Snow covers the colourful houses of Bergen's Bryggen quarter

Bergen – Historical heart of the western fjords

Norway’s ‘gateway to the fjords’ is also known for its UNESCO-listed wharf, big-name art museums and delectable cuisine.

Bergen is a vibrant metropolis with small-town charm. Here, in Norway’s second-largest city, you’ll discover world-class art, music and food among the winding cobblestone streets, historic fish market and unmissable Bryggen wharf.

Known as ‘the city between the seven mountains’ and sat between Norway’s two largest fjords, Bergen’s setting is as naturally arresting as the city is culturally rich.

The best things to do in Bergen

As a visitor to Bergen there is no way you will miss out on Bryggen. Walking through its UNESCO-listed narrow alleyways, made even darker and more mysterious by overhanging balconies, feels like stepping back in time. Bryggen is not a museum but part of the cultural heritage that is still in use - a living historical area of the city.

The Fløibanen Funicular is a very popular attraction, running from the city centre to the top of Mount Fløyen in about 7 minutes. From the viewing platform you can admire spectacular views of the city, mountains and fjords. In addition to a wide range of hikes, you'll find a restaurant, café, souvenir shop and playground.

The picturesque and lively Fish Market is one of Norway's most visited outdoor markets. Mingle with the crowds, enjoy some seafood or just experience the atmosphere. Elsewhere, visit the Aquarium to see fish, penguins, sea lions and seals, as well as crocodiles, snakes and spiders, take a stroll to the old fortress at Bergenhus, or visit one of Bergen’s many museums and galleries.

floybanen bergen norway hgr 135822 1920 photo shutterstock

The old town in Bergen with painted wooden houses

Edvard Grieg statue in Festplassen gardens in Bergen

The UNESCO-listed Bryggen quarter is Bergen's most famous neighbourhood

Food and drink in Bergen

When it comes to eating and drinking, it’s easy to enjoy a good meal and get a taste of the city’s nightlife. You’ll find just about everything here – from coffee shops, fish restaurants and delicious international cuisine, to small arty cafés, bars and nightclubs. Choose according to your taste, appetite, mood and budget.

bergen norway hgr 150218 1920 photo raymond engmark

Bergen Norway HGR 159025 1080 Photo Tommy Simonsen

Shopping in Bergen

There are plenty of tempting shopping opportunities in the city, from small and specialised shops to large department stores. Bergen also has a varied year-round entertainment scene that ranges from world-class musical and theatrical performances to exciting football matches.

A history of Bergen

King Olav Kyrre founded Bergen in 1070 AD, and it became Norway’s first real capital in the 13th century. As a major European trading and seafaring port, it was one of the Hanseatic League’s most important trading centers, making it the largest town in Scandinavia during the late Middle Ages and early modern period. Until the 1830s, Bergen was the biggest town in Norway.

Today Bergen has a population of approximately 270,000. Trade and seafaring still play an important part in its economy, while industry, trades, tourism, fisheries and the oil and gas industry are other important sectors. Bergen is also a major university city.