Things to Do in Bergen: 4 Days of Fjords, Food & Funicular Views

If you’ve been searching for unforgettable things to do in Bergen, let me start by saying this: this city had been sitting firmly at the top of my bucket list for years – and somehow, it still exceeded every expectation. Prepare to fall hard for one of Norway’s most magical cities. Surrounded by fjords, mountains and colourful wooden houses, Bergen blends wild nature with a thriving cultural scene in a way that feels effortlessly adventurous – exactly my kind of place.

As a solo travel expert and someone who has spent years chasing hidden gems, off-the-beaten-track destinations and budget-friendly adventures across the world, I don’t say that lightly. Bergen is one of those rare places that feels like it has everything. Think dramatic fjords, colourful wooden houses, incredible food, rich culture and nature quite literally on your doorstep. But what really surprised me? Just how easy it is to experience all of this as a solo traveller – safely, confidently and without needing to spend a fortune.

Because while Norway has a reputation for being expensive, I’ve always believed that with the right approach, even bucket list destinations can be done in a more mindful and affordable way, and Bergen is a perfect example of that. Whether you're planning your first solo trip, looking for a long weekend adventure, or figuring out how to turn your flights to Bergen Norway into an unforgettable itinerary, this guide covers all the best experiences – from fjord adventures and food tours to iconic highlights like the Bergen funicular and hidden local gems you might otherwise miss.

I visited Bergen in April, and honestly? It might just be the best time to go. Fewer crowds, powerful waterfalls, snow-dusted mountains and that fresh, crisp spring air from the North Sea. So, if you’re wondering whether Bergen is worth the trip, or what to prioritise when you get there, here’s exactly how I spent four unforgettable days exploring one of Norway’s most beautiful cities.

This blog post is part of a press trip partnership with Jet2Holidays & Visit Bergen, but all opinions remain my own and I LOVED THIS TRIP!

The Best Things to Do in Bergen? Look no further:

1. Bergen in April: Why Spring is a Brilliant Time to Visit
2. Getting to Bergen from the UK
3. Travelling to Bergen from the Airport
4. Where I Stayed in Bergen
5. What to Pack for Bergen in April
6. Sustainable Travel in Bergen: Why It Matters
7. A Personal Connection to Bergen’s Hanseatic History
8. Things to Do in Bergen: 20 Unmissable Experiences
9. Ride the Fløibanen Funicular and Explore Mount Fløyen
10. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Bryggen
11. Take the Ulriken Cable Car and Lunch at Sky:skraperen
12. Explore Bergen by Electric Bike with Bergen Bike Rent
13. Visit the Bergen Fish Market and Eat at Fish Me
14. Take a Hardangerfjord Day Trip
15. Walk Behind Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall
16. Go Cider Tasting at Hardanger Juice and Cider Factory
17. Visit Syse Farm
18. Take a RIB Boat Safari on Hardangerfjord
19. Start Your Day with a Floating Sauna (City Sauna)
20. Take “A Taste of Bergen” Food Tour
21. Visit the Troll Museum
22. Experience Magic Ice
23. Visit KODE Art Museums
24. Explore Bergenhus Fortress
25. Visit Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene
26. Wander the Nordnes Peninsula
27. Visit the Medieval Fantoft Stave Church
28. End Your Day at Siderbar Bergen
29. Steal my 4 Day Bergen Itinerary

Bergen in April: Why Spring is a Brilliant Time to Visit

If you’re wondering about the best time to visit, let me make a strong case for Bergen in April. Yes, Bergen is known as the rainiest city in Europe (with an average of 240 rainy days per year) but during our 4 day trip, it only rained once in the evening. Spring in Bergen sits right in that sweet spot between winter and summer, where the landscapes feel wild and lush, but without the crowds that arrive later in the year.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Snow still dusting the mountain peaks and frozen alpine lakes
• Waterfalls at their absolute strongest thanks to melting snow
• Fewer tourists compared to peak summer months
• Crisp, energising air that makes outdoor exploring feel completely revitalising
• Blossoming orchards in nearby fjords like Hardangerfjord

And yes, Bergen is known for its rain. But honestly? That soft mist rolling over the mountains and harbour only adds to the atmosphere. It’s moody, dramatic and very on-brand for Norway. For me, April is the time to see Bergen at its most authentic – wild and unpredictable.

