Top reasons to visit Bergen
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Bergen is surrounded by breathtaking fjords and picturesque landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore historic sites like Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing Bergen's vibrant history.
- Vibrant City Life: Enjoy lively shopping areas, theaters, and arena entertainment that cater to all ages.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Bergen offers a variety of attractions and experiences suitable for family vacations.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a wide range of hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts to fit your travel needs.
Find great hotels in Bergen
Bergen offers a diverse selection of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, from charming hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Whether you prefer a pet-friendly option or a space that welcomes LGBTQIA guests, you’ll find hotels equipped with essential amenities for business travelers and vacationers alike. With various choices available, you’re sure to discover the perfect hotel in Bergen for a memorable stay.
- Scandic Ørnen: This 4-star hotel shines with its eco-friendly ethos, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travelers. With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Scandic Ørnen is designed to cater to business travelers while also welcoming pets. The hotel features modern amenities, including a fitness center and a restaurant serving sustainable cuisine. Its prime location in Bergen offers easy access to local attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.
- Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen: Another 4-star gem in Bergen, the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel is known for its blend of business and leisure offerings, earning it a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. The hotel is eco-certified and pet-friendly, featuring thoughtful amenities such as food and water bowls for furry companions. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options and relaxing spaces, along with easy access to nearby attractions. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability makes it a popular choice for eco-conscious visitors.
- Scandic Torget Bergen: Nestled in the heart of the city, Scandic Torget Bergen is a 3.5-star hotel that combines a city-themed ambiance with eco-friendly practices. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this hotel is perfect for travelers looking for convenience and comfort. The property allows pets and provides amenities such as food and water bowls. Guests will appreciate the central location, making it easy to explore Bergen's vibrant culture, shops, and scenic views.
Where to stay in Bergen
Bergen offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for families and city enthusiasts alike. Explore the vibrant city center, where you'll find friendly locals and rich historical sites. Don't miss the nearby fjords, which provide breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences. With its perfect location, Bergen serves as an ideal base for discovering the charm of surrounding neighborhoods and immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.
- Bergen City Centre: The heart of Bergen, this vibrant neighborhood is where culture and history collide. With a moderate influx of travelers, the peak season runs from June to August, making it a bustling hub during summer. Visitors are drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere and rich cultural offerings. You'll find a variety of shopping areas, malls, and historic buildings within walking distance. Don't miss the picturesque Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore charming wooden houses and local shops. The city center is the perfect starting point for your Bergen adventure.
- Åsane: Nestled just north of Bergen, Åsane is a quaint village that offers a serene escape into nature. With a steady stream of visitors peaking in April, June, and August, Åsane is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and scenic beauty. The village features lovely shopping areas and campgrounds, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers alike. Nearby, you can explore lush rivers and the stunning state park, where hiking and picnicking opportunities abound. Åsane promises a refreshing blend of relaxation and outdoor fun.
- Årstad: This welcoming neighborhood in Bergen attracts families and culture seekers, with peak visitor numbers during the summer months. Årstad boasts a variety of shopping venues and spa options, providing a perfect mix of leisure and retail therapy. The area is rich in history, with several notable landmarks and historic buildings to explore. You can stroll through charming streets and discover local cafes and eateries, making it a delightful place to unwind and immerse yourself in Bergen's cultural scene. Årstad is a gem waiting to be discovered.
Things to do in Bergen
Shopping
Bergen offers a vibrant shopping scene. Explore the local shops and boutiques in the city center for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Lagunen Storsenter, where you can find a variety of stores ranging from fashion to electronics, catering to diverse tastes.
Recreation
Explore the Fana Spa at Fana Hotel, where you can unwind with luxurious treatments and a serene atmosphere. Enjoy a rejuvenating dip in the indoor pool or a refreshing session in the sauna, all while overlooking beautiful natural surroundings.
Visit the Nordnes Sjøbad for a unique outdoor swimming experience in heated seawater pools. After your swim, relax in the sauna and take in the picturesque views of the fjord and cityscape.
Experience yoga classes at Bergen Yoga, offering a peaceful setting to enhance your well-being. Participate in various sessions designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness amidst Bergen's beautiful scenery.
Adventure
Ride the Ulriken Cable Car for breathtaking views of Bergen and the surrounding fjords. The adventure continues with hiking trails and outdoor activities that offer a blend of family fun and exhilarating experiences in a stunning natural setting.
Experience the Ulriksbanen Cable Car for panoramic vistas of the city and its majestic landscapes. Enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors, perfect for families seeking adventure amid Bergen's captivating scenery.
Nightlife
Bergen's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of experiences. Start with a drink at the stylish BarBarista for a cozy vibe, then explore the lively atmosphere at the popular Den Nationale Scene for performances. If you're in the mood to dance, head to the energetic Verftet for live music and a fun crowd.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bergen
Bergen, Norway, offers several ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Bryggen Waterfront, Fantoft Stave Church, and Nygard Park. For transportation, utilize the affordable bus, light rail, and funicular options. Visit between December and February for lower accommodation rates, and book your hotel about a month in advance. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia for last-minute deals and to find budget-friendly hotel options, including eco-certified choices, by customizing your search based on price and location.
- 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: Book your hotel in Bergen about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- 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: Expedia’s search tool lets you customize your travel preferences by setting your budget, choosing your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display hotels from the lowest price to the highest, making it easy to find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package through Expedia that combines your hotel stay in Bergen with your flights and activities.
Find the best attractions in Bergen
Bergen, Norway is perfect for family and culture-themed vacations, offering a rich blend of history and outdoor experiences. Must-see attractions include the Bergen Harbour, Bryggens Museum, and the charming Bryggen waterfront and wharf. With its historic houses and churches, Bergen caters to travelers seeking cultural immersion and memorable family adventures, making it an ideal destination for all types of visitors.
- Bryggen: Experience the charm of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing colorful wooden houses that date back to the Hanseatic League. This historic area is rich in culture, featuring artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafes where you can immerse yourself in Bergen's trading past.
- Bryggen Waterfront: Stroll along the Bryggen Waterfront, where the scenic jetty offers stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. This area is steeped in history, with its vibrant atmosphere filled with local eateries and cultural landmarks, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration.
- Mt. Floyen: For outdoor enthusiasts, Mt. Floyen provides an adventurous escape with breathtaking panoramic views of Bergen. Accessible by funicular, this mountain is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the lush scenery of the region, promising a memorable adventure in nature.
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
Traveling to Bergen, Norway, is convenient via its major airport, Bergen (BGO-Flesland), situated 13km from the city. Nearby, Villa Charlotte offers a luxurious 5-star bed and breakfast just 5km from the airport, with airport transportation available for a fee. Other notable options include the 4.5-star Bergen Børs Hotel and Opus XVI, both located 13km away. If considering other nearby airports, Haugesund (HAU-Karmoy) is 117km away, with options like the 4-star Banken Hotel and Radisson Hotel Haugesund. Sogndal (SOG-Haukasen), 130km away, features Quality Hotel Sogndal, also a 4-star choice, ensuring comfortable stays near these airports.