Although only Norway’s second-largest city, Bergen more than makes up for its size difference with a host of interesting sites and activities. Set amidst fjords, mountains and woodlands, the city’s unique mix of history and nature has for centuries inspired many a traveller, artist and musician who’ve graced its sea-kissed heart. And now, with the help of this list, you can let Bergen inspire you too.
Discover Hidden Courtyards in Bryggen
No list featuring the best of Bergen would hold any weight without at least mentioning its historic wharf, Bryggen.
When visiting the city, coming to this well-preserved mediaeval gem is an inevitability, as your body is pulled unconsciously, mesmerised by the welcoming shades of red and yellow on its houses. However, what makes this site so special lies behind its sea-facing façade.
Walk through its darkened entrance ways, and you’ll be greeted by the houses of former traders that are filled with old-world charm. Perfectly imperfect, they creak, and they jutt out oddly, but it is those imperfections that overwhelm the senses, as well as the camera roll, with the fact that these have been lived in for hundreds of years.
TOP TIP: Aim to get here before the cruise liners roll up, otherwise the area can get very busy.
Get Lost in Bergen’s Beautiful Backstreets
Bergen rewards exploration. Take a gander beyond the touristic urban sprawl, and the city unveils a hidden treasure trove of tight alleyways and historic houses. Found around the hilly neighbourhoods populating Mt. Fløyen and those just across from the mediaeval wharf, these residential districts feel like you’re stepping back in time.
One minute you could find yourself immersed alongside a street filled with traditional white, wooden houses. The next, you could come across a kaleidoscope of bright stars, with the townsfolk going all out to find the best vivid shades of the rainbow. Not only will you be rewarded for getting lost here, but you’ll be thankful for it.
TOP TIP: For some of the most Instagrammable shots in the city, head along the streets of Lille Øvregaten and Bernhard Meyers vei.
Step Back in Time in King Hakkon’s Hall
Battle-hardened and weather-worn, King Hakkon’s Hall is a world away from the colourful wooden houses that populate the bulk of Bergen’s old town. Made of cold stone, this historic gem was built under the guidance of King Håkon. A strong leader, he was Norway’s greatest peacemaker and unifier, bringing an end to an era of hostilities and civil wars.
Despite being sparsely decorated, the mighty hall’s ambience puts on an impressive performance. The stone walls and mediaeval candelabras echo the gravitas that Håkon carried with his immense display of power and diplomacy.
TOP TIP: Be sure to buy the duo-attraction ticket when heading to the hall. This allows visitors access to the equally impressive Rosenkrantz Tower. Constructed during the last decades of the 13th century, it was home to Håkon’s successor and the scene of an almighty maritime battle.
Take a Deep Breath at the Top of Mt. Fløyen
Rising high above Bergen’s harbour, there are few better places than Mt. Fløyen to get a great view of the city. Easily accessible for all with a convenient funicular, this short trip offers some truly majestic shots and a chance to get aquainted with the mountain’s resident goats.
TOP TIP: Before heading to Mt. Fløyen’s peak, be sure to spend some time at Det Lille Kaffekompaniet café. As well as a fresh cup of coffee, they also make a mean date muffin.
Uncover Sæverud’s Wild World at Siljustøl
A rogue choice under the circumstances; however, there’s something oddly special about the homestead of 20th-century composer Harald Sæverud. Set far beyond the city centre, in the suburb of Ytrebygda, what doesn’t look like much at first glance quickly unfurls into a surprising scene. Perched above a small hill, Siljustøl resembles almost a sort of adult treehouse, and much like his music, it’s a playground for wild and untamed nature and quirky curiosities.
Begin your journey at the main residence whose shades of darkened wood and natural stone would camouflage so easily if not for the unique fixings and hand-crafted door. Afterwards, continue into the 45 hectares of wild Norwegian woods that surround the property. Make sure to be on the lookout for several sculptures depicting the composer’s works as well as a pretty little tanglewood lake found at the bottom of the path.
TOP TIP: To reach Siljustøl, take a 40-minute light-rail ride to Råstølen and proceed to walk 15 minutes through the suburb to the bottom of the hill.
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