Is Bergen Worth Visiting?

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you click on the link or make a. purchase using the link at no cost to you. Review the full disclaimer here.

You may be planning your next trip and asking yourself is Bergen worth visiting? Exploring Bergen, Norway can be an unforgettable adventure.

While I personally loved the quieter, scenic landscapes of Bergen, I recognize that it might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

After all, if everyone loved the same things, the world would be a boring place!

Before you book your trip, let’s dive into what makes Bergen unique and determine if this is a destination you’d like to visit.

So, if you’re thinking about visiting, I’m here to share what makes Bergen special—from the historic atmosphere of Bryggen Wharf to leisurely fjord cruises and tasty local cuisine.

Let’s figure out together whether Bergen should be on your travel list. Keep reading to see if this Norwegian gem is a good match for your next adventure.

Why You Should Visit Bergen At Least Once

Bryggen Wharf

Bryggen Wharf is a famous Unesco World Heritage site located in downtown Bergren. You’ve probably seen pictures of it on a screensaver or in stock imagery.

Wandering around Bryggen, there is so much history. Bryggen Wharf is a survivor of many devastating fires. The last fire was not that long ago in 1955.

The old wooden buildings are not just beautiful to look at; they’re home to a bunch of unique little shops and cafes.

✨ Take a self-guided audio tour of Bryggen ✨

I found myself there almost every day, to grab a meal or a drink. It’s also the best place to hunt for souvenirs—I make it a point to pick up a coffee mug from everywhere I visit, and I found one I liked there.

I always ate outside when dining at Bryggen because you have amazing views of the water and downtown Bergen.

This is an image of the ally ways of Bryggn Wharf

The Seven Mountains in Bergen

Bergen is famously nestled in between seven mountains, that provide a stunning natural backdrop to the city.

Though I didn’t get as much hiking done as I would have liked, I did make the most of the easy access to these mountains.

One of my favorite experiences was taking the Fløibanen funicular up to Mount Fløyen.

Once you’re at the top of Mount Fløyen, you can enjoy the view and stroll around the trails up top.

You might even spot a few friendly goats wandering around!

For those who are more adventure-inclined, just stepping out into Bergen puts you at the gateway to some truly stunning trails and natural sights.

This is a goat that lives at the top of Mt Fløyen

This image show's the views of downtown Bergen from the top of Mt. Fløyen

The Fjords

If you’re visiting Bergen, the fjord landscapes are something you just can’t miss. What are you even doing in Norway if you don’t go see the fjords!?

The fjords, with their deep waters and towering cliffs, offer some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen.

For me, one of the highlights of my visit was taking an all-day fjord cruise from Bergen to Flam. The cruise took us through incredible scenery that had me reaching for my camera non-stop.

✨ Book the same cruise I took! ✨

We traveled along the longest fjord in Norway, Sognefjord, all the way to Flam. It’s a great way to see several of the coastal towns along Sognefjord, and every stop brings a new perspective on the rugged Norwegian landscape.

Bergen tour operators offer a variety of fjord trips from Bergen to fit any itinerary, from half-day tours to full-day adventures and even 2-3 day expeditions.

This is an image of the fjords dark still waters and the mountains surrounding them.

The Bergen Fish Market

The Bergen Fish Market is a must-visit if you’re in Bergen. It’s where everyone—locals and tourists—comes to buy fresh local seafood.

The Bergen Fish Market has been a hub for trade since the 1200s, originally established at Bryggen to connect local fishermen with the community.

Today, it continues to serve as a meeting place for both locals and tourists, maintaining its historic role in Bergen’s daily life.

When I visited, I had to try some of the local food. I tried whale meat; it was surprisingly good! It kinda tastes like summer sausage.

The market is also a great place to grab fresh fish to take back to your accommodations if you want to cook it yourself.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Visit Bergen (@visitbergen)

Norwegian Cuisine

The city offers a wide variety of restaurants in Bergen that cater to every taste, but if you’re seeking authentic local flavors, Fjellskål Seafood Restaurant should be on your list.

Located right by the harbor, it provides not just a meal, but a full dining experience with views of the water and the fish market.

Fjellskål stands out for its commitment to fresh, locally-sourced seafood.

