Where to Stay in Bergen (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
Choosing where to stay in Bergen can feel surprisingly overwhelming for a small city – especially when you’re travelling solo and want somewhere safe, central and actually nice to come back to at the end of a long day of sightseeing.
When I planned my own solo trip to Bergen, I spent a lot of time comparing neighbourhoods, reading reviews and considering safety, location and price.
I found there are so many good options, but they’re not all good for the same reasons!
So in this guide, I’ll share where I stayed, the other hotels I considered, the best areas to stay in Bergen, and how to pick the right neighbourhood depending on your solo travel style!
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Best Hotels in Bergen Overall
If you just want the best accommodation in Bergen, these are my top overall picks.
- Citybox Bergen: A basic, comfortable, central stay close to the train station and main sights. Perfect if you want affordability without compromising on location.
- Radisson Blu Royal Hotel: Located right on the iconic, UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, with comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
- Clarion Hotel Admiral: A quieter waterfront location on the Nordnes Peninsula, but still an easy walk to Bryggen and the city centre.
- Thon Hotel Bristol: A well-located choice just off the main square in Bergen, with comfy rooms and amazing breakfasts.
- Hotel Norge by Scandic: A central, luxury hotel with spa facilities, a pool and beautiful views. Ideal if you want to treat yourself!
Things to Consider When Booking Your Bergen Accommodation
Choosing where to stay in Bergen as a solo traveller isn’t just about finding a nice hotel, but about the location of that accommodation.
Bergen is compact and feels very safe overall, but the experience of staying somewhere central vs slightly out feels very different, especially when walking alone in the evening or bad weather.
For me, the biggest factors I considered were safety, walkability, and proximity to things I actually wanted to do.
Central areas have better lighting, more foot traffic, are flat, and have well-maintained pavements (which definitely matters if you get winter snow!)
Another big consideration is public transport access. Being close to the main train station, the Bybanen (light rail) or Hurtigruten terminal makes arrival and departure days much smoother.
Tour pickup or starting points (for example, to Mostraumen Fjord) are also generally located in central Bergen.
Finally, you have to consider budget because yes, Bergen isn’t cheap! But paying a bit more for central accommodation is absolutely worth it. The peace of mind you get is so important.
Katie’s Top Tip: In Bergen, location beats everything else. A simple hotel with good reviews in a central area will give you way more comfort and confidence than a cheaper option further out!
Best Neighbourhoods in Bergen for Solo Travellers
Bergen is a small, walkable city, and most central areas are safe and great for solo travellers.
And the difference between the different neighbourhoods isn’t about safety but convenience.
Let’s get into the four best neighbourhoods in Bergen for solo travellers, who they’re best for, things to do nearby and, most importantly, my top hotel recommendations for each!
Bergen Sentrum: Central Convenience
Bergen Sentrum (the city centre) is one of the easiest and most comfortable places to stay in Bergen as a solo traveller, especially if this is your first time visiting the city.
This is the heart of the city, with shops, restaurants, cafes, museums, and most of the amazing things to do in Bergen all in easy walking distance.
Staying in Bergen Sentrum also means you’re walkable to the main train station and Bybanen light rail (including the airport line). Plus, you can also easily walk or take a taxi to the Hurtigruten port.
It’s also one of the best-lit and busiest areas in the city, which makes walking around at night feel a lot safer as a solo female traveller, especially.
I also liked how flat this area is. When the weather turns (and in Bergen, it definitely will!), being able to walk safely without steep hills or slippery backstreets makes a big difference.
It’s best for solo travellers who:
- Are visiting Bergen for the first time
- Want to easily visit all of the best things to do in Bergen
- Need to be close to public transport links
Things to do nearby:
- Explore Torgallmenningen, Bergen’s main square and shopping street
- Visit the KODE Museum
- Walk to the Fish Market or historic Bryggen Wharf
Best Hotels in Bergen Sentrum
Hotel Norge by Scandic
Hotel Norge by Scandic is one of the most luxurious hotels in Bergen, Norway!
This hotel is located right in the heart of the city, with beautiful, thoughtfully designed rooms, many of them offering stunning views over the city or surrounding mountains.
One of the biggest highlights at this hotel is the wellness area, with a full-service spa, sauna and pool – perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing!
Breakfast is also amazing, which makes mornings feel easier and more relaxed.
And, of course, the location is hard to beat, too. You’re right near Byparken for the light rail, shops, things to do, and restaurants, so getting around never feels stressful!
Scandic Byparken
Scandic Byparken is a great mid-range option if you want somewhere modern and comfortable, but still very central and well-connected.
