Bergen is a stunning city in Norway, surrounded by incredible mountains, fjords, and one of the biggest glaciers in all of Europe! It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage City and has also earned the title of European City of Culture.
With so much to explore, planning your itinerary will be a walk in the park. On the other hand, figuring out where to stay in Bergen can be more complicated. There are a number of areas to choose from, each offering something different to travelers.
To help you out, we’ve created this guide on the best places to stay in Bergen. We’ve included something for a variety of travel styles and budgets, so you can find the right place for your needs.
Where to Stay in Bergen
Not too fussed which area you stay in? Check out our top recommendations for accommodation in Bergen, Norway.
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Stylish top floor, central, free parking. LS401 | Best Airbnb in Bergen
This Airbnb is located in Nygard, but it is just a few minutes walk from the city center if you were curious. It’s one of the best places to stay in Bergen as it’s bright, crisp, and clean and can house four guests at a reasonable price. We love the location and the abundance of fuzzy pillows!
Bergen Harbour Hotel | Best Hotel in Bergen
The Bergen Harbour Hotel is located in Bryggen and is a luxurious stay for travellers, but not at exorbitant prices. Our favorite part of the hotel is either the lovely mountain and city views or free usage of the hotel’s bicycles for guests! The breakfast is also excellent provides guests with a wide range of items to choose from.
Marken Gjestehus Hostel | Best Hostel in Bergen
There are only three hostels in Bergen as of 2020. We think that the best one out there is the Marken Gjestehus Hostel in Sentrum. It is a very clean and bright hostel that is conveniently located right in the heart of the city’s center.
There are tons of different dorm rooms to choose from, varying by how many people in the room and by gender. It is known for being a quiet hostel, so don’t expect to party all night in the common room! Instead turn in early and catch some Zzz.
If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest hostels in Bergen.
Sentrum
Sentrum is the name of Bergen city center. Center and Sentrum sound pretty similar, don’t they? Unfortunately, it was razed to the ground by a fire in the early 20th century.
Sandviken
Sandviken has become a popular neighborhood in Bergen for students as it has more affordable housing and rental options. That’s what makes Sandviken where to stay in Bergen on a budget.
Bryggen
Bryggen is a lively neighborhood that is one of the coolest places to stay in Bergen. It’s right along the water and is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Sentrum.
Nygård
Nygård is a Bergen neighbourhood very close to the city center. Nygård sits just south of the Lille Lungegårdsvannet lake. It’s the coolest place to stay in Bergen as it’s where the University of Bergen dwells.
Nordnes
Nordnes is the neighborhood in Bergen that sits on a peninsula that juts out from the harbor. For mental maps sake, Nordnes is on the opposite side of Bryggen and Sandviken.
Bergen isn’t a megacity. There are no skyscrapers, and the people seem pretty happy about it! We’re not complaining either.
Bergen is the gateway to the Fjords of Norway. Since it sits between Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord, it’s the ideal starting point for an epic road trip across Norway. It’s also a great base for hiking trips.
The city centre, Sentrum, is home to a number of boroughs that are popular with travelers and locals alike. Sentrum is full of things to see, do, and explore, making it the ideal place to base yourself if you’re visiting Bergen for the first time.
Sandviken is a great choice if you’re traveling on a budget. Norway isn’t known for being cheap, but you’ll find a lot of accommodation options here that are easier on the wallet.
Looking for nightlife? Bryggen is the place to be. This quirky and colorful district is full of lively bars and entertainment to keep you going all night long. Nygard is another unique destination, and our pick for the coolest place to stay in Bergen!
Finally, Nordnes is the best place to stay in Bergen with family. This residential area is a lot quieter and calmer than other districts but is still full of exciting activities to keep everyone entertained.
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Bergen’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Ready to find your match made in heaven? Or should we say your neighborhood match made in Bergen? Keep on reading, dear readers, to figure out which of Bergen’s best neighborhoods suits your fancy.
1. Sentrum – Where to Stay in Bergen for the First Time
Sentrum is the name of Bergen city center. Center and Sentrum sound pretty similar, don’t they? Unfortunately, it was razed to the ground by a fire in the early 20th century.
It was rebuilt with much larger buildings and apartment complexes that you won’t find in other neighborhoods in Bergen. Living in the town center is mega popular. Surprise, surprise.
