18 Magical Things To Do In Bergen Norway Every First Time Visitor Will Love

Bergen, Norway might look like a real-life storybook, and that’s because it partly inspired the Disney town of Arendelle in Frozen. But there’s so much more to do here than just blast “Let It Go” while pretending you’re Anna or Elsa (just me?).

I spent four days exploring Bergen, the second largest city in Norway, and left wishing I had an extra week. The mix of fjords, colorful houses, and cozy cafés makes this one of the most magical places to visit in Bergen and one of the most charming Bergen tourist attractions in its own right.

Whether you’re looking for unusual things to do in Bergen Norway, want to know the best things to do in Bergen Norway at night, or you’re visiting in the fall and wondering about things to do in Bergen Norway in October, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Getting In: How To Reach Bergen, Norway

Bergen is easy to reach from anywhere in Norway or the rest of Europe. Most visitors fly into Bergen Airport (BGO), located about 11 miles from the city center. From there, hop on the Bybanen Light Rail, which connects the airport to downtown Bergen in around 45 minutes for about 40 NOK.

If you’re traveling from Oslo, the Bergen Railway is one of the most scenic train rides in the world, with sweeping mountain and fjord views along the route. My friend took this train from Bergen to Norway on her return leg and the photos looked amazing. You can also connect via the famous Flåm Railway, which links to Myrdal Station and continues onward to Bergen for a picture-perfect journey through Norway’s fjords.

Ferries and fjord cruises also connect Bergen with coastal towns further north, making it a perfect starting point or ending spot for a Norway itinerary.

1. Go On A Boutique Fishing Tour Around The Øygarden Islands

This was easily my favorite experience in Bergen city. My friend Sophie and I booked a small tour through Fjord Tours, and it turned out to be pure magic.

The group size was just six or seven people, so everyone had space on the boat and plenty of time to chat with the guide. They picked us up in the city center and drove us about 45 minutes to the Øygarden Islands. Once there, we suited up in warm waterproof gear and set out to catch fish and crab in the fjords.

We each caught something, and the views from the water were unreal. When we returned, the team cooked our catch into a traditional Norwegian fish stew. I live in San Francisco and eat fresh seafood all the time, but nothing beats fish you caught yourself minutes earlier.

If you do one fjord cruise or tour in Bergen, make it this one.

PS, the other gals in our group originally had booked a kayaking tour with the same company but the wind was too strong to safely go out. They switched to our fishing tour and were worried they wouldn’t like it, but loved it. You’ll love it, too! 

2. Try Brunost (Brown Cheese)

Brown cheese, or Brunost, is caramelized goat or cow cheese that tastes like buttery toffee. It’s one of the most uniquely Norwegian foods you can try, and I became obsessed after trying it on our fishing tour.

You’ll find it on waffles, toast, or melted into hot chocolate at cafés around Bergen city center. You can also buy a small block at a grocery store to snack on. Trust me, it’s addictive and pairs perfectly with traditional Norwegian coffee breaks.

3. Try A Local Norwegian Sauna And Then Jump Into The Harbor

After a 19-hour travel day, Sophie and I dropped our bags at the hotel and walked straight to Laugaren Sauna, a floating sauna right on the harbor.

It costs about 120 NOK per person, and you can book online in advance. Bring your own towel, swimsuit, and water bottle. The mix of intense heat followed by a freezing harbor plunge is life changing and the perfect cure for jet lag. If you’re searching for unusual things to do in Bergen Norway, this is it.

Bring your own towel, water bottle and swimsuit and get ready to feel like a whole new person after an hour sitting in this thing with locals. We were so tired from traveling but walked away from the harbor feeling refreshed and alive. 

PS if you’re heading to Oslo next, check out my favorite Oslo floating sauna! 

4. Order A Nordic Manhattan At Charmante Skostredet Hôtel’s Hidden Bar

We stayed at Charmante Skostredet Hôtel in the city center and didn’t realize until our second night that there’s a secret bar on the fourth floor.

It looks like a Moulin Rouge dream with velvet chairs and low lighting. The cocktails are fantastic, especially the Nordic Manhattan made with Aquavit, a traditional Norwegian spirit.

Ask the front desk to take you up, since there isn’t a visible entrance. It’s one of the coolest hidden bars and a great idea if you’re looking for things to do in Bergen Norway at night.

5. Take A Fjord Cruise To The Mostraumen Waterfall

Yes, this one is touristy, but the Mostraumen Fjord Cruise is absolutely worth it, even on a rainy day! 

Even in the rain, the scenery was breathtaking. You’ll pass through Bergen Harbor, sail up Osterfjord, and squeeze through the narrow Mostraumen Strait surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls.

