bergen at war tour

Photo of the MP-3 Naval observation tower taken on a WW2 Tour with Jersey War Tours

M-132 Command Bunker Visited on a evening military tour with Jersey War Tours

Canon de 155 Grande Puissance Filloux (GPF) mle.1917 WW1 French captured Artillery Guns

​There is no better way to learn about the Jersey Occupation during the second world war than with Phil and Kimberley. They set up Jersey War Tours in 2015, and it is the only Non-Profit Organisation offering military tours in Jersey. They receive no government or heritage funding, and profits get invested in WW2 research, preservation and education. Phil and Kimberley volunteer their time and are passionate about sharing their work and providing you with an experience you will never forget.

Tours 

Daytime Bunker Tours

Daytime tours of WW2 bunkers and a unique chance to see some of our projects.

Evening Bunker Tours

​Join us on an evening tour exploring bunkers and fortifications and see Jersey's WW2 heritage in a new light

Seafaris WW2 Tours

Explore Jersey's spectacular North or South Coast on a Seafari RIB with your very own Jersey War Tour Guide​​

Bunker Openings

St Catherine's Bunker

Explore a large Bunker and Tunnel Complex and get hands-on with many WW2 weapons and artefacts.  ​

Open all year! ​

Batterie Lothringen

2pm - 5pm 

11th August 

8th September

Millbrook Bunker

4th August 

1st September

Batterie Moltke

25th August 

22nd September

Strongpoint Corbiere

18th August 

15th September

Custom Openings

Custom tours for groups of all sizes maybe available please let us know your requirements 

WW2 Database

Explore the islands occupation history in more detail

Our Projects 

The tours fund a series of projects that are ongoing from the preservation of bunkers to documenting stories. 

War Stories 

This is a page dedicated to the stories and people of the Occupation, we update it regularly.

Jersey War Tours is a not-for-profit, private research and education organisation dedicated to documenting, monitoring, and preserving second-world war heritage. We specialise in digital visualisation and aim to provide digital data, 3D digitisation, photography, stories and much more to the public via our website and social media channels. To help fund this critical work, we offer you the chance to come with us and explore Jersey's wartime history on unique tours to sites not open to the public.

If you have any questions, please contact Phil or Kimberley  Email: [email protected] 

The Hidden North

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I've put together a Bergen self-guided walking tour designed to inspire and plan your trip to Bergen!

This walking tour is for those who may be in Bergen for a limited time, or may be wondering what they can do with their time. The tour doesn't go over much history and everyday life topics that I cover in my other walking tours. Rather, it explains what you can see and do in Bergen.

In this article, I've provided not just the walking tour but links to other pages on my website where I explain the topic in greater detail.

Here we go!

Join me on a walking tour!

I do in-person walking tours of Bergen too! If you want to experience Bergen with a guide, click the button below to see my tours.

https://www.ilovebergen.net

Bergen Self-Guided Walking Tour

Start: bryggen.

Here we are on Bryggen, Bergen’s UNESCO World Heritage site. Bryggen, which is ‘wharf’ in Norwegian, was built in the 12th century. It was the commercial centre of Norway and is likely Scandinavia’s first commercial town. 

Between 1360 and 1754, Bryggen was the trading centre of the Hanseatic League . They were a German merchant organisation that dominated trade in the Baltic and North Seas. After a fire in 1955, the first archaeological excavation took place under Bryggen. Most importantly, the remains of the first-ever warehouses were discovered along with hundreds of objects from life in the 13th century. In short, they are on display at the Bryggen Museum.

Bergen Fortress

If you keep walking straight ahead, you’ll reach the Bergen Fortress. Called ‘Bergenhus’, the fortress area is from the 13th century when Bergen was the capital of Norway. King Håkon Håkonsson had ‘Håkon’s Hall’ constructed for the royal wedding of his son, Magnus the Lawmender. When Magnus became King around 1270, he wrote down the first laws of Bergen (hence his name) and had the stone tower you see constructed. 

When Norway became part of Denmark in the 16th century, the Danish lord of Bergenhus, Eric Rosenkrantz, reconstructed the tower and named it after himself. Many of the old royal buildings were torn down, including a 12th century church. The fortress became more military than royal house. During World War II, the German soldiers used Bergenhus as a base. Certainly, you can see remains of buildings from the 11th century up until World War II. 

We don't walk into the fortress on this Bergen self-guided walking tour; it's worth covering on its own walk.

Read more: A walk through the Bergen Fortress

Bryggen Museum

The Bryggen Museum focuses on the life of Bryggen, the wharf area in Bergen. For example, the museum displays hundreds of objects categorised according to their everyday purpose, including game pieces, hair combs, religious artefacts, clothing, and even a toilet! The museum has just undergone a major renovation and is well worth visiting. One of my favourite displays is a large television screen that goes through the development of Bryggen and all the fires we’ve had – there has been dozens! The souvenir shop is also worth visiting, and there is a café inside. 

Bryggen Museum website

St. Mary's Church

This is the oldest building in Bergen. That is to say, it was built between 1130 and 1170, St. Mary’s Church has seen the least damage from fires and remains more or less original. The two towers are from the early 14th century, and the stained glass window is the first in Norway. Inside the church is incredibly well decorated. This is because the Hanseatic League thought St. Mary’s Church was a good luck charm. Most importantly, they brought artwork from all over Europe to the church. Inside, the artworks span a period of 400 years from all over Europe. Today St. Mary’s Church is Anglican, though it was built as a Catholic Church. 

