Things to do in Vestlandet
Discover the best attractions and experiences Vestlandet has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Bergen’s ancient roots and coastal defenses with some of Western Norway’s most iconic sites.
Bryggen
Colorful wooden wharf area in Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage site and historic trading hub.
Bergenhus Fortress
Medieval fortress guarding the entrance to Bergen’s harbor with centuries of stories.
Fantoft Stave Church
Reconstructed stave church near Bergen, emblematic of Norway’s wooden-architecture heritage.
Museums
From Hanseatic traders to classical composers, Vestlandet’s museums offer compact, high-impact experiences.
Bryggen Hanseatic Museum
Exhibits life and trade of the Hanseatic merchants at Bryggen.
Troldhaugen
Edvard Grieg’s composer home and museum with intimate concerts and exhibits.
Gamle Bergen Museum
Open-air museum recreating historic Bergen streets and houses.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks showcase regional architecture and spiritual life along Norway’s dramatic coastline.
Bergen Cathedral (Domkirken i Bergen)
Historic cathedral reflecting Bergen’s religious heritage.
St Mary’s Church (Mariakirken) in Bergen
Medieval church with a distinctive coastal-town character.
Fantoft Stave Church
Iconic wooden church near Bergen representing Norway’s stave church tradition.
National & Theme Parks
The dramatic landscapes of Western Norway are protected in several national and theme parks.
Jostedalsbreen National Park
Home to Europe’s largest glacier and epic glacier-watching routes.
Folgefonna National Park
Glacier landscapes and mountaineering opportunities in Vestland.
Hardangervidda National Park
Nordic high plateau with wild reindeer and expansive vistas.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through Bergen’s historic streets and other coastal neighborhoods that blend culture with harbor views.
Bryggen (Bergen)
Historic harbor district with colorful wooden houses and shops.
Nordnes
A scenic peninsula neighborhood with parks and waterfront walks.
Sandviken
Quiet hillside neighborhood offering great views over the harbor.
Free Things to Do
The region rewards visitors with free outdoor adventures and spectacular natural scenery.
Trolltunga hike
A famous cliff hike offering dramatic views; a must for serious hikers.
Steinsdalsfossen waterfall
Waterfall with a path behind the curtain of water for a striking photo.
Ulriken Mountain Hike
Reach a panoramic peak on one of Bergen’s most popular hiking routes.
Gastronomy
Taste the sea and local specialties in Bergen’s vibrant food scene.
Fisketorget – Bergen Fish Market
Bustling market with fresh seafood and local bites.
Brunost tasting
Try Norway’s distinctive brown cheese at a local shop.
Bergen Fjord Cruise
Scenic voyage with seafood options, showcasing the region’s coastal flavors.
Nightlife
Evenings in Western Norway blend waterfront views with live music and cozy bars.
Evening harbor cruise
Relaxing night cruise from Bergen’s harbor with atmospheric views.
Vågen & Bryggen nightlife walk
Stroll between waterfront bars and live music around the historic quay.
Entertainment
Seasonal festivals and concerts showcase world-class arts in the region.
Bergen International Festival
A premier festival of music, theatre and performing arts.
Nattjazz
Long-running jazz festival with-nightly concerts across venues.
Sports
Active travelers can pursue fjord adventures, mountain hikes, and winter sports.
Voss Gondol
Cable car ascent offering access to alpine routes and panoramas.
Kayaking in the Nærøyfjord
Calm waters and dramatic scenery ideal for paddling.
Skiing at Voss Resort
Seasonal slopes and activities for winter sports lovers.
Off the Track
Hidden viewpoints and epic routes offer off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Trolltunga hike
Iconic cliff edge with sweeping fjord views, a challenging day hike.
Stegastein Viewpoint
Dramatic overlook of the Aurlandsfjord perched above the cliff.
Rallarvegen cycling route
Historic rail route turned scenic cycling path through mountains.