Tag Archive for: europe

The Best Long Distance Hikes in Ireland

Are you planning a trip to Ireland in the near future? If so, you should consider adding one of the many long-distance hikes in Ireland to your bucket list. 

The best time to go hiking in Ireland is between May and October, as temperatures are slightly warmer, and you can enjoy pleasant weather during your hike. However, it’s important that you pack the right gear, should random rainfall occur. 

Many of the long-distance backpacking trails in Ireland will allow you to enjoy Ireland off the beaten path. During a hike, you may come across quaint villages which are definitely not on the average tourist’s radar. 

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Ireland, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has an extensive list of the best trails for hiking in Ireland, with reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

There is a wide range of long-distance hikes in Ireland, where you can either camp along the way or find accommodation in the middle of your chosen route. As there are so many long-distance hiking trails to select from in Ireland, we have narrowed down some of the best treks available to explore. 

1. Kerry Way  (214 km)

Torc Waterfall which stands at the base of Torc Mountain within the Killarney National Park.

Torc Waterfall in the Killarney National Park

Kerry Way is one of the longest signposted hiking trails in Ireland which begins and ends in Killarney, a popular coastal town in the Republic of Ireland. Killarney is known for its brightly coloured 19th-century architecture, including St Mary’s Cathedral. 

This hiking trail is a circular route that typically takes around 7 to 10 days to complete. Despite the length of the hike, it is a fairly easy route that is accessible to all levels. Although the terrain does differ, with everything from sturdy tarmac roads to boggy national parkland and farm areas. 

Along the way, you will discover interesting castle ruins and ancient Celtic monuments, as well as stunning mountain landscapes. At the start of the hike, you can also enjoy the beautiful Torc Waterfall, which stands at the base of Torc Mountain within the Killarney National Park. 

2. The Wicklow Way (128 km)

Wicklow Mountains National Park along the Wicklow Way - one of the best long distance hikes in Ireland

The J. B. Malone memorial above Lough Tay in the Wicklow Mountains National Park

The Wicklow Way is one of the most challenging backpacking trails in Ireland. The trail takes around 7 days in total, starting in the Dublin suburb of Rathfarnham and crossing 26 peaks throughout Dublin and the Wicklow mountains. The hiking trail ends in the small village of Clonegal in County Carlow.

The most popular route along the Wicklow Way is the north to south route, however, you can also take the south to the north route if you wish to start on low terrain and work your way up. 

Whatever route you take, you will be able to enjoy a wide range of sights including Marlay Park, Fairy Castle, the Powerscourt waterfall, the peaks of Djouce, and more. 

3. The Irish segment of the E8 Long Distance Trail (650 km)

Walk the start of the E8 Long-Distance Trail - one of the best long distance hikes in Ireland

Walk the westernmost portion of the E8 Long-Distance Trail in Ireland

The E8 trail was established as Europe’s first long-distance hike, and it starts in Ireland in Cork’s Dursey Island – the westernmost tip of Europe. The whole trail stretches to Istanbul, Turkey, although the Irish section begins at Dursey Island and ends in Dublin City.

Part of the route overlaps with some of the best long-distance hikes in Ireland including the Wicklow Way, the Kerry Way, the South Leinster Way, and the Blackwater Way. 

The Irish segment of the E8 trail goes from coast to coast and allows you to see all of rural Ireland including the bogs, mountains, windy country roads, old castles, and even ancient burial sites. 

4. Dingle Way (183 km)

Cliffs along the Dingle Way towards Slea Head

Cliffs along the Dingle Way towards Slea Head

Ireland’s Dingle Way is a circular backpacking trail that covers the Dingle Peninsula and takes around 6 to 8 days to complete. This is an easy to moderate walk with well-maintained terrain throughout. 

The Dingle Way starts and ends in Tralee, in the South-west county of Kerry. Tralee is known for its yearly Rose of Tralee International Festival, which is held every August. This is a contest that celebrates Irish women all over the world.

The Dingle Way offers stunning views of beautiful beaches, lively towns, and mountains. When you get to the foot of Mount Bradon, the difficulty of the trail increases, however, it’s nothing the average hiker can’t handle. 