Getting to Bergen from the UK

One of the best things about ticking off all the incredible things to do in Bergen is just how easy it is to get there from the UK, which makes it perfect for a long weekend or short adventure break. I travelled with Jet2 from Manchester Airport and the flight took just 90 minutes which meant we still had the whole day to explore the city when we arrived.

There are now several direct flights to Bergen from UK airports, including routes from Manchester and London (with more seasonal options popping up throughout the year). Flight times are under two hours, which means you can swap grey city skies for dramatic fjords and mountain views in no time.

Travelling with Jet2Holidays for city breaks to Bergen is also one of the most affordable ways to plan a trip to the Norwegian city. You can browse flights to Bergen with Jet2 or specifically look at flights from Manchester Airport if you prefer to travel from the city. If you’re currently searching for flights to Bergen Norway, my biggest tip is to book early or keep an eye on airline sales – a friend recently scored €10 flights to Oslo for the weekend so they do exist!

Norway has a reputation for being expensive (and yes, it can be), but scoring a good flight deal is one of the easiest ways to make your trip more budget-friendly – something I’m always prioritising as a solo traveller. It's also worth knowing that if you're travelling solo, Jet2Holidays also offer a £30 solo traveller discount when you use the code SOLO30.

Travelling to Bergen from the Airport

Once you land at Bergen Airport Flesland, getting into the city couldn’t be simpler. The electric light rail, known locally as the Bergen Light Rail, connects the airport directly to the city centre in around 45 minutes. It’s affordable, efficient and runs on renewable energy – a brilliant example of Norway’s commitment to sustainable travel. And honestly? After a flight, there’s something really refreshing about hopping on clean, quiet public transport instead of navigating taxis or transfers.

Where I Stayed in Bergen

I checked into Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Bergen with Jet2Holidays – and honestly, we couldn’t have picked a better base. The location is perfect, especially if you’re travelling solo and want everything within easy reach. It’s just a short walk from Bryggen, meaning you’re right in the heart of the city and within walking distance of pretty much all the top attractions and restaurants. Bergen is an incredibly walkable city anyway, but staying somewhere this central makes exploring feel effortless and stress-free, with no need for taxis or complicated transport planning, which is always a win in my book.

But what really made this hotel stand out?

I don’t say this lightly, but this was one of the best hotel breakfasts I’ve had in a long time. There’s a huge focus on fresh, healthy options, which I loved. Don't miss the ginger shots (the perfect morning wake-up call), chia pudding and smoked salmon (because when in Norway…) The breakfast sets you up for a full day of exploring, especially when you’re packing in as much as you do in Bergen.

After long days out exploring fjords, cycling around the city and braving the elements, coming back to a warm, comfortable room made all the difference. The beds were incredibly comfortable with proper sink-in and switch-off energy. The heated bathroom floors? An absolute dream after cold, rainy or windy days!

It’s those little touches that really elevate a stay, especially in a destination where you’re spending so much time outdoors. Overall, Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz strikes that perfect balance: it's central, comfortable and ideal for solo travellers who want convenience without compromising on quality. And in a city like Bergen, having a cosy place to come back to at the end of the day is everything

What to Pack for Bergen in April

Packing for Bergen in spring is all about layers, waterproofs and being ready for changing weather, because you can (and probably will) experience all four seasons in one day. Here’s what I’d recommend bringing:

Essentials:

• Waterproof jacket (a must – don’t skip this)
• Windproof outer layer (especially important by the fjords)
• Warm layers (think jumpers and fleeces)
• Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
• Hat, gloves and scarf (it gets cold and windy, even in April)
• Day backpack for layers and essentials
• Sunglasses (yes, really! When the sun comes out, it’s bright!)
• Reusable water bottle

For Outdoor Adventures:

• Waterproof boots (especially if you’re doing a RIB boat tour or exploring waterfalls)
• Thick socks (you’ll thank yourself later)
• Thermals (if you're heading to the mountains or fjords, you'll be grateful for these!)
• Drybag and waterproof phone case for wet adventures

The key is to be prepared without overpacking, versatile layers are your best friend here. Check out my packing lists if you need any extra help!