There’s indoor seating, heating, bathrooms, and a small bar onboard, but bring snacks since there’s no food. When you reach the giant Mostraumen Waterfall, you can feel the mist from the deck. It’s one of the most iconic Bergen tourist attractions for a reason.

6. Eat A Norwegian Taco(Yes, That’s A Thing!)

Norway eats more tacos per capita than any other country in the world, which completely shocked me. Their tacos are different from Mexican ones, using thicker flour tortillas filled with chicken, fish, or reindeer along with Jarlsberg cheese.

I tried one at the Ulriken Café on top of Mount Ulriken, and it was so good. Definitely try one while you’re in Norway. It’s an unexpected food highlight and one of the most unusual things to do in Bergen Norway.

7. Ride The Ulriken Cable Car For Panoramic Views

Bergen is surrounded by the famous seven mountains, and Mount Ulriken is the tallest. The Ulriken Cable Car (also called Ulriken643) takes you straight to the top for panoramic views of the fjord and city below.

There’s a small café for lunch and Skyskraperen Restaurant if you want a fine dining experience with a view. I went during a cloudy afternoon and it still felt magical. Buy tickets online ahead of time if you can. The Bergen Card covers a discount, and you can reach the station easily by public transport.

8. Watch The Sunset From The Fløibanen Funicular

The Fløibanen Funicular connects Bergen city center to the top of Mount Fløyen, one of the most famous peaks in the seven mountains range.

You can buy tickets at the station or use your Bergen Card for a free ride down. I recommend going right before sunset. Sophie and I rode up as a storm rolled through, then watched the light turn golden after the rain cleared. It was one of those travel moments that didn’t feel real.

Mount Fløyen also has hiking trails, playgrounds, and a restaurant at the top, making it a great daytime or night activity.

9. Eat Fresh Seafood Along The Bergen Harbor

On our last night, we had dinner along the Bergen Havn, or harbor. The fish market building is filled with stalls selling fresh seafood, caviar, and cheese.

Pick any restaurant that looks inviting and order whatever seafood catches your eye. Some places even let you choose from their market display. Eating here while watching the lights reflect off the water is one of the best things to do in Bergen Norway at night.

10. Buy Caviar From The Local Fish Market

While you’re at the fish market, grab a jar or two of Norwegian caviar or roe to bring home. It’s affordable and incredibly fresh.

Unopened jars don’t need refrigeration, so you can pack them in your suitcase. I always stock up on Scandinavian caviar when I travel because it’s a fraction of the price compared to the United States. I first got hooked while spending a summer in Copenhagen!) The fish market is truly one of the best places to visit in Bergen for food lovers.

11. Take Photos At The Bryggen World Heritage Site

Bryggen, the colorful historic harbor, is one of the most iconic Bergen tourist attractions and part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

This World Heritage site showcases medieval Hanseatic architecture that gives Bergen its postcard-perfect look. Come around golden hour for the best light. Snap photos from Shetlands-Larsen Pier or walk along the row of wooden houses for a closer view. Make time to wander through the shops tucked behind them too.

12. Go Thrift Shopping For Norwegian Sweaters At UFF

I adore a good Norwegian knit sweater, but in the U.S. they can easily cost hundreds of dollars. In Bergen city center, head to UFF, a thrift store with an amazing selection.

As a size 14 woman, I was thrilled to find plenty of options that fit perfectly. Some sweaters were handmade with no labels, which made them feel extra special. I bought two sweaters and a vest for about $35 total. A total win and one of the most unusual things to do in Bergen Norway for fashion lovers.

13. Visit The Fantoft Stave Church

The Fantoft Stave Church is a medieval-style wooden church surrounded by forest, and it feels like stepping back in time. There are only 28 stave churches left in Norway, so this one is a must-see.

The original church burned down in 1992, but the reconstruction is beautiful. It costs about 85 NOK to enter, though it’s free with a Bergen Card. Check hours before visiting, since they vary by season. You can reach it easily via public transport.

14. Have Truffle Pasta Night At Boccone Ristorante

Every Tuesday, Boccone Ristorante hosts a truffle pasta night, and it’s as heavenly as it sounds.

They roll out a huge wheel of parmesan, make the truffle sauce right in front of you, and toss the pasta fresh from the pot. It’s one of the best meals I had in Bergen and one of the best pastas I’ve had outside of Italy. Pair it with a local white wine for the full food experience.

15. Look For The Northern Lights (If You’re Lucky)

If you’re visiting in late fall or winter, download the Aurora app and keep an eye on the sky. The northern lights occasionally appear in Bergen, especially from October to March.