5. The Beara Way (206 km)

Beara Peninsula countryside on the Beara Way - one of the best long distance hikes in Ireland

Beara Peninsula countryside on the Beara Way

The Beara Way is a circular long-distance hike in Ireland that begins and ends in Glengarriff, a tiny village in the Beara Peninsula of County Cork. It takes about 8 to 12 days to complete the entire backpacking trail, however, you can start the hike at various points.

Most of the backpacking trail is dry, there are parts of the walk that are boggy, so it’s advised that you bring waterproof shoes. There are also various steep climbs and rough terrain, so it’s important you stay focused while you walk.

During the walk, you will come across spectacular Atlantic views, as well as plenty of wild mountainous land. You will also have the pleasure of visiting Bere Island during the trail, where you will find historic military buildings, plenty of heritage, and even the opportunity to go whale watching. 

The collection of long-distance hikes in Ireland does not stop here, as there are plenty more backpacking trails and sights to explore on The Emerald Isle. 

For more facts on travel in Ireland, take a look at our Backpacking Ireland guide, which uncovers everything you need to know about Ireland including where to stay. It also discusses things to do while you are there, as well as Republic of Ireland visa requirements and work permit information. 

The Best Long Distance Hikes in Ireland

6 Must-See Waterfront Destinations in the Balkans

The Balkan region, located in south-eastern Europe, offers a wealth of potential holiday destinations.

Rich in history, culture, and with a sunny summer climate, there are countless reasons why a holiday to the Balkans could be a great choice for this summer. Cheaper than most of Northern Europe, there is plenty of scope for everything from a quick weekend getaway to a two-week vacation.

If you’d like to visit the area but are undecided on exactly where to go, the following guide will talk you through three must-see waterfront destinations in the Balkans that you should consider.

Dalmatian Islands

Hvar Island, one of the beautiful Dalmatian Islands

Hvar Island, one of the beautiful Dalmatian Islands

If you’re up for an adventure, the Dalmatian Islands could be the perfect location for you.

Located south of the Croatian coastline, there are many islands for you to visit and explore, the most famous being Hvar. With beautiful towns to discover, you won’t be short of things to do during your days on these islands. There is also plenty to do in the evenings, with a host of restaurants and lively piazzas to enjoy.

If you are unsure about which island is best for you or aren’t confident about your navigation skills, you could consider booking a walking holiday in Croatia. This will allow you to take a guided tour of both mainland Croatia and a range of islands too. This could be ideal if you are travelling alone and looking to meet like-minded people.

Don’t worry if you are looking for something slower-paced, the Dalmatian Islands are home to some incredible beaches, ideal for fully switching off.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Even though some might have not heard of Dubrovnik, many will probably recognise it by the resemblance between this stunning town and King’s Landing in Game of Thrones.

Dubrovnik is a medieval town famous for its clear blue sea and ancient city walls, one of its most popular attractions. Tourists can wander the old town, rich in history and breathtaking views, where restaurants and local shops overlook the narrow streets.

Piran, Slovenia

Piran, Slovenia

Piran, Slovenia

If you’re looking for somewhere to immerse yourself in culture, you should think about a trip to Piran this summer.

Located in southwestern Slovenia, Piran is famous for both its beautiful Venetian architecture and its pier. There is much more than that on offer though, with Piran also having a maritime museum, an aquarium, a theatre, and several galleries. Not only is there lots to explore but most of it can be done on foot, with cars not allowed within the old city area.

If you aren’t up for staying in one place, Piran is just 1.5 hours from Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana, and 2.5 hours from Venice, meaning there is potential to make this a multi-destination trip.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is one of the most visited locations in Slovenia and for good reason.

Lake Bled is often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. Tourists can walk around the lake in 1-2 hours, taking in the stunning views and photogenic landscape. In the warmer seasons, people can also swim in this lake or explore by boat, paddleboard or kayak.

