The aquarium focuses on providing animals with the most natural living conditions possible, so you can experience impressive outdoor areas, large marine aquariums and a reptile tropical house.

Outdoors, you can watch sea lions being trained and help feed the penguins and, not least, the funny otters. This is also where you will find the large sea aquarium with large fish and various shellfish.

Inside, you can explore 400 species in 60 aquariums and one shark tunnel. Here you can see both Nordic species and more exotic fish, shellfish and molluscs, including fascinating octopuses.

In the tropical section, you can meet everything from snakes, geckos, spiders and insects to marmosets and red and yellow turtles, and if you dare visit the crocodile cellar, you can see the feeding of the Aquarium's rare Philippine crocodiles.

If you get hungry on your own, visit "Spiseriet" where you can enjoy both hot and cold dishes, or take a grab–and–go meal on your tour of the exhibitions.

If you need a break from animal experiences, you'll find Bergen's most beautiful playground on the roof of the Aquarium. Here, children can be entertained with slides, boats, and climbing frames, while adults enjoy the view and a cup of coffee from the Biologakvariet.

The aquarium has many activities every day of the year, and there are often special activities for Halloween, Christmas, and during and outside school holidays, so check their calendar to see what's on the agenda for the day you plan to visit.

Read more and see opening hours on the Aquarium website.

Vestlandet

The Bergen Aquarium – Explore beneath the surface of the sea

If you need an idea for an activity on a rainy day, spend the day exploring Vilvit's science discovery and learning centre, where interactivity is key. Here you can explore the many experiments on your own, as Vilvite invites visitors of all ages to take an active part in the activities of their exhibitions, where sea, weather and energy are the focus.

Try the loop bike "Sentrifugalskapen", which is a popular part of the exhibition. Here you pedal a slightly modified bike as you ride horizontally around the set–up. Or how about getting Robert the robot to talk – or go on an expedition in the "Sea City"?

You can also be inspired by "Project Fantasy", an exhibition of ten selected ingenious inventions based on children's ideas, and when you get hungry, you can enjoy a bite to eat in the centre's cafe "VilSpise".

On weekends and holidays, Vilvite often has a science show on – so check their calendar to find out what's happening on the day you visit.

VILVITE – Activities for children and young people in the name of science

Edvard Grieg lived in Troldhaugen for 22 years, and the house is now a museum where you can experience Grieg's life. The house is beautifully situated down by the lake Nordåsvannet, and the decor in the living room is Grieg's own. In the garden stands the composer's cabin, exactly as he left it at his death in 1907. When you see the view, you understand completely how his beautiful music was created.

When you visit Troldhaugen, you should combine it with a chamber music concert in the Troldsalen, which was built at the house in 1985. Concerts are held here several times a week during the summer and autumn, and a visit to the atmospheric hall is considered by many to be the perfect end to a day of classical music.

Troldhaugen – Visit Edvard Grieg's home

Bergen has played a key role in Norwegian and European trade history for centuries. Fortunately, much of this history is preserved in Bergen's historic districts, where you can get a unique, vivid picture of how people lived and worked hundreds of years ago.

Bergen's main attraction is, of course, its exciting and colourful history. For several centuries, the city was one of the Hanseatic League's power centres, and the Bryggen district today bears witness to the commercial life this generated in the city.

Exploring the old wooden houses is a great experience. Walk down the wooden sidewalks and through the narrow alleys, or enter the historic wooden buildings, now converted into museums, where the daily life of the merchants is brought to life.

The district looks today exactly as it did in the Middle Ages – and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. It's an experience not to be missed while you're in Bergen.

Walking down the quay from Bryggen towards the centre, you'll pass Fisketorget – the most famous fish market in Norway and the second of Bergen's main attractions.

It wasn't long ago that traders set up their stalls outside, but in 2011 some of them moved toMathallen, which also houses the tourist information centre.

Prices at Fisketorget are not low, but you can buy all the edible gifts of the North Atlantic here: dolphin crabs, greenland shrimps, redfish, monkfish, dogfish, cod, scary (both in their appearance and their price) catfish, huge halibut, whale, crustaceans, molluscs and, of course, dried fish – rockfish and dried fish.

If you don't want to prepare a delicious fish meal yourself, Mathallen is also home to many good restaurants.

Bryggen and Fisketorget – Historic Bergen

Want to experience some of Norway's most beautiful painting and classical music? Then plan a tour of KODE's impressive collections.

The four art museums (KODE 1–4) contain Norway's second largest art collection with gems by, among others, Edvard Munch, Nikolai Astrup and J.C. Dahl. You can also discover a large collection of Norwegian and international contemporary art, Norway's largest collection of Chinese art and a special art museum for children.

Three artists' homes in scenic surroundings

The unique nature of the Bergen area has been an inspiration to Norwegian and foreign artists throughout history. Today, the homes of three of these artists (Edvard Grieg, Ole Bull and Harald Sæverud) have been turned into small museums where you can discover how they lived and worked, and get up close to the natural areas that inspired their music.

Classical concerts featuring the composers' music are also held in several places, offering a unique museum experience where art, nature and music come together.

