15 minute read
Explore and enjoy Bergen like a local.
Explore and enjoy Bergen like a local
By Pia Cernic, born and raised in Bergen
Are you like me when visiting different cities and countries? You don’t want to follow the tourist tracks, but rather explore and use the city like the locals do.
Find those small and special places, and when visiting the must-see attractions and activities, get some tips that will make them even more special.
I will try to guide you, and hopefully you will come to love Bergen as much as I do.
STARTING WITH SOME FACTS
Bergen is packed with beautiful small alleys with picturesque houses, special shops and plenty of places to eat or to just relax and enjoy the scenery.
You have probably heard that it rains a lot in Bergen. Well, how do you define rain? If it’s just a drizzle, it’s not “raining” for a bergenser. It actually doesn’t rain as much as people would like you to believe.
Anyhow, if the weather forecast predicts rain, just bring a small umbrella and you are set to meet Bergen: The capital of the fjords, the city surrounded by seven mountains, Norway’s second largest city measured by population.
Depending on how many days you spend in Bergen, the things to do and sights to see are nearly endless.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The best way to see and explore Bergen is by foot. Bergen is a walk-friendly city. By foot you will be able to enjoy all the small quirky streets and alleys. Perhaps you’ll get lost in the cobble streets surrounded by charming wooden houses, but you will always find your way back to the starting point.
Do you want to cover more ground, and have limited time, make use of the City bikes.
Are you eager to visit the Stave Church, The home of Ole Bull or Edvard Grieg’s Troldhaugen situated in the outskirts of Bergen city, you could rent a car. All the big rental companies have offices in Bergen.
When buying a ticket on a bus, Bybanen or the Expressen ferry from the local transportation company Skyss, the ticket will be valid for 90min, and to be used on either of them.
TIP: Take the local ferry Expressen to Kleppestø, a short 15 min. sea ride each way, only stopping to unload and upload passengers before heading back to Bergen City. Go outside (upstairs), and get a perfect view of the city and its seven surrounding mountains.
MEETING THE LOCALS
People from Norway can come across as a bit shy and reserved. On the other hand, when out in the nature, we greet everyone we meet, either we know them or not. It’s nearly expected to do so!
We are very proud of our city. In fact, there is a saying here in Bergen: I am not from Norway, I am from Bergen.
If you need to ask for directions, we are more than happy to guide you – and most of us are fluent in English (that s what you get for being a small nation, you need to learn English from an early age).
ATTRACTIONS
Tip: Book a personal guided tour at Bergen Aquarium
Photo: Akvariet
Bergen Aquarium
Akvariet, www.akvariet.no OPENING HOURS: 09-18.
PRICES: Adult/child: 230/170 NOK Family 2+2: 670 NOK
If you love penguins, seals and all with water, this is a must, regardless of age.
TIP: Book a personal guided tour.
Bryggen
TIP: Walk over to the other side of the wharf, which is the best place for taking photos of Bryggen.
Photo: Pia Cernic
Bryggen Museum, Schøtstuene, www.hanseatiskemuseum.museumvest.no
One of the biggest attractions in Bergen, and on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage.
Stroll the navrrow alleyways, and you will find small shops and cafe’s.
TIP: Walk over to the other side of the wharf, which is the best place for taking photos of Bryggen.
KODE museums
TIP: There are lovely restaurants and cafe’s at the museums. Bien Centro at KODE 1, Smakverket Café at KODE 2 and Lysverket at KODE 4.
Photo: Kodebergen
www.kodebergen.no
There are four KODE museums downtown Bergen, all within walking distance around the pond Lille Lungegårdsvann. The others are Troldhaugen, Lysøen and Siljustøl outside the city.
TIP: There are lovely restaurants and cafe’s at the museums. Bien Centro at KODE 1, Smakverket Café at KODE 2 and Lysverket at KODE 4.
ACTIVITIES
Mount Fløyen
TIP: Walk down, there are three roads that will take you downtown.
Photo: Pia Cernic
www.floyen.no
Fløien, the most popular mountain that surrounds our city, is easy to reach either by Fløibanen funicular, but also by foot. It will take you around 45 min. to walk up to the top, depending on speed. Bergensere love to go hiking. On weekends, Fløibanen is always packed with people going for a hike.
