Bergen, Norway, is renowned for its picturesque scenery, but it also presents unique challenges for families, including its notorious rainfall and high living costs. Public restrooms are scarce, and navigating the cobblestone streets can be difficult with a stroller. However, the city is very welcoming to families; breastfeeding in public is widely accepted, and it’s common to see children using iPhones or iPads in restaurants. Here are ten enjoyable activities to consider for a family outing in Bergen.
1. Explore the Mountains
Bergen is enveloped by seven majestic mountains, two of which are easily accessible via public transportation. The Fløyen funicular provides a scenic ride to the top, where families can enjoy a public playground and various forest trails. On pleasant days, grab a one-time-use BBQ grill (available at grocery stores during the summer) and pack some hot dogs for a delightful picnic in the woods. The “aktivitetsløype” trail is especially designed for children and features whimsical wooden troll carvings.
2. Adventure on Ulriken
The higher Ulriken mountain requires a cable car ride to reach its summit. Although it offers stunning views, be sure to dress warmly, even in summer. Hiking between Fløyen and Ulriken is possible but plan for at least six hours if you have children with you. Inform your hotel about your plans in case of emergencies. Unlike Fløyen, Ulriken has no specific activities for kids, so bring your own snacks and beverages.
3. Visit the Aquarium
Expect rainy days during your visit, making indoor activities essential. The Bergen Aquarium is a favorite among young children, showcasing crocodiles, penguins, and sea lions. Although it is a bit tricky to reach, the experience is worth it. Consider purchasing a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket if you plan to visit both the aquarium and Ulriken.
4. Engage at the Children’s Science Museum
The science museum is fantastic for families but tends to be crowded on weekends. There are numerous interactive exhibits that can captivate both kids and adults. Additionally, the KODE 4 art museum features an area specifically for children called KunstLab. Other museums also offer kid-friendly activities, such as dress-up at the maritime museum, which has free admission for kids.
5. Indoor Water Park Fun
A bit out of the city center but worth the bus ride is Vannkanten, an indoor water park with warm pools, water slides, and a climbing wall. Nearby, there are family-friendly dining options, including a pizza restaurant with a play area and a McDonald’s with a small play structure. For families with older kids, the adjacent indoor ice skating rink offers curling lessons (reservations recommended).
6. Kid-Friendly Dining
For budget-friendly dining, Pasta Sentralen is a local Italian favorite. While the play area is modest, featuring some mismatched Legos and a foosball table, kids will enjoy having toys to engage with while waiting for their food.
7. Outdoor Parks
Nygårdsparken’s lower section is a popular spot for families and students during sunny weekends. It’s a great place to feed ducks or toss a frisbee. Be cautious, however, as Bergen has a significant drug issue; avoid letting children play in bushes to stay safe.
8. Visit the World’s Largest IKEA
Take a bus to the largest IKEA in the world, where you can drop your kids off at the staffed indoor playground while you enjoy a coffee. The cafeteria offers some of the most affordable meals in the city, allowing you to make it a day out without breaking the bank. Keep in mind that Saturdays tend to be busy, and the store is closed on Sundays.
9. Ride the Tram
The tram system, or “bybanen,” features free Wi-Fi and takes you to Lagunen, where there’s a large shopping mall with a supervised playground for children under seven (note that this is not free).
10. Explore Local Playgroups
If you’re adventurous and want to mingle with locals, ask your hotel for information about nearby “åpen barnehager,” community playgroups typically run by churches. These free spaces welcome children aged 0-6 and provide opportunities to meet other parents, primarily English speakers, in a friendly environment.
In addition, for those interested in films, most theatrical releases are subtitled rather than dubbed, making it easy to find something enjoyable to watch. The science museum and aquarium frequently show free 3D films in English, and the Public Library offers free children’s movies on Sundays, often classic favorites.
Bergen is a city that can engage families despite its challenges, offering a range of activities that cater to children and parents alike.
Keyphrase: Family activities in Bergen
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