The city's most remarkable treasures are undoubtedly its ancient wooden churches, constructed entirely without the use of a single nail. In the Middle Ages, a single church could consist of up to 2,000 parts, which were assembled on the ground like a giant puzzle and then erected vertically using wooden poles. These churches, an integral part of Bergen's and Norway's heritage, are prominently featured on the city's list of attractions. Remarkably, they survived the Reformation and have endured to the present day.
The same level of historical preservation applies to the old wooden buildings. The largest concentration of these architectural gems can be found on the waterfront in the Bryggen neighborhood. Approximately a quarter of these houses date back to before the 18th century. Some of these historic structures have been relocated to the city's museum, preserving their legacy for future generations.
Old Bergen is a living city-museum featuring 50 wooden buildings from various construction periods, spanning from the late 18th to the early 20th centuries. The museum welcomes visitors year-round, and general admission is free. However, to fully appreciate the historic interiors of these wooden houses, you can purchase an entrance ticket for 50 NOK.
In the Hanseatic Museum (Hanseatisk Museum), you can experience how Hanseatic merchants lived during their business travels to Bergen. Admission for adults is 60 NOK, and children can enter for free. The museum's opening hours are as follows: from May 15 to September 15, it's open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; from September 16 to May 14, it's open Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM (and on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
Another local landmark is the 40-meter white ship, Statsraad Lehmkuhl, which was built in the early twentieth century. You have the opportunity to sail on this vessel along the Norwegian coast, where you can admire breathtaking views of mountain ranges. Interestingly, some of the best photos of Bergen's attractions are captured from the deck of this ship.
Not far from there, you'll find the Norwegian Knitwear Museum (located 20 km from the city), the only one of its kind in Norway. In the mid-18th century, an old knitting factory stood in its place, which operated successfully until the 1980s. Unfortunately, with the arrival of inexpensive goods from China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam on the market, the factory had to close its doors, and a museum was established in its stead.
Close to the Knitwear Museum, you'll discover the official King's Residence of Norway, Gamlehaugen. The gardens are open to the public, and if you're fortunate, you may even have the opportunity to explore the royal chambers.