PRICES: Adult/child: One way: 50/25 NOK. Return: 95/50 NOK. Family 2+2: 240 NOK
FUNICULAR OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 07:30-23 Sat./Sun. 08-23.
TIP: Walk down, there are three roads that will take you downtown.
Mount Ulriken
TIP: Book a table for “Ulriken by Night” at Sky: Skraperen restaurant.
Photo: Pia Cernic
www.ulriken643.no/en
You can either take the tramway, or hike all the way up on the new and very popular path called “Oppstemten”. It consists of 1500 stairs, built by Nepalian Sherpas. It is demanding, but rewards you with breathtaking views.
PRICES: Adult/child: One way: 115/80 NOK. Return: 175/105 NOK. Family 2+2: 470 NOK
OPENING HOURS: Every day 09-21.
TIP: Book a table for “Ulriken by Night” at Sky: Skraperen restaurant.
Barry’s Bootcamp
TIP: The morning classes are cooler if the weather is warm.
Photo: Pia Cernic
Bergen, Nonnesetergaten 4, next to the bus terminal.
If you want real HIIT-training, this is the place. One hour of treadmill and floor, mixed with super music and skillful instructors giving you Barry’s the Norwegian way.
A perfect mix of women and men, different fitness levels and ages. Enjoy the positivity in the room. You can buy classes online at www.barrysbootcamp.com.
TIP: The morning classes are cooler if the weather is warm.
Nordnes Sjøbad
TIP: Go there for a morning swim. It opens at 07:00, so it will be just you and the locals.
Photo: Adoarena
Nordnesparken 30, www.adoarena.no/nordnes-sjobad
When the summer heat sweeps Bergen city, a cooling bath at Nordnes Sjøbad is recommended. Take a dip in the ocean, or chill by the pool. Bring your blanket or towel, and find a sunny spot on the grass.
PRICES: Adult/child: 85/35 NOK, Family 2+2: 180 NOK
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 07-20, Sat./Sun. 10-20.
TIP: Go there for a morning swim. It opens at 07:00, so it will be just you and the locals.
PLACES TO EAT
Lysverket
TIP: Try the set menu – never disappoints, always amazing.
Photo: David Torch
Rasmus Meyers allé 9, KODE 4 www.lysverket.no
One of Bergen’s best Restaurants, serving local, pure and beautiful food.
Neo-fjordic cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local produce.
They have also been featured in The New York Times.
OPENING HOURS: Dinner Tue.-Sat. 18-24, Café: Tue.-Sun. 12-15:30
TIP: Try the set menu – never disappoints, always amazing.
Fish Me
TIP: Try the pink Princess kaviar (natural dye), and the smoked salmon is a must.
Photo: Fish Me
Mathallen, FishMarket, www.fishme.no
This is both a restaurant and a shop, with their own fish counter.You can either sit inside or outside, and enjoy some fish snacks or a full Shellfish platter. I just love prawns, crab claws and the juiciness of the king crab.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Sun. 08-23
TIP: Try the pink Princess kaviar (natural dye), and the smoked salmon is a must.
Pergola Mat & Vinbar
TIP: Sit outside and enjoy a glass of wine recommended by Bjørn, the owner.
Photo: Tripadvisor
Nedre Korskirkeallmenning 2b, www.pergola.no
This hidden gem, with a small backyard, is so special and relaxing.
They have a wide selection of wine, and also offers cheese and charcuterie board.
TIP: Sit outside and enjoy a glass of wine recommended by Bjørn, the owner.
Colonialen Litteraturhuset
TIP: Enjoy a lovely breakfast between 09-11, or order a coffee and read a book.
Photo: Colonialen Litteraturhuset
Østre Skostredet 5-7, www.litthusbergen.no
A cafè and a brasserie. A place to go for a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, or something to eat.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 09-23 Sat.: 11-24.
TIP: Enjoy a lovely breakfast between 09-11, or order a coffee and read a book.
Hoggorm
TIP: Try the Bacon & Pineapple pizza (pineapple like you’ve never tasted it before). Remember to order food and drinks at the bar. No table reservation.
