round $4 for adults and $2 for teenagers.
By Automotive Rental
If you wish to take management of your journey, a automobile rental is a perfect selection. With a rental, you may freely navigate each the town and its picturesque environment with out being tied right down to public transport schedules. Simply keep in mind, Norway drivers function on the right-hand aspect of the street.
Additionally, the roads in Bergen are slim and winding, so preserve an optimum pace. I like to recommend you safe your rental earlier than setting off in your journey, particularly in the course of the summer season months. I all the time use DiscoverCars.com for automobile leases worldwide, as they’ve persistently given me cheaper charges and the very best companies.
Seek for automobile leases in Bergen right here!
By Mild Rail
The Bergen Mild Rail system (Bybanen) is one other environment friendly technique to get across the metropolis. The service hyperlinks the town middle to the airport and suburbs like Fyllingsdalen, Nesttun, and Lagunen. Aboard the sunshine prepare, you’ll take pleasure in plush seating, air-con, and real-time info shows to maintain you knowledgeable of upcoming stops and journey occasions.
Issues to Do in Bergen
Norway’s second-largest metropolis gives a wealthy tapestry of pure magnificence, cultural heritage, and vibrant city life. Whether or not you’re an outside fanatic, a historical past buff, or just searching for a scenic getaway, Bergen has one thing for everybody. Listed here are some must-do actions when visiting this coastal gem;
1. See the Historic Bryggen
Relationship again to the Hanseatic interval, Bryggen is a UNESCO World Heritage web site that showcases the distinctive maritime historical past of Bergen. A stroll by way of its alleyways will take you again to the 1300s, evoking a way of the drudgery, feasts, and celebrations of that period. As the placement of Bergen’s very first buildings, Bryggen has been a energetic and essential a part of the town for hundreds of years.
Bryggen suffered many fires over the centuries, with the certainly one of 1702 most impactful. The location was decreased to ashes and needed to be rebuilt on the foundations that had existed because the 12th Century. Right this moment, the enduring buildings that lean towards one another in a picturesque but barely crumbling style alongside the waterfront are each photographer’s dream come true.
They now home outlets, galleries, and eating places. You’ll additionally take pleasure in scenic views of the harbour and surrounding mountains whereas exploring this space. It’s a uncommon alternative to immerse within the historical past of the Hanseatic occasions when Bergen was a dominant buying and selling hub for about 400 years.
2. Revel within the Metropolis’s Artwork Scene on the KODE Museums
The KODE Museums are a cultural treasure trove that artwork lovers can not afford to overlook. Comprising 5 distinct museums unfold throughout 4 spectacular buildings, KODE gives a wealthy and various creative expertise. These embrace; the Edvard Grieg Museum, the Harald Sæverud Museum, the Ole Bull Museum, the Bergen Artwork Museum, and the West Norway Museum of Ornamental Artwork.
With a staggering assortment of 43,000 works, the museums showcase an array of work, drawings, sculptures, installations, movies, furnishings, artisanal handcraft, and design. They’ve the third-largest assortment of Edvard Munch work. You’ll additionally discover works from creative luminaries comparable to Nikolai Astrup, Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, and J. C. Dahl.
However the star of the present is the beautiful “Silver Treasure” assortment which provides a contact of shimmering magnificence to the already magnificent shows. You probably have a ardour for artwork, these KODE museums needs to be excessive up in your Bergen itinerary.
3. Examine Out the Metropolis’s Oldest Cathedral
The 900-year-old Bergen Cathedral (Domkirke) is a visit historical past buffs received’t need to miss. Initially devoted to Olav the Holy round 1150, this church has spectacular artifacts telling the town’s historical past from totally different centuries. The doorway corridor is adorned with beautiful stonemasonry seemingly crafted by the identical artisans liable for components of Westminster Abbey’s Chapter Home.
Above the primary door, a fascinating epitaph from 1652 depicts the transfiguration on the mountain. The churchyard is dwelling to 2 noteworthy memorials, together with the grave of bishop and poet Johan Nordahl Brun. You’ll be charged about $3.79 (40NOK) for admission into the church however children beneath 13 enter totally free.