Sandviken Area

If you turn left and walk for around 10 minutes, you’ll reach the suburb Sandviken. Sandviken is a historic fishing village with many 18th century wooden houses. Above all, it’s very charming and very ‘Bergen’. At Sandviken you’ll find the Fisheries Museum, the Fjellveien scenic footpath, and a little further along is the Gamle Bergen open air museum. 

We don't walk into Sandviken on this Bergen self-guided walking tour; it's worth covering on its own walk. For example, I'm currently putting together a Sandviken walk.

Fløibanen Funicular

The Fløibanen is a funicular that will take you to the top of Mt. Fløyen, one of the seven mountains that surrounds Bergen city centre. The mountain is 320m (1000ft) high and has gorgeous views from the top. Most importantly, during busy times of the day, the funicular runs continuously and takes 5-8 minutes to reach the top. You can download an app to buy tickets and see the schedule or buy on at the ticket counter. 

Behind the funicular station you’ll see a zig-zag path to the top. Follow this if you’d rather hike to the top of Mt. Fløyen. The hike takes about 45 minutes and is considered an easy hike (by Norwegian standards). Signs will lead you to the top. 

We don't walk up Fløyen on this Bergen self-guided walking tour; it's something to do on your own.

Read more: Walking up Mt. Fløyen

Fløibanen Website

Lille Øvregaten

For instance, this is just an idea of what you can find in this area. If you begin to walk on the streets on the side of the hill, you’ll find old timber houses with plenty of charm. One of my favourite things to do in this area is to just get lost! I’m working on a walking tour called ‘Along the Mountainside’ which will take you through the most secret of narrow streets. It’s due in early 2021.

The Allmenningen Streets

This wide street is called an ‘allmenningen’. This is a purposely built street from the 16th century designed to prevent fire spreading rapidly between buildings – you’ll notice many streets in Bergen end in the word ‘allmenningen’. 

Kong Oscars Gate

Kong Oscars Gate is one of the oldest roads in Bergen. It is the old highway leading to southern Norway. Along this road, you’ll find many historical buildings. Along Kong Oscars Gate and up on the hill is the same layout from after the largest fire in Bergen, 1702. Most of the buildings date from that period. 

If you turn left and follow the road, you’ll pass the Shoe Street (Skostredet) with many cool restaurants and bars). Then you pass the Bergen Cathedral, Leprosy Hospital, and end up at the historic city gate. The city gate is around a 10-15 minute walk from where you are now. Past the gate is the wealthy area Kalfaret and the Lungegård Lake, both covered in separate walking tours.

If you turn right, you’ll pass 18th-century wooden houses with many trendy bars and cafes. A little further down is the famous hot dog stand of Bergen. The road to the right ends at Bryggen. 

Kong Oscars Gate is not covered in depth on this Bergen self-guided walking tour. I am working on a separate self-guided walking tour for this fascinating part of town! For example, walk up and down it on your own to see all the history here.

Church of the Cross

This is one of three medieval churches left in Bergen: the other two are the Bergen Cathedral (Domkirken) and St. Mary’s Church. Unlike St. Mary’s Church, Korskirken has been affected by almost every fire Bergen has had (remember – dozens!) and been rebuilt in a different style every time. The name comes from a legend that the first Korskirken was built with a piece of Christ’s cross in the walls. Today the church is used by the missionaries in Bergen.

Torget & The Fish Market

We are now on the square, Torget (translates to ‘the square’). Here you can see a statue of Ludvig Holberg. He’s a famous 17th/18th century writer and political figure. You may recognise the name from Edvard Grieg’s Holberg Suite. Grieg wrote the Suite on Holberg’s 200th birthday. 

Across the street, past the statue, is the fish market. The fish market in Bergen is famous – here you can try many local products from salmon to cod to trout, tuna, and more. There’s also Red King Crab from the Barents Sea, seal oil, whale meat, paella, dried fish snacks, mussels, and anything that comes from the sea. It’s a great place to try fresh seafood. The large glass building has a seafood restaurant on the lower floor. The tourist information centre is on the higher floor. 

Torgallmenningen

We are now in a part of Bergen that is more modern. That is because it was affected by the last great fire of Bergen in 1916, and everything we see was rebuilt after that period.

On Torgallmenningen you’ll find shopping centres (Galleriet and Xhibition) and many department stores. 

The Blue Stone

The Blue Stone is the meeting point of Bergen. Just past the Blue Stone you’ll see St. John’s Church (Johanneskirken), the largest church in Bergen. It’s from the late 19th century. If you walk up to St. John’s Church and then turn left you’ll be in the University area with museums and a botanic garden. Past that is the working-class suburb of Møhlenpris and the gorgeous Nygård Park. To the right of St. John’s is the hidden area of Sydnes – a historic timber house suburb. At the end of Sydnes is the Hurtigruten Terminal. 