Photo: Hoggorm
Nygårdsgaten 29 www.hoggormpizza.no
The coolest place in town. You’ll find a good mix of neighbors, families and friends. The pizzas are made with thin sourdough buns. For the toppings, they almost only use local ingredients which are smoked, grilled, fermented or salted. If you like oysters, try Hoggorm’s local ones; firm and juicy, and with a hint of fresh ocean.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 15- 01, Fri./Sat.: 12-02, Sun.: 12-01
TIP: Try the Bacon & Pineapple pizza (pineapple like you’ve never tasted it before). Remember to order food and drinks at the bar. No table reservation.
Marg & Bein Restaurant
TIP: They change their menu frequently.
Photo: Marg & Bein
Fosswinckels gate 18, www.marg-bein.no
Lovely restaurant serving authentic and traditional but updated recipes. Enjoy the cozy ambience, the homecooked meals and make your own memories.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 17-22, Sun. 17-21:30
TIP: They change their menu frequently.
Storm Kjøkken og Bar
TIP: Try the popular and delicious Asiatisk kyllingsalat (Asian Chicken salad)
Photo: Storm Kjøkken og Bar
Øvre Ole Bulls plass 3, www.olebullhuset.no
Lovely place to have lunch with family and friends. There is a terrace upstairs with a great view if you just want something to drink and relax.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Thurs.: 11-22, Fri./Sat.: 11-23, Sun. 12-21
TIP: Try the popular and delicious Asiatisk kyllingsalat (Asian Chicken salad)
EAT & GO
Hallaisen
TIP: Try the Sicilian Pistacchio, Milk & Honey or the Vegan. Hard to pick just one.
Photo: Pia Cernic
Icecream Parlour & Cocktailbar, Skostredet 5, www.hallaisen.com
Handmade icecream with exciting flavours. They also have vegan options.
By the way: Hallaisen is an informal “hi” in the Bergen dialect.
Fruktbar
TIP: Try the Mandela Acai Bowl, my number one choice.
Photo: Fruktbar
Galleriet Shopping Mall, ground floor, www.fruktbar.no
Healthy and delicious smoothies, juices, bowls and wraps.
TIP: Try the Mandela Acai Bowl, my number one choice.
Photo: Godt Brød
Søstrene Hagelin
TIP: Try the heart shaped fishcakes, I can’t get enough of them.
Photo: Tripadvisor.com
Strandgaten 3, www.sostrenehagelin.no
Two sisters started this in 1929, and it is an institution when it comes to fishcakes.
They have soups, fishcakes, wraps, among other dishes. You can either eat in, or do take away.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 09-19, Sat. 10-17
TIP: Try the heart shaped fishcakes, I can’t get enough of them.
Sweet Rain
TIP: Try the cookie made with brown cheese, I always buy this one.
Photo: Sweet Rain
C. SUNDTSGATE 26, WWW.SWEETRAIN.NO
This charming patisserie and café is the ultimate place for cookie lovers.
They have a large selection of cookies, plus delicious cakes. All made on site.
Opening hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-18. Sat.: 10-18, Sun.: 11-17
TIP: Try the cookie made with brown cheese, I always buy this one.
Godt Brød
TIP: Try the skolebolle, with custard, topped with icing and desiccated coconut.
Photo: Godt Brød
www.godtbrod.no
Several cafés: Korskirken, Marken, by the Fløien funicular, Vestre Torggaten and Muséplassen
Organic bakery which sells handcrafted buns and sandwiches.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 07-17:30, Sat. 08-17:30, Sun. 9-17
TIP: Try the skolebolle, with custard, topped with icing and desiccated coconut.
SHOPPING
Scabal, Men & Women
TIP: The floral dresses from byTimo are so dreamy.
Photo: Pia Cernic
Christian Michelsens gate 2b, www.scabal.no
This store with well-known international brands and Norwegian ones is very popular.
Scabal has a large section for men in the basement. The staff is knowledgable, and the service is superb. I always pop in here when I want something that makes me look good.
TIP: The floral dresses from byTimo are so dreamy.
T-Michael
TIP: Norwegian Rain is for both men and women. Rainwear has never looked this good.
Photo: Pia Cernic
Christian Michelsens gate 1/Tårnplass, www.T-michael.com
Details, quality and a unique style. T-Michael is a bespoke tailor, designer and artist. Visit his beautiful boutique, and you will not leave emptyhanded.