In 2024 they were even visible as far south as San Francisco, which blew my mind. I missed them on my first night in Bergen because of jet lag, so learn from my mistake and check the forecast.

16. Try Whale Meat (If You’re Curious)

I noticed packets of dried reindeer and whale meat at the grocery store and decided to try them. To my surprise, I liked them both.

The whale meat was smoky, savory, and reminded me of pepperoni. I used one of my packs back at home on a pizza. You’ll find it sold in grocery stores and restaurants across Norway if you’re feeling adventurous.

17. Step Inside The Bergen Cathedral

The Bergen Cathedral is over 900 years old and right in the city center. Inside, it has a bright blue wall color that’s unlike any other cathedral I’ve visited. If you enjoy historic architecture, stop by for a quick visit.

The area nearby also celebrates Edvard Grieg and Edvard Munch, two of Norway’s most famous artists, so art lovers will find plenty to explore.

18. Sip Brown Cheese Hot Chocolate At Fjåk Chocolate Café

A few doors down from Hotel Charmante is Fjåk Chocolate Café, a cozy spot that quickly became one of my favorites.

They make incredible homemade hot chocolate, including a version with melted brown cheese. It’s creamy, slightly salty, and perfect for a rainy Bergen afternoon. Since the city gets around 280 days of rain each year, this café is a must for comfort food lovers.

Bergen Travel FAQs

How Many Days Do You Need In Bergen?

Three to four days is the perfect amount of time to explore Bergen. That gives you enough flexibility to enjoy a fjord cruise, visit Bryggen on the World Heritage List, ride both the Fløibanen Funicular and Ulriken Cable Car, and still have downtime for cafés and museums.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Bergen?

The best time to visit is from May through October. Bergen in October is especially beautiful, with fall colors on the seven mountains and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for hiking and fjord cruises.

While winter brings cozy vibes and a chance to see the northern lights, it’s colder, the days are short and travel and be more difficult. 

How Do You Get Around Bergen?

Public transport in Bergen is easy and efficient. The Bergen Card gives you free bus and tram rides plus discounts at attractions like the Fløibanen Funicular and Mount Ulriken Cable Car. 

We walked almost everywhere within the city center and never had a need for a car. 

What Are Some Unusual Things To Do In Bergen?

If you want unique experiences, try a boutique fishing tour, a floating sauna, or thrifting for Norwegian sweaters at UFF. These are the kind of unusual things to do in Bergen Norway that most tourists miss.

What Are The Top Bergen Tourist Attractions?

Don’t miss Bryggen, the fish market, Mount Fløyen, Mount Ulriken, the Bergen Cathedral, and the home of composer Edvard Grieg. The Flåm Railway and Fantoft Stave Church are also worth adding to your trip if you have extra days.

Is Bergen Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Bergen is a mix of natural beauty, culture, and history that few other cities can match. It’s one of those places to visit in Norway that feels both peaceful and full of life at the same time. I can’t wait to return one day soon, I want to come back in the fall again for all th stunning foliage. 

What To Pack For Bergen, Norway

Bergen gets an average of 280 rainy days a year, so pack with that in mind. Here’s what I recommend bringing for any Bergen trip.

• Waterproof rain jacket (a must)
• Waterproof boots (I love these green ones)
• Hiking shoes (I love these walking shoes from Merrell!)
• Warm layers like sweaters or fleece. Sezane makes stylish sweaters I love
• Wool socks 
• Packable rain poncho to keep in your bag
• Hat, gloves, and scarf for cooler months
• Reusable water bottle
• Power adapter 
• Portable charger
• Camera or phone with lots of storage for fjord photos
• Bergen Card for transport and attraction discounts

If you plan to hike Mount Fløyen or Mount Ulriken, add hiking poles and a small backpack. For a fjord cruise, bring a waterproof dry bag for your camera gear.

Just Plan The Norway Trip Already! 

I was worried there wouldn’t be enough to do in Bergen during the fall, but it turned out to be the best time to visit. The weather felt moody and cinematic, the crowds were gone, and the fall colors across the fjords were stunning.

Pack a waterproof jacket and good rain boots because you will get wet, but honestly, that’s part of Bergen’s charm.

If you have extra time, consider riding the Flåm Railway, one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, to experience more of the Norwegian fjords.

Whether you’re hiking the seven mountains, exploring Bryggen on the World Heritage List, visiting the home of Edvard Grieg, or planning your next fjord cruise, Bergen is one of those places to visit in Norway that never leaves your heart.

If you have questions about your trip, hiking trails, public transport, or local food, drop them in the comments or DM me on Instagram @thewhimsysoul and I’ll help you plan your perfect Bergen guide.