Bergen Aquarium
Discover vibrant marine life, from tropical fish to playful penguins and seals, at Bergen Aquarium. Enjoy engaging shows and immersive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Bergen Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover vibrant marine life, from tropical fish to playful penguins and seals, at Bergen Aquarium. Enjoy engaging shows and immersive exhibits.
"A fantastic experience with well-designed exhibits and knowledgeable staff, highly recommended for all ages!"
Plan around feeding times
Check the schedule for penguin and seal feedings for an extra special experience! :fish:
Explore all levels
Don't miss the basement levels; there's more to see than meets the eye! :arrow_down:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Penguin Paradise
Outdoor exhibits
Watch these charming birds waddle, swim, and dive in their dedicated habitat.
Seal & Sea Lion Shows
Outdoor arena
Be amazed by the intelligence and agility of seals and sea lions during their lively performances.
Tropical Rainforest
Indoor exhibits
Step into a humid, vibrant world teeming with exotic fish and fascinating reptiles.
Underwater Tunnel
Indoor exhibits
Walk through a mesmerizing tunnel surrounded by a diverse array of marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Great Visit
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bergen itinerary questions
Plan around feeding times
Check the schedule for penguin and seal feedings for an extra special experience! :fish:
Explore all levels
Don't miss the basement levels; there's more to see than meets the eye! :arrow_down:
Driving and parking at Aquarium
Recommendations for 2 days in Bergen
Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors. :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Bergen Card
If you plan on visiting other attractions, the Bergen Card might offer savings. :moneybag:
First time in Bergen what should I see?
Tips
from all over the internet
Plan around feeding times
Check the schedule for penguin and seal feedings for an extra special experience! :fish:
Explore all levels
Don't miss the basement levels; there's more to see than meets the eye! :arrow_down:
Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors. :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Bergen Card
If you plan on visiting other attractions, the Bergen Card might offer savings. :moneybag:
Parking can be tricky
Parking is available but can fill up quickly on busy days. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bergen Aquarium for its extensive marine life, engaging shows, and family-friendly atmosphere. The underwater tunnel and penguin exhibits are frequently highlighted as favorites. While generally well-received, some visitors feel the price point is a bit high for the overall experience, and the penguin habitat could be larger.
"Our whole family enjoyed it, and we spent at least 2–3 hours here. From the outside it may seem like there isn’t much, but inside there is a lot to see, and you also need to go down to the basement levels… There are also two cinemas – one smaller and one larger, set up like a real movie theater. The marine life on display is very extensive."
Karīna Bērziņa
"I recently visited Akvariet i Bergen – The National Aquarium, and it was a fantastic experience! The exhibits are well-designed, offering a close-up look at a wide variety of marine life from Norwegian waters and around the world. I especially enjoyed the playful seals, the fascinating penguins, and the impressive tropical fish displays.
The staff were knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to answer questions, making the visit even more engaging. The aquarium is family-friendly, with interactive areas and informative presentations that are both fun and educational.
It’s a perfect spot to learn, explore, and enjoy a few relaxing hours in Bergen. Highly recommended for families, couples, or anyone interested in marine life!"
Mohammed Aljeziri
"Visited the aquarium while on a weekend trip to Bergen.
Just a 15-20 minute walk from the main harbour area, we spent a great morning here. There's plenty to see, it's fully accessible and very well laid out.
There are some exhibits outside (penguins, sea lions etc) and plenty inside, including a rainforest area, underwater tunnel and wide array of different fish & sea life, all clearly labelled and presented in an educational way with some live feeds/talks. It's a great place for kids, but even without ours we loved it!
There are plenty of toilets, a small cafe serving drinks & snacks, a great outdoor playground and gift shop. There are also areas to leave coats, umbrellas and pushchairs.
We'd definitely visit again 🐟😊"
Rachel Ellen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet i Bergen) is easily accessible. You can walk from the city center in about 15-20 minutes, or take public transport. If driving, parking is available nearby, though it can be limited during peak times.
Yes, there is parking available near the Bergen Aquarium. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak season, as spots can fill up quickly.
