Autumn is a great time to visit Bergen. The city is quieter after the busy summer months, but there’s still plenty to see and do. Cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colours make a beautiful backdrop for exploring both the city and nearby nature. Whether you’re into culture, food, history, or outdoor activities, Bergen offers plenty of great experiences this time of year. If you’re wondering what to do in Bergen in autumn, here are some of the top things to check out.
A visit to KODE Art Museums is one of our top recommendations of things to do in Bergen in autumn, especially when the weather turns drizzly, as it often does in this coastal city. Spread across several buildings, KODE houses impressive collections of both classic and contemporary Norwegian art, including works by Edvard Munch and Nikolai Astrup.
Warm up with a coffee in the museum café and soak in the views of Lille Lungegårdsvannet as autumn leaves float on the water.
Bryggen Wharf is one of the most recognisable places in Bergen, and autumn is a great time to visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to colourful wooden buildings that date back to the Hanseatic era. Today, you'll find a mix of artist studios, local shops, and cosy cafés. With fewer crowds in autumn, it's easier to take your time, walk through the narrow alleyways, and enjoy the historic atmosphere at your own pace.
Tip: Bring a windproof jacket. The views are worth it, even if it’s a bit blustery!
A ride on the Fløibanen funicular is a must when visiting Bergen in autumn. It takes you to the top of Mount Fløyen in just a few minutes, where you'll get great views over the city and harbour. The forest trails are especially beautiful this time of year, with colourful autumn leaves and fresh, cool air. If you're up for it, you can walk back down to the city through the woods for a scenic and peaceful descent.
Bergen is a great place to get cosy in autumn. Whether it’s enjoying a warm cinnamon bun from Blom, grabbing a quality coffee at Det Lille Kaffekompaniet, or sitting down to a hearty bowl of fish soup at Bryggeloftet & Stuene, there’s no shortage of comfort food options. Autumn is also peak season for local seafood, so it’s a perfect time to try something fresh from the fjord while enjoying views of the harbour, and if you have the chance try out the national dish Fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew), don’t hesitate. It’s delicious!
A visit to the Bergen Fish Market is a must, especially in the cooler months. Located right on the harbour, it’s a great spot to try traditional Norwegian fish soup, warm, creamy, and full of flavour. You’ll find fresh local ingredients like salmon, shrimp, and cod on offer, often straight from the nearby fjords. If you’re looking for what to do in Bergen in autumn, this is a classic and tasty way to experienlce local food and culture.
One of the easiest ways to discover all the things to do in Bergen Norway in autumn is by hopping aboard the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus. Autumn weather in Bergen can be unpredictable, so this is a great way to stay dry while comfortably reaching the city’s top attractions.
From historic Bryggen and the Fish Market to the Fløibanen funicular and the KODE museums, the sightseeing bus stops at all the must-see spots. You can hop off wherever you like, explore at your own pace, and hop back on when you're ready to move on. It’s a stress-free and scenic way to experience Bergen in autumn, especially when the rain rolls in.
Tip: Sit upstairs for the best views of Bergen.
If you're craving a bit of adventure, Mount Ulriken is calling. Take the cable car up or hike from the city centre if you're feeling energetic. In autumn, the trails are blanketed in gold and rust-coloured leaves, and the air is refreshingly crisp.
It's one of the best things to do in Bergen in autumn for nature lovers. Just don’t forget good walking shoes and a waterproof jacket, Bergen is known for its sudden showers!
Find all the above activities on the map below and let your Bergen adventure begin!