Top reasons to visit Bergen
- Iconic Bryggen Wharf: Explore the historic Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing colourful wooden buildings and rich maritime heritage.
- Stunning Fjord Access: Bergen serves as a gateway to breathtaking fjords, offering unforgettable boat trips and scenic views.
- Cultural Richness: Enjoy a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theatres, and local events, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts.
- Charming City Centre: Stroll through the charming city centre, where friendly locals and historic landmarks create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of accommodation options, catering to all needs, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-inclusive services.
Find great hotels in Bergen
Discover a range of wonderful accommodation options in Bergen, where you can find everything from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Many establishments cater to diverse needs, offering pet-friendly services and a warm, inclusive atmosphere for LGBTQIA travellers. With a focus on both leisure and business travel, Bergen’s hotels provide a perfect base to explore this stunning city and its surroundings.
- Scandic Ørnen: Scandic Ørnen is a distinguished 4-star hotel boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This property is ideal for eco-conscious travellers and business visitors alike, offering a pet-friendly environment. The hotel is eco-certified, highlighting its commitment to sustainability. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a pet policy that permits pets on-site, ensuring a comfortable stay for those travelling with furry companions. The modern decor and convenient location make it a great choice for exploring Bergen while maintaining an eco-friendly ethos.
- Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen: This elegant 4-star hotel, rated 8.8 out of 10 by guests, features a sophisticated blend of comfort and sustainability. Ideal for business and eco-conscious travellers, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen is pet-friendly and offers various amenities, including food and water bowls for pets, and a waived fee for service animals. With its central location and superior facilities, this hotel provides an inviting atmosphere for those wishing to explore the vibrant city of Bergen while enjoying modern luxuries.
- Scandic Torget Bergen: Scandic Torget Bergen is a charming 3.5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. Nestled in the city centre, this hotel offers an urban escape with a commitment to eco-friendly practices. Perfect for city explorers and pet owners, it features amenities such as waived fees for service animals and provisions for pets, including food and water bowls. The hotel’s contemporary design and accessible location make it a delightful base for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Bergen’s lively atmosphere.
Where to stay in Bergen
Discover the enchanting charm of Bergen, a city steeped in history and culture, perfect for families and city enthusiasts alike. Stroll through the vibrant city centre, where friendly locals welcome you amidst historical landmarks. Explore the heart of Bergen, with its picturesque surroundings and easy access to nearby fjords, offering breathtaking views and adventures. Experience the ideal blend of culture and relaxation in this perfect location, making your Norwegian holiday truly unforgettable.
- Bergen City Centre: The vibrant heart of Bergen, the City Centre is a bustling neighbourhood that serves as a cultural hub for both locals and visitors. Nestled around the historic harbour, it features a mix of modern shopping areas and quaint streets lined with historic buildings. The peak travel season from June to August offers an abundance of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences. Highlights include the iconic Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the nearby Fish Market, where you can indulge in local seafood delicacies.
- Sentrum: Known for its lively atmosphere, Sentrum is another key neighbourhood in Bergen, attracting visitors year-round. With a slight peak in June to July and September, it is ideal for those seeking family and cultural experiences. Sentrum boasts a mix of shopping areas and outdoor activities, including access to ski resorts. The historical charm of the area is complemented by its vibrant nightlife and café culture, making it a great place to explore during both the day and evening.
- Åsane: Situated just north of Bergen, Åsane is a picturesque village that showcases Norway's stunning natural beauty. With a focus on outdoor adventures and scenic experiences, it attracts visitors primarily in April, June, and August. You can explore lush landscapes, rivers, and national parks, making it perfect for those looking for a taste of Norway's wilderness. Åsane also features shopping areas and campgrounds, providing a unique blend of leisure and adventure for tourists eager to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Things to do in Bergen
Shopping
Bergen offers a delightful shopping experience with charming boutiques and markets. Visit Bryggen area for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Lagunen Storsenter, just over 16km away, features a variety of shops, including fashion and home goods.
Recreation
The Fana Spa offers a tranquil atmosphere with a range of treatments, including massages and facials, designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Experience the healing waters at the Vannkanten Water Park, boasting thermal baths and relaxation areas amidst stunning coastal views.
Adventure
The Ulriken Cable Car offers stunning views as you ascend Norway's highest mountain in Bergen. Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures like hiking and paragliding at the summit, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The Ulriksbanen, another cable car, provides easy access to family-friendly activities and picturesque scenery, perfect for an adventurous day out.
Nightlife
Visit the vibrant Kvarteret for live music and a lively atmosphere. For a unique cocktail experience, check out the Torgallmenningen area, where you can enjoy creative drinks amidst a bustling crowd. Don't miss the charming pubs along Bryggen for a taste of local beers and a warm ambience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bergen
Bergen offers numerous free attractions, including the Bryggen Waterfront and Fantoft Stave Church, allowing tourists to explore without spending much. For economical travel, use the city's public transport options: bus, light rail, and funicular. The best time to visit is from December to February when accommodation prices drop, especially if booked a month in advance. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, with Saturday being the cheapest night to stay. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings, and always check for hidden fees to ensure budget-friendly options.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Bergen are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Bergen is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Bergen is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Bergen is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you favour. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Bergen with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Bergen
Bergen is an excellent destination for family and culture-themed vacations, offering a rich array of attractions such as historic museums, charming houses, and notable churches. Key points of interest include the iconic Bryggen Wharf, the picturesque Bryggen waterfront, Bergen Harbour, Bryggens Museum, and the prestigious Bergen University. Whether you seek cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, Bergen promises a delightful experience for all travellers.
- Bryggen Waterfront: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Bergen at Bryggen Waterfront, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This vibrant jetty showcases colourful wooden buildings that date back to the Hanseatic League, offering a glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage and lively culture.
- Bryggen: Stroll through Bryggen, the historic heart of Bergen, where narrow alleyways and charming shops reveal the area’s cultural significance. The distinct architecture and atmospheric surroundings create an enchanting experience, reflecting centuries of history.
- Mt. Floyen: Adventure awaits at Mt. Floyen, where you can hike or take a funicular ride to enjoy breathtaking views of Bergen and the surrounding fjords. The outdoor trails cater to various levels, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
Best time to go to Bergen
The best time to visit Bergen can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Bergen falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Bergen falls in January and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Bergen
Flying into Bergen is convenient with its major airport, Bergen (BGO-Flesland), located 13km FROm the city centre. Nearby hotel options include the 5-star Villa Charlotte, just 5km away, offering airport transportation services for a fee. The 4.5-star Bergen Børs Hotel and Opus XVI are both situated 13km from the airport. Additionally, Floro (FRO) and Haugesund (HAU-Karmoy) are alternative airports, located 134km and 117km from Bergen, respectively. Notable hotels near Floro include Scandic Victoria Floro and Quality Hotel Floro, both 2km away. In Haugesund, the Banken Hotel and Radisson Hotel Haugesund are excellent choices, within 8km of the airport.