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Bergen holidays: Festivals, fjords and endless Scandinavian charm
Bergen isn't just another typical city in Norway – it's your gateway to jaw-dropping fjords, epic adventures and Scandinavian charm. If you are a history lover or chasing an adrenaline rush, you will find many fun things to do in Bergen. You can hop on a fjord cruise and glide past towering cliffs or go kayaking. If you love hiking, hike up Mount Fløyen for beautiful views. History buffs can dive into Norway's Viking past at local museums or explore the colourful Bryggen Wharf.
Bergen promises an unforgettable holiday packed with adventure. So, check out our best deals on hotels and flights to Bergen for a budget holiday.
Bergen at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 1 hour 55 minutes
Main airport: Bergen Airport (BGO)
Population: 285,000
Language: Bergensk (a dialect of Norwegian)
Currency: Kroner
Time zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)
Flights to Bergen from the UK
If you are planning to jet off to Bergen for your holiday, you can get there in under two hours with direct flights from the UK. London, Manchester and Edinburgh all offer non-stop flights straight to this stunning Norwegian gem. Major airlines like British Airways and Norwegian Air fly the route, while budget-friendly options like Widerøe and easyJet offer you great deals on flights.
You'll land at Bergen Airport, Flesland (BGO), which is just 12 miles from the city centre. Getting into town is easy via the Bybanen light rail, which takes 45 minutes. You can also take the Flybussen airport express bus, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes to get to Bergen hotels.
The best time to travel to Bergen
Every season in Bergen has something fun to offer, and the best time to visit depends on the kind of adventure you're after. For instance, spring is a great time to hike Mount Fløyen or Ulriken without the summer crowds. The fjords start looking extra gorgeous as waterfalls swell from melting snow. Plus, May brings Bergenfest, a music festival that sets the city buzzing.
Summer is the peak season with long days, warm weather and fun festivals. It's the perfect time for fjord cruises, scenic train rides on the Flam Railway and kayaking. However, since it's the peak season, hotels in Bergen are expensive. You can save money by visiting Bergen in September, with fewer crowds and mild autumn weather. In November, the weather becomes chilly, ushering in the winter season.
Bergen in winter is exciting, with snow-dusted rooftops and a chance to see the Northern Lights. If you are planning a ski holiday, hit the slopes in the nearby Myrkdalen Ski Resort. December is extra special with Christmas markets and festive charm.
Top things to do in Bergen
Take a cruise to the fjords
Do you want to cruise through Bergen's fjords? Most tours kick off from Bergen's harbour, right by the famous Bryggen Wharf, where you'll hop on a comfy boat and set sail into Norway's jaw-dropping landscapes. Glide through the Hardangerfjord or Sognefjord, both packed with dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls and postcard-perfect villages. Keep your camera ready for the Seven Sisters Waterfall and the mighty Steinsdalsfossen, where you can actually walk behind the rushing water. If you're short on time, take a half-day cruise to Mostraumen, where the fjords get narrow and the views are mesmerising.
Visit Bryggen
Visiting Bryggen is like stepping into a Viking-era postcard. This UNESCO-listed waterfront is Bergen's most famous spot, with its colourful, crooked wooden houses lining the harbour. Take a stroll through the narrow alleyways to find hidden courtyards and artisan workshops selling everything from handcrafted jewellery to Viking-style souvenirs. Dive into history at the Bryggens Museum, where you can see medieval artefacts and learn about Bergen's Hanseatic past. And, of course, you must stop at a cafe for cinnamon buns (skillingsbolle) and coffee while soaking up the harbour views.
Enjoy views from Mount Ulriken
To enjoy the best views in Bergen, head up Mount Ulriken, the tallest of the city's seven mountains. Do you want an easy ride to the top? Hop on the Ulriken Cable Car, and in just a few minutes, you'll be soaring over Bergen with jaw-dropping fjord and city views. You can also hike up the mountain, but the trail is steep. Once you are at the top, snap some amazing photos and grab a bite at Skyskraperen Restaurant.
Eat local delicacies in the fish market
If you love seafood, stop by Bergen's fish market. It is located right by the harbour and has been serving fresh catches for centuries. Wander through the stalls and feast your eyes (and taste buds) on everything from king crab to fresh salmon. For a true Bergen experience, try the famous fish soup (fiskesuppe), which is a creamy, flavourful bowl of seafood goodness. You can also taste reindeer and whale meat, which are both local specialities. Many stalls cook your seafood on the spot, so grab a seat, order a seafood platter and enjoy the harbour views.
FAQs about Bergen holidays
Q: What is the best month to visit Bergen?
A: July is the best month to visit Bergen. With long daylight hours, mild temperatures and a buzzing festival scene, the city is at its liveliest. It's the perfect time for fjord cruises, hiking Mount Fløyen and strolling through Bryggen Wharf. Plus, you'll catch Bergen's seafood at its freshest and enjoy outdoor dining by the harbour.
Q: Is Bergen worth seeing?
A: Yes. This charming Norwegian city is a gateway to the fjords, packed with stunning scenery and a rich history. Wander through Bryggen Wharf, ride the Fløibanen funicular or cruise through jaw-dropping fjords. Foodies will love the fish market, while adventure-seekers can hike Mount Ulriken or kayak in the fjords.
Q: Is Bergen, Norway, expensive?
A: Yes, Bergen is quite expensive, like most of Norway. Expect to pay around £20 to £40 for a casual meal and £100 or more for a hotel stay. Public transport is reasonable, with a light rail ticket around £3, but activities like fjord cruises and dining out can add up. Budget travellers can save by choosing supermarkets, free hikes and the Bergen Card for discounts.
Q: How many days is enough for Bergen?
A: Three days is perfect for Bergen. You'll have time to explore Bryggen Wharf, ride the Fløibanen funicular, take a fjord cruise and visit the fish market for fresh seafood. Hikers can tackle Mount Ulriken, while culture lovers can dive into museums and local history. If you have extra time, go on a day trip along the ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ route.
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