Bergen Hotels

Bergen, Norway is a picturesque coastal city known for its stunning scenery, colorful wooden houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors to this charming Scandinavian city are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation, with a wide variety of hotels in Bergen Norway to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or affordable options, Bergen has something for everyone. From boutique hotels to budget-friendly options, the best hotels in Bergen Norway offer a comfortable and convenient base for exploring all that this beautiful city has to offer. But before that, let’s learn about this beauty coming right after Oslo, the capital, with the Bergen Norway guide we prepared just for you. Let's start right away!

Things to Know Before Going to Bergen

• Bergen is known as the “Gateway to the Fjords.”
• The weather in Bergen is rainy, with around 239 rainy days per year on average.
• The wettest months are October to January, while May and June tend to be the driest.
• Bergen is a very walkable city, with many of the top sights located within the compact city center.
• Renting a bike or electric scooter can be a great way to get around and see the street art.
• The historic Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Bergen's top attractions.
• Bergen can be expensive, especially for dining and accommodation.
• Consider staying in the city center to save on transportation costs, and shop at grocery stores when possible.
• In the winter, expect around 5 hours of daylight per day. 
• Bergen provides easy access to beautiful hiking trails and mountains like Fløyen. 
• If visiting in May, the Norwegian Constitution Day on May 17th is a lively celebration, but can be crowded. 
• Driving in Norway can be challenging due to narrow roads and winter conditions.

Where is Bergen?

Bergen is located on the west coast of Norway, in the heart of the fjords. It is situated between the Hardangerfjord in the south and the Sognefjord in the north, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the fjords of Norway.

Where to Stay in Bergen?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Bergen are great for tourists:

Best Bergen Attractions

• Bryggens Museum: Showcases the rich history of the Hanseatic League and medieval Bergen through artifacts and interactive displays.
• Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf: A UNESCO World Heritage Site reflecting the colorful personality of Bergen with studios, restaurants, and boutique shops.
• Mount Fløyen: Offers picturesque views of Bergen, providing tranquility and hiking opportunities.
• Troldhaugen: Former house of composer Edvard Grieg, now a museum with exhibitions and concerts.
• Hanseatic Museum: Offers guided tours of well-preserved houses and artifacts from the Hanseatic League.
• Bergenhus Fortress: Showcases impressive historical architecture and hosts various events, dating back to the Viking era.
• KODE Museums: Houses a vast collection of art, music, and books, attracting art enthusiasts and history buffs.
• Mount Ulriken: Tallest mountain in Bergen offering mesmerizing views and hiking experiences.
• Old Bergen Museum: Open-air museum reflecting the 19th-century wooden houses of Bergen.
• University Museum of Bergen: Famous for housing popular collections like the Cultural History Collection and the Natural History Collection.
• VilVite Bergen Science Center: Offers extensive exhibitions and workshops for exploring science and technology.
• Bergen Cathedral: Historic landmark renowned for its Gothic architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Market Square: Bustling quays with a 700-year-old Fish Market offering a glimpse into everyday life in Bergen.
• Lisøy Island: Home to the villa of renowned violin player Ole Bull, offering picturesque views and a museum tour.
• Gamlehaugen: Royal Residence with Renaissance architecture, fortified surroundings, and beautiful gardens.

Is Bergen Safe for Tourists?

Bergen is considered a very safe city for tourists, including solo travelers. While petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, the overall crime rate is low, and the city takes safety measures seriously. The public transportation system is also safe to use, but it is advisable to keep valuables close and avoid using headphones. Bergen is known for its welcoming atmosphere, and interacting with locals is generally safe, although Norwegians value personal space and privacy. The city provides comprehensive tourist information on staying safe, including advice on accommodation, transportation, and respecting cultural norms.

Is Bergen Expensive to Visit?

Bergen can be an expensive city to visit in 2024. Accommodations are pricey, but doable, and guided hike fees are reasonable. However, everyday costs, particularly food, can be high. Planning to stay in apartments with kitchens and cooking meals yourself can help reduce expenses. Public transportation is relatively affordable, thanks to a 30-day pass. Avoiding taxis and using public transit can also save money. Additionally, alcohol is extremely expensive in Norway, with a beer costing $5-$8 at bars. Careful planning and budgeting are key to affording a visit to this beautiful but expensive Norwegian city.

Currency & Exchange in Bergen

The official currency of Bergen, Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). When visiting Bergen, you can exchange your money at various currency exchange services. Some popular options include Ria Money Transfer & Currency Exchange. Additionally, you can use digital alternatives like Wise, which allows you to exchange currency online and receive a debit card for easy spending abroad.

Before exchanging money, it is essential to be aware of the current exchange rates and to avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels, as these often have poor rates and high fees. It is also recommended to use ATMs strategically, check if your home bank has partnerships in Norway banks to avoid extra ATM fees, and to opt for local currency when using an ATM abroad.