As a popular destination for tourists who visit Slovenia, Lake Bled is home to many restaurants and hotels that are located on the very edge of the lake. One example is Vila Bled, which guarantees direct access to the lake and overlooks Bled Island, a small and picturesque island that rises from the lake.

The Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro

If you’re wanting to embrace nature on your holiday, Montenegro is an excellent choice.

Bordering Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, and the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro boasts a combination of gorgeous beaches and mountains. Home to five national parks, you certainly don’t need to worry about finding walking trails or picnic spots to suit you! The most beautiful waterfront place in Montegro is the Bay of Kotor, often called Europe’s southernmost fjord.

If your feet become tired after lots of exploring, you could hop on a train from Bijelo Polje to Stari Bar. Despite only being 250km in length, this route will take you from mountain to coast, with stunning views along the way.

Skopelos, Greece

Skopelos, Greece

Skopelos, Greece

Skopelos rose to fame in 2008 thanks to Mamma Mia!, the ABBA-inspired musical. This small island is the ideal retreat for anyone who is looking for a relaxing Mediterranean holiday.

Skopelos offers a number of peaceful beaches with the opportunity to swim in the clearest of seas. Scuba diving, stand-up paddling and kayaking are just some of the activities that are made available to tourists. Hiking is another popular activity when the temperature allows it; old footpaths on the island can lead to unexpected places like secluded beaches and hilltops, which provide breathtaking views of the island and surrounding sea.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Skopelos, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

Faro, Portugal: A comprehensive travel guide to the Algarve capital

For millions of tourists each year, the Algarve in Portugal is a highly sought-after holiday destination. Its capital, Faro, is a city rich in culture and history and is also ideal for those seeking relaxation on the beach.

Faro feels slightly more Portuguese than the other resort towns and is often just passed through by tourists, which is a shame as it has so much to offer to holiday-goers. Here we’ve provided our complete Faro Portugal travel guide to the city to help you organise your well-deserved trip.

Faro Accommodation

One of the more popular destinations to stay for tourists is Downtown Faro. The area is well known for its thriving nightlife scene and abundance of bars, restaurants and cafes. If you get the chance to visit here, you should most definitely try some of the local products, including the freshly made croissants at Pastelaria Gardy.

Cidade Velha, or the Old Town in English, is the historical hub of the city, protected by imperial walls from the 9th Century. The area is host to a number of hostels and hotels, small streets and classic regional houses.

Cidade Velha (Old Town) in Faro

Cidade Velha (Old Town) in Faro

For those wishing to stay close to the local fishermen’s boats or stunning summer yachts on the sea, the Marina de Faro is a beautiful location with plenty of things to do. There are typically lots of free shows and music concerts in the summer and an abundance of ice cream shops and cafes.

Top Attractions in Faro

In Faro, the main sights are all within walking distance of each other, meaning you can pack lots of activities into each day. At the top of the list is the Old Town, a beautiful location with great architecture, ancient cathedrals and delicious food. An ideal starting point is the Jardim Manuel Bivar which is close to the marina. From there, you can visit the Arco da Vila, which is home to the statue of St. Thomas Aquinas, the Patron Saint of Faro.

Not far from the Largo da Sé, the Cathedral of Faro offers breath-taking views of the Ria Formosa and surrounding areas. The cathedral was built in the 13th century and is an iconic piece of architecture in the city. If you can hack the 68 steps to the top, you won’t be disappointed.

Faro Cathedral

Faro Cathedral

Porta Nova is a tiny gate in the city wall that connects the old town to the waterfront, where you can see the boat tours and ferries depart. The oldest part of Faro’s old town, the gate makes for the perfect holiday photo before heading off on a ferry to one of the nearby islands.

Transportation in Faro

Faro airport is relatively small and easy to navigate, with the journey to most resorts usually lasting around 15 minutes. Do note that public transport from the airport can be infrequent, so it is recommended that you pre-book your Faro airport transfers to guarantee you get to your accommodation with ease.

Hiring a car will allow you to reach some of the more isolated and remote parts of the Algarve but is not necessary to make your way around Faro. The city has one bus station and one train station, which are both located in the centre. A lot of the sites here can be accessed easily by foot from either station, therefore getting around is relatively straightforward.