It’s located right next to the Bybanen light rail stop, which means easy airport transfers and simple transport around the city, which is a big benefit for solo travellers!
Rooms at the hotel are clean, modern and practical, with a comfortable bed, a TV, free WIFI and a private bathroom.
You’re also within easy walking distance of Bergen’s main attractions, shops, restaurants and cafés, so you’re never stuck relying on public transport day-to-day.
I think this hotel offers a great balance between price, comfort and central convenience!
Thon Hotel Bristol
Thon Hotel Bristol is another great choice if a central location is your top priority, as it sits just off Torgallmenningen (Bergen’s main square).
This means you’re surrounded by shops, cafés, restaurants and things to do, plus constant foot traffic, so you won’t feel isolated – even walking back after dinner in the evening.
The rooms are comfortable, cosy, and all have free WIFI and private bathrooms, but the real standout feature is the included breakfast!
Thon hotels are well-known across Norway for their breakfasts, which are generous, balanced and use delicious local ingredients as much as possible.
Plus, having breakfast at your hotel before heading out to sightsee means there’s one less thing to have to figure out each morning!
Budgetel
Budgetel – Kong Oscars gate 44 is a good option if you want a private room in Bergen Sentrum without a high price tag.
Rooms are basic but comfortable, and you’re still close to everything – with shops, transport, restaurants, and main attractions all within easy walking distance.
You also get free WIFI, and some rooms even have access to their own kitchen facilities.
This is a good choice for solo travellers who want a central location but are happy with simpler accommodation to save money in a notoriously expensive city (and country!)
It’s particularly good if you’re spending most of your time out exploring and just need a reliable place to sleep.
Bryggen: Stay in Iconic Bergen
Bryggen is Bergen’s postcard-perfect harbourfront (and yes, I can confirm it really is as beautiful in real life as it looks in photos – especially at golden hour!)
If it’s your first time in the city and you want to wake up surrounded by Bergen’s most historic, colourful and iconic buildings, Bryggen is the most memorable part of Bergen to call home.
This UNESCO World Heritage sits right on the harbour, which is a central location just a few minutes’ walk from Mostraumen fjord tour departures, the famous Fish Market, museums, and the Fløibanen funicular.
It’s incredibly central, walkable and always busy during the day and into the evening.
However, Bryggen does feel more touristy than the other neighbourhoods in Bergen, and of course, accommodation here is a lot pricier too.
It’s ideal for a first visit to Bergen when you want everything right outside your door and don’t mind paying extra for a truly iconic location!
It’s best for solo travellers who:
- Are visiting Bergen for the first time
- Want to stay in a UNESCO World Heritage site!
- Want all of the best things to do in Bergen on their doorstep
Things to do nearby:
- Walk through Bryggen’s wooden alleys
- Ride the Fløibanen funicular
- Join a boat tour to Mostraumen Fjord
Best Hotels in Bryggen
Det Hanseatiske Hotel
If you want a hotel that feels like an experience in itself, Det Hanseatiske Hotel is very hard to beat!
It’s located inside a traditional 16th-century wooden building right in the heart of Bryggen, so it’s a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Staying here genuinely feels like stepping back in time to the Hanseatic era, with wooden beams and historic details everywhere (but it’s still a comfortable hotel, don’t worry!)
Despite the old charm, the rooms are warm, cosy, luxurious and thoughtfully designed, with comfortable beds, free WIFI and private bathrooms.
A delicious, free buffet breakfast is also included in your stay.
You’re also located right on the Bryggen wharf, so museums, cafés, restaurants and all of the best things to do in Bergen are just steps away!
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel
The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel is one of the most recognisable hotels in Bergen, as it forms part of the colourful Bryggen waterfront.
If you’ve seen photos of Bryggen, you’ve seen this hotel!
And in terms of location, it really doesn’t get more central, which makes it a great base for solo travellers who want the ultimate convenient and walkable location to stay.
Inside, the hotel is modern, spacious and very comfortable, with well-designed rooms, free WIFI and private bathrooms.
It’s a great option if you love the idea of staying in historic Bryggen but prefer the more modern comforts!
You can easily walk to most attractions, restaurants and shops, and the area stays busy into the evening so that it never really feels isolated.
There is also a breakfast buffet available and a restaurant on-site.
Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz
Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz is another great option if you want modern comfort right in the heart of the historic Bryggen wharf.
Rooms here are modern, comfortable and thoughtfully laid out, all with private bathrooms, a TV and free WIFI.
But the real standout here, again, is the free breakfast!