Filled with cobblestone streets and an overwhelming sense of unity, you’re sure to find a little slice of home in Sentrum.
Sentrum is charming, fun, lively, and vibrant and brimming with restaurants to try Scandinavian delights in and cafes to sip posh coffee in. Not to mention the little stores that are a mix of two different businesses, like Litteraturhuset which is a book store that serves epic lunches!
Two floor apt. only 1.min from Bergen Train St. | Best Airbnb in Sentrum
This “Two floor apt. only 1.min from Bergen Train St.” Airbnb Rental is an incredible find. It’s bright, crisp white walls and minimalist designs appear to come right out of the pages ofa magazine. The space is exceptionally well-designed. Note that you won’t rent the entire apartment, just one bedroom in the apartment.
Zander K Hotel | Best Hotel in Sentrum
The Zander K Hotel is a trendy and stylish hotel that has a posh on-site bar. You’ll love the designs and the a
tmosphere of the Zander K Hotel! Breakfast is included and is a large buffet that is beyond delicious. We’re serious— beyond delicious! Please save a croissant for us.
Marken Gjestehus Hostel | Best Hostel in Sentrum
The Marken Gjestehus Hostel is a bright and clean hostel located in the heart of the city center. There are lots of simple wall murals, all of which gives personality to the rooms. It’s a quiet hostel. It doesn’t promote socializing and it doesn’t serve drinks. If you’re looking for a quiet stay in the city center, then this is the place for you.
Things to See and Do in Sentrum
- Check out the fabulous art exhibits at the KODE Bergen Art Museum
- Go for a swim at the AdO Arena indoor swimming pool
- Enjoy the incredible cocktails and artisanally plated food at Roast Restaurant and Bar
- Go for a walk around Lille Lungegardsvannet, the small lake in the center of Sentrum
- Snap a photo at the unique smoking sculpture, which bizarrely actually does have smoke flowing out of the top of it
- Toast a glass of wine at the Colonianlen 44, a popular and upscale Norwegian restaurant
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Sandviken – Where to Stay in Bergen on a Budget
Sandviken has become a popular neighborhood in Bergen for students as it has more affordable housing and rental options. That’s what makes Sandviken where to stay in Bergen on a budget. It’s not too long of a walk to Sentrum, as it is located just behind Bryggen and the infamous Bergenhus Fortress.
Don’t worry. You’re not forfeiting any Bergen charm by choosing a budget friendly Bergen neighborhood. Sandviken has plenty of wooden houses and narrow lanes to wander around and snap photos of.
Not only does Sandviken have cheaper room rates, it also has the most things to do in Bergen that are free. All of the recommendations below of things to do and see are totally free!
From the outdoor Old Bergen Museum to the diving tower to a nice hike, Sandviken is the best neighborhood in Bergen to stay in if you’re looking for free things to do!
Modern, clean apartment close to Bryggen | Best Airbnb in Sandviken
The “Modern, clean apartment close to Bryggen” is the best place in Bergen to stay if you’re looking for a budget Airbnb. It is a one bedroom and one bathroom, with a comfortable queen-size bed and well-equipped kitchen.
It’s just a 10-15 minute walk to Bryggen from the front door. Breakfast is also provided by the host, left right there in the kitchen and in the refrigerator for you to enjoy!
Urban Apartments Sandviken | Best Rental in Sandviken
The Urban Apartments Sandviken is a truly great place to stay in Sandviken. It’s close to the main points of interest and the free on-site parking sure is a plus! The apartment has both city and sea views. It is a 3 bedroom apartment, with a bathroom, living room, and fully equipped kitchen. We love the gorgeous wooden floors!
High end 2BR Apartment in Good Location | Best Rental to Stay
This “High end 2BR Apartment in Good Location” in Sandviken is a two bedroom apartment that comes with all the bells and whistles. With a huge flatscreen TV, washing machine, dishwasher, you are sure to stay in comfort in this rental.
You also won’t need to spend any extra dough on laundry or on eating out, if you take advantage of all these Airbnb amenities.
