Best Times to Visit Bergen, Norway
Quick Answer:
June through August offer the warmest temperatures in Bergen, perfect for exploring the city's sparkling fjords and hiking its vibrant, green mountains. Imagine yourself strolling through the bustling fish market, the salty air carrying the scent of fresh catches, or taking a ferry to one of the picturesque islands, the sun sparkling on the water. September and October bring a softer light, painting the city in golden hues as the leaves begin to change, creating a breathtaking, sparkling backdrop for exploring Bergen's charming wooden houses. While the winter months (November-March) are cold and often wet, they offer a unique, sparkling beauty with snow-capped mountains and the chance to see the Northern Lights, a truly unforgettable experience. May offers a lovely preview of summer, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, allowing for a sparkling introduction to Bergen's many attractions.
Airport Code
BGO
Coordinates
60.39°, 5.32°
Top Things to Do
Hanseatic Wharf Charm
Wander along Bryggen's colorful wooden houses, a UNESCO World Heritage site, but instead of midday crowds, aim for late afternoon. The golden hour casts a magical glow on the wharf, and you might catch local artisans at work in their studios. Enjoy a quiet dinner at one of the wharf's many restaurants.
Fløibanen Funicular Ascent
Ascend the Fløibanen funicular for breathtaking panoramic views of Bergen and its surrounding fjords. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Pack a thermos of coffee for an extra special treat.
Hidden Fish Market Delights
Venture beyond the main Fish Market and discover smaller, local fishmongers tucked away in the side streets. Sample fresh seafood, interact with friendly vendors, and get a true taste of Bergen's culinary scene. Look for lesser-known varieties of fish.
Mount Floyen Hike
Instead of taking the funicular, hike up Mount Floyen for a more immersive nature experience. The trails offer stunning views and a chance to connect with Bergen's natural beauty. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit.
Essential Travel Tips
Bergen is walkable, but hills are everywhere! Use the Bybanen light rail for longer distances – it’s efficient and affordable. Consider the Bergen Card for unlimited travel on public transport and free entry to many museums.
Norway is expensive. Take advantage of grocery stores for breakfast and lunch to save money. Many restaurants offer lunch menus (lunsjmeny) at lower prices. Look for deals and happy hour specials.
Bergen is generally safe, but like any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. Report any incidents to the police immediately.
Learn a few basic Norwegian phrases – even a simple 'hei' (hi) and 'takk' (thank you) goes a long way. Norwegians appreciate politeness and respect for their culture. Check out local events and festivals – they often feature traditional music and food.
Try the local seafood! Bergen is known for its fresh fish, especially cod and herring. Look for 'fiskeburger' (fish burger) for a quick and tasty meal. Many restaurants offer traditional Norwegian dishes like 'smalahove' (sheep's head), but be adventurous!
Pack layers! Bergen's weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers common. Waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes are essential. Don't forget a reusable water bottle – tap water is safe and delicious.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2°C | -2°C | 36°F | 28°F | 100mm | 18 days | 6h |
| Feb | 3°C | -1°C | 37°F | 30°F | 90mm | 16 days | 8h |
| Mar | 5°C | 1°C | 41°F | 34°F | 80mm | 14 days | 11h |
| Apr | 9°C | 4°C | 48°F | 39°F | 70mm | 12 days | 14h |
| May | 13°C | 7°C | 55°F | 45°F | 90mm | 12 days | 17h |
| Jun | 16°C | 10°C | 61°F | 50°F | 100mm | 14 days | 18h |
| Jul | 18°C | 12°C | 64°F | 54°F | 110mm | 15 days | 17h |
| Aug | 17°C | 11°C | 63°F | 52°F | 100mm | 14 days | 14h |
| Sep | 14°C | 8°C | 57°F | 46°F | 100mm | 14 days | 12h |
| Oct | 10°C | 5°C | 50°F | 41°F | 120mm | 16 days | 9h |
| Nov | 6°C | 2°C | 43°F | 36°F | 110mm | 18 days | 7h |
| Dec | 3°C | 0°C | 37°F | 32°F | 100mm | 19 days | 6h |
All Things to Do in Bergen, Norway
Hanseatic Wharf Charm
attractionWander along Bryggen's colorful wooden houses, a UNESCO World Heritage site, but instead of midday crowds, aim for late afternoon. The golden hour casts a magical glow on the wharf, and you might catch local artisans at work in their studios. Enjoy a quiet dinner at one of the wharf's many restaurants.