Turn to your right. At the top of the slope is a large concrete building. This is the Theatre. It was established by the famous violinist Ole Bull in 1850 as the first theatre in Norway to perform in Norwegian. Before then, Danish was seen as the language of the elite and was more widely used. Outside the theatre is a statue of Henrik Ibsen, the famous Norwegian playwright. He worked in the theatre when he was in his 20s. If you continue past the theatre you’ll be in the suburb Nordnes – regarded as one of the most picturesque suburbs of Bergen. At the end of the Nordnes Peninsula is the Bergen Aquarium.

However, Nordnes and Sydnes are not covered in this Bergen self-guided walking tour. They will be covered in their own walks - coming soon!

The Pavilion

This pavilion is from the late 19th century, though it was basically replaced during the last restoration in 2019. The plants here change according to the season. 

To the left, you’ll see a statue of Edvard Grieg. Edvard Grieg is Norway’s most famous composer. He was born in Bergen in 1843 and lived most of his life here, passing away in 1907. Grieg is attributed with showcasing Norwegian folk music and being inspired by nature. About 10km (6 mi) outside of Bergen is Troldhaugen, Edvard Grieg’s home and today a museum. It is well worth visiting, especially between May and October when they have daily lunchtime piano concerts there. 

They play Beethoven, Mosart, etc. Just kidding, of course they play Edvard Grieg music! The brick building behind Grieg is the Telegraph Building – today it’s a department store. 

Read more: The Edvard Grieg Museum, Troldhaugen

To the right is another brick building. This is the first of the four KODE art galleries. These are the large collection of art galleries in Scandinavia. The first KODE gallery displays various crafted objects. The opening hours change quite a lot, so check the website for details. We’ll see the other KODE galleries at our next and last stop: Byparken

Here we are at Byparken! This park was laid out in the early 20th century. Before then, this lake connected to the fjord and many people used to dock their boats in this area. I cover this topic more on my Lungegård Lake walking tour. Byparken is used for many festivals and markets, including our Christmas Market and Food Market. On Norway’s National Day, 17 May, this is where the festivities are. 

Above all, the large mountain the background is Mt. Ulriken – the tallest of the seven Bergen mountains at 640m (2000ft). It is possible to take a cable car to the top. A minibus departs from the fish market in the summer months to take you there. 

Between the lake and Mt. Ulriken is the train station, the library, and the bus terminal with a large shopping centre on top (Storsenter). To the left of the lake, you’ll see a row of colourful houses. Many of Bergen’s newest and coolest cafes are opening up in these houses. Behind them are 18th-century wooden houses in the area ‘Marken’ – this is also where the Leprosy Hospital is. 

To the right of the lake are the other three KODE galleries. KODE 2 is for modern art (and has a shop and café). Most importantly, the third KODE has Bergen’s Munch exhibition as well as a very good National Romantic exhibition. KODE 4 has famous foreign artworks and an exhibition for Nicolai Astrup. it also has the highly-rated ‘Lysverket’ restaurant.

Welcome to the Hidden North

The Hidden North is an online travel guide written by me, Emma, to help you make the best of your trip to Northern Europe. Welcome!

Originally from Australia, I moved to Bergen in Norway eight years ago after marrying a local ‘Bergenser’. I started doing local tours of Bergen before becoming a tour leader in Northern Europe. After doing that for a few years, I have settled down in Bergen to operate my tour company  I Love Bergen and write my travel site  The Hidden North . 

Follow me on social media!

I wrote a book.

My first book – the West Norway Road-trip Guide – is now available for order! This book is the perfect guide for planning a trip to Western Norway and includes dozens of roads + detailed information on what to see and do. It is a mix between travel guide and directoy. 

My guides for Northern Europe

We have a series of printable guides designed to make the most of your trip to Northern Europe. You can find them over on our store. 

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• Viking Ocean

"Bergen at War" Excursion Level of Difficulty

By Newdaytrippers , December 6, 2022 in Viking Ocean

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Newdaytrippers

We are doing the British Isles Explorer originating in Bergen.  This is our first cruise with Viking and our first visit to Bergen.  There is an optional excursion to both the Fjell Fortress and the North Sea Traffic Museum which lasts 6 hours.  It's called "Bergen at War".  I've visited both museum websites and am wondering why it is rated as demanding.  Normally we would not attempt a "demanding" excursion.  Other than touring down in the bunkers and labyrinths underground, which we can do, can anyone who has done this tour please let me know what's entailed.  Thank you.

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When Viking list as demanding, from my experience listening to many port talks the day before, it often means:

• More extensive walking
• Standing still for periods without seating available
• Stairs / steps (more than a few)
• Cobblestones and uneven walking surfaces
• Many non North American destinations do not have the same provision of hand railings and accessibility that we might expect

I have seen many guests on Viking not be able to physically complete a non-demanding tour.

I know that I have not answered your direct question because I have not done this particular excursion, but until someone does, perhaps this will help somewhat.

No easy quick access to bathrooms after copious coffee at World Cafe breakfast.

This is very helpful.  Thank you.  I'll need to look further into this.  My husband surprised me by climbing down steep narrow ladders on board Nelson's ship "The HMS Victory" in Portsmouth, but he is technically a "fall risk", which is why I am asking for the details.  No walker.  No cane.  But no handrails might be a concern.

Individual guides may also set varying levels of speed, etc on walking tours.  I've been on Viking city tours where the guide set a forced march pace, and others where a pleasant stroll was the pace. Even within different sections of the same tour, guides will set a different pace.

No way to anticipate that.

