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The idyllically located port city of Bergen is the gateway to the Norwegian fjords, but is itself a very interesting world heritage city to explore. In the Bergen region you will find nature, culture and vibrant city life. The ideal combination for the adventurous traveler. And for those looking for more experiences off the beaten track, there is no better place than beautiful Bergen. Discover the best winter activities in and around Bergen and prepare to lose your heart to this wonderful region!
These are the best winter activities in Bergen County
The fun of going to Bergen in the winter months in Norway travel is that you can do unique activities there that you cannot do during the rest of the year. Even though the city of Bergen does not have a thick layer of snow, winter is the most magical time here. Stroll through the streets of Bergen that feel more cozy in the winter than in the rest of the year, huddle around fires in restaurants like the locals, or just go on an adventure in the fresh air while everyone else stays inside. You will then understand all the more why winter in Bergen and the surrounding area is so magical. With this in mind, these are the best winter activities in Bergen and environment.
1. Flamsbana: the famous train ride to Flåm
The train journey to Flåm is known as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, so it definitely belongs to the list of the most enjoyable winter activities in the Bergen region. A trip to Flåm is particularly popular during the summer months, but is also absolutely recommended for during the winter months. The landscape is then completely different and perhaps even more impressive to see. The train ride from Myrdal to Flåm takes about 1 hour and is a delightful way to take in the wonderful, but also rugged, nature.
Flåm is a small village at the foot of the Aurlandfjord and borders a tributary of Norway's deepest fjord, the Sognefjord. To get to Flåm, you can travel the famous Flamsbana by train. This starts in Myrdal. To get here, you can take the train to Myrdal in Bergen. A helpful tip is to purchase your tickets online early because of their popularity.
2. An unforgettable winter activity: snowshoe hike through the mountains
In an environment with nothing but snow-capped mountains and trees, you can have an unforgettable adventure. How about braving the Norwegian winter landscape with snowshoes on your feet? An activity that is on many a bucket list. Follow the guide on your way to a place with breathtaking views where a hot drink awaits you.
Even when there is no snow in town, the guides from Norway Mountain Guides take you to the real winter wonderland for an unforgettable experience in the mountains. Snowshoe hiking is not difficult, but a basic level of fitness is important. In total, the activity takes 5 hours of which you spend about 2-3 hours hiking.
3. Hiking to the top of Mount Fløyen
A visit to Bergen is not complete without standing at the top of Mount Fløyen. After all, from here you will enjoy a panoramic view of the idyllic city of Bergen.
You can choose to walk up the mountain or use the little train that leaves from the center. The hike up takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is well worth the slight effort. If you are not fond of hiking, then take the cable car that takes you to the top in just 6 minutes. Once at the top, there are several surrounding trails you can explore. The view from the top is breathtaking. Especially in the winter months when you reach the top by sunset. The contrast of the flickering lights of the city and The dark sky and white mountains in the background is simply extraordinary to see.
To warm up, step into Fløien Restaurant for a hot cup of chocolate. This restaurant dates back to 1925 and is one of the most culinary restaurants in Bergen.
Tip: When you are on top of Mount Fløyen during sunset, you will undoubtedly be amazed by the different shades of orange in the sky and the warm glow of the sun over the mountains.
4. Take a dip in the icy water
No doubt it hasn't passed you by that taking an ice bath is hugely popular. Where we in the Netherlands struggle to turn our bathtub into an ice bath, Bergen County offers more than enough natural ice baths.
In fact, taking a dip in ice cold water is said to have positive effects on your health. You get a boost of adrenaline and endorphins that make you experience a better mood and more energy. Now the question is, do you dare to do this? There are a number of places in and around Bergen where you can do this cool winter activity:
Nordnes Sjøbad
Solstrand Hotel & Bad
Mjøsvågen on Osterøy
The Skomakerdiket Lake (Mount Fløyen)
Heit Sørfjorden Sauna (also recommended for a relaxing day at the sauna!).
Here are some tips before you dive into the ice baths. Put a hat on your head to keep your body warmer. Put on wool socks while swimming and put on dry wool socks immediately after getting out of the water. Wear wool clothing after swimming.
5. Skiing in Bergen region
Those who love winter sports can also enjoy the Bergen region. The two largest ski resorts are located near Voss which is a 1.5-hour drive from the city of Bergen. Here you can choose between Voss Resort and Myrkdalen - Voss - Fjellandsby. The ski resort offers options for beginners to advanced skiers and even options for the adventurous who like to go off-piste.
6. The ultimate winter activity in Bergen region: hiking to Trolltunga
When you think of Norway you undoubtedly think of fjords, glaciers, high mountains, snow, waterfalls, endless green heaths, but in general the imposing fjords. One of the coolest and most challenging winter activities in Bergen region then is the hike to Trolltunga which you can book through Trolltunga Adventures and Trolltunga Active.
The cliffs of Trolltunga reach as much as 700 meters above sea level and are among the most beautiful in Norway. The meaning of the name Trolltunga in Dutch is "the giant tongue protruding above the fjords. We can understand why. Because of the changeable weather conditions, the hike in winter can only be done with a guide. In total, the hike takes about 12 hours, making it also recommended only for experienced hikers.
Because of the length of the hike and the time to get to the starting point of the Trolltunga hike, it is recommended that you take a total of two to three days for it. You spend the night in the region the day before the hike and maybe the night after. You are about 3 to 4 hours from Bergen. In winter you can combine the hike to Trolltunga with an overnight stay on Trolltunga or afterwards with a relaxing day at Trolltunga. The Heit Sauna.
Norway in a Nutshell
The most famous tour of Norway is the so-called 'Norway in a Nutshell'. You can start the round trip from the Norwegian towns of Bergen, Flåm, Voss and Oslo. The round trip will take you through the most beautiful landscapes and you can enjoy the most spectacular views. You can take the round trip all year round and decide for yourself how to travel. But be sure to add the breathtaking train ride on the Flamsbana and a cruise through the fjords to your itinerary. These are the absolute highlights of the Norway in a Nutshell round trip!
Gastronomic experiences in Bergen region
The winter months are the perfect time to eat fresh seafood. This is because the icy sea water creates special conditions that give seafood such as shrimp and mussels even more flavor. It is therefore not for nothing that mussels are a real winter snack in the Bergen region. They taste most luscious and sweet then. Local specialties you really shouldn't miss are Bergen fish soup and the traditional dish Persetorsk. If you ask us, gourmet experiences are the most enjoyable winter activities in Bergen!
1. Persetorsk
If there is one way to better understand the local culture it is by tasting the local cuisine. In Bergen, you do that by ordering the dish Persetorsk at least once. This is perhaps the most authentic meal in Bergen. It is a very special and tasty fish dish of cod served with egg butter. What makes Persetorsk so unique is that the cod is pressed for a long time in a sugar and salt solution.
You can order Persetorsk at several restaurants in Bergen, but the place where Persetorsk has been brought back to the menu in traditional fashion (with a modern twist) after years of oblivion is Bien Basar.
2. Bergen Fish Soup
Bergen is the heart of Norway when it comes to its thriving fishing culture. Not surprisingly, there are several popular dishes that incorporate fresh fish. Besides the traditional Persetorsk, there is one more dish you must have tasted and that is the Bergen fish soup.
The thing that sets Berg fish soup apart and thus makes it unique is that it is made from the bones of young pollock. The soup has a slightly sweet and sour taste. The soup contains finely chopped vegetables, fish balls and sour and plain cream. Restaurant tips are Bryggeloftet & Stuene and Søstrene Hagelin.
3. Get to know the local gastronomy of Bergen region even better
A trip abroad is not complete without immersing yourself in the local culture. And a big part of that is getting to know and taste the local cuisine. Besides two authentic and traditional dishes from the Bergen region, there are many more unique local hotspots to discover. Of course, the offer is quite diverse in a city like Bergen, for example, some hot spots are a bit more traditional while others are a bit more modern. However, one thing is clear: in Bergen, you eat delicious food everywhere and the fresh seafood dishes are finger-licking good. Wondering exactly where to go to go really local? These are the highlighted hotspots in Bergen!
Helpful tips for visiting Bergen and the stunning region
We understand all too well that a visit to Bergen in the winter months is on your bucket list after reading this article. How cool is it to discover such a beautiful region at the most cozy time of the year? So herewith some handy tips for visiting Bergen.
What is the best way to explore Bergen and the surrounding area?
Responsible travel is given more attention throughout Scandinavia than in the Netherlands. And since we also think this is important, we are happy to share here some responsible options to best explore Bergen region.
If you want to explore the region independently think about renting an electric car. In fact, scattered throughout the region there are many so-called charging stations. Download the app Plug & Share in advance to see where these charging stations are. An additional advantage is that you get a discount on toll roads when you drive electric. You can read more about it at Fjord Norway.
Don't want to rent a car? Then you can also get around in the Bergen region using public transportation. Both larger and smaller towns are well connected by a bus network. Travel schedules can be viewed at And Tur and NOR-WAY.
Where to stay in Bergen?
There are numerous options for a fine stay in Bergen County. Will you choose a luxurious stay in the mountains or a cozy stay in a hotel? Take a look between the complete hotel offer of Fjord Norway. Who knows, maybe your ideal accommodation is among them!
How to get to Bergen?
You can easily travel to Bergen, Norway from the Netherlands. In fact, from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, you can fly to Bergen with a direct KLM flight in 1 hour and 45 minutes. There are also options from Eindhoven and Maastricht with KLM, but you will still have to transfer at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. See the complete offer, flight times, fares and additional information on the KLM website.
For more information on how to get to Bergen, you can always check out the Fjord Norway website. Here you will find a complete overview and useful tips for a great trip to Bergen region. In addition, you can also take a look at this website among all package tours, inspiration enough!
Discover the most beautiful places in fjord Norway
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
