Sights and tourist attractions in Bergen
Whether you’re new to Bergen, looking to be a tourist in your own city, or perhaps have friends and family coming to visit and want to show them around... we’ve got you covered with our list of the best tourist attractions in Bergen!
Bryggen
The World Heritage Site (UNESCO) Bryggen has been the hub of the city for hundreds of years and the silhouette of its ancient gables is one of the most familiar images in all of Norway.
Bergen Aquarium
Bergen Aquarium houses more than 300 species of fish and animals living in the water, including penguins, sea lions and seals. The aquarium is also home to gay penguin couple Pondus and Herman Piele, who became parents together in 2014!
The aquarium is located at Nordnes, a short walk from the city centre. They offer a discount for students.
Fløibanen Funicular
The funicular railway is one of Bergen’s most popular attractions. The trip starts from the city centre and takes you up to Mount Fløyen, approx. 320 metres above sea level.
From the top you can enjoy the beautiful view and study the cityscape in detail. The name of the funiculars are “Blåmann” and “Rødhette” (Blue man and Little Red Riding Hood).
Ulriken643 Cable Car
The Ulriken643 Panoramic Tour takes you by cable car to the viewpoint of Bergen’s highest mountain, which is situated 643 metres above the city streets.
At the top of Ulriken, you’ll find Sky:Skraperen bar and restaurant.
From the top of Ulriken there are numerous hiking opportunities including Vidden. If you’re not up for hiking Vidden, what about trying the Zipline at Ulriken, Norway’s fastest zipline?
If you’re really up for an adrenaline rush, Ulriken is also a base for tandem paragliding. Tandem paragliding flights can be booked with Bergen Hang and Paragliding club.
Fish Market
The lively Fish Market in Bergen is one of Norway's most visited outdoor markets that sells fresh fish as well as fruit, vegetables, flowers, handcrafts and souvenirs.
KODE Museums
If you’d prefer to spend the day exploring galleries instead of climbing mountains (or perhaps you’re looking for an indoor activity during the winter) then KODE has you covered!
KODE has 4 museum buildings in the Bergen city and is also exhibits one of the largest collections of Edvard Munch paintings in the world.
Natural History Museum (University of Bergen Museum)
Another indoor option is the University Museum of Bergen! Filled with both cultural and natural history collections, this museum is located within one of the most iconic buildings in Bergen.
The museum has student admission prices, and is completely free if you’re studying at UiB!
(The museum gardens are also beautiful if you’re looking for a nice spot to stop for lunch!)
King Haakon’s Hall and The Rosenkrantz tower
King Håkon’s Hall was built between 1247 and 1261 by Håkon Håkonsson to serve as the royal residency from the 13th-century when Bergen was the political centre of Norway.
Rosenkrantz Tower next to the hall was built in the 1560. Student discounts are available on the entrance fee, opening hours vary throughout the year, so be sure to check the homepages of the museum.
Troldhaugen - Home of composer Edvard Grieg
Troldhaugen is a living museum comprising an exhibition centre with shop and cafe, concert hall, composers' cabin and Grieg's villa dating from 1885.
On selected Sundays during winter, and every day throughout the summer, they offer concerts and events. A student discount is available for students under 30.
VilVite - Bergen Science Centre
Vilvite is a popular scientific experience and also a learning centre for technology and the natural sciences. They offer a student discount.
Pepperkakebyen
If you happen to be in Bergen over the Christmas period be sure to check out Pepperkakebyen (the gingerbread city). Usually open from around the middle of November to the end of December, Pepperkakebyen is the world’s largest gingerbread city!
The King Håkons Hall
Fantoft Stave Church
Have you ever heard of a stave church? A stave church is a medieval wooden church that could once be found in many places within northern-west Europe. Most of those remaining today are located in Norway.
The original Fantoft Stave Church was built in Fortun in Sogn in 1170 and moved to Fantoft in 1883. In 1992 however, the church was burned in a fire. The current church was built as a replica shortly after
Looking for more things to do?
Find free activities in and hidden gems thay will make your Bergen stay even better!