The Best Beaches in Faro

Faro is not typically considered a beach holiday destination but this doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have its fair share of golden coastlines. The best beaches here are on found on the southern side of the three sandbar islands and cannot be accessed via walking.

The Ilha Deserta is an uninhabited island that can only be reached by boat. The beach here, Praia Da Ilha Deserta, stretches over 6km and is widely known for its crystal-clear water and pristine sandy coastline. There is also a wooden boardwalk that runs up the north part of the island, passing through beach shrubs.

Ilha Deserta near Faro in the Algarve

Ilha Deserta near Faro in the Algarve

On the northern side of Ilha da Culatra is a traditional fishing village and its two main beaches, Praia da Ilha da Culatra and Praia da Ilha do Farol. Farol beach is situated close to a spectacular lighthouse and is ideal for a family day trip. There are residents who live here permanently and several holiday homes, meaning it has a slightly higher tourist population than Culatra.

Culatra beach is sparsely developed and is essentially an empty beach, making it a great escape for those seeking a relaxing day out. However, a ferry ride from the mainland is required to reach these beaches, although this is usually only short.

The final beach, the Praia de Faro, is located on the Ilha de Faro and spans 5km of golden sands. It is only a mere five-minute drive from the airport and there is also a direct bus here. The area is home to several relaxed cafes and a few beach bars. This beach is often favoured by visitors due to its easy accessibility, particularly if it is a day trip.

We hope you have enjoyed this travel guide for Faro Portugal and that you enjoy your vacation!

Backpacking Europe Essentials: The Ultimate Europe Packing List

Are you planning your first European backpacking travel adventure? Packing for a trip can be exciting but stressful, especially if you don’t know what to bring. Whether you’re going for a week or for an entire summer, there are a few backpacking Europe essentials for your packing list. To help you get started, take a look at our backpacking Europe checklist, which will ensure you have everything you need for your trip. 

1. The Right Backpack

The right backpacking can make or break your trip. A backpack that’s too big can make traveling uncomfortable, while a backpack that’s too small won’t allow you to fit all your belongings in it. 

When backpacking Europe, you won’t want to bring a large, rolling suitcase. European cities were built before the age of elevators, which means that you’ll be walking lots of stairs. When navigating the metro, the old buildings, and the hotels, you’ll be happy to be able to take the stairs instead of lugging around an unwieldy backpack.

When it comes to essentials for your backpacking Europe packing list, it’s best to bring a carry-on sized backpack to avoid baggage fees on budget airlines. A carry-on sized backpack will also be small enough to keep nearby if you’re taking a bus or train tour in Europe.

Backpacking backpacks come in sizes based on the liter volume that they can carry. A 30-40 liter bag is comparable to a carry-on size suitcase, while a bag that’s 50-65 liters will be too big to take with you as a carry on.

Make sure you choose a bag that fits comfortably on your body. If you’re visiting a store, the employees will be more than happy to help you select a few bags that are suited to your body size. 

If you’re looking for the best backpack for backpacking Europe, the Osprey brand has some great all-rounder backpacks. Osprey is the go-to essential Europe backpacking option and fits most people comfortably. 

2. Day bag

When you’re taking a day trip or going on a hike, you won’t want to bring your huge backpack with you. Leave most of your items locked safely at your accommodation and take along a day bag. Your best bet would be to purchase a foldable daypack that can fit into your bigger backpack.

It will need to fit essentials such as money, a snack, water, and maybe a change of clothes, so it shouldn’t be too big or bulky.

3. Padlocks

Padlocks are a quick, convenient, and inexpensive way to secure your bags and hostel lockers. When assembling your backpacking Europe essentials for your packing list, a small item like this can be a lifesaver! You can also use your luggage lock on your backpack during travel days, ensuring all your belongings are safe, including your passport.

4. Universal travel adapter

Your Europe backpacking packing list should include a universal travel adapter, which will work for your phone charger or any other electronic devices. 