46 minutes ago, Newdaytrippers said:  ladders on board Nelson's ship "The HMS Victory" in Portsmouth, but he is technically a "fall risk"

Pet peeve, sorry, she is His Majesty's Ship Victory, who carried Nelson's flag at Trafalgar. She is now flag of the home fleet. 

She is not 'the' she is HMS  Victory or Victory 

*Gets down off high horse*

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One Day in Bergen Norway: How To Spend 24 Hours In Bergen

Searching for the best things to do in Bergen Norway on a short stopover? We have you covered! Discover Bergens restaurants, hotels and attractions.

Bergen is one of our favorite cities in Norway . It has all the charm of Trondheim, the culture of Oslo, and the magic of Tromso, all wrapped into an easy to digest package that makes visiting Bergen a treat. But when we found ourselves with just 24 hours in Bergen at the end of our Hurtigruten Northern Lights cruise, it became our mission to fit as many things to do in Bergen into our short one-day experience.

Bergen is vibrant, fun, and full of energy. It’s small-size with metropolitan offerings make it a great city for exploring. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed not to want to live here after only a short visit. If you dress for Norway in winter , you’ll have an incredible time checking out this vibrant city. And while you’re there make sure to check out our favorite things to do in Bergen Norway.

This post may contain compensated links. For more information please read our disclaimer .

About Bergen Norway

We arrived in Bergen on our 10th day in Norway. We started our Norway travel at the tip-top of the country in Kirkenes before making our way down the coast of Norway on the Hurtigruten Ferry. When we arrived in Bergen, we were immediately struck by how it straddled a boundary of traditional Nordic architecture with modern, big-city style.

Bergen is the second-largest city in Norway. But far from being a cosmopolitan-feeling city, Bergen is as much a paradise for nature-lovers as it is for city-lovers. Not only is Bergen the gateway to the Norwegian fjords, but it also sits smack in the middle of the Seven Mountains.

No matter which direction you travel, you’ll either be met with beautiful ocean or spectacular mountains. In fact, the mountains are so popular with locals that it’s a popular activity for locals to summit all seven mountains in one day!

Bergen has been one of the most important cities in Norway for over a millennium. It is home to some of the most important cultural history of the country, as well as having a huge role in trade by providing access to Northern Norway along the coastal route.

Best Things to Do in Bergen On a Day Trip

As soon as you arrive in Bergen, it’s immediately evident that this city is special. The Bergen waterfront is gorgeous. It’s lined with colorful buildings, markets, shops, cafes and much more. It would be easy to spend the entire 24 hours in Bergen just exploring this small area. But there are way too many things to do in Bergen to limit your visit to this spot. But if you’re searching for what to do in Bergen, this is the perfect place to start exploring.

Explore the Waterfront

The Bergen Wharf is the starting point for most people exploring the Bergen points of interest. Not only is it where all of the fjord cruises dock but it’s where a lot of the action is in town. The wharf is lined with brilliantly colorful buildings of Bryggen wharf. And although it’s a large city, most of the key points of interest in Bergen are walkable from here.

The Visit Bergen information center is located on the top floor of the Bergen Seafood Market . It’s a good idea to head here first and pick up a Bergen card. The Bergen city pass is a great way to save money when taking in all the things to do in Bergen.

The Bergen Seafood Market is a cool looking building on its own. But, it’s also a great place to grab lunch in Bergen with a perfect view of the Bryggen wharf. Locals and visitors alike all flock to the Bergen fish market for its great food and beautiful views. We even picked up some ideas to bring home for our favorite Norwegian recipes .

Pro-Tip: The Bergen card can also be purchased online ahead of time.

Wander the Bryggen Wharf

Pro-Tip: The Bergen card provides discounted entry to the Hanseatic Museum!

The Bryggen Wharf itself is full of some of the best shopping in Bergen. This UNESCO World Heritage site is lined with heritage buildings that seem to be exploding directly out of a postcard. At the cityside corner is the Hanseatic Museum . Not only is the Hanseatic Museum one of the oldest wooden buildings in Norway, but it also shows off the fascinating history of the Hanseatic merchants. The Hanseatic League ran Bryggen during the middle ages.

The colorful buildings of Bryggen have been transported from there ancient Hanseatic histories to be filled with hotels, shops, and cafes. Yet with all this modernization, they retain a charm that helps them remain one of the most photographed spots in Bergen.

Explore a little deeper into the Bryggen Wharf by wandering behind the colorful storefronts to the fascinating alleys and hidden shops that lay behind them. Don’t forget to take a ride on the wooden cod sculpture that pays homage to Norway’s fishing roots.

Head to the Top of Mount Floyen on the Floibanen Funicular

Pro-Tip: For a different view of the city, visitors can also visit the top of Mount Ulriken via the Mount Ulriken Cable Car

If you only have a one day in Bergen then one of the first places that you should visit is the top of Mount Floyen. You could go local-style and make the hike to the top, however, I recommend taking the twelve-minute journey on the Bergen funicular to the top. The ride is free with the Bergen card from January to April (a discount applies the rest of the year). And when you get to the top, the view overlooking Bergen is magical.

Mount Floyen is full of great trails, that, depending on when you are visiting, can be used for either hiking or the Norwegian favorite cross-country skiing. But if you do visit in the summer, you might come across the resident goats wandering around. You are also sure to come across some of the local trolls which can be found hiding throughout the Mount Floyen hiking trails.