Things to See and Do in Sandviken
- Visit the Sandvik Church, an old wooden Gothic church from 1881
- Hike along the Stoltzen Start for incredible views of the city
- Snap a photo of the Madam Felle monument, a statue in honor of the woman who maintained the sale of beer during the mid-19th century
- Stroll through the Old Bergen Museum, an outdoor museum that offers travelers a glimpse of old Bergen town life through the ages
- Take an iconic photo in front of the gorgeous Sandviken Fire Station, a mammoth fire-engine-red wooden building
- Go for a swim in Sandviken Sjøbad, a diving board, diving tower, and BBQ area in Sandviken
3. Bryggen – Best Area to Stay in Bergen for Nightlife
Bryggen is a lively neighborhood that is one of the coolest places to stay in Bergen. It’s right along the water and is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Sentrum.
There are tons of amazing bars and eateries in Bryggen that will make your mouth water just reading the menu or the cocktail list. We love the huge list of beers at Belgic Gastro Pub, the funky atmosphere and pool tables at Bar3, and the innovative cocktails at BarKollektiv. Bryggen definitely the best area to stay in Bergen for nightlife.
Club-hopping or bar-hopping couldn’t be easier too, with all the venues next door to each other or just a few short minutes walk. Get tired of the vibes at one spot? Just walk half a block and find three others to choose from!
Bergen Harbour Hotel | Best Hotel in Bryggen
The Bergen Harbour Hotel is a luxurious stay for travellers. We love that the hotel offers guests free use of their bicycles! What a treat! The rooms are all fitted with a sizable flat screen, and most rooms offer incredible mountain and city views!
First Hotel Bergen Marin | Best Hotel in Bryggen
The First Hotel Bergen Marin is one of the best places in Bergen to stay. It’s just one block from the waterfront. We love that they offer coffee, tea, and sparkling water to their guests available all day every day!This hotel is situated in the real heart of Bryggen which makes it a great place to make your home base.
KO4_A1 | Best Airbnb in Bryggen
The KO4_A1 Airbnb rental can fit six guests into three bedrooms. It is a great place to settle yourself in Bryggen if you want to stay close to all the nightlife. Yessiree, it’s one of the best places in Bergen to stay if you’re looking to stay in Bryggen.
The apartment is huge and the kitchen is fully equipped with all you could need! This huge apartment is a great find if you’re traveling with friends and want to take advantage of the Bryggen nightlife!
Things to See and Do in Bryggen
- Visit the Bryggens Museum to see excavated city artifacts from gorgeous gold vases to skeletons
- Walk through the Bergenhus Festningsmuseum which is a free museum that exhibits the Bergenhus Fortress and the city’s resistance to the Nazi’s
- Walk to the top of the 13th century tower— the Rosenkrantztarnet
- Hike the Hester Trenger Hvile Nature Preserve, it’s a great walk and you might even spot a small waterfall or some bronze sculptures on the path
- Enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at Det Lille Kaffe Kompaniet
- Dine at To Kokker and make sure to try their delicious seafood, from the halibut to the scallops
- Catch a show at Madam Felle music venue and rock out all night long
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Grab an eSIM!4. Nygård – Coolest Place to Stay in Bergen
Nygård is a Bergen neighborhood very close to the city center. Nygård sits just south of the Lille Lungegårdsvannet lake. It’s the coolest place to stay in Bergen as it’s where the University of Bergen dwells. You know what students mean? It means the cool factor goes up, up, up!
The University itself makes a fun way to spend an afternoon, wandering around the grounds, the gardens, and checking out the Universities museums.
Nygård is a very compact neighborhood, easy to navigate and to wander around without ever feeling lost. You’re sure to stumble into some incredible little small spots, from a Alléhjornet Thai food to the chic grocery store REMA 1000. All the hidden gems and University charm makes Nygard one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Bergen.
Stylish top floor, central, free parking. LS401 | Best Airbnb in Nygård
This “Stylish top floor, central, free parking. LS401” Airbnb rental is a full apartment rental, that can easily fit four guests in it’s two bedrooms and one bathroom. We love that you can check yourself in with the lockbox. It’s a stylish apartment full of fuzzy pillows and bright white walls and modern art.
Hotel Park Bergen | Best Hotel in Nygård
A stunning hotel, Hotel Park Bergen has been noted as one of the historic hotels of Europe. The style of the hotel is a mix of historic and modern, which makes it feel kind of eclectic.
There are lots of tiny, unique pieces of art and knick-knacks to spot all over the hotel. We love all the personal touches. Expect great hospitality here at the Hotel Park Bergen.
Citybox Bergen | Best Hotel in Nygård
Citybox Bergen is a great hotel that comes with an affordable price tag. The rooms are crisp and clean, and we love the tea kettles in the rooms so if you fancy a cup of tea day or night, you are in luck! There is also a microwave available for all guests to use.
Things to See and Do in Nygard
- Walk the grounds of the University of Bergen
- Visit St. Jacob’s Church
- Try traditional Norwegian cuisine at Marg & Bein
- Enjoy a drink at Muskedunder that has a huge list of cocktails, beer, wine, and whisky
- Check out the University Museum of Bergen and it’s natural history collections that has a p lovely garden outside
- Enjoy a walk at Byparken and pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake
5. Nordnes – Best Neighborhood in Bergen for Families
Nordnes is the neighborhood in Bergen that sits on a peninsula that juts out from the harbor. For mental maps sake, Nordnes is on the opposite side of Bryggen and Sandviken. Nordnes is known for being a wooden house district that is filled with narrow lanes and lots of charm.
You won’t be surprised at finding vines filled with red roses winding up lots of buildings. Get your camera ready, friends! Nordnes is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Bergen for your Instagram and for the calm, friendly vibes.
Nordnes is also home to the Bergen Aquarium and Nordnes Park, both of which helps to make Nordnes the best neighborhood in Bergen for families.
If you’re traveling with kids and want a quieter neighborhood that you feel like is safe to let the kids roam around, while you can sit back with a glass of white wine and feel carefree, then Nordnes is for you!
It’s a quiet and quaint neighborhood that will make you and your family feel right at home. Nordnes is definitely our top recommendation of where to stay in Bergen with kids!
Modern apartment at Nordnes Brygge | Best Airbnb in Nordnes
This Modern apartment at Nordnes Brygge is an incredible find. It is definitely one of the coolest places to stay in Bergen with your family. It can comfortably house six guests, in two bedrooms. It’s a stylish and modern apartment that has all you need to feel truly at home.
Comfort Hotel Holberg | Best Hotel in Nordnes
The Comfort Hotel Holberg is a sparkling clean and eco friendly hotel. It offers guests a rich and plentiful Scandinavian buffet breakfast. Comfort Hotel Holberg is situated close to the Ferry Port and to the Fish Market.
With the spacious rooms and excellent location known for its friendly staff, it is a great option for where to stay in Bergen with kids!
Annehelene’s B&B | Best Hotel in Nordnes
Annehelene’s B&B is sure to be a memorable stay for you and your family in Bergen. The owner, Anne, will make your stay a real treat. Her B&B is located inside a charming old house that is iconic to Bergen. The breakfast is better described as a feast!
Things to See and Do in Nordnes
- Spend a day gazing at all the fishes, penguins, and seals at the Bergen Aquarium
- Stroll through the Nordnes Park, called Nordnesparken, and watch the ships from the shore
- Take a dip in the outdoor, public saltwater swimming pool for a refreshing experience no matter the weather as it is heated when it gets chilly outside (Nordnes Sjøbad)
- Go fishing from the shore and see if you can catch a mackerel
- Walk down to Verftet to enjoy a glass of win or an ice-cream along the edge of the fjord
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Bergen
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Bergen and where to stay.
What To Pack For Bergen
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Bergen
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Bergen
Bergen, Norway is a picturesque city that is brimming with charm. No matter which neighborhood you choose, you won’t be too far from the actio, or too far from friendly faces.
If you’re looking for where to stay to be closest to the Bergen nightlife, staying in Bryggen is the place to be. This tiny neighborhood is right on the shore and the Bergen Harbour Hotel is our top find. Take advantage of those free hotel bicycles to tour the city with ease.
While hostel life hasn’t taken Bergen by storm yet, from the three available hostels in Bergen the best hostel is the Marken Gjestehus Hostel. It has copious amounts of different room styles and rates to choose from. And the location in the heart of the city, in Sentrum, is hard to top!
If you’re looking for where to stay in Bergen that would make you feel truly at home in this Norwegian city, we recommend the “Stylish top floor, central, free parking. LS401” in Nygard. It’s a bright and clean house that four guests can snuggle up in. Nygard is also one of the coolest places to stay in Bergen, so this Airbnb is a hot find!
Do you already know the best of Bergen? If you have Bergen tips to share, please drop us a note in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Norway.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Bergen.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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