Bergen’s culinary history is deeply intertwined with its maritime roots, reflecting centuries of seafaring and trade.

Norwegian Hospitality

Norwegian hospitality is characterized by a warm if somewhat reserved, kindness.

People here are incredibly hospitable and always ready to help if you need directions or suggestions.

However, it’s worth noting that Norwegians, like many Scandinavians, generally have a more private nature.

This means they might not engage in small talk or appear overly friendly at first.

If you’re considering a longer stay or moving to Bergen, be prepared for a bit more time to form deep friendships.

It’s a process of slow and steady acquaintance, but the genuine connections you make are well worth the patience.

3 Things I Hate About Bergen

1. Unpredictable Weather

Bergen is notorious for its frequent rainy days, which can be a surprise if you’re not prepared.

Unlike the quick downpours I’m accustomed to back home in Florida, rain here tends to linger, often lasting throughout the day.

However, don’t let the wet weather dampen your spirits! There’s still plenty to enjoy indoors in Bergen on rainy days like going to museums, eating indoors, or hitting up some of the shops!

I visited in September, known to be a particularly rainy month, but luck got super lucky with mostly sunny days.

When it did rain, it was just a slow, steady drizzle.

I suggest carrying an umbrella. We stayed at the Moxy Bergen Hotel and they had umbrellas to check out for the day so check with your accommodations if they offer something similar!

2. Driving Narrow Roads

When I rented a car in Bergen it was pretty straightforward and stress-free.

The traffic laws are similar to those in the US, and the drivers were safe and considerate.

However, driving out of the city and into the mountains can be a whole different story. The roads become incredibly narrow and winding, which can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re not used to mountain driving.

Having lived in Colorado and being very familiar with mountain driving, these roads were still a bit much.

In some places, the roads are so narrow that if you meet a car coming the other way, one of you will have to back up until you find a spot to pull off to let the other pass.

When we drove these roads, it was incredibly nerve-wracking.

During our trip, we ventured into the mountains and encountered a few of these tight spots. It was manageable, but definitely added an element of adventure to our drive!

If you’re planning to rent a car and are not comfortable with narrow mountain roads, I’d recommend sticking to the main routes. It’s pretty easy to avoid them all together. You can book guided tours for anything you want to see that you think may be tricky to drive.

This is an image of the scary narrow roads you sometimes have to drive in norway.

3. Norway is Expensive

I’ll be honest— visiting Norway was expensive, and I definitely felt it, especially eating out every meal.

There’s no real way around it; whether it’s dining, accommodation, or transportation, you’ll find prices are generally higher than in many other countries.

During our stay, my boyfriend and I managed to offset some of these costs by staying at the Moxy Bergen Hotel for free, using points from our travel rewards credit card.

If you don’t have a credit card that has travel rewards points and you’re looking to stretch your budget further, consider staying in budget hotels or hostels in Bergen.

Another tip is to stop at grocery stores for snacks and some of your meals. It’s much cheaper than eating at a restaurant all the time and lets you experience local products.

Budget travel in Norway might be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Planning ahead, using points for stays, and smart dining can make a big difference.

For exploring areas that are hard to reach or might require costly transport, look into guided tours which can be more cost effective in the long run and less stressful than navigating on your own.

How Long Should I Spend in Bergen?

Deciding how long to stay in Bergen depends on what you want to see and do.

Based on my experience, spending 8 days in Bergen, not including travel days, gave us ample time to explore the city and its surroundings thoroughly.

While Bergen is relatively small, it packs a lot of things to do and history, ensuring there’s plenty to keep you busy.

Here are a few itineraries I’ve put together to help you plan your stay depending on how long you plan to be there:

1-Day Bergen Itinerary: Perfect for those who are short on time but want to experience the essential attractions of Bergen.
2-Day Bergen Itinerary: A great option if you have a couple of days to explore a bit more deeply, including some lesser-known sites.
4-Day Bergen Itinerary: Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in Bergen and include a leisurely day trip outside the city.

If you’re trying to fit in other areas like Oslo or the Lofoten Islands, consider a two-week trip to Norway to factor in travel time to each place.

Best Time to Visit Bergen

Choosing the best time to visit Bergen really depends on what you’re hoping to do during your stay.