As I said earlier, Thon hotels across Norway are famous for them, and having the option right at your hotel makes mornings so much easier!
Location-wise, you’re in the perfect spot to explore Bryggen, the city centre and nearby viewpoints within an easy walk.
Nordnes: Quiet, Local & Coastal Walks
Nordnes is a more local neighbourhood that feels very calm compared to the busier parts of central Bergen and Bryggen.
Located outside of the city centre (but not too far away to feel isolated), this peninsula is residential, calm and incredibly scenic.
If you love slow mornings, a more local vibe, sea views and pretty walks, Nordnes is lovely!
Plus, most parts of Nordnes are still walkable to the centre in around 10–20 minutes.
It’s best for solo travellers who:
- Prefer quiet evenings over nightlife
- Love scenic walks and being near the water
- Enjoy a more local feel
Things to do nearby:
- Walk in Nordnes park and along the coastal path
- Visit the Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet)
- Enjoy a swim at Nordnes Sjøbad
Best Hotels in Nordnes
Clarion Hotel Admiral
Clarion Hotel Admiral is the perfect choice if you want modern comfort and a slightly quieter base to stay, while still being close enough to walk everywhere.
It’s located right on the waterfront in Nordnes, with beautiful views across the harbour (which is especially lovely in the early mornings or early evenings, around golden hour!)
The rooms of the hotel are spacious, modern and comfortable, all with private bathrooms, a TV, free WIFI and a delicious free breakfast included.
I really like this area for solo travellers because it’s calm at night, still well-lit, and feels local rather than touristy, but you’re still only an easy walk from Bryggen and central Bergen.
Comfort Hotel Bergen
Comfort Hotel Bergen is a great option if you want a hotel that’s well-located, clean and comfortable without paying luxury prices.
The rooms are simple but well-designed, with private bathrooms, free WIFI and everything you actually need for a good night’s sleep after a full day of sightseeing around Bergen.
And in terms of location, it’s also a great option. You’re close to the famous Fish Market, Bryggen, and the city centre, all within walking distance.
Breakfast is also included, which I always think is a huge win as it saves you money in a notoriously expensive city and makes your mornings feel more relaxed!
Nygård: Best for Budget Travellers
Nygård is where I stayed in Bergen, and is located just south of Bergen Sentrum.
It is home to Bergen University, a number of museums and some of the city’s more affordable but still central accommodation.
This area has a younger vibe thanks to the student population, which means there are plenty of cafés, bakeries and casual places to eat.
It’s lively during the day, relaxed in the evenings, and well-connected by public transport.
Nygård is also close to the main train station and Bybanen, which makes arrival, departure, day trips and exploring the best things to do in Bergen straightforward!
It’s best for solo travellers who:
- Want more affordable accommodation
- Enjoy café culture
- Like being close to transport hubs
Things to do nearby:
- Explore the KODE Museums
- Café-hop around Nygårdshøyden
- Easily walk into the centre of Bergen
Best Hotels in Nygård
Citybox Bergen City (Where I Stayed!)
Citybox Bergen City is where I stayed during my own solo trip to Bergen in March, and it’s a lot more affordable than the Bergen Sentrum hotels, while still being within walking distance.
The hotel is simple, but with modern and comfortable rooms and, most importantly, it’s centrally located just 5 minutes from the train station and 20 minutes from Bryggen.
Rooms are basic but clean, with comfortable beds, private bathrooms and free WIFI.
There’s also a shared kitchen, which is a huge bonus if you want to save money on food! I used the kitchen for dinner each evening, with supplies from the nearby supermarket.
The hotel is also close to the main train station and within walking distance of most major attractions, so getting around felt easy and stress-free.
There is also a small but lovely roof terrace with city views you can use.
Hotel Park Bergen
Hotel Park Bergen is located inside a beautiful 19th-century building in Nygård and feels very calm and elegant!
The rooms are comfortable and spacious, with a private bathroom, free WIFI and a TV.
There is also a delicious free buffet breakfast included in the price of your stay.
Plus, the surrounding neighbourhood is quiet and feels very safe and local, but is still close to the city centre without being overwhelmingly busy.
You’re within walking distance of major attractions, public transport, shops and restaurants, but evenings here feel a lot more peaceful.
