Top tourist attractions in Bergen Norway

Top 10 Attractions in Bergen, Norway: Discover the Gateway to the Fjords. Bergen is one of Norway's most enchanting cities — a place where colorful wooden houses line the harbor, mountains rise dramatically from the sea, and history blends seamlessly with modern life. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or starting a longer fjord adventure, Bergen offers an incredible variety of attractions that suit every traveler.

From UNESCO-listed landmarks to breathtaking viewpoints and lively markets, here are the top 10 attractions in Bergen you won't want to miss.

1. Bryggen – The Hanseatic Wharf

No visit to Bergen is complete without exploring Bryggen, the city's most iconic sight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These colorful wooden buildings along the harbor date back to the 14th century, when Bergen was a bustling trading hub of the Hanseatic League.

Today, Bryggen is home to quaint shops, cozy cafés, artisan studios, and museums that bring history to life. Walking through its narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time — a perfect place for photos and local souvenirs.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds and capture Bryggen in the soft Scandinavian light.

2. Fløibanen Funicular and Mount Fløyen

For the best view of Bergen, hop on the Fløibanen Funicular, which takes you from the city center to the top of Mount Fløyen in just six minutes. From the summit, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the city, fjords, and surrounding mountains.

Fløyen isn't just a viewpoint — it's a destination for hiking, biking, and family-friendly activities. There's a café at the top, playgrounds for children, and plenty of walking trails leading into peaceful forested areas.

Don't miss: The short hike to Lake Skomakerdiket or, if you're feeling energetic, continue to Mount Rundemanen for an even higher view.

3. The Fish Market (Fisketorget)

Located right in the heart of the harbor, Bergen's Fish Market (Fisketorget) has been a central gathering place for locals since the 1200s. Here you can sample fresh seafood straight from the Norwegian waters — from salmon and shrimp to whale and king crab.

During the summer months, the open-air stalls bustle with activity, offering everything from seafood platters to local crafts. In winter, the market moves indoors to Mathallen, a modern food hall where you can warm up and enjoy a meal.

Tip: Try the traditional fiskesuppe (fish soup) or a sandwich with smoked salmon for a true Bergen flavor.

4. Mount Ulriken and the Ulriken Cable Car

Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, and Mount Ulriken is the tallest of them all, standing at 643 meters above sea level. Take the Ulriken Cable Car (Ulriksbanen) for a thrilling ride to the top, where you'll be rewarded with spectacular views over the city and the fjords.

Once at the summit, you can dine at the Sky:Skraperen Restaurant, go paragliding, or set off on one of Bergen's most popular hikes — the Vidden Trail, which runs between Mount Ulriken and Mount Fløyen.

Tip: If you love hiking, start early and walk the Vidden Trail to Fløyen, then take the funicular back down to the city.

5. Bergenhus Fortress

At the entrance to Bergen's harbor stands Bergenhus Fortress, one of the oldest and best-preserved fortresses in Norway. Parts of the complex date back to the 1240s, when it served as a royal residence and military stronghold.

Inside the fortress area, you'll find Haakon's Hall (Håkonshallen), a magnificent medieval banquet hall, and Rosenkrantz Tower, which offers panoramic views over the harbor. The fortress grounds are open year-round and are perfect for a quiet stroll through Bergen's history.

Don't miss: The Bergenhus Festning Museum, which covers the site's military history and Norway's role in World War II.

6. KODE Art Museums

Art lovers shouldn't miss KODE, one of Scandinavia's largest museum complexes. KODE is made up of four museums (KODE 1–4) located around Lille Lungegårdsvann lake in the city center. Together, they showcase an impressive collection of Norwegian and international art.

You'll find masterpieces by Edvard Munch, Nikolai Astrup, and Harriet Backer, as well as fascinating exhibitions of modern design and music history.

Tip: The ticket gives you access to all KODE buildings, so plan at least a couple of hours to explore them all.

7. Fantoft Stave Church

A short light-rail ride from the city center brings you to Fantoft Stave Church, one of Bergen's most unique and beautiful landmarks. The original medieval church, built around 1150, was tragically destroyed by fire in 1992, but it has been carefully reconstructed in its original stave style using traditional techniques.

Surrounded by forest, the dark wooden church looks almost mythical — a reminder of Norway's rich medieval architecture and Viking heritage.

Getting there: Take the Bergen Light Rail to the "Fantoft" stop and walk about 10 minutes uphill.

8. Old Bergen Museum (Gamle Bergen)

Step back in time at the Old Bergen Museum, an open-air museum featuring over 50 wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries. Located in Sandviken, just a short bus ride from the city center, this living museum recreates the atmosphere of old Bergen through interactive exhibits and costumed actors.

You can explore narrow cobblestone streets, peek into workshops and merchant homes, and see how Bergen's residents lived centuries ago.

Best time to visit: Summer, when actors bring the historical setting to life with stories, music, and demonstrations.

9. Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet i Bergen)

If you're traveling with children or love marine life, Bergen Aquarium on the Nordnes Peninsula is a must-visit. It's home to seals, penguins, fish, reptiles, and even crocodiles — all housed in modern, interactive exhibits.

The aquarium also plays an important role in marine conservation and offers educational displays about Norway's sea life and ecosystems.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to catch the feeding shows and enjoy sunset views over the harbor from nearby Nordnes Park.

10. Troldhaugen – Home of Edvard Grieg

Music enthusiasts will be delighted by Troldhaugen, the former home of Norway's most famous composer, Edvard Grieg. Located about 20 minutes from the city center, this museum complex includes Grieg's villa, his composing cabin overlooking Lake Nordås, and a modern concert hall named Troldsalen.

Visitors can explore Grieg's personal belongings, learn about his life and music, and even attend live concerts featuring his works.

Tip: During summer, daily piano concerts are held at Troldsalen — a magical way to experience Grieg's music in his own surroundings.