Sustainable Travel in Bergen: Why It Matters

One of the things that really stood out to me while exploring all the incredible things to do in Bergen was just how deeply sustainability is woven into everyday life here; it’s not a trend, it’s a mindset. Norway as a whole is leading the way when it comes to green innovation, and Bergen is a brilliant example of how that translates on the ground for travellers.

For starters, the city’s public transport is impressively eco-friendly. The Bergen Light Rail runs on renewable energy, and Bergen’s buses are now fully electric which means cleaner air, quieter streets and a much lower carbon footprint for both locals and visitors. Zooming out a little, Norway’s wider sustainability efforts are just as impressive:

• Around 80% of new cars sold in Norway are electric
• Many fjord ferries are now fully electric or hybrid
• The country is aiming for all new cars to be zero-emission
• Hydropower supplies the vast majority of Norway’s electricity

And you really feel that when you’re there. From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this is a destination thinking long-term, but sustainability in Bergen goes beyond transport. Throughout my trip, I saw it reflected in so many meaningful ways:

• Local food sourcing with restaurants prioritising seasonal, regional ingredients
• Support for small farms, especially in areas like Hardangerfjord, where cider production is rooted in generations of tradition
• Protection of fjord ecosystems with strict regulations to preserve these fragile natural environments
• Low-impact outdoor tourism encouraging hiking, cycling and nature-based experiences over mass tourism
• Sustainable measures in place to protect North Sea fishing and allow stocks to replenish
• Even the experiences themselves, from electric bike tours to farm visits, are designed in a way that benefits local communities

As travellers, that’s something we should actively support. Choosing where we spend our money, whether that’s booking local tours, eating at independent restaurants or using public transport, has a real impact. It helps protect places like Bergen while ensuring tourism continues to benefit the people who live there. Because destinations this beautiful deserve to be explored responsibly.

A Personal Connection to Bergen’s Hanseatic History

When it comes to understanding the best things to do in Bergen, diving into the city’s past is an absolute must – and it all centres around one place: Bryggen.

The colourful wooden buildings lining the harbour aren’t just beautiful – they’re one of the most important surviving reminders of the Hanseatic League, and a huge part of what makes Bergen so historically fascinating.

Bergen was once a key trading hub of the Hanseatic League – a powerful network of merchant cities that dominated trade across Northern Europe from the 14th to 17th centuries. From Bryggen, German merchants controlled the export of stockfish (dried cod), sending it across Europe and helping transform Bergen into one of Norway’s most important and prosperous cities.

Today, the Bryggen area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wandering through its narrow alleyways feels like stepping straight back into that Hanseatic era. Wooden walkways creak underfoot, hidden courtyards open up behind the facades, and it’s easy to imagine the bustling trade that once defined this waterfront.

But what made exploring Bryggen and learning about the Hanseatic League even more special for me was how personal it felt. I actually grew up in King's Lynn, which was also a major Hanseatic port city. As a journalist, I spent years writing about King’s Lynn’s connection to the Hanseatic League – celebrating its maritime heritage, its trading links across Europe, and the role it played in this powerful network.

At the time, those stories felt historical and fascinating, but distant. Standing in Bryggen, in the heart of Bergen’s Hanseatic district, they suddenly felt real. The same trade routes that once connected Bergen to the rest of Europe would have linked directly to ports like King’s Lynn. The stockfish exported from Bergen centuries ago may well have passed through my hometown. These weren’t just isolated places, they were part of a shared story shaped by the Hanseatic League.

It’s a connection I didn’t expect to feel so strongly, but it made exploring Bergen so much more meaningful. I’ve also previously lived in Hamburg, another major Hanseatic city, and I’ve realised there’s a certain atmosphere these places share. A quiet pride in their maritime history, a legacy of trade and travel, and an openness that comes from centuries of global connections. Bergen captures all of that, but with the added drama of fjords and mountains rising around it.

