Top 12 Best Things To Do in Bergen for an Unforgettable Trip

Anchor your trip with the best things to do in Bergen, the heart of the Norwegian fjord region, where every experience is a treasure that will keep you hooked. Walk along the colorful buildings of Bryggen, take in the panoramic views from Mount Floyen, and uncover the city's most unforgettable attractions.

We’ve carefully curated the biggest selection of tours and activities in Bergen to bring you the most popular experiences. From fjord cruises to scenic hikes, it has everything you need for the perfect adventure.

This guide covers the best things to do in Bergen. Food lovers can explore the Fish Market, history enthusiasts can uncover Hanseatic heritage, and nature seekers can set off on a fjord expedition—there’s really something for everyone to enjoy!

Before we jump into the list, don't forget to explore the wide variety of travel packages in Bergen and find out when to visit Norway’s second-largest city for the ultimate escapade. Planning the perfect trip starts here, so keep scrolling and get ready to experience the magic of Bergen!

12. Take a Fishing Trip in Oygarden Near Bergen

Take part in Norway’s fishing heritage on a half-day fishing and outdoor cooking experience from Bergen. Located an hour from the city, Oygarden remains closely tied to Bergen as its main access point. This coastal area has long been known for its fishing industry and offers a glimpse into local life by the sea.

Cast a line into the North Sea and try catching cod, pollock, or mackerel in the rich waters surrounding the islets. Towering cliffs and scattered fishing villages add to the dramatic scenery as seabirds glide overhead. 

Prepare and cook your catch for a true taste of Norway’s outdoor lifestyle. For a hands-on adventure beyond the city, this is one of the best things to do in Bergen.

11. Experience a Private Evening Cruise in Bergen

Sail through Norway’s breathtaking fjords on a private evening cruise of Bergen. Surrounded by towering mountains and calm waters, this exclusive experience offers a peaceful escape from the city. A private boat allows you to relax while taking in the stunning scenery.

As the sun sets, the fjords glow with golden light as reflections move across the water. The stillness of the evening adds to the atmosphere, making this one of the best things to do in Bergen. Adventurous travelers can swim in the crystal-clear waters and turn a scenic cruise into an unforgettable experience.

This cruise is perfect for those who want a romantic evening, a peaceful retreat, or a private journey through Norway’s famous fjords. Stunning views and a quiet setting make it a memorable way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

10. Board a Viking-Style Ship in Bergen

Set sail on an epic voyage with the Bergen fjord experience aboard a Viking-style ship built using traditional shipbuilding techniques. Departing from Dreggekaien near Bryggen, this 90-minute tour is one of the top things to do in Bergen. 

As you sail through Bergen's serene fjords, you'll have the opportunity to hoist the sail and even try fishing for mackerel. At the same time, the crew can provide engaging insights into Viking history, coastal culture, and the city's rich maritime heritage.

This tour is perfect for history lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a unique way to explore the fjords. The combination of interactive elements, storytelling, and stunning views makes it an unforgettable experience.

9. Kayak Through the Coastal Waterways Near Bergen

Explore Norway’s scenic coastline on a guided kayak tour in Bergen. This adventure offers a close-up view of the fjords, hidden inlets, and rugged islands that define the region’s breathtaking landscape.

Towering cliffs and dense forests frame the sheltered waterways and create a peaceful escape from the city. Seabirds often appear along the route, making this one of the most immersive Bergen activities. The quiet surroundings and steady movement of the kayak enhance the experience.

This activity near Bergen is a perfect way to explore the fjords from a new perspective. Glide across the water or weave through narrow channels and take in the beauty of Norway’s coastal wilderness.

8. Hike From the Fjords to the Town of Bergen

Set out on an unforgettable journey with a hiking tour by the fjords in Bergen, where rugged landscapes lead to beautiful scenery. Towering cliffs, deep valleys, and sweeping fjord views make this hike a perfect way to experience Norway’s natural beauty up close.

The trail moves through untouched wilderness and reveals dense forests and open ridges with panoramic vistas. Crisp mountain air and the quiet of nature add to the experience and make each step as rewarding as the last. 

Reaching the city after a day in the wild creates a smooth transition between nature and Bergen’s charm. With its mix of challenging trails and breathtaking scenery, this is one of the best Bergen sightseeing experiences for those who want to explore beyond the city streets.

7. Experience a Scenic Journey Through Bergen

Join a minibus tour of Bergen’s top scenic spots, which will take you to the most beautiful viewpoints in the city. The journey also includes a look at the city’s iconic wooden houses and stops at lesser-known neighborhoods rich in history.

As the sun shines, a Segway day tour of Bergen's best views offers an exhilarating way to explore the city's historic landmarks while gliding through charming streets. When the sun sets, an evening tour to see Bergen's twilight magic invites you to experience the city’s highlights in soft lighting under the night sky.

Those looking for a self-paced experience can take a self-guided full-day round trip to Bergen. Traveling through fjords, mountains, and charming villages, this route blends cultural landmarks with Norway’s natural beauty. 

6. Explore Bergen’s Museums

Take advantage of city break packages in Bergen to explore a diverse range of museums and learn about history, art, and science. The city's museums showcase everything from medieval trade and maritime heritage to world-class art and scientific discoveries. Here are the museums that you can visit during your stay: 

KODE Bergen Art Museum

This art museum holds one of Norway’s finest collections of Nordic art and includes masterpieces by Edvard Munch, Nikolai Astrup, and other famous artists. Its exhibitions span centuries and provide insight into Norway’s artistic evolution. 

Bryggens Museum

Head to this museum for insights into Bergen’s medieval Hanseatic past. Built on the remains of the original Bryggen wharf settlement, it showcases artifacts that reveal the daily life, trade, and customs of the city’s early residents.

Gamle Bergen Museum

Take a look at this museum's recreated 19th-century Bergen with a collection of preserved wooden houses. Visitors can see how people lived in Bergen’s past through its open-air streets. The museum features actors in period clothing, interactive exhibits, and well-preserved interiors.

Bergen Maritime Museum 

This maritime museum explores Norway’s deep-rooted seafaring history. Its exhibits include ship models, Viking-era relics, and displays on Bergen’s fishing and shipping industries. With an extensive collection of maritime artifacts, it is a must-visit for history and sailing enthusiasts.

University Museum of Bergen

 Take a journey through Norway’s natural and cultural history in this museum. The exhibits cover archaeology, ethnography, and anthropology, from Viking treasures to ancient fossils. The museum also features an extensive collection of taxidermy and artifacts from around the world.

Leprosy Museum

Housed in St. Jorgen’s Hospital, one of Europe’s oldest leprosy hospitals, the museum tells the story of Bergen’s crucial role in leprosy research. Personal stories, preserved hospital rooms, and medical archives make this a fascinating yet sobering visit.

Bergen Science Center

Perfect for families and those curious about science, this museum has interactive exhibits that let visitors explore technology, physics, and innovation through hands-on activities. From robotics to chemistry experiments, this museum makes learning fun and engaging.

5. Visit Bergen’s Edvard Grieg House

Step into the world of Norway’s greatest composer on a private tour of Edvard Grieg’s house. Located in Troldhaugen, just outside the city center, this beautifully preserved home offers a glimpse into Grieg’s life, music, and creative inspiration. 

Inside, visitors can see Grieg’s original piano, composing cabin, and personal belongings. The nearby concert hall still hosts performances and allows guests to hear his music in the place where it was created. The combination of history and live music makes this experience truly special.

Strolling through the house garden and standing by the lakeside, it’s easy to see how this landscape influenced Grieg’s compositions. Classical music lovers and cultural explorers will find this visit among the best things to do in Bergen.

4. Chase the Waterfalls of Hardangerfjord From Bergen

Join a breathtaking journey with a Bergen day trip chasing the waterfalls of Hardangerfjord and witness some of Norway’s most stunning natural wonders. Hardangerfjord, often called the “Queen of the Fjords,” is home to dramatic landscapes where waterfalls cascade down sheer cliffs into crystal-clear waters.

This fjord boasts iconic waterfalls such as Steinsdalsfossen, where you can walk behind the rushing water without getting wet. There’s also Voringsfossen, one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls. Each spot offers breathtaking viewpoints, with mist rising from the torrents and rainbows forming in the sunlight.

For a more exclusive experience, a private full-day tour to Hardangerfjord allows for a personalized journey through this region. With deep fjords, lush orchards, and towering mountains, this day trip is an unforgettable escape into Norway’s wild beauty.

3. Take a Cruise to Mostraumen Fjord From Bergen

Set sail on a Mostraumen cruise from Bergen and experience Norway’s fjord landscapes up close. Departing from Bergen’s harbor, this journey takes you through narrow waterways surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

The boat first passes through Osterfjord, where steep mountains rise, and remote villages appear along the shore. Nearing Mostraumen, the fjord narrows, and waterfalls drop straight into the water and form a stunning waterway.

The boat often gets close enough for passengers to feel the refreshing mist. This makes it one of the best things to do in Bergen for those who want to experience Norway’s wild beauty from the water.

With its breathtaking landscapes and untouched wilderness, this cruise is a perfect way to appreciate Norway’s natural splendor. The peaceful journey, crisp air, and ever-changing scenery make it an unforgettable experience on the water.

2. Ride the Floibanen Funicular From Bergen to Mount Floyen

Experience the ride on the Floibanen Funicular on a 7-day Norway self-drive road trip with an itinerary from Bergen. This scenic journey takes you through the city center and climbs Mount Floyen, one of Bergen’s most breathtaking viewpoints. 

At the summit, visitors can soak in panoramic scenery stretching over Bergen, the fjords, and the North Sea. You can also explore the trails, meet the famous Floyen mountain goats, or stop by for a coffee with a view. 

With its stunning vistas and peaceful surroundings, Mount Floyen is one of the must-see sights in Bergen. The ride up aboard the Floibanen Funicular is just as memorable as the destination and offers an effortless way to enjoy the city's natural beauty.

1. Visit Bergen’s Iconic Bryggen Wharf

A Bergen walking tour is the best way to experience the iconic Bryggen Wharf and step into a world shaped by seafarers and merchants. This historic district, once the heart of Bergen’s Hanseatic trading empire, is known for its colorful wooden buildings, narrow alleyways, and rich maritime heritage.

Stroll along the weathered wooden pathways and explore centuries-old buildings filled with artisan workshops, boutiques, and cafes. The Bryggens Museum uncovers Bergen’s medieval roots, while the Hanseatic Museum reveals the lives of merchants who once controlled the city’s trade.

Discovering this historic wharf is one of the best things to do in Bergen. With its unique atmosphere, rich history, and picture-perfect setting, Bryggen offers an unforgettable glimpse into the city’s past. At the same time, it remains a dynamic part of Bergen’s present.