12 Magical Things To Do in Bergen in Winter (Cosy & Fun!)
Looking for the best things to do in Bergen in winter? You’re in the right place!
Bergen might have a reputation for rain and grey skies, but winter here in this colourful Norwegian city has a quiet charm that most travellers completely overlook.
I spent time exploring Bergen solo this past winter, and honestly, it surprised me in the best possible way!
From bright wooden buildings covered with snow, to the smell of cinnamon buns in a cosy café, to the nearby fjord that looks almost otherworldly under moody winter skies, there is so much to do in Bergen in winter!
And if you’re travelling solo, Bergen is an amazing city to explore! It’s small, feels very safe, and is easily walkable between all of the main attractions shared in this guide.
So, let’s get to it! Here are 12 magical things to do in Bergen in winter – from that iconic harbour viewpoint to easy day trips you’ll actually want to do.
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Is Bergen Worth Visiting in Winter?
Absolutely, yes! Bergen in winter is quietly magical and completely different from the busy summer peak tourist season.
The colourful wooden houses along Bryggen look even more beautiful under a dusting of snow, the surrounding fjords are misty and dramatic, and the whole city slows down and embraces the cosy season in the best way!
But what really makes Bergen worth visiting in winter is just how authentic it feels.
You’ll be exploring alongside locals rather than just crowds of tourists, and you’ll get to experience Norway’s beautiful “koselig” lifestyle, which prioritises warmth and comfort.
I mean, yeah sure, the weather is unpredictable (Bergen is one of the rainiest cities in Europe!), but with good waterproofs and a bit of flexibility, that won’t spoil your trip.
Plus, you’ll experience far fewer queues, low(er!) prices, and a much more local experience.
Katie’s Top Tip: Pack for all seasons! During my trip in February/March, I saw first-hand how Bergen’s winter weather swings from blue skies to heavy rain in minutes. Waterproof shoes and a good-quality waterproof coat are a must. And don’t let the weather put you off – some of the best things to do in Bergen in winter are indoors anyway!
12 BEST Things To Do in Bergen in Winter
1. Explore Colourful Bryggen
The Bryggen Wharf is Bergen’s most famous attraction, and that’s definitely for a good reason!
These iconic, colourful wooden buildings date back to the Hanseatic trading era and line the edge of the harbour like a scene from a charming, traditional fairy tale.
Plus, when you visit Bryggen in winter, the tourist crowds are largely gone and the cute wooden side streets are quiet, so you can really take your time exploring and photographing the tiny alleys and hidden courtyards!
When I visited Bryggen on a Friday in late February, I was alone for most of my visit, only bumping into the occasional other tourist. It was the perfect morning!
I would also recommend you take some time to browse the small galleries and also the artisan shops selling handmade jewellery and ceramics, for the most unique souvenirs or gifts.
And of course, there’s always time to slow down at a cosy café in winter! So I would recommend you also try the most delicious hot chocolate from Kaf Kafe Bryggen.
Katie’s Top Tip: Visit Bryggen in the morning for the best light and fewest people. I visited around 10:30am, and it was super quiet, but I definitely noticed more tourists starting to arrive as I was leaving.
2. Visit Bergenhus Fortress for Panoramic Views
Bergenhus Fortress sits at the end of the harbour, just a short walk from where you have been exploring the Bryggen Wharf.
It is one of the oldest and best-preserved stone fortresses in Norway, dating back to the 1240s.
You can explore the grounds of this impressive fortress for free, admiring the Rosenkrantz Tower and other stone buildings within the complex, as well as spending time in the small, leafy park.
Honestly, wandering through its quiet courtyards felt like stepping back into medieval times!
But if you want to enter the buildings, including the Rosenkrantz Tower, there is a small fee (or included within the Bergen Pass).
The Rosenkrantz Tower alone is well worth the entry, as you can climb up for panoramic views over the city and fjord!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re visiting Bergen in winter and want to enter the Rosenkrantz Tower and other fortress buildings, be sure to check the opening times before you go. To just explore the grounds for free is open all day, but the opening times for the interior are limited.
3. Step Inside Bergen Cathedral
Bergen Cathedral doesn’t always make the top of every tourist list, but it absolutely should!
