Things To Know
About Bergen
Bergen is one
of the rainiest cities in Europe, with over 200 rainy days a year. This is due
to its location on the west coast, where moist sea air meets the surrounding
mountains. If you’re planning to explore the city, a proper raincoat and
waterproof shoes are a must. On colder days, a warm jacket will help keep you
comfortable (WHAT TO DO IN FLORENCE ITALY).
Some travellers start their Norway journey in Bergen and travel across the country, eventually flying home from Oslo Airport. Others do the reverse, starting in Oslo, then following a scenic route that includes Gol, Flåm, a fjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen, and Voss, before arriving in Bergen. Both routes offer stunning landscapes and showcase Norway’s mountains, fjords, and towns.
English is
widely spoken, so communication is easy. Signs, menus, and public information
are also available in English. Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK), but cash
is rarely needed, credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, even
for small purchases. Mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Vipps are also
common.
Free Wi-Fi is
available in most hotels, cafés, and public places, including airports and the
train station. Mobile data is fast and reliable. Services such as train tickets, fjord tours, museums, and restaurant bookings, can be arranged online, making trip planning simple and convenient.
Shops usually open around 10 a.m. and close by 6 p.m. on weekdays. Some supermarkets stay open later. Many shops and restaurants are closed or operate shorter hours on Sundays, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead for food and essentials.
Bergen Port is one of Norway’s busiest and most important cruise ports (MANDURAH CRUISES PERTH) and it’s hard to miss. As you approach the city, you’ll likely see it from a distance. You’ll get an even better view from the heart of Bergen, where large cruise ships dock against a scenic backdrop of colourful wooden houses and surrounding mountains.
Cruises run
from spring to early autumn. Some visitors arrive by sea, while others take
fjord tours or join longer coastal cruises departing from here. The famous
Hurtigruten coastal ferry also sails from Bergen, offering connections to
northern Norway. Even if you’re not cruising, a walk along the port is
worthwhile for sea views and ship-watching.
Sightseeing in
Bergen
Bergen offers a
mix of sights for all kinds of travellers. Some prefer a relaxed visit, taking
in the beautiful surroundings without rushing. Others come with a long list of
attractions to tick off. Either way, most major sights can be covered in two
days.
Many are within walking distance in the city centre. A few may require a short ride on public transport, usually no more than 30 minutes. Whether you’re after a slow-paced holiday or a full itinerary, Bergen is easy to explore and full of natural beauty.
Bergen Train Station is the final stop on the famous Bergen Railway, one of the most scenic train routes in the world. This railway connects Bergen to Oslo, passing through mountains, valleys, and remote villages. It’s a popular choice for those who want to enjoy Norway’s natural beauty while traveling in comfort.
Visitors who have finished their sightseeing in the fjords and Flåm often choose to reach Bergen by first taking the Flåm Railway uphill to Myrdal, where it connects with the Bergen Railway. The ride from Flåm to Myrdal is known for its steep slopes, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views. At Myrdal, passengers transfer to a westbound train that continues to Bergen Station, located right in the heart of the city. This train journey is considered one of the highlights of traveling in Norway.
For those looking for luxury, Bergen has several five-star hotels such as Hotel Norge by Scandic, Bergen Børs Hotel, and Opus XVI. But there are also many smaller hotels, motels, and homestays that offer a different kind of comfort.
These smaller
places tend to be quieter, less crowded, and more comfortable—great options for
travellers who prefer peace over crowds. Many are located right in the heart of
the city, making it easy to step out and explore. The streets feel safe, even
at night. Solo travellers will likely feel comfortable and secure here.
Standing outside these hotels, you can often see Bergen’s streets stretching from one end to the other. It’s a quiet, simple moment, but one of Bergen’s unspoken wonders.
From cozy cafés to upscale dining, there are plenty of food choices in Bergen. As in other parts of Norway, salmon is a top favourite here. It’s often cooked with simple flavours to let the freshness of the fish shine, thanks to the clean waters around Bergen. Other types of fresh seafood are also commonly served.
You can enjoy a
full dining experience with wine, or go for set meals at cafés. If you're out
sightseeing and need something quick, bakeries, roadside stalls, and food carts
offer sandwiches and finger foods. These are perfect for eating on the go and
are more affordable for budget travellers.
Most takeaway meals are neatly packed. Just remember to throw your rubbish into the bins provided, Bergen is all about keeping things clean, and everyone is expected to do their part.
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