Norway’s second-largest city has plenty of fun activities to keep you entertained. So don’t wonder what to do in Bergen and read on to discover all there is to do in this beautiful city.
What are the top things to do in Bergen?
- Visit the sights: Bryggen, Bergenhus, Fisketorget & more
- Explore the magical fjords
- Visit a museum: Grieg Museum & Bryggens Museum
- Take your kids to Akvariet, an impressive aquarium with more than 500 different animal species
- Brave the cold at the Magic Ice bar
Visit the sights
Enjoy the colorful houses along the waterfront that, especially at dusk, beautifully reflect in the water. This Bryggen district is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List for good reason. The picturesque center with its cobblestones and wooden Pippi Longstocking-like houses immediately reveal that you’re at the coast. Besides these typical sights, a visit to the castle in the Bergenhus district is also well worth it. This is an impressive building where events and concerts are often held.
Instead of a city walk, it’s actually great fun and refreshing to hop on a bike and explore the highlights. Together with a local guide, you’ll head out with Baja Bikes along the best of this Norwegian gem. Cycle past the Maria Church, the City Hall and visit the fish market Fisketorget. You can hardly get it fresher than here, so we definitely recommend trying some delicious fish after the tour. The previously mentioned highlights are also included on the Highlights bike tour in Bergen. Book directly online to ensure you have the most fun activity during your city trip.
Explore the magical Norwegian fjords
If you look at the map, you’ll see that Bergen is situated right among the fjords which, even if you’re not really a nature lover, are definitely worth visiting. The meaning of fjord is an inlet in a mountainous coast formed by glaciers. This creates steep rock walls rising directly from the water. Take a boat trip and enjoy the oasis of tranquility in this picturesque environment. The impressively beautiful vistas with green mountains and snow-capped peaks are truly breathtaking. After exploring, it’s time for a good restaurant in Bergen.
Visit the museums
If you’re a museum enthusiast or if you still have time left during your city trip after the sights and fjords, visit one of the museums. Recommended are the Edvard Grieg Museum Troldhaugen and the Bryggens Museum.
On the so-called Troll Hill, which Norway is famous for, you’ll visit the former home of composer Edvard Grieg. After completing his education at the conservatory in Leipzig, he devoted himself to the music of Norwegian national romanticism. Due to his talent, he was also called the Chopin of the North. The Grieghallen concert hall is also named after him, a modern concert building where the Eurovision Song Contest took place in 1986.
The Bryggens Museum focuses primarily on the history and findings from the area. Here you’ll learn more about Bergen and what took place here, particularly in the Middle Ages.
Tip: One of the most fun activities for children is the Akvariet, the aquarium in Bergen. Here you’ll admire not only all kinds of fish but there are also penguins, seals and crocodiles to see, among others. It’s one of the largest tourist attractions where you can even touch and hold some animal species.
Brave the cold at the Magic Ice bar
The Magic Ice bar is located in the heart of Bergen and offers visitors the opportunity to experience the magic of ice and snow, even during the summer months. As soon as you enter the bar, you’re greeted by a stunning environment made of 100% ice. From walls and furniture to sculptures and decorations – everything is made of frozen water and creates an unforgettable experience.
The artworks in the Magic Ice bar are truly stunning. Talented ice artists have created fantastic sculptures depicting the history, culture and nature of Bergen and Norway. These artworks showcase the craftsmanship and creativity of the artists and make every corner of the bar a photo-worthy spot.
Enjoy a refreshing drink while absorbing the unique atmosphere of the bar. From cocktails to mocktails, there’s something for everyone. The feeling of the cold drink in your hands and the icy environment around you create an unparalleled experience.
The Magic Ice bar is suitable for both adults and children. It’s an ideal place for families to enjoy a unique activity together. Children will be fascinated by the ice art and get the chance to explore a frozen fantasy world.
A ticket is required to enter. The ticket includes admission, a welcome drink, winter poncho and gloves.
Tickets: Buy online