Originally built in the 12th century and rebuilt several times after devastating fires, it’s one of the oldest buildings still in use in the city.
The interior is simple, with stark stone walls, modest stained-glass windows and wooden pews, but it is still well worth visiting for a small entrance fee (that goes towards supporting the running of this beautiful cathedral).
But, be aware that the opening hours are very limited in winter – currently only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 12-2pm.
So if you want to visit inside, keep that in mind.
Katie’s Top Tip: If the timings don’t work out or you don’t want to visit inside, it’s still worth a photo stop of the beautiful stone exterior!
4. Discover the Hanseatic Museum
The Hanseatic Museum is one of Bergen’s most interesting museums, and it is especially great to visit in winter to escape the cold for a while (and possibly the rain too!)
It tells the story of the German merchants who dominated trade in Bergen for centuries, mostly in the dried fish and grain industries, and gives a glimpse into how they lived and worked along the Bryggen Wharf.
I am definitely the kind of traveller who always loves learning about the history (and especially the human history) of the places I visit, so I found this museum genuinely fascinating.
Plus, the building that houses the Hanseatic Museum is one of the most famous in Bryggen, so at the very least, it is well worth a photo stop!
I would 100% recommend you take at least an hour from your sightseeing to visit this museum in its own right, and learn more about how the Bryggen you see today was shaped.
Katie’s Edit For 2025: Sadly, the original building is currently under renovation, and so the museum is currently closed. However, you can still join a guided tour by appointment only to receive the same information and stories from a passionate local.
5. Bryggen Harbour Viewpoint at Golden Hour
If you only have a short time in Bergen, make sure you at least see colourful Bryggen from across the harbour at golden hour!
(If the weather forecast fails you, this viewpoint is a must-do stop at any time – but golden hour is my favourite).
As the light fades, the colourful wooden buildings of Bryggen glow against the water.
And if you’re lucky enough to get perfect reflections in the water, the whole scene looks like it should be a painting!
I visited on my last day in Bergen, after a rainy and gloomy day, so I definitely didn’t expect anything from my little pre-dinner walk down to the water.
But wow, I was so glad I made the effort!
Just 20 minutes before golden hour, the sun appeared, and I ended up standing and admiring that postcard-perfect view change before my eyes for the next hour.
I will also say that those perfect reflections only lasted a couple of minutes out of the whole hour I was standing there, as boat disturbance and ever-changing light affect it.
So you have to be lucky to see it like this, but it’s well worth waiting for the chance!
And, given it was winter and the day had been so gloomy, I had this iconic view almost all to myself, which just made it even more special!
You’ll find this best Bryggen Harbour viewpoint along the opposite side of the water to Bryggen Wharf, next to Strandkaiterminalen båtkai.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, make sure you plan ahead. So check the weather forecast for the clearest day and then time your visit around sunset (keep in mind that the sun sets early in winter, so this could be 3-4pm!)
6. Take a Winter Fjord Cruise to Mostraumen
Taking a fjord cruise from Bergen to Mostraumen is one of the best things to do in Bergen in winter (and was my personal favourite day trip from Bergen!)
The three-hour round trip sails through narrow fjords to pass dramatic mountains, half-frozen waterfalls and tiny coastal villages.
Most visitors to Norway associate fjord cruises with summer, but in my experience, the winter actually makes them even more dramatic!
I mean, just look at this incredible lighting:
This photo hasn’t been filtered or edited in any way, and yet it almost appears black and white! (My inner photographer loved this day trip to Mostraumen!)
I did this Mostraumen fjord cruise solo, on my last day in Bergen before joining the Norway Coastal Express, and I have to say it’s one of my favourite memories from my entire trip!
I stood outside on deck for most of the trip, heading to sit inside occasionally by the huge panoramic windows whenever I got just a bit too cold!
It’s the perfect way to experience Norway’s more wild and natural landscapes without even having to leave Bergen.
Katie’s Top Tip: Dress warmly. The best photo opportunities and views are out on deck, so if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to be out there, whatever the weather. Bring gloves you can still use your phone or camera with, and head straight to the top deck of the boat when boarding for the best views as you sail through the fjords.