Spoken Languages in Bergen

Bergen is a city with a rich linguistic history. The official written languages of Norway are Bokmål and Nynorsk, with Bokmål being the dominant written language in Bergen. However, the spoken language in Bergen is Bergen dialect, also known as Bergensk, which is a distinct dialect of Norwegian. This dialect has been influenced by Low German and Danish. Apart from that, English is well known all over the city and you have an excellent time without knowing a single word of Norwegian. However, you can still catch some Norwegian to impress locals with your enthusiasm to their culture.

How Many Days Are Enough to Visit Bergen?

The general consensus among travelers is that 2-3 days are sufficient to visit Bergen. This allows for a good balance of exploring the city, its architecture, and the surrounding nature. However, if you want to take day trips to the fjords or explore more of the surrounding area, you may want to consider adding an extra day or two to your itinerary.

When is the Best Time to Stay in Bergen?

The best time to stay in Bergen is between May and September. If you visit in May, you have to see the beautiful cherry trees around Lille Lungegårdsvann. During summer, the average daily temperature is around 15C which is perfect for activities. Here's the breakdown of all seasons in Bergen:

What to Pack for Bergen Trip?

No matter the season, be prepared for rain, wind, and rapidly changing weather in Bergen. Dressing in breathable, quick-drying layers is key. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a must. And don't forget to pack any specialized gear you may need for activities like hiking, fjord cruises, or skiing. Here’s the breakdown of your packing list for Bergen:

• Summer (June-August)
  • Lightweight, breathable layers like t-shirts, blouses, and sweaters
  • Waterproof rain jacket and pants
  • Hiking pants or shorts
  • Comfortable walking shoes and waterproof hiking boots
  • Hat, gloves, and scarf for changeable weather
  • Swimsuit if you plan to go fjord swimming
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Fall (September-November)
  • Warm layers like long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and fleece jackets
  • Waterproof, windproof outer shell
  • Thermal base layers
  • Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
  • Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or boots
  • Umbrella or rain cover for your backpack
• Winter (December-February)
  • Warm, insulated winter coat
  • Thermal base layers (long underwear, wool socks)
  • Waterproof, windproof outer shell
  • Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
  • Sturdy, insulated winter boots
  • Headlamp or flashlight for short daylight hours
• Spring (March-May)
  • Layerable clothing like t-shirts, sweaters, and light jackets
  • Waterproof rain jacket and pants
  • Hiking pants or jeans
  • Comfortable walking shoes and waterproof hiking boots
  • Hat, gloves, and scarf for changeable weather
  • Umbrella or rain cover

What to Eat in Bergen?

• Norwegian cinnamon buns: Generous in size, sugar, and cinnamon, with fluffy and juicy dough, a speciality of Bergen.
• Prince fish: A dish served with cream sauce, associated with nobility and festivities, first served in 1856.
• Raspeballer (komler): Boiled potato dumplings served with salted meat, a traditional Thursday dish in Bergen.
• Braised lamb shank: A dish made from local lamb, roasted in a sealed pot for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Bøkling: Smoked herring, a traditional way of preserving fish, best enjoyed fresh from the sea.
• Mountain trout: A popular dish in Bergen made from locally caught trout, often found in small local cafes.
• Crayfish: A delicacy found in the western fjords, considered a tasty alternative to lobster.
• Stockfish: A traditional Norwegian export item, often eaten as lutefisk during Christmas.
• Krotekake: A lefse-like cake with a pattern, soaked and softened before serving, a popular addition to Bergen's cake platters.
• Pinnekjøtt - ribs: A festive dish made from sheep meat, served with kohlrabi purée and potatoes, a Christmas tradition in Bergen.

Bergen Nightlife

As being the second most popular city in Norway, nightlife in Bergen has its own perks colors, lively atmosphere, and lots of fun. Here are some of the best spots to have fun in Bergen:

• Kippers: A fish lover's paradise with aromatic kippers and a quirky atmosphere.
• Boriginal: A cultural playground offering innovative Norwegian cuisine in a rustic yet contemporary setting.
• Vaskeriet Bar: A quirky watering hole with washing machines as tables, offering a unique pub experience.
• Kafé Opera: A cozy spot in Bergen offering a melodious escape with a touch of quirkiness for weary travelers.
• Pingvinen: A cozy gem in Bergen perfect for foodies and beer enthusiasts, offering traditional Norwegian dishes.
• Garage Bar: A quirky watering hole in Bergen with hipster vibes and rustic charm, providing a unique bar experience.
• Biskopen: A charming neighborhood in Bergen with colorful buildings and culinary delights, ideal for food adventures.
• Hulen: A hipster's paradise in Bergen, an underground venue with cool concerts and artsy exhibitions.
• Trekroneren: A quirky neighborhood in Bergen with colorful houses and a whimsical fairytale-like charm.
• Henrik Øl og Vinstove: A charming haven for beer and wine enthusiasts in Bergen, offering a rustic and inviting atmosphere.