The outlets in continental Europe use the same 2-pronged plug, but if you’re traveling in the UK and Ireland, you’ll need a different 3-pronged system. Rather than taking multiple chargers with you, a multifunctional adapter will do. 

5. Camera

The best travel camera for backpacking europe

Your phone camera is sufficient for everyday life, but backpacking around the world is an incredible experience that you will never want to forget!

Your travel photos will prove invaluable once you return from your epic journey, so be sure to capture all the incredible things you encounter along the way. Bring a camera that not only takes great pictures but also fits easily into your backpack.

These days, the majority of cameras are equipped with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, so they can be transmitted easily to your laptop or phone to post them online.

You may wish to bring a high-tech DSLR camera to take stunning photographs.

If you want to take your backpacking adventures to the next level, then consider bringing along a waterproof GoPro, which will accompany you everywhere from underwater adventures to skydiving during your European backpacking adventures.

6. Travel towel

Your essential backpacking Europe packing list should include a quick-drying travel towel, since you will be moving from hostel to hostel as you backpack between cities. My favorite travel towel is a Turkish towel which is quick to dry and easy to fit in your backpack. You can also use the towel as a privacy screen if you secure a bottom bunk in a hostel.

7. Power Bank

A power bank is one of the essentials on my backpacking Europe packing list, for multiple reasons. While traveling, you’ll be using your phone much more than normal – for navigation, taking photos, videos, or researching travel tips. On days like this, you’ll want to have a backup battery for your phone. 

I’ve also relied on my power bank during long travel journeys when I use my phone and want to make sure I have enough juice to find my way to the next destination.

8. Change purse

Reliance on physical money is surprisingly still pretty high throughout Europe. Plus, having lots of €1 and €2 Euro coins is a good idea if you want to leave behind tips or donate to street musicians that you’ll see on your trip. 

9. The right shoes

For your backpacking Europe packing list, don’t forget to throw in a pair of rubber sandals for the hostel showers. You should also bring a pair of comfortable but stylish walking shoes. Some nightlife spots will require a certain dress code, but you can get away with leather-style sneakers. And women can get away with stylish-looking flats that are secretly super comfortable.

10. Hostel survival kit

If you’ll be staying in hostels, don’t forget these 4 backpacking Europe essentials. We call it the hostel survival kit:

11. The Best Apps for Backpacking Europe

The Best Apps for Backpacking Europe

And lastly, before heading off for your European backpacking adventure, you should load up your phone with a few essential apps that will make backpacking Europe a breeze.

Apps to book transportation from place to place

Given the relatively compact size of Europe, you can travel between major cities by train or bus. There are a few useful apps for European transportation that can help make sure you find the best deal while sticking to your schedule.

  • Omio – compare trains, buses, and flight options in Europe and travel using mobile tickets
  • Trainline – a popular app in the UK to find train and bus tickets 
  • Flixbus – a long-distance bus company that is a favorite mode of travel for budget backpackers
  • Kiwi – a flight search comparison site that helps you find the lowest prices
  • Skyscanner – another classic flight search website that has powerful flexible search options
  • DiscoverCars – car rental search engine with direct booking to 500+ suppliers

Apps for Finding Accommodation in Europe

Apps to book discounted activities and Skip the Line tickets

Apps to stay in touch with friends and family back home

If you don’t want to change to an international mobile plan, you can use these apps over free public WiFi to stay in touch with people back home.

Things to do in Bergen when it Rains

Nestled in between fjords, Norway’s second-largest city is the perfect fusion of nature, culture and history. It has a small-city atmosphere (nothing’s too far away), with the ever-present chance to get out into Norway’s great wide outdoors.

The UNESCO Heritage Listed area of Bryggen consists of different-colored buildings lined along the water, with the picturesque mountains (there are seven around the city) soaring above. 

The city’s also famous for its food scene – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage City of gastronomy, largely due to its seafood. 

However, for all Bergen’s charms, it certainly doesn’t always have idyllic weather. In fact, it’s often described as the rainiest city in Europe.

So what do you do in Bergen on a rainy day? Thankfully, the city has adapted to less kind weather, so whether you’re visiting Bergen in winter (December is the rainiest month) or if the weather just isn’t on your side, you’re still guaranteed plenty of things to do. 

