Things you need to know
🌟 Welcome to Bergen: What You Need to Know
Bergen is a breathtaking city filled with charm, nature, and unique character. While it's a safe and wonderful place to visit, there are a few things every traveler should know to make the most of their trip.
🌧️ Weather in Bergen
Bergen’s lush beauty comes at a cost — rain.
On average, it rains 231 days a year, and the weather can change by the hour.
Good to know:
- Sunshine in the morning doesn’t guarantee a sunny afternoon.
- Locals always carry an umbrella or rain jacket — you should too.
- When the sun shines, Bergen transforms into a vibrant, happy city. It’s truly magical.
Check out our comprehensive "what to wear" page for ideas on clothing in Bergen.
🍷 Buying Alcohol in Norway
Buying alcohol in Norway is different from most countries — and it can be confusing at first.
Here’s the quick version:
- Wine and spirits are not sold in regular supermarkets.
- Alcohol is more expensive than in many other places.
- You’ll need to go to special government-run stores called Vinmonopolet.
- On Sundays and public holidays, alcohol sales are limited to licensed bars and restaurants.
🔗 Click here for the full guide to alcohol rules
🛒 Sundays in Bergen
Sundays in Bergen are quiet and relaxed — most stores are closed.
What’s open:
- Restaurants, cafes, and bars are usually open.
- Supermarkets and shopping centres are closed unless it’s a small convenience store.
- If a shopping centre has a fast-food spot (like McDonald's), it may be accessible via a side entrance.
📅 Red Days (Public Holidays)
Norway observes several “red days” (public holidays), and most places close.
Important to know:
- Red days are observed on the actual day — not moved to Mondays like in the UK.
- Public transport runs on Sunday schedules.
- Shops and supermarkets close, and alcohol is only available in bars and restaurants.
- Small convenience stores may be open, but cannot sell alcohol.
🗓️ Plan ahead and check the list of red days here.
🐣 Easter Tips
Easter is treated seriously in Norway, and several days are considered red days:
- Maundy Thursday
- Good Friday
- Easter Monday
Stock up early!
Get your groceries and drinks by Wednesday, or join the Saturday rush. You won’t be able to buy alcohol again until Saturday or Tuesday.
🔗 Click here for the full guide to Easter
💳 Cash or Card?
Norway is largely cashless, and cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Contactless payments are common.
- ATMs are easy to find if you need Norwegian Kroner (NOK).
- Choose the local currency rate instead of your bank’s rate to save money.
- Some places may require chip & PIN for foreign cards.
Currency exchange is available in the city — Ria Money Exchange (across from the Fish Market) is a popular choice.
🚶 Getting Around Bergen
Bergen is easy to explore on foot, but be ready for a few steep hills.
Helpful landmarks:
- Fisketorget (Fish Market) – central and easy to find.
- Den Blå Steinen (The Blue Stone) – a popular meeting spot.
Both are marked on most tourist maps — circle them when you arrive so you always have your bearings!
☕ Eat & Drink Like a Local
Sure, you’ll find McDonald’s, Burger King, and Starbucks — but the real magic is in the local spots.
Try this instead:
- Visit cozy, locally owned cafes and bars.
- Treat yourself to a Skillingsbolle (Norwegian cinnamon roll) from one of the many bakeries.
- Enjoy it with a coffee while soaking in the Bergen vibe.
You won’t be disappointed.
😊 Culture Tips
Norwegians are friendly — but also reserved. Don’t expect small talk with strangers.
A few reminders:
- Don’t take it personally if people keep to themselves.
- Be polite, respectful, and patient — you’re a guest here.
- Let Bergen work its quiet magic on you.
📍 Now Go Enjoy Bergen!
You’re going to love it here. Explore, eat, relax, and make the most of your visit.
– Billy
