Surrounded by tall peaks overlooking Norway’s western fjords, Bergen was founded by the last Vikings almost 1000 years ago. The city’s colorful Hanseatic harbor and epic outdoor scenery combine to create a destination that’s long attracted both history and nature lovers.
In 2023, with the launch of new flight routes from major European destinations, there’s never been a better time to visit Bergen.
Norway’s largest regional airline, Widerøe, is transforming Bergen into a Norwegian travel hub this spring. New routes now connect Bergen to London Stansted, Liverpool, Dublin, Hamburg, and Munich, making Bergen a one-stop flight from some of Europe’s biggest cities.
Highlighting Bergen’s Rich Heritage
Start your Bergen visit in the district of Bryggen, featuring a UNESCO World Heritage–listed waterfront of ramshackle wooden shops and old merchant warehouses that illustrate the Viking and Hanseatic history of the town. This area, where King Olaf III founded Bergen in 1070 CE, has a significant historical essence as merchants from the Hanseatic League grew wealthy from North Sea trade. The excellent Bryggens Museum offers even more insights into this fascinating history.
Bergen: A Culinary Capital
Atlantic cod has long been the foundation of Bergen’s economy, and in 2023, the city continues to build on this fishy legacy. Local chefs have revived traditional dishes like persetorsk, a type of “pressed cod” cured in salt and sugar. Additionally, divers harvest fresh oysters from the fjords, and the historic Fish Market has transformed into an upscale dining hall featuring top local seafood. With two Michelin-starred restaurants, Norway’s second city is reinventing itself as the culinary capital of the country, a status affirmed by its designation as a UNESCO “City of Gastronomy” in 2015.
The Matfestival: A Must-Visit
The 2023 edition of Bergen’s Matfestival is an event food-lovers should not miss. Scheduled for September, the best local chefs and producers will showcase unique offerings, from homemade ciders to elaborate tasting menus. Bergen’s innovative Neo-Fjordic cuisine emphasizes local produce with a Nordic flair, further highlighted by Michelin stars awarded to Bare Restaurant and Lysverket.
Outdoor Adventures Await
Work off the added calories with a hike up Mt Fløyen, one of Bergen’s prominent mountains. Alternatively, you can take the funicular. At the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city—provided the fog doesn’t roll in. Hike through enchanting, moss-strewn forests filled with local legends, and consider joining locals in the icy fjord waters for a sauna session or a swim in the thermal saltwater pool.
Art and Culture in Bergen
2023 marks 160 years since the birth of renowned Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. Local art collector Rasmus Meyer amassed the third-largest collection of Munch works, many loaned to galleries around the world. In celebration, these will return to Bergen’s KODE this year for a special anniversary exhibition running from April 14 until year’s end.
Exploring Beyond Bergen
From Bergen, adventurers can jump on a ferry to explore the western fjords or catch a scenic train ride to Myrdal to ride the picturesque Flåm Railway. You can also hop on a regional flight to other fascinating destinations in Norway.
Dining Options in Bergen
Located within Bergen’s old stock exchange building, Bare offers exquisite tasting menus prepared to Michelin standards. For local flavors at a more accessible price, visit Bergen’s Fish Market, where the fish soup is hearty and delicious. Culinary creations from Allmuen Bistro, featuring fusion fish cakes and falafel, are also worth a try. Another budget-friendly option is Pingvinen, which serves generous portions of classic Norwegian comfort food. For elevating the dining experience, the cable car ride to Mt Ulriken leads to the Skyskraperen restaurant, serving seasonal menus inspired by the Nordic landscape.
Best Places to Drink in Bergen
Dyvekes Vinkjeller, believed to have been serving patrons since the 1300s, invites you to sit back and share tales of history. For a lively atmosphere with live music, Kafé Kippers provides waterside drinks. Explore the exciting tap room at 7 Fjell Bryggeri or relax at Dr. Wiesner, a partially community-owned pub situated in an old bathhouse. Though alcoholic beverages can be pricey, Bergen’s oldest barista café, Det Lille Kaffekompaniet, offers delicious coffee selections, including a delightful hot apple juice with whipped cream.
Where to Stay in Bergen
Design hotel Bergen Børs offers modern comfort in the historic stock exchange building. For those wishing to stay on the picturesque wooden waterfront of Bryggen, the Radisson Blu Royal awaits. Scandic Torget Bergen is ideal for minimalistic functionality at excellent value on the opposite side of the harbor, while boutique hotel Opus XVI, located in a former bank, boasts character-filled interiors inspired by the music of Edvard Grieg, one of Bergen’s most famous sons.