Yes, the Bergen Card often includes admission to the Bergen Aquarium, offering a cost-effective way to explore multiple attractions. Check the current inclusions for the Bergen Card.
Absolutely! A pleasant 15-20 minute walk from the main harbor area will lead you to the aquarium, offering scenic views along the way.
For families, walking is a great option if your child is comfortable, or consider local buses. Driving is also possible, but be mindful of parking availability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets directly at the Bergen Aquarium entrance or often online in advance through their official website.
The Bergen Aquarium hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Ticket prices for the Bergen Aquarium vary for adults and children. Checking their official website or inquiring at the entrance will provide the current Bergen Aquarium price.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and students. The Bergen Card also offers admission, which can be a significant saving if you plan to visit other attractions.
While not always mandatory, booking Bergen Aquarium tickets in advance online can save you time at the entrance, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of marine life, including tropical fish, penguins, seals, sea lions, otters, and various species from Norwegian waters. There's also a rainforest exhibit.
Yes, the Bergen Aquarium features popular seal and sea lion shows, as well as penguin feeding times. It's recommended to check the daily schedule upon arrival.
Absolutely! The aquarium is very family-friendly, with interactive areas, educational presentations, and an outdoor playground. Kids often love the penguins and seal shows.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at the Bergen Aquarium to see all the exhibits and catch the shows. You can easily spend longer if you take your time.
Yes, the Bergen Aquarium has restrooms, a small cafe serving snacks and drinks, and a gift shop. There are also areas to store coats and strollers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Bergen Aquarium, but be mindful of flash photography, as it can disturb the animals. Check for any specific signage.
The underwater tunnel offers fantastic opportunities for photos of fish swimming around you. The outdoor exhibits with penguins and seals are also very photogenic.
Video recording is usually permitted, but again, be considerate of the animals and other visitors. Avoid using flash for videos.
While general photography is allowed, some areas might have specific restrictions, especially near sensitive exhibits. Always look for posted signs.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for indoor exhibits. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the immersive feel of the underwater tunnel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the animals, the outdoor playground provides a much-needed space for kids to play. The aquarium is generally stroller-friendly, and the on-site cafe offers convenient refreshments. Consider checking for any special family events or activities that might be happening during your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for a weekday visit, especially in the morning, can help you avoid peak crowds and potentially enjoy a more relaxed experience. Pack your own snacks and drinks if possible, although there is a cafe on-site for convenience. Walking to the aquarium from the city center is a free and scenic option.
couples
Enjoy a leisurely exploration of the exhibits, perhaps followed by a coffee at the on-site cafe. The aquarium provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a daytime date, offering plenty of conversation starters and opportunities to learn something new together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Marine Life
One of the most captivating features is the underwater tunnel, where you can walk amidst schools of fish, rays, and other fascinating sea creatures. This immersive experience provides a unique perspective on the underwater world. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed to be educational and engaging, with clear labeling and informative displays that appeal to all ages.
Beyond the fish, the aquarium also houses reptiles and amphibians, adding to the variety of life on display. The staff are often praised for their knowledge and passion, readily sharing insights about the animals and their habitats. This commitment to animal welfare and visitor education makes the Bergen Aquarium a truly enriching destination.
Family Fun and Activities
For younger visitors, there's an outdoor playground that offers a space to burn off energy after exploring the exhibits. The aquarium's layout is generally accessible, with elevators available for strollers and those with mobility concerns. Many visitors note that the aquarium is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms and a cafe, making it a comfortable outing for families.
Beyond the main attractions, the aquarium often hosts special events and educational programs, especially during school holidays. These activities are designed to make learning about marine life fun and interactive for children, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family.
Navigating Bergen Aquarium: Practicalities
For those arriving by car, parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak hours. Many visitors find that walking from the city center or harbor is a pleasant and convenient option, offering a chance to see more of Bergen. If you plan to visit multiple attractions, the Bergen Card can offer significant savings on admission fees, including entry to the aquarium.
Inside the aquarium, comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be navigating multiple levels and exhibits. The facility is well-maintained, with clean restrooms and a cafe for refreshments. Photography is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of flash usage around the animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit