The best family activities in Bergen

Water parks, wooden cabins with a view of the fjord, exotic animals, and family-friendly hotels. Here is your guide to the places in Bergen both you and the kids will love. 

Whether you are going to Bergen with small children, teenagers, or your whole extended family, De Bergenske has found the funnest activities and attractions you can do together.

Here are the top 8 things to do with your family in Bergen:

1. Bergen Aquarium – meet the penguins 

This is Bergen's biggest tourist attraction, and for good reason. See penguins, sea lions, otters, crocodiles, anacondas, and troll crabs. In other words, an exciting variety of species from all over the world and plenty of species you find along the Norwegian coast. 

The aquarium has both outdoor and indoor sections, a restaurant, and snack bar. Check its website to keep up with what's going on.   

Age: For everyone 

Address: Nordnesbakken 4  

Meet the penguins at Bergen Aquarium!

2. The gondola to Mt Ulriken – fantastic views of the fjord 

Hop on the Ulriken Cable Car to climb quickly and easily the highest of Bergen's seven mountains. The gondola is a short bus ride from the city centre. At the top, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Bergen, the fjords, and all the surrounding nature. You are guaranteed to take plenty of selfies and shots of the whole family! There is both a restaurant and café at the top and good and well-marked trails across the mountains.   

Age: All ages (but is especially good for kids over 5 who can go hiking) 

Address: Haukelandsbakken 40  

Enjoy fantastic views from Ulriken.

3. An indoor water park – with a 68-metre slide 

AdO arena has two slides (one of which is 68-metres long), high dives with a diving pool, and several other pools,  including an activity pool for babies and toddlers. AdO is a popular destination for the kids, and you are guaranteed laughter and smiles, regardless of the weather outside. Ask in the reception at Heimen Hotel for discounts.   

Age: For everyone 

Address: Lungegårdskaien 40  

 4. Fløyen – for active families 

The funicular up to Fløyen is a fun way to explore Bergen's nature. When you reach the top, you can of course enjoy beautiful views of the city, but there are also loads of fun activities: explore Trollskogen with wooden troll carvings and tunnels, play in a big climbing park and the playground, and pose by a huge troll that's perfect for Instagram snaps. Visit the café or hike further into the mountains.   

Age: For everyone 

Address: Vetrlidsallmenningen 23A  

Fløyen is easily accessible, and a lovely destination for both young and old.

5. Heimen Hotel – a good and centrally located family hotel 

On a family trip, it's important to stay somewhere central, have rooms that fit the whole family, and have a good breakfast that's included in the price. We therefore recommend that you check in to Heimen Hotel. 

The hotel is close to all the cool activities, including the Aquarium, the Fløibanen funicular, the AdO arena water park, shopping, restaurants, museums, and attractions. 

The hotel offers large family rooms and is suitable for longer stays, with both a laundry room and the possibility of a separate guest kitchen where you can cook your own meals. Heimen Hotel offers parking and there are city bikes nearby. Book a stay here  

Age: All ages. Cribs are available. 

Address: C. Sundts gate 18  

Heimen Hotel has large family rooms with bunk beds.

6. Nordnes Sjøbad – a heated outdoor pool surrounded by nature 

• Nordnes Sjøbad is a historic outdoor swimming pool by the Nordnesparken park, built in 1952. The idyllic heated pool is located by the sea and there is a small pool for babies and toddlers too. You can swim in a heated 30 degree Celsius or take a dip in the fjord. Both locals and visitors like to come there for a refreshing swim in scenic surroundings.   

  There is an outdoor sauna right by the fjord, so if you are tough, you can try ice bathing in winter there too. 

  Age: All ages (Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult who can swim) 

  Address: Nordnesparken 30  

  7. Shopping – find something new and souvenirs to bring home 

  If you're travelling with young children, you can't go wrong with a visit to a toy shop. Might your teen want to stop by a clothing store (or eight)?   
    
  Here are five Bergen shopping tips:  

  • Sprell – quality toys for children, with everything from interior items to toys, games, and costumes.  

  • Blue Tomato – for teenagers who like skating, snowboarding, trainers and streetwear.  

  • Platou Sport – outdoor equipment and hiking clothes for all occasions.  

  • Holzweiler – a cool Norwegian clothing brand for teenagers. Known for sustainable collections, neutral colours, and its relaxed and sophisticated design.  

  • T-Michael – renowned Bergen fashion designer, who now also has shops in Oslo, Paris and Tokyo. Nordic design and high-quality rainwear all exquisitely tailored. Best suited for adults.  

  Pepperkakebyen is a must if you are visiting Bergen during the holiday season.

8. Pepperkakebyen – a popular gingerbread town 

A very spectacular sight in Bergen is its annual pepperkakebyen. Every year, volunteers work together to create an impressive and imaginative city made entirely of gingerbread! Naturally, it's built in December, and we dare say: Nothing provides more Christmas spirit.   

Age: All ages 

Address: Varies from year to year, check listings 

Enjoy lovely Bergen – in both swimwear and good footwear!