Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is often referred to as the "gateway to the fjords," and for a good reason. Surrounded by seven mountains and nestled between the North Sea and lush forests, it offers a landscape that is breathtaking in every season. But there’s something truly magical about Bergen in the winter. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow-capped peaks, twinkling lights, and a cozy atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to enjoy both outdoor adventures and warm moments. If you’re looking to explore Bergen this winter, here are some must-try activities that will make your visit unforgettable.
1. Skiing and Snowboarding Near Bergen
While Bergen is known for its coastal climate, it’s also just a short trip away from some of Norway’s best ski resorts. Voss, a popular destination for both locals and tourists, is located about an hour’s drive from Bergen and offers fantastic skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort has something for everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers, with over 40 kilometers of slopes. Plus, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes as you glide down the slopes.
If you prefer cross-country skiing, you can head to the nearby mountains around Bergen. The Fløyen mountain offers an excellent spot for cross-country skiing, where you can ski through the snow-covered forest and enjoy panoramic views of the city and fjords.
2. Explore the City on Foot
One of the best ways to experience Bergen in winter is by taking a leisurely walk around its historic center. With its cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses, and stunning harbor views, Bergen looks even more picturesque when dusted with a blanket of snow. Take a stroll along Bryggen, the UNESCO World Heritage site, where the old wooden buildings are beautifully framed by the crisp winter air.
The walk up to Mount Fløyen is also a must-do in winter. You can either take the Fløibanen funicular or, for the more adventurous, hike to the top for stunning views of Bergen’s cityscape and the surrounding snow-covered mountains. Once at the top, warm up with a hot drink at the café while taking in the incredible view of the city below.
3. Northern Lights
While Bergen is a bit south of the Arctic Circle, it's still possible to catch glimpses of the Northern Lights during the winter months. For the best chance of seeing this stunning natural phenomenon, head out of the city and into the surrounding mountains. Many tour operators offer Northern Lights tours from Bergen, where they take you to the darkest spots outside the city for a better view. Watching the sky light up in green, purple, and blue is a truly magical experience that’s worth the journey.
4. Ice Skating in Bergen: Glide Through Winter Fun
Winter in Bergen offers a variety of activities, and ice skating is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the season. Lagunen Ice Rink is a fantastic place to skate, which is located at the Lagunen Storsenter shopping center. This rink is ideal for families, offering a fun environment for skaters of all ages.
5. Winter Hiking
Bergen is surrounded by some of Norway’s most beautiful hiking trails, and winter provides a unique opportunity to explore them in a whole new light. The mountains around Bergen offer a variety of trails that are perfect for winter hikes, where you can enjoy peaceful, snow-covered paths, frozen lakes, and stunning views of the fjords.
For a short and easy winter hike, consider the walk to Ulriken, one of the seven mountains that surround Bergen. In winter, Ulriken’s trails become quiet and serene, and you’ll often find yourself surrounded by snow-covered trees and breathtaking views of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take the Ulriken cable car to the top and enjoy a warm meal at the mountaintop restaurant.
6. Warm Up in Bergen’s Cozy Cafés and Restaurants
After a day of winter activities, there’s no better way to warm up than by relaxing in one of Bergen’s cozy cafés or restaurants. The city is known for its culinary scene, and many of its cafés offer a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for escaping the cold. Try a traditional Norwegian hot chocolate or enjoy a bowl of creamy fish soup, which is a local favorite, especially during the colder months.
For those looking to indulge in a festive treat, be sure to sample “julebrød” (Christmas bread) and “krumkake” (a delicate Norwegian waffle cookie), which are often served around the holiday season. Bergen is the ideal place to enjoy warm food and drinks after a day spent exploring the city and its stunning winter landscapes.
If you're planning to visit Bergen this winter and need some extra cash to fund your adventures, why not look for a part-time or temporary job to help cover the costs? With Time2Staff, finding jobs in Bergen or Oslo is easy and convenient. Our platform connects you with flexible job opportunities that can fit around your schedule, allowing you to explore more of Norway without worrying about your finances. So, what are you waiting for? Find jobs in Norway and start making the most of your winter adventure today!Norway Time2Staff timetostaff time 2 staff time to staff