Bergen 

Where mountains meet the sea.

Visiting Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Nestled between seven mountains and overlooking the sea, Bergen is famously known as the gateway to the fjords—and for good reason. The city blends rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty in a way that’s truly unforgettable.

Wandering through Bergen’s charming old town, you’ll find the colorful wooden buildings of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as a trading hub for the Hanseatic League. The narrow alleyways, artisan shops, and museums offer a glimpse into the city's seafaring past. For panoramic views, hop on the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen and take in the city from above—or better yet, enjoy a scenic hike.

But what makes Bergen truly special is its access to Norway’s legendary fjords. Within a few hours of the city, you can explore dramatic landscapes carved by glaciers over millennia. Popular day trips include cruises through the Hardangerfjord or the spectacular Sognefjord, often called the “King of the Fjords.” Whether by boat, kayak, or hiking trail, the experience of seeing towering cliffs rise straight out of the water is simply awe-inspiring.

Back in Bergen, visit the lively Fish Market, stroll the harbor, or soak in the creative atmosphere at the KODE art museums. Even on a rainy day (and there are many!), the city’s charm and warmth shine through.

If you're seeking a blend of coastal culture and natural wonder, Bergen is the perfect starting point. From its historic heart to the dramatic fjords beyond, every moment spent in Bergen is a postcard waiting to happen.

A person wearing a red beanie and gloves holding a wrapped sandwich on a city street at night during Christmas season. There's a lit Christmas tree in the background and modern buildings with festive lights.
Statue of a man in a suit with a beret, in an outdoor setting with another statue and buildings in the background.
A bronze statue of a person in a beret facing a historical stone church with twin towers, surrounded by bare trees.
Medieval stone church with two towers, surrounded by trees and a fence, against a cloudy sky.
Underground tunnel with red lighting and railway tracks
A scenic view of a cityscape with mountains in the background, partially cloudy sky, and dense urban buildings. A body of water is also visible in the foreground, surrounded by trees.
Person in winter clothing standing next to a large yellow industrial wheel, with trees in the background.
Person sitting in an ice bar with illuminated ice sculptures of skeletons on the walls, wearing a winter coat and hat, with drinks on a table.
Ice sculptures and carved ice walls illuminated with purple and pink lights in an indoor ice bar or lounge.
Decorative ice blocks with floral patterns in a cool blue-lit room.

BERGEN 3 DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1

  • Bryggen Wharf – Begin your visit with a walk through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the wooden alleyways, historical buildings, and artisan shops.

  • Hanseaic Museum – Learn about Bergen's medieval trading history and life in the Hanseatic era.

  • Fløibanen Funicular – Ride to the top of Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the city and harbor.

  • Hiking at Fløyen – Enjoy well-marked walking trails at the top, including a short hike to Lake Skomakerdiket or longer paths through pine forests.

  • Bergenhus Fortress – Walk around one of Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortresses near the harbor.

Person in winter clothing sitting in an ice bar with illuminated ice sculptures of skeletons and figures behind them.

DAY 3

  • KODE Art Museums – Spend the morning exploring one or more of the four KODE buildings, which house Norwegian and international art, including works by Edvard Munch.

  • Leprosy Museum (St. Jørgen’s Hospital) – A rare and thought-provoking museum detailing Bergen’s unique medical history.

  • Nordnes Park & Aquarium – Take a peaceful walk in Nordnes Park, and if you're interested, visit the Bergen Aquarium nearby.

  • Rosenkrantz Tower – Climb this 16th-century tower for views over the harbor and insights into Bergen’s military past.

DAY 2

  • Fjord Cruise – Take a half- or full-day fjord cruise from Bergen to explore the stunning Sognefjord or Hardangerfjord. Tours often include waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and small villages.

  • Mount Ulriken – If time permits in the afternoon or evening, take the Ulriken Cable Car for a higher, more rugged mountain experience. More challenging hiking trails are available at the summit.

  • Fantoft Stave Church – Visit this reconstructed medieval wooden church, originally built in the 1100s and moved to Bergen in the 19th century.

  • Gamlehaugen (Royal Residence) – Explore the grounds and gardens of the King’s residence in Bergen.

Colorful buildings along a waterfront in a coastal town, set against a backdrop of a hill and clear blue sky. Reflection of buildings visible in the water.