TIP: Norwegian Rain is for both men and women. Rainwear has never looked this good.
Optiker Teigland
TIP: Try their new Chloé sunglass collection, summery vibes.
Photo: Optiker Teigland
Strandgaten 3, www.oyeoptikk.no
Beautiful optician store with a wide variety, and my go-to place for sunglasses.
Excellent customer service, and if you need to repair your glasses, they will assist you.
TIP: Try their new Chloé sunglass collection, summery vibes.
Knot
TIP: Get your own embroidery on the inside of your pocket – for you to know!
Photo: Pia Cernic
Strandgaten 88, www.knotclothes.com
You will find this special shop in the oldest pedestrian street, and the only place in Bergen where you can get a bespoke fitted jean. The material is from Italy, and dyed with no use of chemicals. Ready in 2-3 days. For both men and women.
TIP: Get your own embroidery on the inside of your pocket – for you to know!
Samsøe Samsøe
TIP: Try their basic collection; great quality and nice prices.
Photo: Pia Cernic
Strandgaten 18, www.samsoe.com
Samsøe Samsøe is a Danish brand known for its Scandinavian style and simplicity, for both men and women.
Their knitted sweaters are great, and a variety of colours to choose from.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10-18, Thurs. 10-19.
TIP: Try their basic collection; great quality and nice prices.
Second Love Vintage
TIP: Second Love Vintage get’s new supplies several times a week.
Photo: Pia Cernic
Østre Skostredet 2.
This is the best vintage store downtown. Lisa, the owner, has an eye for good design, and is meticulous regarding the fabric of the garments she chooses to buy for her store. She has her own studio upstairs, and also sells her own designs.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Fri./Sat.: 11-17/16
TIP: Second Love Vintage get’s new supplies several times a week.
SPA AND WELLNESS
Anne’s Hudpleie & SPA
TIP: Try one of the HAMMAM treatments
Photo: Anne’s hudpleie
Engen 4, www.anneshudpleie.no
If you would like some me-time in a peacefull setting. Skincare treatments including a skinanalysis, face or body massages or a mani/pedicure.
Opening hours: Mon 9-16, Tue-Thurs 9-20, Fri 9-17, Sat 10-16
TIP: Try one of the HAMMAM treatments
Yogavayu
TIP: Try one of their Aerial classes, my favorite. You will love the stretch and the boosted circulation and energy after hanging upside down supported by silk cloth.
Photo: Yogavayu
www.yogavayu.no, Halfdan Kjerulfsgt. 4, 3 floor.
If you want to unwind, and find a quiet and serene place, than Yogavayu offers yoga classes. Their skillfull instructors guide you, both in norwegian and english.
TIP: Try one of their Aerial classes, my favorite. You will love the stretch and the boosted circulation and energy after hanging upside down supported by silk cloth.
USEFUL INFORMATION
ER/Emergency Room
Legevakten (open 24/7). Solheimsgaten 9, phone: 55 56 87 60
Emergency Numbers
110: Ambulance 112: Police 113: Fire
Pharmacy
Vitus Apotek Nordstjernen: Bergen Storsenter shopping mall by the bus terminal.
OPENING HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 08-23, Sun. 13-23
The Tourist Information
www.visitbergen.com
Located in the glass building at the Fish Market. Opening hours: 08:30-20
Bergen Card
Can be bought at the Tourist Information
24 HOURS: 280/110 NOK 48 HOURS: 360/130 NOK 72 HOURS: 430/160 NOK
Public toilets
Bergen has 130 of them. Skur 11, Bryggen is free. At shopping centers, it will cost approx. 10 NOK
TAXI
BERGEN TAXI: 07000 NORGESTAXI: 08000
Phone directory
www.1881.no
A short dictionary
BRANN: Fire
POLITI: Police
LEGE: Doctor
APOTEK: Pharmacy
FROKOST: Breakfast
MIDDAG: Dinner
SKILLINGSBOLLE: Cinnamonroll
MINIBANK: ATM
BILLETT: Ticket
VOKSEN: Adult
BARN: Child
INNGANG: Entrance
Norwegian hours
01:00–12:00 = 1-12 AM, 13:00–24:00 = 1-12 PM