Read more about each museum on the KODE website.

KODE – Art museums and composers' homes

Nine kilometres southwest of Bergen, you will find Vestkanten Badeland. Here, everyone in the family can enjoy a day at the pool, whether you're into swim training, speed and action, diving competition or relaxing in the hot tub.

The little ones can play in the children's pool, where they can watch the dolphin mascot Duffe jump and sing every Saturday and Sunday. The older and more playful can let loose on Norway's longest roller coaster, the BOB roller coaster, which is a full 120 metres long and has interactive entertainment with music, soundtracks and smash points in the tunnel. Keep an eye on the board at the end so you can compete to see who gets the best time and score.

For the strong and wild, there's also a competition to see who can get the best grip on the climbing wall in the activity pool. For even more speed and excitement, we recommend the Superbowl, where you plummet vertically into an intense water carousel.

If you need a break from water sports, head for the wellness area. Here you can sit back in both indoor and outdoor hot tubs or enjoy a tranquil spa atmosphere in the relaxation area.&nbsp;



Read more and see opening times on the water park website.




In addition to the water park, Vestkanten also offers an ice rink, bowling, mini golf, curling, shopping and restaurants.

Vestkanten Badeland – Water fun for young and old

Fjord Norway, as the name suggests, is characterised by plenty of beautiful and idyllic fjords – but some still stand out as something special – including Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord.

Both fjords offer dramatic scenery with impressive mountains towering above the blue water, cosy little settlements, lonely farms and, not least, one beautiful view after another.

Take a fjord cruise or cruise along the impressive fjords – regardless you choose to experience them, you're sure to make memories for life.

Sognefjorden is Norway's longest and deepest fjord. It stretches from the coast just north of Bergen to the mighty mountains of Jotunheimen National Park and the glacial blue ice of Jostedalsbreen National Park. The surrounding mountains are home to a string of atmospheric villages, charming historic buildings and exquisite eateries that make the most of local produce.

The Sognefjord branch Nærøyfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique wild and untouched landscape.

Hardangerfjord is the fourth longest fjord in the world and the second longest in Norway. The beautiful fjord winds through a wild and impressive landscape, and the area is the birthplace of a number of Norway's national symbols, such as the Hardangerfelen and Hardangerbroderi.
The region is also known for its fertile agricultural areas, where apple growing is particularly important.

See an overview of fjord trips from Bergen on Visit Bergen's website.

Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord

With the Fløibanen to the top of Fløyen

The trip to the top of Fløyen (320 m above sea level) is by cable car Fløibanen from Bergen city centre, and you can look forward to views that just get better and better on the way up. Once you've had your fill of the panoramic views at the top, the kids can play in the playground or explore Troldeskoven before heading back down to town on foot or the Fløibanen.

If you want to explore more of the beautiful mountain top, the hike "Hiking Mount Fløyen" is a must. The guided tour starts at the top of the Fløibanen and takes you through the forests and over the mountains around Bergen. Along the way, you'll get several stunning views of the idyllic town and fjord, and in addition to leading you through one beautiful natural experience after another, the guide also offers tales of local history, plant and animal life, traditions – and, of course, Norwegian fairy tales and troll stories.

The highest mountain in Bergen, Ulriken, is reached by gondola, which takes you to the top of the 643–metre–high mountain. Enjoy the view as the landscape slowly opens up around you as the gondola lifts you high above the city rooftops and multicoloured mountainsides.

At the top, you can enjoy spectacular views of Bergen, the sea, archipelago, fjords and mountains and there are plenty of established paths and hiking trails of varying lengths if you want to experience more of the beautiful terrain.

When hunger strikes, visit the Skyskraperen Restaurant, which has just been expanded with even more seats and exciting new dishes on the menu – all based on local produce.

Top trips to Fløyen and Ulriken

Norway

Our Top-3 of things not to be missed on your outdoor adventure to Bergen:

, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nærøyfjord

A visit to the village Flåm – and a ride with the 

Perhaps you’ve heard that it rains a lot in Bergen – and there is no way we can deny that. But the sun also comes out and makes the charming city even more beautiful, and in fact, the temperatures can reach 25 degrees C on hot summer days.

And don’t worry – even if it rains on one of your days in Bergen, the city has plenty of wonderful indoor activities for visitors of all ages!

If you’re planning on visiting Bergen – with or without a car or motorhome – the easiest and most direct way is to sail with us from Hirtshals in North Denmark. You can reach Hirtshals by freeway from most of Europe – and even by train and bus, as the town is only an hour’s bus ride from Aalborg which is connected to the European rail network.

Find the best prices on boat trips right 

Bergen in itself of course has a lot to offer as a holiday destination – but now that you’re visiting this Norwegian gem, we recommend at least one day trip or overnight stay in some of the incredible natural areas in the region. And if you haven’t brought your car along, many are reachable by train or bus, too!

 – a small village that offers incredible nature experiences, including a beautiful gondola ride to the top of the Hangurstoppen mountain. Distance: 120 km. Driving time: 2 hours.