7. Visit St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is one of Bergen’s oldest surviving buildings – a small Romanesque church with two bell towers from the 12th century.
It’s located just behind Bryggen and is often missed by tourists, but that’s what makes it such a lovely, peaceful stop (especially in winter!)
Like Bergen Cathedral, there is a small entrance fee to visit inside, but it is well worth the cost.
The interior is home to intricate medieval carvings, Romanesque artworks, and a stunning altar that somehow survived multiple devastating city fires.
It’s also a beautiful reminder of Bergen’s connection to the Hanseatic era, since this was where the German merchants once came to pray.
Katie’s Top Tip: Opening hours are limited in winter (currently only open on Thursdays and Fridays 12-2pm), so check online before you visit. But even if it’s closed, it’s worth walking by to admire the beautiful twin bell towers!
8. Ride the Mount Fløyen Funicular
You can’t visit Bergen without taking the funicular up to Mount Fløyen!
This is easily one of the best things to do in Bergen in any season, but in winter it feels extra special.
The funicular ride only takes about 6 minutes, taking you on tracks above the city until you reach the spectacular viewpoint 320m up.
From the top, you’ll see all of Bergen set out below your feet, from the colourful buildings of the city, the bustling harbour, and the surrounding islands, fjords and mountains.
I visited in the morning, just after the funicular opened, and it was really quiet.
But when I was heading back down (around 11:30am), it was a lot busier – so, even in winter, earlier is better at this popular Bergen tourist attraction!
Then, once you’re at the top, you can do as much or as little as you want.
There are scenic walking trails to explore, a cosy café where you can warm up whilst admiring the panoramic views, of course, the incredible viewing platform, and even some resident goats (if you can find them!)
One of the more unique things I especially loved was that Mount Fløyen is home to the live webcam feed over Bergen. I arranged with my Grandad to watch when I went up, and he had a lot of fun trying to spot me on the feed!
Katie’s Top Tip: Buy your funicular ticket online to skip the queues and check the weather before you go. Of course, clear days give you the best, far-reaching views, but even moody skies make great photos! When I went up, I experienced a bit of both. I started with a rainbow and drizzle, but then the sun came out – it really is that unpredictable!
9. Warm Up in Bergen’s Cosy Cafés
One of my favourite things about visiting Bergen in winter is how good the café culture is!
Norwegians have mastered the art of “kos,” which translates as a cosy, comforting atmosphere from things like comfy seating, soft lighting, warm drinks and friendly conversation.
And let me tell you, after a full day of exploring the best things to do in Norway in winter (probably in the rain!), finding a little café to relax in is just perfect.
Some of my top picks for the best cafés in Bergen are:
- Kaffemisjonen
- Blom
- Det Lille Kaffekompaniet
Katie’s Top Tip: For my top tip, I just have to give an extra special mention to the café and bakery Godt Brød, which does the most amazing cinnamon buns!
10. Take a Day Trip on the Flåm Railway
If you’re looking for one of the most iconic things to do in Bergen in winter, take a day trip to hop on board the Flåm Railway.
This iconic train route winds from the mountain station of Myrdal down to the tiny fjord village of Flåm – and it’s been rated as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world!
Especially in winter, the route feels magical, passing frozen waterfalls, tiny villages and snow-covered clifftops that only add to the atmosphere of this place.
I took this journey in February, and I just loved watching the landscape change through the window.
To take this day trip from Bergen is easy; you just need to:
- Take the F4 train from Bergen to Myrdal (which takes around 1 hour 50 minutes)
- Then join the connecting R45 train to Flåm (which takes around 50 minutes)
- Once you’re in Flåm, you can either get a later return service and repeat the journey in the opposite direction
- OR, you can hop on the scenic ferry to Gudvangen before catching a dedicated bus to Voss and then the F4 train back to Bergen
You can do this as a long full-day trip from Bergen or book a hotel and stay overnight in beautiful Flåm, if you prefer to enjoy this trip at a slower pace.
Katie’s Top Tip: Sit on the right-hand side of the train when travelling from Myrdal to Flåm for the best views of the valley!
