Bergen is a beautiful city located close to the
northern sea and has some exceptional wooden
buildings, dramatic scenery, surrounded by mountains
and vibrant nightlife. It is the second largest city of
Norway and one of the rainiest city in Europe since it
rains about 245 days in a year, especially in the
winters. The average temperature all year long is 7°C ( or 45 °F).
May has the least precipitation and is the best time
to go. Daytime temperatures in June, July and August
hover around 14°C ( or 57 °F) are also considered an
acceptable time to visit. Most tourists arrive here by bus (cheapest)
or by air to Bergen Airport Flesland (IATA: BGO).
Bergen is often considered a great symbol of Norway's cultural heritage and
makes it's place in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List for it's historical
re-creations of a medieval settlement. Bergen also has many famous places and
festivals which the tourists can visit and enjoy. It is a great place to
experience how the modern day infrastructure can co-exist with it's attractive
heritage. Bergen is one of Europe’s most visited cruise ship harbors and
a the gateway to a wonder experience.
FAMOUS PLACES / POPULAR ATTRACTIONS OF BERGEN:
Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet):
A great place to enjoy, especially for the kids. The Bergen aquarium is famous for penguins, seals, tropical fish and a large variety of aquatic life.
Bergen Art Museum (Kunstmusem):
A great place to enjoy contemporary art and those from the renaissance. It also has many of Edvard Munch's arts as well.
Bergen Museum:
One of the best places to see in the city is this museum, it has several Natural History Collections and Cultural History Collections. You will find things from Egyptian mummies, Viking jewelry, prehistoric fossils, snakes, birds, crocodiles, plant house, botanical garden, Norwegian folk art, church art, national costumes and several interesting objects from all over the world.
Fantoft Stavkirke church:
This church was totally destroyed by arson in 1992 and was rebuilt. Stave churches are built by logs of trees as pillars.
Fisketorget (The fish market):
This is the Bergen's outdoor fish market and can sometimes be crowded. It has been a historical center for fish trade and is a good indication to see what the locals like to eat.
Floibanen:
It is a funicular which goes up to one of the famous hills surrounding Bergen (Mount Floyen) and offers great views of the whole city.
Gamle (Old Bergen):
This reconstructed town is located very close from the the city center and has some very attractive wooden houses. This is probably the most popular tourist attraction of Bergen.
The castle on Gamlehaugen:
The best way to enjoy this masterpiece is by taking a guided tour. It was once the home of former prime minister Christian Michelsen and now it is the royal family's residence.
Ulriksbanen / Mount Ulriken:
You can take a cable car to the top of Mount Ulriken which is the highest mountain adjacent to the city.
Troldhaugen:
This is the house of Norway's national composer Edvard Grieg, who also wrote the Peer Gynt suite. There is a museum devoted to him.
West Norway Museum (Vestlandske):
Famous for decorative art and also has a largest collection of Chinese art too.
Built in 12th century, it is one of the oldest and best preserved forts of Norway.
Bergen science center (Vilvite):
A great inspiration for kids to excel in academics, it features interactive exhibitions of science, technology and mathematics.
Famous Music Concerts:
Bergen Jazzforum, The Philharmonic Orchestra and Bergen Live
Hiking:
If the weather is good, the mountains surrounding Bergen offer great hiking opportunities. Check with Bergen Hiking Association for more information.
OTHER TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
Bergen Maritime Museum, Det Hanseatiske Museum, Damsgard, Domkirken Cathedral, Hakonshallen, The Leprosy Museum, St. Mary's Church, Siljustol museum, Theta museum, Rosenkrantz Tower, Bergen International Film Festival and Natt Jazz Festival.
A great way for tourists to see the city is to buy a Bergen Card, which gives you entry in most museums, free bus rides and parking. Great discounts on several sightseeing attractions.