Hop on a Bergen Fjord Tour

There is a reason that Bergen is called the Gateway to the Fjords . Tours regularly depart from the city and head out to some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery. The most popular of these is the Norway in a Nutshell tour.

The Norway in a Nutshell Tour is a series of transportation options such as cruises, buses, and trains that allows you to visit various parts of Norway. Thus, the tour can be arranged so that you either start and end in Bergen, or, like we did, use the Norway in a Nutshell tour as a scenic route from Bergen to Oslo.

The Bergen fjord tour travels along magnificent fjords that tower up to 1,800 meters (5400 ft) above sea level. The fjord boat tour also passes past quaint Norwegian fishing towns that look almost too perfect to be real.

Take a Trip Back in Time at the Bergenhus Fortress

With nearly 800 years of history behind it, the Bergenhus Fortress holds a powerful presence over the Bergen Harbor. This medieval fortress dates back to 1240. The remaining structures of the hall and the defensive tower are still used by the Royal Norwegian Navy today.

Wander the Cobblestone Streets of Bergen

There are many areas of downtown Bergen that see very little if any traffic. And these cobblestone lanes have made Bergen one of the most walkable cities that we’ve visited. Wandering around the narrow streets of Bergen was one of the highlights of our visit. There was no stress or pressure having to keep an eye out for traffic around the children.

Tips For Visiting Bergen Norway

• Pick Up a Bergen Card The Bergen card is a great way to get into all of the major Bergen attractions. As an added bonus, those who get the Bergen card also get free access to the Bergen Public Transit system. The Bergen card gives either free or discounted admission to several museums. Cards are either valid for 24, 48 or 72-hours. There are discounted rates for students, seniors, and children.
• Walk, Don’t Drive Even for those visiting Bergen with kids will find getting around this amazing city on foot to be a breeze. There are a number of walking tours available. They generally cost about 100 NOK.
• Save Money by Making Your Own Food Norway is pricey. In fact, it’s an expensive country to visit even by Scandinavian standards. But you can save money by doing a bit of grocery shopping rather than eating in restaurants.

Best Restaurants in Bergen Norway

Bergen is a bit of a gastronomical mega-city. Although not quite up there with the likes of Lima, Peru , there are still loads of incredible restaurants in Bergen. And, as far as Norwegian dining goes, there are even a few “budget” offerings.

• Fine Dining- 1877 1877 is one of the most popular restaurants in Bergen. They have a focus on traditional Norwegian cooking. And similar to the Coastal Kitchen on the Hurtigruten Cruise, they use locally sourced ingredients in all of their dishes. 2 Vetrlidsallmenningen, Bergen +4792871877
• Mid-Range – Munken Bistro Stocked with locally sourced produce, Munken Bistro is famous for its seafood dishes. Their ceviche is exceptionally popular. 12 Klostergaten, Bergen +4747462455
• Budget – Trekroneren I’m not sure what it is about Scandinavia and Hot Dogs, but between Norway and Iceland, they are one of the most popular dishes around. Trekroneren serves up delicious gourmet hot dogs and sausages, and, not only are they delicious, but they are some of the cheapest eats in Bergen! Kong Oscars gate 1, Bergen

Where To Stay in Bergen Norway

Bergen is a world-class city, and in fitting form, it also has an incredible selection of accommodations to fit every need. These are our recommended hotels in Bergen.

• Grand Hotel Terminus The Grand Hotel Terminus is a vintage hotel located directly across from the Bergen train station. Because we were leaving early on our Norway in a Nutshell tour, this was the hotel that we chose to stay at. And it was amazing! The Grand Hotel Terminus is located within an easy walking distance of most of central Bergen, and it’s classy decor, well-sized rooms, and vintage style feels like a trip back in time. Book the Grand Hotel Terminus on Booking.com
• Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz The Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz is just a 3-minute walk from the Bryggen Wharf. It’s a chic, modern hotel and offers a free breakfast, which is something we always look for in a hotel. Book the Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz on Booking.com .
• Klosterhagen Hotel Kosterhagen isn’t a typical hotel. This uniquely situated hotel is right next to one of the oldest monasteries in Norway. It’s close to the action of central Bergen, but far enough away that it feels like a different world. It’s a quiet hotel with colorful rooms. Book the Klosterhagen Hotel on Booking.com .

Disclosure: Visit Bergen provided our family with Bergen Passes to help us experience Bergen. As always, our opinions remain our own. Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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Albert eugenio

Sunday 21st of August 2022

Thank you Sir.. This is so informative... I hipe to visit norway on 2023.

Madonna Grill

Wednesday 22nd of August 2018

Bergen is the perfect place for kids. There are a lot of things to do in Bergen with kids. See seals, penguins, crocodiles, and snakes up at the Bergen Aquarium and explore the world of science and technology with your family at VilVite science centre.

Wednesday 15th of August 2018

This is a great 24-hour guide to Bergen, a place I've yet to visit. I especially like the sound of a fjord cruise, that'd be awesome!

I'm dying to get to Norway and Bergen is right at the top of my list. It's so picturesque! Love the troll along the hiking trail :-)

Carrie Ann Karstunen

Tuesday 14th of August 2018

Bergen looks so beautiful! Thank you for your detailed post. I'm pinning this...I'm going back to Scandinavia soon to do more research on my Finnish roots, and I needed an excuse to see more of Norway as well.