Comparing Neighbourhoods in Bergen
If you’re feeling stuck choosing where to stay in Bergen, this is the simple decision guide I used for my trip:
If you want easy walkability, safety and zero logistics stress (especially for a first visit):
→ Bergen Sentrum, Thon Hotel Bristol
If you want to stay right in the postcard-famous part of the city:
→ Bryggen, Radisson Blu Royal
If you want something calmer and more luxurious but still walkable to everything:
→ Nordnes, Clarion Hotel Admiral
If you want a younger vibe, more affordable hotels and easy transport connections:
→ Nygård, Citybox Bergen
8 Quick Tips for Booking Hotels in Bergen
- Prioritise location over everything else
- Always READ recent reviews (don’t just look at the overall number)
- Try and book a hotel with a good breakfast (or a shared kitchen)
- Private bathroom = peace of mind when solo travelling
- Book early if you’re visiting in high season (May to September)
- Look for keycard access and/or staffed reception
- Don’t underestimate the hills and weather (a central location matters)
- Always be wary of places that feel too cheap to be true (book reputably)
Final Thoughts: Best Places to Stay in Bergen as a Solo Traveller
Choosing where to stay in Bergen matters as a solo traveller, as you need to pick both a hotel AND a neighbourhood that feels safe, comfortable and easy to navigate.
Bergen is compact, walkable and generally a very safe city, but the right neighbourhood and hotel will still completely shape how relaxed and comfortable you feel during your trip.
After spending time researching and staying in Bergen myself, my biggest piece of advice is that there’s no single best option for everyone in Bergen.
Bergen Sentrum is ideal if you want convenience and walkability, Bryggen is perfect if you want a bucket-list stay in Bergen’s most iconic wharf, and Nordnes or Nygård are lovely if you prefer somewhere more local while still being close to everything.
When you know where you’re staying works for your travel style, you’ll automatically enjoy your trip to Norway’s prettiest city even more – without unnecessary stress!
FAQs: Where to Stay in Bergen as a Solo Traveller
Is Bergen safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, Bergen is generally very safe for solo female travellers, and it’s the Norwegian city I felt most comfortable exploring alone!
Crime rates are low, streets are well-lit, and there’s a steady level of foot traffic in central areas well into the evening. Even when I was out in the evening, the city felt calm and comfortable.
But, of course, safe doesn’t mean you can ignore your solo travel safety habits.
I’d still recommend sticking to well-lit streets at night and choosing accommodation in one of the best neighbourhoods in Bergen, mentioned in this guide.
How do you get around Bergen?
Bergen is easy to get around, especially if you stay central.
Most major sights, restaurants, museums and neighbourhoods are walkable from Bergen Sentrum, which is why it’s one of the best areas to stay in Bergen for solo travellers.
For longer distances, Bergen’s public transport is reliable and easy to use. The light rail (Bybanen) connects the airport to the city, and buses cover areas like Nordnes and Nygård.
You don’t need a car in Bergen and honestly, I wouldn’t recommend one, as difficult parking and the narrow streets make for a stressful experience!
What are the best budget hotels in Bergen?
Bergen isn’t a cheap city, but there are good budget-friendly options that still feel safe and comfortable for solo travellers.
Citybox Bergen City (where I stayed!) is one of the best value hotels in Bergen, as it’s modern, central, walkable to the train station and top attractions, has private bathrooms, and offers a shared kitchen.
Is it worth paying extra to stay in Bergen city centre?
In my opinion, yes! For most solo travellers, it’s absolutely worth it.
Staying in Bergen city centre means you can walk almost everywhere, pop back to your hotel if the weather turns, and avoid navigating public transport.
But being in the city centre doesn’t mean you need to stay right on the main square. Areas like Nordnes or Nygård still give you walkability without the busyness (and prices) of staying in Sentrum or Bryggen.
Read More About Travel in Norway:
- Northbound vs Southbound Norway Coastal Express: Compared
- What to Wear in Norway in Winter? (+ Norway Packing List)
- How to Plan a Trip to Norway in Winter (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Norway vs Iceland in Winter: Ultimate Solo Travel Comparison
- Where to Stay in Bergen (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Where to Stay in Tromsø (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Hurtigruten vs Havila: Which is Best For Solo Travellers?
- Is Saltstraumen Worth Visiting from Bodø? (+ What to Expect)
- How to Get Around Norway in Winter (Without a Car!)
- How to Visit Trollfjord: Northern Norway’s Most Iconic Fjord
- How to Visit Mostraumen Fjord (Bergen’s Best Day Trip!)
- 7 Things To Do in Hammerfest (Hammerfest Travel Guide)
- Mount Aksla Hike: How to Find the Best Ålesund Viewpoint
- 8 BEST Things To Do in Brønnøysund, Norway: Havila Port Stop
- 21 Most Beautiful Places in Norway You Have To Visit
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