11. Winter Walk Around Lille Lungegårdsvannet
Right in the heart of Bergen is Lille Lungegårdsvannet, a small lake that is one of the city’s most peaceful spots in winter!
I noticed a lot of locals coming here for a quiet walk or to grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafés to sit on a bench to people watch.
It’s such a simple thing to do in Bergen (and is so underrated with tourists), but that’s what makes this spot so special!
Plus, Lille Lungegårdsvannet is lined with the cutest row of colourful, traditional Norwegian buildings. And when the lighting is right, that leads to the most beautiful reflections in the lake.
You can walk a full loop of the lake in 15 minutes or even less, but I’d definitely allow longer to take photos, people-watch, and relax on a bench for a while if the weather allows.
Katie’s Top Tip: Grab a takeaway coffee and cinnamon bun from nearby Godt Brød Bakery before your walk, and you’ll look just like a local!
12. Join the Coastal Express to See Norway’s Winter Coast
If you want an experience that is truly unique, joining the Coastal Express (either with Havila or Hurtigruten) is definitely one of the best things to do in Bergen in winter!
This classic route follows Norway’s rugged coastline all the way north to Kirkenes, sailing past remote lighthouses, snow-covered mountains, sleepy fishing villages and dramatic fjords that you can only see from the sea.
Plus, you might even catch a glimpse of those ever-elusive Northern Lights from the deck, if you’re lucky!
This past March, I took the full round trip with Havila Voyages as a solo female traveller, and it was hands-down my favourite solo trip I have ever done – even after visiting 24 countries and counting!
I just loved waking up to different landscapes every morning, relaxing in the panorama lounge, spotting the Northern Lights from the deck at night, and sharing conversations and memories with my fellow passengers.
I made memories on that voyage that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
But the best part of it for me was that it isn’t just another flashy cruise.
The Coastal Express route is serviced by real, working coastal ferries/post ships that connect the most remote communities that you would never get the chance to visit in any other way.
You get a rare, authentic look at Norway’s local life that most visitors will never see!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re curious about whether the Coastal Express is actually worth it, I’ve put together a detailed solo traveller’s guide and review of the Norway Coastal Express in winter, based on my own experiences sailing this iconic route in February and March!
Where to Stay in Bergen in Winter
Accommodation in Bergen is notoriously expensive, especially if you’re travelling solo (like me!) and don’t have anyone to share costs with, so picking the right place to stay is so important.
I personally stayed at Citybox Bergen, and it was perfect for my trip!
The hotel is modern, the rooms are comfy and clean, the location is central, and (best of all!) it has a small kitchen area where I could make my own meals.
Having a kitchen might sound like a tiny thing, but when you’re travelling solo in Norway (and want to save on expensive restaurants), it makes a huge difference!
But, if you prefer a hotel right in the heart of Bryggen, with real wow-factor for your stay, I also have to recommend the iconic Radisson Blu Royal Hotel!
Making up part of the iconic Bryggen skyline, the Radisson Blu Hotel is as close to these best things to do in Bergen in winter as you can get, with comfy rooms, beautiful views over the harbour or old town, and a delicious breakfast.
Who wouldn’t want to stay in the heart of such an iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site?!
Katie’s Top Tip: Staying in the city centre of Bergen really helps in winter, as you can easily walk to most places (even when it’s snowing or raining!), without having to rely on public transport or expensive taxis.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to Norway and wondering what the best things to do in Bergen in winter actually are, I hope this guide has helped you to see that this beautiful, colourful city is so much more than a stopover!
Bergen is truly charming in winter, with cosy cafés, misty fjords and plenty to see and do, from watching the sunset at the iconic Bryggen Harbour viewpoint to walking around the picturesque Lille Lungegårdsvannet with its glassy reflections.
Plus, winter is also when Bergen feels most authentic and local.
You can explore Bryggen without the usual tourist crowds, ride the Fløibanen up to the most panoramic views, or take a peaceful fjord cruise past frozen waterfalls.
But whatever you end up picking from this list, don’t rush through Bergen.
Some of my favourite moments in Bergen weren’t on my itinerary, and yet they are the memories that stay with me. I encourage you to get out and explore without a map for at least a while, and find that for yourself too!
