7 days in Bergen, Norway: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Tucked away between the scenic fjords and majestic mountains of Norway, you’ll find the charming city of Bergen. The true gem of Scandinavia, Bergen combines its vibrant history, eclectic architecture, and rich cultural scene, to create a unique experience for anyone who steps foot in this city. From wandering the colorful wharf of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to soaking in the panoramic views of the city from atop Mount Fløyen, Bergen offers no shortage of unforgettable memories.
Things to Consider Before Arriving in Bergen
It’s a nature lover’s paradise: with stunning fjords, mountains, and hiking trails within reach.
The city is brimming with culture, history, and museums to explore.
Bergen has a notoriously high cost of living, so consider your budget when planning your trip.
It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of urban charm and outdoor beauty.
What to Bring with You
1. A waterproof jacket, as Bergen is famously rainy.
2. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and nearby hiking trails.
3. Outlet adapter for charging your electronic devices (Norway uses Type C and F plugs).
Best Time of the Year to Visit
May through September is the ideal time to visit Bergen, due to warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, keep in mind that June and July are the peak tourist months, so you can expect more crowds during this time.
How to Get into the City
1. By plane – Bergen Airport, Flesland (BGO) is 18 km from the city center. Upon arrival, take the airport bus or a taxi into town.
2. By train – Travel by train from Oslo to Bergen and bask in the stunning scenery of the seven-hour journey.
3. By car – Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore Bergen and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Note that parking and driving within the city center may prove to be challenging, so plan accordingly.
7 Day City Guide Trip in Bergen, Norway
Day 1: Getting to know Bergen
Begin your day by walking around the colorful houses of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a stroll in Fisketorget, Bergen’s famous fish market, and enjoy some fresh seafood for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Fløibanen funicular to witness a stunning view of the city. End your day with a performance at Grieghallen, a prestigious concert hall.
Day 2: City Museums
Start your day in the cultural hub of Bergen, visiting the KODE and Bergen Art museums. Head to the Lysverket restaurant for lunch to sample local cuisine with a contemporary twist. In the evening, catch a show at the theater or cinema.
Day 3: Exploring the Fjords
Book a fjord cruise and take a glimpse of the extraordinary natural scenery of the region. Enjoy a boat ride from Bergen to the Sognefjord, one of Norway’s longest and deepest fjords. Make a pit-stop at the picturesque village of Flåm for lunch.
Day 4: Hiking in the Surrounding Mountains
Bergen’s surrounding mountains offer a beautiful scenery and some great hiking trails. Start your day by taking a bus to Øvre Eidfjord and then begin a 14 km hike to the Vøringfossen waterfall. After the pick-up from the hiking center, grab a beer with locals at the Røldal Stavkirke.
Day 5: Day trip to Voss
Catch a train to Voss and enjoy a day of adrenaline activities such as rafting, kayaking, or paragliding—it’s the perfect day trip for all the adventure junkies out there. Grab lunch at the Hangurstoppen Restaurant, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the area.
Day 6: Bergen Science Center
Head to the VilVite Science Center, which offers interactive exhibitions that will delight both adults and children. Indulge in some Norwegian delicacies at the Bryggeloftet & Stuene restaurant for lunch. In the evening, catch a show or the latest exhibition at the KODE Art Museum.
Day 7: Bergen Aquarium and Botanic Garden
Start your day by visiting the Bergen Aquarium, which houses seals, penguins, and a large variety of fish species. Make sure to catch the daily feeding times to be part of the action. In the afternoon, stroll around the Botanic Garden, which exhibits a vast variety of flora and fauna.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Bergen
If you are interested in continuing your journey after Bergen, we suggest you head to Oslo, which is just 6 hours away from Bergen and offers a fantastic infrastructure of museums, galleries, and parks, all well worth visiting. Alternatively, you can take a flight north to Tromsø, where Northern Lights are commonly sighted—the place hosts a range of activities throughout the year, including snowmobiling, husky sledding, and kayaking.
