The World Heritage-listed city of Bergen boasts a rich maritime history complemented by pristine fjords and towering hills. Traditional wooden houses sit alongside museums and art galleries, while late-night clubs, boutique restaurants and regular music festivals cater to the friendly locals.

Things to do

Begin your Bergen holiday by exploring the colourful wooden boathouses dating back to the 17th century in the medieval wharf of Bryggen. You can learn more about this neighbourhood and the fire of 1955 in the Bryggens Museum, before exploring the Bergenhus fortress, one of the oldest and best-preserved castles in Norway. Don’t miss the fortress’ on-site museum, which showcases military exhibits detailing Bergen’s role in World War II.

Are you visiting with the family? Take the kids to Bergen Aquarium to see numerous marine species, including tropical fish, seals and penguins. Make sure you see the entertaining crocodile feedings and sea lion shows. Afterwards, head over to VilVite, an interactive science centre with kid-focused exhibits, regular workshops and 3D films.

Bergen is sure to appease your outdoor cravings, thanks to its range of hiking, fishing, mountain biking and cross-country skiing experiences. You can even fish for unique species on the fjords or venture out on the rugged Helgeland coast in a sea kayak. Reach new heights by climbing the dramatic peaks of the Lofoten Islands or tee off on a pristine golf course in the middle of the night, thanks to Norway’s famous Midnight Sun.

You’ll find a range of excellent restaurants around Bergen, including the highly-touted Boha Restaurant and Irish-inspired Finnegans. Duck into HEM for a casual cocktail or visit Vaskeriet for bar games and all-night dancing.

Getting around

Bergen is easily reached by flying into Bergen Airport Flesland from multiple international cities or catching the train from Oslo. The city is serviced by a local commuter train, central light rail line, multiple taxi companies and regular buses.