 - some of Norway’s most beautiful scenery with the UNESCO World Heritage Site fjord and surrounding mountains. Distance: 370 km. Driving time: 6h 30 mins.

 - an incredible national park whose heart is the magnificent Folgefonna Glacier. Distance: 115 km. Driving time: 2h 45 mins.

 – one of the most famous waterfalls in Norway with a height of 182 metres. Distance: 175 km. Driving time: 2h 45 mins.

 – an extraordinary cliff formation aptly named ‘the troll’s tongue’, and a popular hiking destination. Distance: 160 km. Driving time: 3h 30 mins.

Bergen's main attractions stem from the city's exciting and colourful history. For several centuries, the city was one of the Hanseatic League's power centres, and it has also been an important seat for the royals throughout history, as well as home to many of Norway’s great artists. Among the highlights are:

that looks today exactly as it did in the Middle Ages – and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. It's an experience not to be missed while you're in Bergen.

 – a miniature version of a historic town with workshops, schools, shops and private homes, all equipped with artefacts and clothing from their period.

 – an association of four art museums and three composers’ homes, including the home of Edvard Grieg

Bergen also offers a wealth of exciting experiences for children – here’s our Top-3 of fun and intriguing attractions for the entire family:

 - Aquarium, where you can explore penguins, seals, crocodiles and a host of fish and other creatures from the depths of the sea

, which offers an exciting world of almost 100 different experiments for teenagers.

, where you’ll find lots of fun for young and old water lovers, including Norway’s longest water slide and a relaxing spa area.

When choosing what kind of accommodation to choose on your trip to Bergen, all options are open to you. The city offers everything from campsites and holiday houses in the city or the surrounding area to hotels of all sizes and standards.

When you travel to Bergen with Fjord Line, you can take advantage of our package deals and book excellent accommodation at the

Your guide to an unforgettable holiday in Bergen

Bergen is a perfect destination for your next Norwegian experience – here’s lots of fun activities for children, a cornucopia of historical and cultural experiences to enjoy with the one you love, and some of the world’s most beautiful nature within easy driving distance. This is where memories are made!

Read more about what to do and where to stay in Bergen below – and find inspiration for your Bergen adventure in our travel articles about the area.

Hirtshals

Bergen

Bergen in Fjord Norway is the perfect destination for an outdoor adventure or city break. From beautiful fjords to world-class restaurants – Bergen has it all.


Visit Bergen in Norway – the gateway to the fjords ⎮ Fjord Line

If you’ve brought your car or motor home, you can check out the 

 near the city – here you can park your motorhome or caravan, put up your tent or rent a lovely holiday cabin.

You can find campsites of different prices, sizes and standards, and no matter which you choose, most of them are within 15-20 minutes’ drive from the city centre – often with bus services as well.

If you’ve come here by train, bus and ferry, you’ll find a wide range of lovely hotels, hostels, bed & breakfasts and guest houses within easy reach – some just a few minutes’ walk from the ferry terminal.

Bergen and the nearby region in fact has almost 40 hotels – from local, charming guesthouses to large city hotels from global hotel chains. No matter which you choose, you can expect to be offered free WiFi, and most of the hotels also have breakfast included in their deals.

When you travel to Bergen with us, you can take advantage of our package deals with two of Bergen’s most popular hotels, which are both lovely, newly renovated and close to some of Bergen's best sights and experiences.

. Whichever hotel you choose, you'll be staying close to the harbour in Bergen and thus close to Bryggen, Fisketorget and Fløibanen.

It also means that if you're travelling without a car, you can simply walk from the ferry terminal to your hotel – both hotels are 1.5–2 km from the ferry terminal.

Looking for a place to stay in Bergen? Accommodation in Norway’s second-largest city comes in many forms – from primitive campsites to world-class hotels.


Accommodation in Bergen: From campsites to hotels ⎮ Fjord Line

In Norway’s second-largest city, Bergen, mountains are the name of the game – in fact, the city’s Norwegian name means “the mountains”. Situated at the edge of the Bergensfjord, the city is surrounded by no less than seven mountains that form a majestic backdrop for a city teeming with cultural treasures and telling the history of centuries-long trading traditions.

One of the most famous attractions in Bergen is the historical district, Bryggen, that has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historical Hanseatic quarter makes an impressive sight with its colourful tall wooden buildings from the 14th century.

Nearby you will find Bergen’s famous Fish Market where visitors can try Norwegian specialties such as smoked salmon and dried fish and purchase hand-made souvenirs.

For a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding landscape, take a trip with Fløibanen, a funicular that takes you from the city centre to the top of the mountain Fløyen.

And for even more stunning nature, plan a fjord cruise to one of Norway’s – and the world’s – most beautiful fjords – from the impressive Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord to the small but unique Nærøyfjord.

Water park fun, exciting encounters with exotic animals or challenging experiments in the VILVITE adventure centre – in addition to outdoor museums and adventures in nature, Bergen offers plenty to do if you’re bringing your children or grandchildren to Bergen.

Bergen offers a wide range of things to do and places to see. Get our best tips for your next visit – from sightseeing to fun activities for the children.