Bryggen Back Alleys
Explore the vibrant, historic Hanseatic wharf of Bryggen, a UNESCO site with colorful wooden buildings and atmospheric back alleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light
Bryggen Back Alleys
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the vibrant, historic Hanseatic wharf of Bryggen, a UNESCO site with colorful wooden buildings and atmospheric back alleys.
"A cool quarter of Bergen, full of atmosphere and a taste of old Bergen."
☔ Pack for All Weather
Bergen's weather can change in an instant. Always carry an umbrella or rain jacket!
🍽️ Book Dining Ahead
Restaurants in Bryggen can get busy, especially during high season. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Hanseatic Wharf
Bryggen waterfront
Colorful wooden buildings lining the harbor, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history.
Hidden Back Alleys
Between the main buildings
Discover charming, narrow passages that whisper tales of medieval merchants and maritime life.
Bryggen Museum
Holmedalsgården 3
Delve into the fascinating history of the Hanseatic League and their impact on Bergen.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere, But Be Prepared
Beyond the Postcards: Explore the Alleys
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
This alley in Bryggen (Bergen, Norway)
☔ Pack for All Weather
Bergen's weather can change in an instant. Always carry an umbrella or rain jacket!
🍽️ Book Dining Ahead
Restaurants in Bryggen can get busy, especially during high season. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.
We have one evening in Bergen - what would you recommend?
Alle hjerters dag
🚶♀️ Wander the Alleys
Don't just stick to the main street; explore the narrow back alleys for a more authentic feel.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant facades are incredibly photogenic, especially in good light.
Tips
from all over the internet
☔ Pack for All Weather
Bergen's weather can change in an instant. Always carry an umbrella or rain jacket!
🍽️ Book Dining Ahead
Restaurants in Bryggen can get busy, especially during high season. Reserve your table to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Wander the Alleys
Don't just stick to the main street; explore the narrow back alleys for a more authentic feel.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant facades are incredibly photogenic, especially in good light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bryggen is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site, lauded for its historic charm and picturesque waterfront. Visitors adore the atmospheric back alleys and the tangible sense of history. However, some find it to be a tourist trap with overpriced dining and souvenir shops, especially during peak season.
"A cool quarter of Bergen, full of atmosphere and a taste of old Bergen. However the place can be a bit of a tourist trap. When visiting during the high season be aware that restaurants may be full with long waiting lines, so if possible, reserve in advance."
ליהוא זיסברג
"A cute city center to visit, we stayed there on opposite ends of the “Norway in a Nutshell” tour. The waterfront is beautiful, lots of great places to eat,and walk around. Just carry an umbrella or rain jacket as it’s intermittent and sudden:-)"
S D
"Touristy destination so one expects the overpriced coffee and silly souvenirs. We were lucky to have a beautiful day and we enjoyed walking around the place. You can’t visit Bergen without going to Bryggen."
David Fenech
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bryggen is located right on the harbor in the city center of Bergen. It's easily accessible on foot from most hotels. If arriving by plane, take the Flybussen airport bus to the city center, which is a short walk from Bryggen.
Yes, Bryggen is very walkable. The main wharf area is flat, but the back alleys can be uneven and narrow, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Driving directly to Bryggen is not recommended due to limited parking and pedestrian zones. It's best to park in a nearby city center garage and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, exploring the exterior of Bryggen and its back alleys is free. However, individual shops, museums (like the Bryggen Museum), and restaurants within Bryggen will have their own admission fees or costs.
Bryggen itself is always accessible as it's an outdoor area. Shops and restaurants typically open around 10 AM and close between 5 PM and 9 PM, depending on the establishment and season. The Bryggen Museum has specific opening hours, usually from 10 AM to 4 PM.
There is no entrance fee to wander through the historic back alleys of Bryggen. They are part of the public thoroughfares of the wharf.
📸 📸 Photography
The classic view from across the harbor is stunning. For unique shots, explore the narrow alleyways and look for interesting architectural details and textures. The waterfront at sunset can also be magical.
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of shops, but be respectful and ask permission before taking close-ups of merchandise or staff. Photography inside museums like the Bryggen Museum may be restricted to certain areas or require special permission.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful, soft light that enhances the colors of the wooden buildings. Overcast days can also provide even lighting, reducing harsh shadows.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Bryggen has several restaurants, ranging from traditional Norwegian cuisine to seafood. However, they can be tourist-oriented and pricier. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
You can find fresh seafood, traditional Norwegian dishes, and international options. Many places offer harbor views, adding to the dining experience.
While dining directly in Bryggen can be expensive, you can find more affordable options by walking a few blocks away from the main wharf area, or by visiting the nearby Fish Market for quick bites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the alleys can be uneven, so keep a close eye on younger children. Consider a boat tour from the nearby harbor for a different perspective of Bryggen and the surrounding islands, which can be a fun and relaxing activity for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Prioritize free exploration of the back alleys and the waterfront. Instead of expensive souvenirs, consider taking plenty of photos as your memento. If you're looking for a budget-friendly cultural experience, the Bryggen Museum offers a deep dive into history for a reasonable entrance fee.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Bryggen
Walking through Bryggen today offers a tangible connection to this rich past. The tightly packed wooden houses and the labyrinthine back alleys transport you to a different era. The Bryggen Museum provides deeper insights into the lives of the Hanseatic traders and the archaeological discoveries made on site. It’s a place where history isn't just read about, but felt in the very timbers of the buildings.
Exploring the Back Alleys
As you duck into these alleys, you'll discover charming courtyards, quirky artisan shops, and a sense of stepping back in time. The uneven cobblestones and leaning wooden structures create a unique visual tapestry. It’s here that you can truly appreciate the density and ingenuity of medieval urban planning. Many visitors recommend simply getting lost and letting curiosity guide you through this fascinating network.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit