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7 best things to do in Bergen, Norway

Bryggen's colourful houses in Bergen, Norway

We take a look at the best things to do in Bergen, the Nordic city that delivers a perfect blend of nature, culture and urban living

Known for its seven fjords, seven hills and old-world fishing wharf, Bergen in Norway enjoys a ​​spectacular setting. Its walkable city centre and access to nature make it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or even a day visit as the city is a popular stop for cruises Norwegian fjords and can be easily explored in a day.

While it may be one of Europe’s wettest cities (it rains on average 260 days a year), it is a vibrant cultural centre with superb access to the western fjords. The city offers a unique blend of nature and culture and, come rain or (occasional) shine, visitors undoubtedly love it.

Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or a short stopover, we’ve picked out the seven best things to do in Bergen.

1. Bryggen

The UNESCO-listed Bryggen should be your first stop. The bright and beautifully preserved wooden houses run along the eastern shore of Vågen Harbour (bryggen translates as ‘wharf’).

Atlas & Boots The chocolate box buildings of Bryggen

Fifty-eight chocolate box buildings dating from the 14th to 16th centuries make up Bergen’s oldest which now house an array of boutique cafes, craft shops and art galleries. While there, check out the Norwegian Fisheries Museum located in authentic wharf-side warehouses as old as Bryggen.

2. Mount Floyen and the Funicular (Floibanen)

A morning hike up Floyen seems to be something of a weekend tradition among the locals of Bergen. The city views are unmatched and the summit connects to a network of hiking trails extending around the city’s mountains. 

The view from Moutn Floyen in Bergen, Norway
Dreamstime The view from Mount Floyen

We suggest you do what we did and join them! It takes about an hour to hike up to the summit of Floyen where you can reward yourself with a hot drink and enjoy the vistas before taking the funicular down to the city centre. 

3. Flamsbana Railway

If you have the time then “the most beautiful train journey in the world” is well worth both. This is not just tour company hyperbole; National Geographic has named the Flam Railway as one of its top 10 train journeys in Europe.

The Flamsbana Railway is one of the best things to do in Bergen, Norway
El Greco 1973/Shutterstock The iconic Flamsbana Railway

Known as ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ the route takes in spectacular scenery including vertiginous mountainsides, foaming waterfalls and endless fjords as it winds its way along…

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