4. Go to Gamle Bergen
Within the 1800s, Bergen was Europe’s largest wood metropolis, characterised by tightly packed wood constructions, bustling streets, energetic markets, and winding alleys. This distinctive historic ambiance is preserved and celebrated at Gamle Bergen, an open-air museum that opened in 1946. Gamle Bergen options 55 reconstructed buildings from the 18th, nineteenth, and early twentieth centuries.
Whereas right here, you may wander by way of these charming buildings and work together with actors and craftsmen who assist convey its historical past to life. The museum is open solely in the course of the summer season months and fees $13.25 (140NOK) as admission.
5. See the Metropolis from the Rosenkrantz Tower
Climbing the Rosenkrantz Tower is a journey by way of centuries of Norwegian historical past. Initially constructed within the 1270s by King Magnus, this construction has developed a number of occasions over centuries, serving as a fortress, governor’s fortress, and workplace area.
There’s a slim staircase that results in the highest the place you marvel on the surrounding space. Open solely in the summertime, you may go for this guided tour for for a deeper dive into its storied previous. Admission is round $14 (150NOK) for adults whereas children 17 and under enter totally free.
6. Board the Fløibanen Funicular
Take pleasure in a wide ranging journey up the 320-meter Mt Fløyen aboard the Fløibanen Funicular. The climb to the highest lasts about 6 minutes and gives panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding islands. The tram results in a number of mountain climbing trailheads and Troll Forest, the place you may take within the verdant fantastic thing about Bergen.
About 10 minutes from the station atop the mountain, you’ll discover the enchanting lake Skomakerdiket. The lake is a superb spot for having fun with a picnic and kayaking. For foodies, head to the gorgeous cafe Skomakerstuen overlooking the water for some delicious Norwegian svele.
For those who’re touring with children, the Fløibanen Funicular needs to be in your itinerary. The children will love the experience up the mountain and you may spice issues up with a hike, picnic, and kayak on the lake. The experience fees $12.3 (130NOK) for adults and $6.13 (65NOK) for the youngsters.
7. Go Mountain climbing on the Seven Mountains
On Bergen’s majestic mountains, you’ll discover numerous trails that cater to each seasoned hikers and first-time adventurers. Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken present probably the most accessible trails in Bergen. Fløyen is a year-round favourite with well-marked paths and scenic gravel roads that accommodate prams and wheelchairs.
Well-liked hikes embrace the path to Skomakerdiket Lake, the trek to Brushytten, and the descent from Fløyen to the town middle. For seasoned hikers searching for an even bigger problem, there’s a path connecting the 2 mountains. The Fløyen to Ulriken throughout Vidden path takes about 5 hours to finish. Nevertheless, it is just open in the summertime.
8. Go to the Fish Market
Discovered within the Bryggen district, this market was as soon as the primary buying and selling hub in Northern Europe however is now a prestigious cultural vacation spot. The fish market in Bergen has been open to retailers because the 1200s. Right this moment, the fish market is split into two components; indoor and outside.
The indoor market is open year-round whereas the outside market solely opens in the course of the summer season. For informal foodies, a visit to the outside market needs to be on the playing cards. Whereas right here, you should buy recent catches from any stall and have them prepped right into a meal.
The market has an astonishing number of fish and seafood, unparalleled by different areas. The bustling environment and the scent of fish takes you again to a time when fishing was the primary financial exercise in Bergen.
In contrast to the outside market which has existed for hundreds of years, the indoor market in Mathalen solely opened in 2012. Right here, one can find a number of the best fish outlets and seafood eating places, offering a connoisseur expertise that pulls foodies from world wide. So, in order for you a contemporary contact to your meals, that is the place to go.
9. Go to the Bergen Aquarium
For those who’re visiting Bergen with children then a visit to the aquarium needs to be on the itinerary. The Bergen Aquarium is a fascinating expertise that brings you face-to-face with a wide range of marine life comparable to playful seals and charming penguins. The aquarium is full of water drawn from the depths of the ocean to create a cushty and pure habitat for its marine life.
There may be additionally a tropical part the place you’ll discover crocodiles, snakes, lizards, and customary marmosets. The children may also love the scheduled feeding periods giving them an opportunity to the animals of their pure aspect. For an immersive 3D expertise, head to the adjoining cinema.
