Rated Tourist Attractions in Bergen, Norway

Bergen is famous for its university, which in turn is famous for its world-renowned museum collections. Well worth spending a day at, the University Museum of Bergen (Universitetsmuseet i Bergen) includes the Natural History Collection, the Cultural History Collection, and the Seafaring Museum. When you're ready for a break from all that learning, take a stroll in the university's lovely Botanic Garden.

Bergen's location is ideal for exploring many of the country's stunning natural waterways, earning its nickname as the "Fjord Capital of Norway." It sits between two of Norway's largest fjords, the Hardangerfjord and the Sognefjord. Visitors will have no problem finding cruise tours that depart from Bergen, offering the opportunity to admire the unforgettable sight of the fjords from the water.

Tucked away in the old city district of Sandviken is the Old Bergen Museum (Gamle Bergen). This fascinating open-air living history museum brings tourists back to the early 19th century, and is chock-full of interesting buildings and costumed characters drafted in to share the city's history.

Hiking up Bergen's tallest mountain is one of the most popular things to do here for tourists and locals alike. There are multiple trails, with the most common starting points at either the Ulriken Cable Car station or the Montana Hostel. The hike is relatively steep and takes between one and a half and two hours, but tourists are rewarded with gorgeous views of the city and the opportunity to rest up at the summit's restaurant.

The KODE consists of four locations in central Bergen, all of which are located along Lille Lungegård (Lake Lungegard). KODE1, previously known as Permanenten, holds several of the museum's permanent collections, including the Silver Treasure, which features works in silver and gold that were created locally. KODE1 is also home to the Singer Collection, which includes works by the Old Masters as well as antiques from Asia and Europe.

The old Bergenhus Fortress (Bergenhus festning) has dominated the entrance to Bergen's harbor since the late 16th century, and remains one of the most impressive such structures in Scandinavia. A highlight of a visit is seeing the medieval-era banqueting hall, Haakon's Hall (Håkonshallen).

The best preserved of Bryggen's 18th-century merchant homes, Finnegården has housed the Hanseatic Museum since its opening in 1872. This former counting house provides an excellent insight into the lives of the German merchants from the Hanseatic League.

Located just a short trek to the south of Bergen, Troldhaugen is famous as the former home of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg. Built in 1885, the well-preserved home is now the site of the Grieg Museum and is dedicated to the life and work of the composer.

To the northeast of Bergen rises Mount Fløyen. Also known as Fløyfjell, this 319-meter peak offers magnificent views of the city and the surrounding area. For the most dramatic vistas, time your visit for early morning or at dusk.

Colorful Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf (Tyskebryggen) is one of Bergen's most popular tourist attractions. Chock full of restaurants, studios, workshops, and boutique shops, the charming narrow alleyways and old wooden merchant houses of this UNESCO World Heritage Site simply beg to be explored.