For me, visiting Bryggen wasn’t just one of the top things to do in Bergen – it was a chance to connect the dots between the many places I've called home. That’s what makes travel so powerful, it’s not just about discovering somewhere new, sometimes it’s about uncovering the threads that connect different places and ways of live across centuries.

Things to Do in Bergen: 20 Unmissable Experiences

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Bergen, this city delivers far more than just pretty views. It’s a place where you can dive into centuries of history, explore wild landscapes just minutes from the centre, and uncover those unexpected hidden gems that make a trip truly unforgettable. Here are 20 of the best things to do in Bergen, Norway – with a mix of iconic highlights, local experiences and insider tips to help you explore smarter:

1. Ride the Fløibanen Funicular & Explore Mount Fløyen

The Fløibanen Funicular is one of the top things to do in Bergen, and for good reason. The funicular takes just minutes, but the views over the harbour and surrounding fjords are incredible. There's also a great restaurant and bar at the top in case you fancy a local cider in the sunshine, or stopping for lunch. >> Get your Fløibanen Funicular tickets online here

Insider tip: Don’t rush back down. Walk beyond the viewpoint to Skomakerdiket Lake – a peaceful, forest-fringed spot most tourists miss. Keep an eye out for the famous cashmere goats grazing nearby, used as a natural and sustainable way to manage the landscape. They all have names and are super friendly so stop for a stroke and see how soft they really are!

2. Wander UNESCO World Heritage Site Bryggen

The postcard-perfect harbour-front and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the centre of the Hanseatic League in Bergen, today Bryggen is filled with artisan shops, art galleries and hidden alleyways. Down these streets, you'll also find Bryggen Tracteursted, a charming restaurant in one of the few buildings that survived the fires that previously claimed much of Bryggen where you can experience a traditional Norwegian dinner.

Insider tip: Head behind the front-facing buildings – the narrow wooden passageways are where the real magic (and fewer crowds) are. If you want to see this area at it's finest, head around the harbour to the opposite side for golden hour views.

3. Take the Ulriken Cable Car & Lunch at Sky:skraperen

For the most dramatic views in Bergen, head up Mount Ulriken – the city’s highest peak. You can ride the Ulriken Cable Car up the mountain, or it is also possible to hike up and down which is a beautiful walk if you have time. I do warn you that as the city's highest peak, it is also subject to unpredictable weather, so when we visited sadly we were in a cloud and didn't get to appreciate the views, however this was also very atmospheric. >> Book your cable car ticket now

Don’t miss: Lunch at Sky:skraperen restaurant at the top. It’s not just about the food (although the fresh seasonal produce is amazing), it’s about sitting above the fjords and really taking in the scale of Norway’s landscapes.

4. Explore Bergen by Electric Bike with Bergen Bike Rent

One of the best ways to get your bearings, especially early in your trip. A guided tour with Bergen Bike Rent to explore historic neighbourhoods, the harbour-front and lesser-known areas while learning about Bergen’s Hanseatic past. If you love exploring a destination sustainably, this is a perfect low-impact tour, you see so much and it's perfect for solo travellers. >> Book a bike tour now

5. Visit the Bergen Fish Market & Eat at Fish Me

A must-visit for seafood lovers and one of the most famous things to do in Bergen. Bergen Fish Market remains one of Norway's most visited outdoor markets offering fresh seafood, vegetables and fruits and it has existed since the 1200s. These days, it has a modern edge with the local favourite restaurant, Fish Me overlooking the harbour. This is THE place to try local seafood and I highly recommend the smoked salmon, shrimp and monkfish for delightful, fresh flavours and season servings.

Insider tip: If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try minke whale here – I gave it a try but I don't think it's for me.

6. Take a Hardangerfjord Day Trip

One of the most rewarding day trips from Bergen and a completely different landscape to the city. The Hardangerfjord is the world's third-longest fjord and, if you only have time for a short visit, is one of the best ways to experience the best of Norway. Expect rich local culture, wild and unique natural beauty, fresh local produce including local ciders and apple juice from the orchards that grow on the banks of the fjord. April and May are the perfect time to visit, when everything is blooming and full of life, but you'll still have the beauty of snow-topped mountains in the distance.