Traveling to Bergen for the Holidays: If you want to experience Christmas in Bergen, you can explore Gingerbread Town and browse the Bergen Christmas markets. This is the perfect time for those who love the holiday spirit and don’t mind a bit of cold.
Traveling to Bergen to Ski: For the ski buffs, heading to Bergen in the winter months also provides the opportunity to hit the slopes in Voss, one of Norway’s top ski resorts located just a short day trip away.
Outdoor Adventures: If your activities are more oriented towards hiking or kayaking, consider visiting from May to September. During these months, the weather is usually mild enough to enjoy the outdoors. I visited in September and found it ideal—the weather was mild, and the changing leaves added an extra layer of beauty to the landscapes.
Avoiding Crowds: Those looking to avoid the tourist rush should consider the shoulder seasons of May to June and August to September. You’ll still enjoy pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and more of Bergen to yourself.

The warmest months in Bergen are typically from May through September, with temperatures ranging from 11ºC (51ºF) to 17ºC (62ºF). Conversely, the colder months from October to April see temperatures drop to between -0.8ºC (17.6ºF) and 9ºC (48ºF), perfect for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

This is an image of the author on the fjord cruise looking at the mountains.

Where is Bergen?

Bergen is located on the west coast of Norway, surrounded by the Seven Mountains and facing the Atlantic Ocean.

It’s Norway’s second-largest city and serves as the gateway to the fjords, making it a hub for water activities and tourism.

Geographically, Bergen is approximately 464 kilometers (about 288 miles) west of Oslo, Norway’s capital.

The city is also near, the airport, offering both domestic and international flights, making it accessible if you are flying into the airport in Bergen.

Should You Visit Bergen or Oslo?

Deciding between Bergen and Oslo depends on what you’re looking to get out of your Norwegian adventure!

Both cities offer unique experiences but cater to different tastes and interests.

Bergen VS. Oslo

Oslo is Norway’s capital and offers a vibrant urban environment with an abundance of museums, galleries, and nightlife.

It’s perfect for those who love city exploration.

Oslo’s architecture blends old and modern styles, and the city is known for its innovative food scene and shopping.
Bergen, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed atmosphere and is ideal if you prefer natural landscapes and historical sites.

It’s less touristy than Oslo, providing a quieter experience away from the crowds.

Bergen is renowned for its stunning fjord landscapes, the historic Bryggen Wharf, and access to outdoorsy activities like hiking and fjord cruising.

Visiting both Oslo and Bergen in One Trip

If you want to experience both cities and everything in between, consider planning a trip of 8-10 days.

This allows plenty of time to explore each city without rushing.

The “Norway in a Nutshell” tour also offers a convenient way to see significant landscapes between Oslo and Bergen, including railways, fjords, and mountainous terrains, making it a popular option for experiencing Norway’s beauty and getting from one place to the other.

Taking Day Trips From Bergen

Bergen is the perfect starting point to take day trips from Bergen thanks to its central location and excellent transportation links.

Nestled among mountains and fjords, Bergen offers easy access to some of Norway’s most scenic areas, which makes it perfect for day trips.

Whether you prefer driving at your own pace or enjoying an organized tour, you have plenty of options.

Other than the fjord cruise, my favorite day trip from Bergen was our drive to Voss, known as Norway’s adventure capital. We rented a car, which allowed flexibility to stop and see sights like the Tvindefossen waterfall.

Voss itself offers a range of adventure activities from biking to world-class skiing and white-water rafting.

For the best experience, I recommend starting your day trips early in the day.

This allows you to fully enjoy all the attractions without feeling rushed. It’s also wise to check the weather before heading out, especially if you plan to do anything outdoors

This is an image of the Tvindefossen waterfall

Wrapping Up

Bergen truly won me over. I absolutely loved my time there, from getting lost in the alleyways of Bryggen to taking in the breathtaking views on the fjord cruise,

However, I get that what’s perfect for one traveler might not be for another. Bergen offers a unique experience that might not be for everyone, but I think it’s definitely worth checking out at least once.

If you’re drawn to places with a rich history, stunning natural scenery, and a more laid-back vibe, Bergen could be a great fit for your next adventure.

Is Bergen Worth Visiting?