Norway’s scenic port, Bergen, is known as the “city of seven mountains.” Also, historic Bergen was part of the trading superpower, Hanseatic League in the 13th century. So, natural beauty and history galore to explore here. And don’t forget your raincoat, as Bergen is known as the rainiest town on Earth. I visited this port many times and enjoy sharing Bergen Norway travel highlights. So, read on to discover what to see and do in this unique port-of-call.
About Bergen Norway
Scenic Bergen is in an incredible hub for both trade and tourism. On Norway’s southwestern coast along the Norwegian Sea, it’s easily accessible by ship or train. One of its greatest historical landmarks is being part of the Hanseatic League in the 13th century. This brought incredible wealth to the city with historical landmarks, such as, the old wharf or Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Even more, the city is embedded in 7 mountains (Lyderhorn, Damsgårdsfjellet, Løvstakken, Ulriken, Fløyen, Rundemannen, and Sandviksfjellet) with breathtaking views and hiking trails. Additionally, Bergen is located between 2 of the most famous and longest fjords in Norway: Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord. Its city center is on Byfjorden, ‘the city fjord.’ The train journey between Oslo and Bergen is known as one of the most scenic train routes in Europe. So, arriving or leaving by train is always an intriguing option.
Bergen Weather: Being on the Norwegian Sea affected by the Gulf Stream, the winters are milder here than the Norwegian capital, Oslo. However, it’s also considered the rainiest city in Norway (some say in the world), receiving rain about 240 days/year. So, bring your raincoat always. Like the other coastal cities of Norway, September and October are usually the wettest months in Bergen.
Green Travel in Bergen
Look for the Green Travel Symbol for travel sustainable friendly options. With about 85% of its hotels being sustainably certified, Bergen has one of the highest ratios of certified hotels in the world.
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Bergen Norway Travel Highlights with Top Things to Do
Bryggen
The most iconic site in Bergen is the historical wharf, Bryggen, as a symbol of its role in the Hanseatic League in medieval times. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This wealthy league became the superpower of merchant guilds, connected with about 200 cities in northern Europe, at its peak from about the 13 – 15th centuries. The colorful wooden buildings of Bryggen were rebuilt after a fire in 1702. Later, this became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, the buildings include a small museum, shops and restaurants.
Old or Gamle Bergen Outdoor Museum
Gamle Bergen is an open-air museum with about 50 wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries. This is next to the Bryggen and nice to see on a walking tour. It’s a charming path along cobbled walkways through the maze of historical buildings.
Bergen Fish Market
This is literally one of my favorite fish markets that I’ve experienced and for sure the cleanest. Norway is immaculate and hygienically showcased in these markets. And what a selection being on the Norwegian Sea. The fish market is in the city center, next to the iconic Bryggen and also has fruits, vegetables and hand-made crafts. My favorites are the turmeric-spiced halibut hot off the grill for lunch and the seafood paella. Also, there’s outdoor seating, so it’s a great place to stop for a meal on the waterfront.
Floibenan (Funicular) to Mt. Floyen
No trip in Bergen is complete without a visit to one of its 7 mountains. The Floibenan (funicular) to Mt. Floyen is the most accessible, getting you there in less than 10 minutes. Overall, the views from the top are fantastic of Bergen and breathtaking surroundings of Norwegian Sea, mountains and fjords. I even got near white mountain goats, lazily resting on the side of the mountain. Additionally, there are numerous hiking trails and lakes on top of the mountain to further explore.
Fjord Cruise
Norway is synonymous with fjords, and Bergen is in the heart of it. The city is located between 2 of the most famous and longest fjords in Norway: Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord. So, there are numerous cruises available for fjord tours along the western coast of Norway. There is even a longer excursion to Hurtigruten that travels to Norway’s northernmost point.
KODE Museum and Composers Homes
KODE is one of the most spectacular museums in Norway for both art and music. Overall, it consists of 7 museum buildings: Bergen Art Museum, Edvard Grieg Museum Troldhaugen, Harald Sæverud Museum Siljustøl, Ole Bull Museum Lysøen and Permanenten – West Norway Museum of Decorative Art. At Troldhaugen, they even offer lunchtime concert series at the home of Norway’s most famous composer, Edvard Grieg. At KODE 3 you can see one of the world’s finest collections of art by Edvard Munch, Norway’s most famous artist.
Troldhaugen- Music Hall and Museum
Built in 1885, the Troldhaugen was the home of Norway’s most famous composer and pianist, Edvard Grieg. Grieg was a leading icon of the Romantic movement and also played an important role in establishing Norway’s national identity. A highlight experience here is the numerous concerts at the Concert Hall.
Fantoft Stave Church
The stave churches of Norway are one of the most unique examples of its cultural heritage. In a suburb of Bergen is the Fantoft Stave Church, which is one of the most accessible in Norway. Originally built in 1150, it became destroyed by fire in 1992. Later reconstructed, it’s a wonderful display of Norwegian heritage and design.
Overall, Bergen Norway Travel Highlights
Bergen is a wonderful town for a walking tour because most sites are near each other. The culture and natural beauty make for a delightful experience. However, remember the saying in Norway, ‘There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.’ So, bring your raincoat.
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