Whereas right here, the youngsters will be taught the vital position oceans play in sustaining life on Earth and the fascinating lifetime of the orca whale. It’s a journey that mixes schooling and enchantment, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for our planet’s aquatic wonders. Adults pay about $38 (NOK398) for admission, children 3-15 years pay $23.73 (NOK250) whereas children under 3 years enter totally free. Try the costs right here.
10. Take a Prepare Trip to Flåm
Taking the Vy prepare to Flåm is an unforgettable journey by way of the center of Scandinavia, providing spectacular views of the area’s breathtaking countryside. The journey takes about 2 hours and 48 minutes and there are 4 departures day-after-day. The Flåm Railway takes you thru steep gorges and waterfalls to the village of Flåm.
Aboard an old-style classic prepare, you’ll snake by way of deep ravines and frozen waterfalls, clinging tightly to the steep mountains. It’s an expertise like no different, whisking you thru time, again to the times when engineers labored day and night time to change into pioneers within the trade. This railway line is a masterpiece of Norwegian engineering and a should for any rail fanatic. You probably have a full day to discover, this 10.5-hour tour gives a complete journey by way of the Norwegian countryside, together with a scenic Nærøyfjord cruise and a experience on the historic Flåm Railway.
11. Examine Out the Flåm Fjord
At Flåm station, you’ll then hop onto the fjord cruise to discover the Aurlandsfjord, a 17-kilometer arm of the world’s second-longest fjord, the Sognefjord. That is probably the most picturesque fjord on the planet and is a part of the World Heritage space.
As you sail off into the fjord, you’ll see the towering mountains closing in, leaving a slim hole to sail by way of. These mountains attain heights of over 1,400 meters, flanking each side of the fjord all the best way to our vacation spot Gudvangen.
Alongside the best way, the boat makes a couple of stops on the tiny villages of Aurland and Undredal the place Nordic huts are stacked atop cobblestoned streets. I visited throughout winter so it was darkish by the point I arrived at Gudvangen, fortunately we managed to soak up the views earlier than the sundown.
What to Eat in Bergen
Bergen is a culinary delight that seamlessly blends custom with innovation. Town gives a gastronomic journey that celebrates the freshest seafood and locally-sourced components. Listed here are some widespread dishes to check out in your go to;
Fiskesuppe
This beloved Norwegian fish soup is well known for its creamy texture and buttery taste. Fiskesuppe incorporates a mix of various fish, shellfish, and root greens simmered in a wealthy broth enriched with butter, milk, and cream. Simply earlier than serving, some eating places season with recent herbs and a splash of tangy lemon juice, including a shiny end to this delectable, nourishing soup.
Lapskaus
Lapskaus is a hearty and conventional stew recognized for its comforting flavors and rustic simplicity. The dish is made with beef and incorporates a medley of onions, potatoes, carrots, celery, and rutabaga. Some cooks additionally use lamb, pork, and hen as a substitute of beef. Lapskaus is historically accompanied by slices of bread or the Norwegian flatbread, lefse.
Persetorsk
Persetorsk is a symphony of flavors that elevates the common-or-garden cod to gastronomic heights. This dish is a mix of cod, sugar, dill, bacon, salt, and a sauce made out of shallots, inexperienced peas, crème fraîche, and vinegar. Persetorsk is historically paired with munavoi, a comforting mix of hard-boiled eggs and butter.
Finest Locations to Eat in Bergen
Fjellskal Fisk & Skalldyr
Situated within the fish market, Fjellskal Fisk & Skalldyr is a culinary delight that guarantees an unforgettable eating expertise. The stylish restaurant has an intensive menu that showcases the freshest seafood. I like to recommend you strive their smoked salmon in your go to. For those who can solely dine at one restaurant within the fish market, make it Fjellskal Fisk & Skalldyr—you received’t be disenchanted. Learn opinions right here.
Enhjorningen
Situated within the historic Hanseatic wharf, Enhjorningen is a pleasant journey into Norwegian culinary custom and historical past. The restaurant’s charming décor exudes heat and nostalgia, completely complementing the realm’s origins relationship again to earlier than 1260.
The restaurant has an intensive menu serving totally different worldwide cuisines. Nevertheless, if you wish to strive one thing uniquely Norwegian, I like to recommend the smoked whale carpaccio. Learn opinions right here.
