Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is known for its dramatic scenery, picturesque wooden houses, and as the gateway to the majestic fjords. As a visitor, getting around the city and its surrounding areas is key to fully enjoying what it has to offer. Fortunately, Bergen boasts a comprehensive and efficient public transport system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. Whether you’re planning a visit to the famous Bryggen Wharf, taking a hike in the mountains, or exploring the surrounding fjords, understanding how to navigate Bergen’s public transportation will make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Bergen’s public transport system, offering insights into how to use buses, trains, and ferries, along with some helpful tips to make your travel experience as smooth as possible.
Buses in Bergen: Your Key to the City
The most popular and widespread mode of transport in Bergen is the bus network, operated by Skyss. Buses are the backbone of the city’s public transport system, connecting every neighborhood in Bergen and providing access to nearby towns and attractions. Skyss runs a frequent service with well-marked routes, making it a reliable option for both locals and tourists.
Skyss buses are easy to spot with their green and white colors, and each bus route is numbered for clarity. Bus stops are found throughout the city, and major stops, such as the Bergen Busstasjon (Bergen Bus Station), serve as hubs for different routes.
How to Use the Bus
Using the bus system in Bergen is straightforward. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Ticket Purchase: You can buy tickets in several ways. The easiest and most convenient method is via the Skyss app, which allows you to purchase tickets directly from your phone. You can also buy tickets at kiosks, select convenience stores, or at the Skyss customer service center located in the Bergen Bus Station. Single tickets, 24-hour passes, and 7-day passes are all available, depending on how long you’ll be in the city.
- Ticket Validation: If you purchase your ticket via the app, you don’t need to worry about validation—just show it to the driver when you board. If you buy a physical ticket from a kiosk or vending machine, you’ll need to validate it using the machines at the bus stop or inside the bus.
- Boarding the Bus: Buses generally operate on a strict timetable, and you can find schedules posted at most stops or online. When your bus arrives, you can board through the front door. Show your ticket to the driver or scan your app as you board.
- Bus Routes: Most buses run from around 5:00 AM until midnight, with night buses available on weekends. Bus routes are clearly marked with route numbers and destination names on the front of the bus. For example, if you’re heading to the popular Fløyen funicular, you’ll take Bus 2 from the city center.
Popular Bus Routes for Tourists
Some routes are particularly useful for travelers wanting to explore the city’s top attractions:
- Bus 2: This route takes you from Bergen city center to the Fløyen funicular, one of Bergen’s most iconic tourist spots.
- Bus 3: For a scenic trip to the University of Bergen and nearby attractions, this is your go-to bus.
- Bus 6: Perfect for heading out to Bergen Aquarium, located by the fjord, offering an easy and scenic ride.
Tips for Riding Buses in Bergen
- Plan your trip: Use the Skyss Travel Planner available on the app or website. It helps you map out your journey with real-time information about bus arrivals and departures.
- Avoid rush hour: Like any city, buses can get crowded during rush hours (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM). Try to plan your trips outside these times for a more comfortable ride.
- Night buses: If you’re out late, know that night buses run on weekends but are limited during weekdays. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time.
Bergen Light Rail: The Bybanen
Bergen’s Bybanen (light rail) is another excellent way to get around the city. The light rail line connects the Bergen city center to the airport, as well as various residential areas. It’s a great option for those staying in neighborhoods further from the city center or those traveling to and from the airport.
The light rail operates from Byparken (Bergen city center) to Bergen Airport Flesland. The journey from the city center to the airport takes approximately 45 minutes, making it a convenient alternative to taxis or buses.
Using the Bybanen
- Ticketing: Tickets for the Bybanen are the same as for the buses, so you can use your Skyss app, kiosk, or vending machines to purchase tickets. There are ticket machines available at every light rail stop.
- Boarding: The Bybanen operates on a similar schedule to the buses, running from early morning to late evening. The light rail arrives frequently, approximately every 5 to 10 minutes during peak hours. Simply validate your ticket at the station before boarding.
- Stops: The Bybanen has multiple stops across the city, including Byparken (city center), Lagunen (a major shopping center), and Bergen Airport. Each stop is announced in both Norwegian and English, making it easy for non-Norwegian speakers to navigate.
- Accessibility: The Bybanen is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a great option for families and travelers with mobility concerns.
Top Stops Along the Bybanen
- Byparken: Located in the heart of Bergen, this stop is perfect for exploring the city center, including Bryggen Wharf, the Fish Market, and Fløyen funicular.
- Lagunen: If you’re in the mood for shopping, the Lagunen Storsenter shopping mall is one of the largest in Norway and is easily accessible via the Bybanen.
- Flesland: This stop is for Bergen Airport, ideal for travelers coming in or out of the city.
Ferries: Exploring the Fjords and Beyond
One of the highlights of visiting Bergen is its proximity to Norway’s stunning fjords, and the best way to experience them is by ferry. Bergen is a major hub for ferry routes that connect the city with various towns, islands, and fjords along the western coast of Norway.
Whether you’re looking for a short day trip or a multi-day fjord excursion, ferries are the ideal way to explore the natural beauty surrounding Bergen. Norled and Rødne are two of the main operators providing ferry services in the area, offering both scheduled routes and sightseeing cruises.
How to Use Ferries
- Booking Tickets: Ferry tickets can be purchased in advance online through the Norled or Rødne websites, at ticket offices, or at the ferry terminals. Depending on the journey, you may want to book ahead during peak tourist season, as ferries to popular destinations like the Sognefjord can fill up quickly.
- Ferry Terminals: The main ferry terminal in Bergen is located near the Fish Market, within walking distance of the city center. Ferries leave regularly for destinations such as Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord, and nearby islands like Askøy and Sotra.
- Onboard Facilities: Ferries offer a comfortable and scenic ride, with onboard facilities including snack bars, restrooms, and seating areas. Some longer journeys may also include dining options and observation decks for better views of the fjords.
- Schedules: Ferry schedules vary depending on the destination and season, so be sure to check the timetable online before planning your trip. Popular fjord cruises typically run daily during the summer months, while fewer routes operate during the winter.
Ferry Routes for Travelers
- Bergen to Sognefjord: One of the most popular routes, this ferry takes you through the beautiful Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. The journey offers breathtaking views and a chance to stop at charming villages along the way.
- Bergen to Hardangerfjord: Known for its picturesque waterfalls and fruit orchards, the Hardangerfjord ferry route is another must for nature lovers.
- Bergen to Askøy: For a shorter trip, ferries to the island of Askøy offer a quick and easy escape from the city, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
Practical Tips for Navigating Bergen’s Public Transport
- Purchase a Travel Pass: If you’re staying in Bergen for several days and plan to use public transport frequently, consider purchasing a Bergen Card. This card offers unlimited travel on buses, the Bybanen, and ferries within the city area, as well as free or discounted admission to many of Bergen’s top attractions.
- Check Schedules: Public transport in Bergen runs on a reliable schedule, but it’s always a good idea to check the timetables in advance, especially for ferries and long-distance buses.
- Download the Skyss App: The Skyss app is an invaluable tool for navigating Bergen’s public transport system. It allows you to plan your route, check schedules, and purchase tickets all in one place.
- Consider the Weather: Bergen is known for its frequent rain, so always carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially if you plan to wait at outdoor bus stops or ferry terminals.
Navigating Bergen’s public transport system is a breeze once you understand the basics of its bus, train, and ferry networks. Whether you’re exploring the city’s urban attractions or venturing out into the natural beauty of the fjords, Bergen’s efficient and well-connected public transport options will get you where you need to go.