Here are the ten best things to do in Bergen when it rains! 

Best things to do in Bergen when it rains

The best things to do in Bergen when it rains include visiting the history museums, exploring art galleries, enjoying delicious seafood and taking a dip in the heated swimming pool and fjords. 

Explore the Bryggens Museum

One of the best indoor activities in Bergen, the Bryggens Museum describes the origins and history of this part of Bergen. 

The Bryggens Museum

The Bryggens Museum

The city is famous for being burned to the ground multiple times (thanks to the fact that it has been relentlessly rebuilt from wood every time it was rebuilt!). Here, you’ll also learn about the Hanseatic League, and how they moved in after the city was virtually deserted after most of the inhabitants died after the Black Death. 

It’s located right in the heart of Bryggen, with hands-on exhibits that’ll make you feel like you’re stepping right into the heart of Bergen’s history! 

Visit the Bergen Maritime Museum

Bergen Maritime Museum

The Bergen Maritime Museum is a great rainy day activity

Life in Bergen revolves around the sea. Sitting in the heart of the fjords, close to the coast, means that the sea has been its lifeline for centuries. Bergen locals have always used the sea for transportation and food, and maritime culture has been built around this. 

This makes the Bergen Maritime Museum one of the most important in the city. You’ll go back in time to the ancient shipping history, with artifacts from the Halsnøy boat dating from 390-535 AD, and discover information about Norway’s first steamer, SS Constitutionen. 

Whether you want to learn about Norway’s naval history, historic transportation from Bergen to elsewhere in the world or Norwegian cod, there’s all the information you’ll need to hear about the seas here! 

Get lost in an art gallery

Along with fascinating history, Bergen has a thriving art culture. It’s home to the third-largest Edvard Munch collection in the world (the largest and second-largest are both in Oslo). One of the best activities, when it rains in Bergen, are to visit one of the many art museums.

 

KODE museums in Bergen

KODE museums in Bergen

There are four significant art galleries in the city centre, all run by KODE. They’re called KODE 1, KODE 2, KODE 3 and KODE 4 and all have slightly different focuses. 

If you only have time to visit one, KODE 4 has the most extensive collection of Norwegian and international art. 

Learn about food culture at the seafood market

Delve right into the city’s culinary scene at the Bergen seafood market. This is completely under cover so it’s the perfect activity when it rains in Bergen, and here you can try fresh cod, shellfish and lobster that comes straight from the fjords and nearby ocean. 

If you want to have a more formal sit-down dinner, I recommend the restaurant Fish Me, which is in the fish market. They serve a delectable Bergen fish soup with julienned vegetables, fish of the day with beurre blanc sauce and linguine with mussels, scallops and prawns in a creamy spicy sauce. 

Vegetarian sushi at Fish Me in Bergen

Vegetarian sushi at Fish Me in Bergen

If any people in your group are vegetarian, there are a few plant-based options on the menu too, including a vegetarian burger and fish (and meat)-free sushi. 

The food is deliciously fresh throughout the year, but it’s even tastier when the weather’s not so great – so don’t worry if you’re visiting Bergen in February; you can still enjoy the mouthwatering food! 

Head to the Bergen Aquarium

Home to 60 large and small tanks, Bergen Aquarium has Norwegian cod, lizards, crocodiles and snakes. There are feedings every day and even cinema showings. 

Not only will you have chances to see the animals, but you can also learn about protecting the waters around Norway (and elsewhere in the world), and ensuring that the seas stay vibrant for years to come. 

Go back in time at Greig’s House

Famous Norwegian composer Edvard Greig lived just outside of Bergen, a short bus ride away from the city. His former home is open to the public; visitors can explore rooms such as the Peer Gynt Suite where the composer created his best work. 

The interior has been decorated exactly as it did in the late 19th century when Greig lived there. You can also enjoy the ornate gardens and take in views of the surrounding dramatic fjords. 