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48 hours in Bergen – A 2 day Itinerary

Bergen is an urban city that is full of life but also has plenty to offer those looking for a more peaceful experience.

The city is steeped in history and has a lot to offer those who want to learn more about Norway’s past. With its natural beauty, friendly people, and great food, Bergen is one of the best cities in the world to visit.

48 hours in Bergen has something for everyone. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, then you should visit the mountains and fjords. But if you are more interested in culture, history, and cuisine then there are plenty of museums and restaurants to explore.

The best month to visit Bergen Norway is from May to September. The weather is mild where temperatures average 19 degrees Celcius and you still have plenty of daylight hours. The city is popular with tourists and locals alike, so you will never feel lonely.

The city has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful places in Norway. It is located on the western coast of Norway near mountains that surround the city and fjords that run through it.

By purchasing one of the four Bergen Cards —24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, or 96-hour—you can enter museums, attractions, events, or sightseeing excursions for free or at a reduced price. Additionally, you can travel for free on buses across the region and receive excellent discounts on food outlets and parking.

If you’re wondering how many days in Bergen is ideal or how many days do you need in Bergen? Well it all depends on what your plans are? You could easily spend a few weeks or even months in Bergen and still not see or do everything.

Below is a great guide on what to do in Bergen for 2 days because sometimes 2 days in Bergen Norway is all you have, especially if you’re spending a weekend in Bergen or you’re travelling to Bergen on short stop over trip and want to be able to tour some of the main areas within Bergen.

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Table of Contents

Where to stay for your 48 hrs in Bergen

The location of your hotel should be a top priority. If you plan to explore the city, it is best to find accommodations close to the main attractions and transportation hubs. Staying in the centre of Bergen is beneficial for your 48 hours in Bergen itinerary.

Some hotel recommendations include Hotel Norge by Scandic . This four-star hotel has an exquisite glass exterior, is centrally located and offers comfortable and modern rooms. Inside the hotel, you can find amenities such as a high-end restaurant, a gym and a patio.

If you are looking for a more affordable option, there are also lots of hotels in Bergen. The City Hostel Bergen AS is a great place to stay if you are on a budget. The hostel offers dorm-style rooms with shared kitchens and includes free Wi-Fi.

A great way to explore Bergen is by walking. The city centre is quite compact, so you can easily walk from one place to another. The main attractions of Bergen are located in the centre and within walking distance from each other, meaning you will easily be able to get around during your Bergen trip.

Overview Of 2 Days In Bergen Itinerary

Day 1 in Bergen:

Mount Fløyen

Bergen fish market, fjord cruise, bergen nightlife.

Day 2 in Bergen:

Festplassen & Lille Lungegårdsvannet

Bergen segway tour, bryggens museum, bergen urban zoo, bergenhus fortress, magic ice bar bergen.

Day 1 in Bergen

For your first day in Bergen, you will immerse yourself in nature and the great outdoors that the Fjords have to offer.

We recommend spending time exploring some of these natural wonders. Spend the morning up a mountain and an afternoon on the water going through scenery like no other.

The city is surrounded by fjords and large forested areas, which makes it easy to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Start your day early in the morning, and head to Mount Fløyen. This is a mountain that overlooks Bergen city and offers spectacular views of the hustle and bustle below. There are two ways you can get there, by funicular or by walking up. Both offer different experiences so it is best to try both if you have the time.

The Fløibanen Funicular is a unique and fun tourist attraction that offers mountain views. Great for those who cannot manage to hike or who simply do not have the time. It is one of Norway’s most visited attractions and a great way to see Bergen from above.

The Fløibanen Funicular takes you up Mount Fløyen , which is the highest point in Bergen. At the top, there are restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy freshly made food and drinks while enjoying the magnificent views. Take a walk over to Fløien Folkerestaurant or Skomakerstuen Cafe.

During your time on top of the mountain, revel in the breathtaking scenery, marvel at the wildlife and take lots of pictures from this Bergen viewpoint. There are plenty of walking routes at the top, so you can explore Bergen from above at your leisure.

Why not walk over to Revurtjernet viewpoint or Tippetue viewpoint for an alternative point of view. You will have plenty of time to enjoy yourself as the Fløibanen Funicular runs regularly and quickly through the day.

Once you have finished with your morning up Mount Fløyen, head over to the Bergen fish market for a spot of lunch – an amazing spot if you are a seafood lover! The outdoor market is popular with tourists and locals as everyone gathers to sample delicious food.

Eat along the waterside after walking around the stalls that sell lots of vegetables, fruit and fish. The fish market is open all year round, so you can go at any time of the day. It is a great place to visit if you want fresh seafood and want to see how it is prepared locally.

Traditional Norwegian fish include the prince fish, crayfish and mountain trout, see if you can spot them! Whilst you are here try to also sample some other traditional Norwegian cuisine from one of the stalls.

Look for Norwegian cinnamon buns (sweet pastry in a spiral shape covered in sugar and cinnamon) and Raspeballer (boiled potato dumplings).

For your afternoon hop onto a boat that will take you for a Fjord tour where you can see the unique and special landscapes. The boat will take you to some of the most picturesque spots around Bergen.

It is a great way to get an overview of the city and its surrounding areas, as well as learn about its history. You can get on board at Zachariasbryggen Quay and the trip will last three hours.

The Mostraumen Fjord Cruise provides you with the chance to see lines of mountains, waterfalls and wildlife such as seals and eagles. Expect to see fjords such as Zachariasbryggen and waterfalls including Hardangerfjord.

A key highlight of the trip is being able to get so close to the waterfall, you may feel some spray! The captain of the boat also collects some of the waterfall water for you to taste. The boat also has a sundeck where you can enjoy refreshments such as wine and beer.

To end your first day for your 48 hours in Bergen, dine in one of the many highly-rated restaurants. There are many cuisines to choose from including Italian, Indian and Mexican.

Some highlights include Boccone Ristorante , an Italian with aged wines and saucy pasta and La Taqueria, a spicy Mexican restaurant that serves burritos, tacos and enchiladas. Both have a lovely vibrant atmosphere and great service.

Even though Bergen is small and is not necessarily known for its vibrant nightlife it still does have many bars and places to go late into the evening.

In the city centre, you will find TRE 23 BAR , a fancy cocktail bar with a cosy atmosphere and dimmed lights as well as Muskedunder which has an extensive drinks list and friendly staff. It also stays open as late as 3 am on weekends.

Day 2 in Bergen

On the second day of your weekend trip in Bergen, you will do some Bergen city sightseeing. The city is famous for its scenic landscapes and Fjords but the city itself also has plenty to offer.

Tick off as many sites as you can on a segway tour, visit historical landmarks and museums plus spend a few hours at the zoo! It will be a full day of activities so make sure you are well-rested before heading out.

Start your day by heading over to this scenic city centre spot. Lille Lungegårdsvannet is a lake in the middle of Bergen that has pleasant surroundings and a fountain.

The beautiful park and lake complex are great places to relax and enjoy the scenery. Festplassen is located on the East of the area and is a large open-plan square that regularly holds fun entertainment and events.

The square is popular with locals and tourists alike, who come here to enjoy the fresh air, take in some live music or just hang out with friends. It is a great place to enjoy your morning coffee before your second day!

Get around quickly and see the city at your leisure with this Best Views of Bergen – Segway Day Tour ! The tour takes around two hours and you get to see some of Bergen’s most famous streets, spots and parks.

Whizz through Nordnesparken (a scenic park) and Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf (a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains colourful wooden buildings). Your tour guide will ensure you are safe and having fun at all times, whilst providing you with insight and knowledge into what it is like to live a day to day life in Bergen.

This tour is super flexible and laid-back, you can take a break at any point, and there are plenty of stops along the way.

After your exciting segway city tour, grab some lunch down by the waterfront. Bryggeriet Restaurant and Bryggeloftet & Stuene Restaurant offer some excellent Norwegian cuisine with outdoor dining and sea views. Expect to see lots of seafood on the menu and do not forget to try their famous Bergen fish soup.

The Bryggens Museum is really fascinating and a must-see during your 2 days in Bergen. Full of historic artifacts from Bergen and the whole of Western Norway, you can really delve into medieval history.

There are numerous exhibitions within the museum, with the main attraction being called Below Ground. Within this, you will see items that have been preserved from medieval times, some even a thousand years old!

Spend a couple of hours at the Bergen Urban Zoo . A small zoo specialising in tropical wildlife and domestic animals. Get up close and personal with snakes, scorpions, lizards and spiders.

In the domestic animals section of the park, you will find rare breeds of rabbits, chickens and pigs. It will be a great few hours, especially if you are travelling with family. The zoo is situated in the heart of Bergen, just a short walk from the city centre.

Take a short walk over to the waterfront castle, Bergenhus Fortress . This 13th-century stone building overlooks the water and served as a fortified stronghold for centuries.

It was built back in 1261 and hundreds of years later it is still standing and is now open to the public. Inside there is also a museum that relays Bergen’s history during the second world war.

Take a guided tour inside where you can learn about the history surrounding the fortress and Bergen as a whole. This venue is open until late.

To finish off your two days in Bergen, it is time to relax for the evening. The Magic Ice Bar is a fantastic experience and definitely fits with the cold theme of Norway.

The bar is made of ice, and you get to wear an overcoat and gloves provided by the bar staff when you enter. Not only can you drink cool icy drinks in the bar but there is an ice sculpture art gallery. Listen to music and relax as you enjoy the ice bar experience.

Afterwards, head back over to the main waterfront and continue your night in the bars and restaurants until late. Some great bars near the Fish Market include No Stress Bergen , Salong Bar & Billiard and LAST monkey .

All of them have long lists of cocktails to try, music and good vibes. This is a fun and exciting way to end your two days in Bergen and will help you to remember your time in Norway forever!

Bergen, Norway is full of culture, breathtaking views and landscapes which means it has gained its name as a UNESCO world heritage site.

A weekend in Bergen will solidify itself in your memories for life. Bergen is a small city with a big heart. It is a place where history, culture and nature collide to create one of the most beautiful cities you will ever see.

With its picturesque scenery, charming architecture and energetic vibe, it is no wonder that Bergen has been voted Norway’s most popular destination for tourists year after year!