There's lots of amazing things to do in the Hardangerfjord region, depending on how much time you have (and how adventurous you're feeling), it also makes a great road trip with scenic views. 

7. Walk Behind Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall

A waterfall you can actually walk behind – without getting soaked – don't visit Hardangerfjord without stopping at Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall. Towering 50m, the rushing water is in full flow in April as the melting snow rushes down the mountains. Located just at the side of the road, this is one of the most accessible attractions and anyone can go behind the sheets of water and admire the natural beauty of the site.

Take in the beautiful view of Norheimsund and over the entire Steinsdalen valley at this must-stop on the Norwegian Scenic Route, which is considered one of the best drives in Norway! I hope to return there with my camper van one day.

8. Go Cider Tasting at Hardanger Juice & Cider Factory

A real hidden gem experience and perfect if you love cider! It's so rare I get to experience a cider tasting, but those from the UK in particular will really appreciate this experience. You can book guided tastings of locally produced cider made from apples grown in the surrounding orchards at Hardanger Juice & Cider Factory. I had no idea there were so many different types of cider and apple juice – from the fizzy to the flat, high alcohol percentage to non-alcoholic and even flavoured ciders such as rhubarb or elderflower.

You get a chance to learn about the brewing process and also about Norway's relationship with alcohol which is very different to the UK. I loved that this is a great way to support sustainable, small-scale farming in the Hardanger region.

9. Visit Syse Farm

A second stop in Hardangerfjord that offers a deeper look into traditional Norwegian farming. Nestled between the mountains, the family has been farming for almost six generations and Syse Farm dates back to 1888. Visit at the beginning of May and you'll likely get to see the cherry and apple blossom out in full force in the orchard. 

These smaller, family-run farms are where you’ll get the most authentic experiences – and directly support local communities. They have a lovely shop full of locally-made jams, chutneys, pickles and even knitted jackets for the apples which were super cute!

10. Take a RIB Boat Tour on Hardangerfjord

One of the most exhilarating things to do in Bergen. Don't miss a RIB Boat Tour on Hardangerfjord, this high-speed ride through the fjord. Speed between towering cliffs and take in the incredible scenery. I honestly spent the entire ride with my jaw on the floor, Norway just looks like a green screen because it is so perfect. I was completely in awe of the natural beauty. I have waited my entire life to experience this first-hand, so it was a bit emotional to actually see these views in real life. If there's one experience I recommend above all others in Bergen, it's this day trip >> Book this RIB Boat experience

Insider tip: Wear all the layers – it’s cold, even in spring. They do give you an insulated boiler suit which is great for blocking the wind. I also recommend taking a hat and use the goggles they provide to stop your eyes streaming from the wind.

11. Start Your Day with a Floating Sauna 

A classic Scandinavian experience. Book a sauna cruise with City Sauna Bergen for views over the harbour while you warm up and reset. It's the perfect way to tart your day while taking in some of the best harbour views and enjoying an uniquely Bergen experience. Also hot tip: this is the only sauna that actually moves across the harbour. It's perfect for solo travellers, couples and groups of friends needing a moment of calm between adventures. >> You can also book a still sauna experience 

12. Take “A Taste of Bergen” Food Tour

One of the best ways to understand the city’s culture is through food. Booking food tours that celebrate local cuisine and some of the lesser known gems is one of my favourite things to do in a new destination and A Taste of Bergen Food Tour was no exception. It's a brand new tour and already fully booked (that's how much of a hit it is!) which highlights Bergen's food beyond just seafood, your guide tries to challenge any preconceptions you have around Norwegian food by showing you a different side to the city.

The guides very passionate and knowledgeable – their enthusiasm for local cuisine is infectious! You get to try seafood, local Christmas delicacies, sweet treats, local cheeses and ciders before a truly unique finish on the Fløibanen Funicular, and enjoying a season meal at the top. I can't recommend this tour enough, not least because it is great value for money. Eating out in Norway is expensive but you get lots of food on this tour and the opportunity to try so much – make sure you go hungry!

> Make sure you book early so you don't miss out!