Go indoor climbing at Klatreverket Bergen

If you want to unleash your inner adrenaline junkie, head to the walls! Even when it rains in Bergen, there are plenty of indoor options. Klatreverket Bergen specialises in bouldering, with walls for all abilities. 

There’s the main room, a back room with some more walls, a children’s room and even a sauna – perfect for relaxing after a climbing session!

Soak in Nordnes Sjøbad

While you might not want to visit Nordnes Sjøbad, an outdoor spa complex, in a thunderstorm, it’s quite pleasant in drizzly weather – the weather won’t bother you too much when you’re in a 32°C swimming pool, a hot and dry sauna or taking a dip into the 7°C fjord water. 

The sauna/ heated pool/ cold water plunge combination is bracing, but it’ll wake you up and make you feel energised for a day’s exploring – so don’t let a little chilly weather put you off! 

Educate yourself at the VilVite Bergen Science Centre

Step into the world of science and technology at the VilVite Bergen Science Centre, where you can learn about dams and hydropower, consider how the body works and look at the influences of nature on society. There’s even an interactive climbing wall and Multiball play area. 

Check out Bergen’s best bars

Of course, one of the best things to do in Bergen when it rains is to check out a few bars and enjoy some Norwegian drinks! 

Magic Ice Bar Bergen’s interior is uniquely made entirely out of ice. Here, you’ll enjoy a beverage at a chilly -5C, while surrounded by stunning ice sculptures and illuminated by colorful lights. Warm ponchos are provided for visitors. 

Magic Ice Bar Bergen

Visit the Magic Ice Bar Bergen on a rainy day

Frescohallen is a cocktail bar, serving classics like martinis and spritzes. It’s famous for its beautiful frescos, painted to depict scenes from the city’s fishing industry.

Do a walking tour (guided or self-guided)

There’s a saying in Norway: “no such thing as bad weather, only such a thing as bad clothes”, and if you wrap up, wear waterproof boots and hire an umbrella (you can rent them from many hotel lobbies!), there’s no reason why the weather should cause you any bother when you’re exploring the city. 

One of the best things about Bergen is that the weather changes quite quickly, so do venture out Norwegian style if you can! 

Bergen Basecamp offers food and history walking tours of the historic city; you’ll bypass Bergen Cathedral and a great deal of Hanseatic League wooden architecture! 

You can also book walking tours on Get Your Guide.

Alternatively, if you want to stay drier while you see the sites, you could also enjoy a sightseeing cruise of Bergen’s landmarks with an indoor boat area. Click here to read more about it!

Take a day trip out of the city

While Bergen may be one of the rainiest cities in Europe, this is largely because it’s nestled in the fjords and amongst mountains. You might find that the weather is largely different as soon as you travel away from the city! 

  • Voss isn’t too far away, and it’s a popular skiing destination in the winter months – or, in the summer season, you can enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. 
  • There’s an excellent self-guided tour on Get Your Guide which encompasses some more of fjord Norway and the Flåm railway; you’ll cruise on the UNESCO World Heritage fjord Nærøyfjorden, before docking in Flåm and exploring this village and then embarking on the famous Flåm railway, which is known as one of the most scenic in the world. 

What NOT to do in Bergen when it rains

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Bergen when it rains, but here are a few things that I’d recommend scheduling for the sunny days on your trip! 

The first thing I’d recommend avoiding on a rainy day is a fjord tour. Tours take 3.5 hours and depart from the fish market at Bergen, taking in Alversund Streams and Mostraumen.  On cloudy days, visibility in the fjords can be a little restricted; so it might be best to schedule tours for a clearer day. 

I’d also recommend avoiding Bergen’s mountains, such as Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken, if the weather isn’t so kind. During wet and wild weather, the funicular and cable cars don’t operate, and even in drizzly weather, you won’t have much visibility. So save exploring the soaring mountains for clearer days!

Don’t worry if the weather isn’t great while you’re in Bergen – there are still plenty of rainy-day attractions in Norway’s second-largest city! 

Whether you want to learn about Bergen’s unique history, enjoy local artwork or visit some of the more modern attractions, you won’t be bored in Bergen, whatever the weather!