Recommended tours in Bergen

• Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present
• Private Fjordcruise: Bergen fjord by Zodiac Speed Boat
• Food and Culture walk
• Sognefjord, Gudvangen, and Flåm Private Roundtrip Tour from Bergen
• Self-Guided Day Trip from Bergen to Oslo including the Flåm Railway
• Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein – Viewpoint Cruise
• GUIDED TOUR: Queen of the Fjords – mini-tour from Bergen, 6 hours
• 3 in 1 Guided Tour – Bergen Fjord Cruise, City sightseeing & Mt Fløien Funicular
• Bergen Cruise – Guided City & Harbor Sightseeing
• Bergen Fjord Experience Aboard Viking-style Ship

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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PITTSBURGH — The last fully operational World War II landing ship just arrived in Pittsburgh for the third time in its 80-year history.

“It’s a great ship,” said LST 325 Cruise Director Ken Rupp. “It’s got a great story.”

The story of the LST 325 started in Philadelphia in 1942.

“It is a flat bottom ship,” said Rupp. “It’s 328 feet long. It’s 50 feet wide.”

LST Cruise Director Ken Rupp says it can haul 20 Sherman Tanks.

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Rupp says the ship is a reminder of that sacrifice and a way to reflect.

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Margaret MacMillan

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

It is a familiar story, even if the specifics vary: the powerful and successful older man who falls for a much younger woman, who is flattered and moved by the attention.

In this particular case, he is tired after years in a demanding job, has a difficult wife, and drinks too much. She is dazzled, at least for a bit, by his eminence, although she herself is part of the British aristocracy during what will turn out to be its heyday. The older man finds her enchanting, her mild eccentricities, such as her beloved pet penguin, adorable. Do they have a sexual affair? Opinion remains divided, although Robert Harris takes the freedom of the novelist to imagine that they do.

What makes Precipice , Harris’s new novel so gripping, is when the love affair takes place and who the couple are. Their affair reaches its peak in the summer of 1914, as Europe slides towards the first world war, and “he” is Herbert Henry Asquith, prime minister of Great Britain, then the world’s great hegemonic power. She is Venetia Stanley, a daughter of Baron Sheffield, with connections throughout the ruling classes. Another lover, whom she eventually marries, is Edwin Montagu, Asquith’s rich and accomplished junior colleague.    

Early that summer, as Asquith and Stanley met at London parties or at country houses and exchanged letters when they were apart, the British government was initially preoccupied with a crisis over Ireland. It was not until late June that Asquith’s letters began to mention the more serious crisis looming on the continent and that he talked of the possibility of war. 

So many Europeans thought they would never see another major conflict: Europe was such a great continent, leading the world in science and industry, and even civilisation itself. But not for the first time or the last, a turbulent part of the world drew outside powers into a dangerous confrontation.

One of Harris’s many admirable qualities as a novelist is his boldness. He ranges through the past to take on big subjects, whether the end of the Roman republic or the Dreyfus affair, and now one of the biggest puzzles of the 20th century, the outbreak of the first world war. As always, he has done his research to recreate a long-gone world, and yet again he tells a good story. He makes use of the press and of official documents, but the heart of the book is Asquith’s daily letters to Stanley. (Hers to him have not survived but Harris creates plausible responses.) 

The assassination of the heir to the Austrian throne and his wife in Sarajevo on June 28, probably with the connivance of Serbian nationalists, set off the chain of events that led to the war. Austria was determined to finish Serbia and Germany backed it. Russia supported Serbia and its ally France stood by Russia. 

As always, Harris has done his research to recreate a long-gone world, and yet again he tells a good story

As Europe drew closer to the precipice of the title, only one power might have held it back: Britain could have made clear to Germany in those last days of peace that it would fight on France’s side and bring all the power of the British navy to cripple Germany’s economy. Yet the Asquith cabinet was deeply split, and Asquith himself moved only gradually to thinking that Britain ought to intervene.

At the start of August, as Germany launched its full-scale invasion of neutral Belgium and France, the British found they had little choice but to send ground troops to mainland Europe. Asquith continued to write daily to Stanley, often during cabinet meetings while his divided ministers tried to decide how to proceed. 

By September, as British troops were being pushed back, he told Stanley that General Kitchener, the secretary of state for war, had been sent on a secret mission to see if he could salvage the situation.

“You had better keep it quiet for the time being,” Asquith wrote and added, “I don’t think you know how much I love you . . . ” To amuse his beloved, he frequently included such details of British policy, as well as actual secret documents. Did anyone suspect that he was being so indiscreet? Harris suggests, in a subplot, that they did.

As the war became grim reality, Asquith’s letters to Stanley increased in frequency. By 1915 he was often writing twice, even three times, a day. While he repeatedly attested his great love for her, he also begged for replies. His obsessive devotion, and this at a time when the war was going badly for the allies, was close to madness, and even she seemed to find it oppressive.

On May 11, 1915 she wrote to him of her engagement to Montagu. “As you know well,” Asquith replied, “ this breaks my heart.” Their correspondence came to an end but he found consolation in now writing voluminous letters to Stanley’s sister, Sylvia. The novel will leave you wondering whether Stanley had been a useful safety valve for Asquith or a dangerous distraction. 

Precipice by Robert Harris Hutchinson Heinemann £22, 464 pages

Margaret MacMillan is emeritus professor of international history, University of Oxford

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