FAQs About Visiting Bergen in Winter
What’s Bergen’s winter weather like?
Let’s be honest, Bergen’s winter weather has a bit of a reputation as one of Europe’s rainiest cities (and yes, you can definitely tell!)
But Bergen in winter isn’t miserable, it’s just moody, and that only adds to the beauty and atmosphere of the city!
Bergen’s temperatures average around 0°C to 5°C, so it’s rarely freezing. The wind chill and rainfall are what you most need to be prepared for.
What are the best things to do in Bergen in winter?
Here’s a quick round-up if you’re short on time! These are the absolute best things to do in Bergen in winter:
– Take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views
– Visit the beautiful Bergen Cathedral and St. Mary’s Church
– Ride the incredibly picturesque Flåm Railway
– Explore the colourful wooden houses of Bryggen
– Visit Bergenhus Fortress and learn about the city’s history
– Take a winter walk around Lille Lungegårdsvannet Lake
– Join a Mostraumen Fjord Cruise for spectacular scenery
– Cosy up in a local café (don’t miss the cinnamon buns at Godt Brød!)
– Admire the view from the Bryggen Harbour Viewpoint at golden hour
– Join the Coastal Express to see Norway’s spectacular coastline
How many days do you need in Bergen?
For most visitors, 2 to 3 full days in Bergen is perfect.
That gives you enough time to see all the best things to do in Bergen in winter, including exploring the iconic Bryggen Wharf and taking the funicular up to Mount Fløyen. Plus, you will still have time for a day trip like the Flåm Railway or a Mostraumen Fjord cruise.
If you have longer, you can easily extend your stay to 4 or 5 days to tick off all of the Bergen attractions in this guide. Or even add the Coastal Express, potentially taking your full trip to 12 days, plus however long you want to spend in Bergen before or after.
Personally, I spent 3 days in Bergen before joining the 12-day Coastal Express round-trip.
What’s the best time to visit Bergen?
Bergen is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit Bergen really depends entirely on your travel style and what you want to see and do.
Summer (June–August) has long daylight hours, festivals, and fjord sightseeing in full swing. But it’s also the most popular (and therefore busiest and most expensive) time to visit Bergen.
Winter in Bergen (November–March) is quieter, cheaper and feels more authentic, as you’ll share the city with locals rather than huge cruise ship crowds. I personally visited Bergen in February and March.
Is Bergen safe for solo female travellers?
Yes! I found Bergen felt very safe for me as a solo female traveller.
Norway consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, and Bergen’s small size, friendly locals, and great walkability make it an easy city to explore solo.
But, of course, normal solo travel safety precautions should still apply.
So always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in touristy areas like Bryggen or the fish market. And use common sense if you’re out walking alone at night, for example don’t walk down unlit backstreets.
For more tips and advice, check out my full guide: Is Norway Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Is Bergen expensive to visit?
Yes, Bergen (like the rest of Norway and Scandinavia) is expensive to visit, especially if you compare it to visiting Southern Europe.
Expenses like tours and boat trips, eating out, and accommodation quickly add up – but there are ways to make it more affordable.
Staying somewhere like Citybox Bergen (that has a shared kitchen) allows you to cook at least some of your own meals. This saved me a lot of money when I visited Bergen!
Plus, most of Bergen’s best attractions, like exploring Bryggen Wharf and its iconic harbour viewpoint, walking around the lake, or even enjoying Mount Fløyen’s hiking trails, are all completely free.
And another benefit of visiting Bergen in winter is that prices drop outside peak season, helping out with cheaper accommodation and flights.
Read More About Travel in Norway:
- 11 Things To Do in Oslo in Winter (That Aren’t Just Museums)
- 12 Magical Things To Do in Bergen in Winter (Cosy & Fun!)
- Norway Coastal Express in Winter: Solo Travel Guide + Review
- Svolvaer Travel Guide (+ 7 Things To Do in Svolvaer, Norway)
- The BEST Northern Lights Tour From Tromsø (Review + Tips!)
- Is Norway Safe For Solo Female Travellers? (+ Safety Tips)
- 15 BEST Things to Do in Tromsø in Winter for First-Timers