Tre Kroneren
Eating right here is an absolute deal with, particularly when you’re eager to indulge of their well-known reindeer sausage. The sausage comes with candy berry sauce, tangy brown mustard, and crispy onions so as to add a satisfying crunch. The mix of flavors is solely irresistible, making each chunk a savory delight that lingers on the style buds lengthy after. Learn opinions right here.
Day Journeys from Bergen
The picturesque Bergen is an explosive journey full of journey and culinary bliss. However the enjoyable does finish right here! Bergen is a superb place to begin for a number of day journeys the place you may proceed your Norwegian journey. Listed here are a number of the greatest day journeys from Bergen;
Lavik (2 hours from Bergen)
This charming village simply two hours away from Bergen guarantees an journey immersed in pure magnificence. For mountain climbing lovers, today journey needs to be high of your itinerary. Town has as much as 40 mountain climbing trails with scenic vistas ready to be explored.
For a extra serene expertise, take a canoe experience on Lake Sørestrand. It’s a good way to soak within the city’s explosive nature. Additionally, make sure that to go to the native church for a contact of historic attraction.
Vik (3 hours and half-hour from Bergen)
For a visit again to the Center Ages, drive to Vik. Right here, you’ll delve into Norway’s Viking heritage melded with early Christianity. On the middle of all of it is the enduring Hopperstad Stave Church.
However past the spiritual historical past, the city additionally has a number of fjords and glaciers value exploring. Nevertheless, I like to recommend you take this guided tour to cowl all of them. For foodies, the cheese tasting and tour to Vik and Fjærland needs to be on the playing cards.
Price of Journey in Bergen Norway
Norway is likely one of the most costly locations on the planet. On common, you need to anticipate to spend about $111 (1,186 NOK) per day. This covers lodging, meals, native transportation, and sightseeing. Listed here are some suggestions that will help you minimize value in Bergen:
Stroll to Sights
Bergen is sort of a compact metropolis and you may simply stroll from one attraction to a different. All you want is a map, which you will get out of your concierge associate. You can even depend on trendy apps like Citymapper, Google Maps, TripIt, amongst others to seek out your approach. For those who take pleasure in reasonably priced strolling excursions that last as long as 2 hours, try a few of these choices.
Purchase the Bergen Card
Put money into a Bergen Card for discounted or free entry to museums and points of interest, in addition to free public transportation. It’s a good way to save cash when you plan to go to a number of sights. Relying on how lengthy you propose to remain, you should buy this card to chop transport and admission bills throughout the town.
The playing cards begin for as little as $36 (NOK380) for adults and $9.48 for teenagers. It permits complimentary journey through bus, boat, or the Bergen Mild Rail to particular components of Bergen. Some points of interest just like the Bergen Cathedral and KODE museums additionally supply reductions on admission when you use the Bergen Card to pay.
Meals Hacks
Meals costs in Bergen are notably steep in comparison with most European cities. However there are methods to eat nicely with out stretching your self. You should buy recent meals to arrange at your hostel or Airbnb. The city has a number of meals markets which supply recent produce at a fraction of the worth in supermarkets and grocery shops.
Packing for Bergen
What you pack will depend on while you’re planning on doing your journey. If you’re touring to Bergen in winter, remember to convey heat garments together with a high-quality ski jacket, hat, thermals, gloves, and thick pants. It’s vital to put money into pair of winter boots or sturdy mountain climbing footwear for snow circumstances.
As well as, keep in mind to get winter tires in your automobile/rental when you’re planning to drive in winter. It’s additionally helpful to convey a thermos and pouch hotter to maintain your self heat. For summer season, spring and autumn, you want sturdy footwear, a heat jacket, rain jacket, and sunscreen.
Plan Your Journey to Bergen
That’s a wrap! Thanks for studying all the best way to the top. We’ve undoubtedly packed so much into this Bergen Journey Information. This provides you with a style of the gorgeous metropolis and present you the very best components, whether or not you’re visiting in winter, spring, autumn, or summer season. You probably have any questions, be happy to depart me a remark under!
Learn my articles on Norway under:
Disclaimer: This put up was sponsored by Scandic Accommodations, however as all the time, we solely advocate manufacturers that we’ve personally used. Thanks in your assist!
Impressed? Pin it!