13. Visit the Troll Museum

A fun and interactive look at Norwegian folklore – you'll find trolls everywhere in Bergen! If you're looking for a unique experience in the city, the Troll Museum blends mythology with modern tech, making it engaging even if you’re not usually a museum person.

14. Experience Magic Ice

An ice bar and gallery carved entirely from frozen sculptures, this Magic Ice winter wonderland is completely constructed from crystal clear ice – even the glasses at the bar are ice! You'll be handed a cosy poncho and gloves to wear while in the sub-zero experience and your drink is served in an ice glass. Wrap up warm for this one and enjoy a local tipple – a wine mixed with a fruity liquor. World class ice art adorns the walls and you'll find dramatically lit sculptures, even a life-size air hockey table made completely from ice! >> Book your tickets now 

15. Visit KODE Art Museums

KODE Art Museums are a must for art lovers, they're dotted around the city of Bergen. Enjoy works by Edvard Munch and a strong focus on Norwegian art and culture including art, crafts, design and music across four museums.

16. Explore Bergenhus Fortress

One of Norway’s oldest fortresses is located right by the harbour. Bergenhus Fortress is peaceful, historic and often overlooked by visitors rushing between attractions, but it is one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved fortresses. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it was built between 1247 and 1261 by King Håkon Håkonsson and has served as a royal and military seat of power.

17. Visit Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene

To truly understand Bergen, you need to understand the Hanseatic League, particularly how merchants lived, traded and shaped the city’s identity. I hope I've already given some insight in this article, but if you'd like to learn more, it's worth visiting the Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene.

18. Wander the Nordnes Peninsula

The Nordnes Peninsula is a much quieter, local area with colourful houses and sea views which is perfect for slowing down and seeing a more authentic side of Bergen away from the crowds. It's perfect for a bike ride, we actually saw this as part of the electric bike tour, but you could also walk and enjoy the views. Along this route, you'll also find some popular outdoor swimming pools which are open most of the year and, yes, they are heated.

19. Visit the Medieval Fantoft Stave Church

A hidden gem just outside the city centre: this reconstructed medieval stave church is surrounded by forest. A haunting sight, Fantoft Stave Church is atmospheric and far less crowded than central attractions. It wasn't on our itinerary for this trip, but I was desperate to see it and we managed to squeeze it in, there's also another similar site near Oslo.

It does say "closed" online however you can still visit and see outside of the building which is spectacular. 

20. End Your Day at Siderbar Bergen

A newer addition to the city’s food scene celebrating Norwegian cider. Sidebar Bergen is the perfect way to round off a day in a relaxed, local haunt which is a great continuation of the Hardanger cider story.

Bergen Itinerary: 4 Days of Fjords, Food & Funicular Views

If you’re planning your trip and want a simple way to experience the best things to do in Bergen, steal my exact 4-day Bergen itinerary (trust me, you won't regret it!):

Day 1: Mountains & City Highlights

• Ride the Ulriken Cable Car
• Lunch with panoramic views at Sky:skraperen
• Catch the bus to the unique Medieval replica of Fantoft Stave Church
• Explore Bergen by electric bike
• Dinner in the city at Allmuen Bistro

Day 2: Hardangerfjord Adventure

• Day trip to Hardangerfjord
• Visit Steinsdalsfossen waterfall
• Cider tasting at local farms: Hardanger Juice and Ciderfactory & Syse Farm
• Lunch at Brakanes Hotel by Fjordtind
• RIB boat safari on the fjord
• Seafood dinner at Fish Me & exploring the fish market

Day 3: Culture, Food & Views

• Floating sauna experience
• Explore Bryggen UNESCO site
• Bergen food tour
• Ride the Fløibanen Funicular
• Walk to Skomakerdiket Lake and find the goats
• Cocktail at Magic Ice
• Cider tasting at Siderbar Bergen
• Traditional Norwegian dinner at Bryggen Tracteursted

Day 4: Departure & Sustainable Travel

• Relaxed morning in Bergen (great time to pick up a Cinnamon Bun!)
• Visit Troll Museum
• Transfer via electric light rail to the airport