Best time: June-August
Fløibanen Funicular Ascent
activityAscend the Fløibanen funicular for breathtaking panoramic views of Bergen and its surrounding fjords. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Pack a thermos of coffee for an extra special treat.
Best time: May-September
Hidden Fish Market Delights
foodVenture beyond the main Fish Market and discover smaller, local fishmongers tucked away in the side streets. Sample fresh seafood, interact with friendly vendors, and get a true taste of Bergen's culinary scene. Look for lesser-known varieties of fish.
Best time: June-August
Mount Floyen Hike
natureInstead of taking the funicular, hike up Mount Floyen for a more immersive nature experience. The trails offer stunning views and a chance to connect with Bergen's natural beauty. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit.
Best time: June-September
Maritime Museum Exploration
culturalDelve into Bergen's rich maritime history at the Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene. Explore the preserved Hanseatic merchants' houses and learn about their lives and trade. Look for the intricate details in the architecture and furnishings.
Best time: May-September
Street Art in the City Centre
culturalDiscover Bergen's vibrant street art scene by wandering through the city's neighborhoods. Look for hidden murals and graffiti art that showcase local talent and add a unique character to the city. Take a guided street art tour for deeper insights.
Shopping at the Fish Market
shoppingBeyond the seafood, the Fish Market offers unique souvenirs and local crafts. Look for handcrafted items made from Norwegian wood, wool, or other natural materials. This is a great place to find authentic gifts.
Best time: June-August
Traditional Norwegian Dinner
foodEnjoy a traditional Norwegian dinner at a local restaurant. Look for dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients like seafood, reindeer, or lamb. Pair your meal with a local craft beer or aquavit for a complete experience.
Best time: All year round
Getting Around Bergen, Norway
Bybanen Light Rail
Bergen's light rail system connects the city center with the suburbs, including the airport (Flesland). It's efficient, affordable, and runs frequently. Use it to reach areas like Nesttun or Fyllingsdalen.
Skyss Buses
Bergen's extensive bus network reaches even the most remote areas, including scenic viewpoints and hiking trails outside the city center. Check the routes carefully as some are less frequent.
Ferry to the islands
Several ferries connect Bergen with its surrounding islands, offering stunning views of the fjords and charming villages. Popular destinations include islands like Askøy and Sotra.
Walking and Cycling
Bergen is a walkable city, especially the city center. Cycling is also a great option, particularly during the summer months. Rentals are readily available.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available but can be expensive, especially for longer distances. Use them for late-night travel or when other options are unavailable.
Private boat tours
For a truly unique experience, consider a private boat tour of the fjords. This offers unparalleled views and flexibility.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Bergen for pleasant weather and fewer crowds?
June through August offers the warmest temperatures and the longest daylight hours, perfect for exploring the fjords and hiking. However, it's also peak tourist season. For a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, I recommend visiting in May or September; you'll still have decent weather, but with smaller crowds and potentially lower prices.
How easy is it to get around Bergen without a car?
Bergen is incredibly walkable, especially the city center. The funicular up Mount Fløyen is a must-do and offers stunning views. The city also has an excellent light rail system and a comprehensive bus network, making car rental unnecessary for most visitors. Consider purchasing a Bergen Card for unlimited travel on public transport and free entry to many attractions.
Are there any local customs or etiquette tips I should be aware of in Bergen?
Norwegians generally appreciate punctuality and direct communication. While English is widely spoken, making an effort to learn a few basic Norwegian phrases will be appreciated. Also, tipping isn't mandatory but rounding up the bill at restaurants is a common practice. Finally, be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.
What are some hidden gems or lesser-known spots in Bergen that you would recommend?
Beyond the Bryggen wharf, explore the charming neighborhood of Sandviken with its colorful wooden houses and cafes. Take a ferry to one of the smaller islands in the archipelago for breathtaking views and a peaceful escape from the city crowds. Also, consider visiting the KODE art museums, which often have less crowded galleries than other popular attractions.
What's the best way to experience the fjords from Bergen without breaking the bank?
While organized tours are convenient, they can be pricey. A more budget-friendly option is to take the public ferry system. Several ferries depart from the city center and offer stunning fjord views at a fraction of the cost of a guided tour. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy onboard for a truly memorable experience.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.
Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!