There are a whole to do lists in Bergen from outdoor adventure to museums and culinary tours to shopping. After two weeks in the city, I barely scraped the surface of Bergen entertainment, but a few favourites come to mind immediately.

Here is my list of the top 5 things to do in Bergen, Norway:

1. Mount Fløyen

Mount Fløyen is an absolute must in Bergen–if you do nothing else, you have to go up this mountain. You can climb the mountain by foot, but those of us that don’t get along with our lungs are able to take the funicular up the side without any degree of difficulty.

The ride itself is worth the trip; with sweeping views of the Nordic landscape, sliding backward as you face the disappearing city below.

Once the ride is over you can hop out and make your way over to the viewing point. A wide set of steps leads down to a glass railing where you can stand to see the entire city of Bergen.

You are able to see the city centre below, the suburbs speckling the mountains around and the fjords dipping into the water until they reach the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. Complete an astonishing panoramic view, it’s hard to pull yourself away.

Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the troll in front of the forest. You can sit on his knee or jump up on his back.

2. Bryggen

Bryggen is the oldest section of the city; it’s full of history and dated architecture. From the front, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of Norway; a line of thin, colourful wooden houses with pointed roofs along the harbour front.

Many fires have ravaged the characteristic wooden houses of Bryggen. Its rebuilding has traditionally followed old patterns and methods, therefore leaving its main structure preserved. Today there are 62 buildings that remain of this former townscape.

It isn’t until you enter one of the narrow alleyways between the houses that you realize that it is so much more than a brightly painted façade.

Bryggen may be small, but it wouldn’t take much effort to get lost among the winding walls and corners of the inner streets of the sector. There are plenty of guided tours to choose from, if you want to learn more about the area.

3. Fish Market

The Bergen fish market has recently moved from its original position on Torget street, around the corner on Strandkaien, underneath of the Bergen tourist information office, and inside of a glass structure.

Warm up on a cold day, as you wander the displays of seafood and other edible treats. Purchase a snack or meal, and enjoy the view of Bergen Harbour as you sit at one of the many tables.

Wander around the tanks of live lobsters and ice-beds of fresh crab, fish and many aquatic appetizers.

4. Wander the Streets

Bergen is a modern Scandinavian city, but it still has remnants and charms like any old European town. This can be seen when you explore the back-streets of the city, by heading away from the main square and walking the hilly alleys.

Some of the most picturesque views in the city come from standing atop one of these narrow, winding streets where the small houses converge to create the perfect scene.

Many of the streets in the Nøstet area are perfect examples of this.

5. Bergen Aquarium

The Bergen Aquarium is one of the most fun activities in the city, for children or adults. As a 25-year-old, I loved it, and would recommend it to anyone.

It’s easy to spend at least a couple of hours here, no matter the time of year. Visit the penguins and sea-lions outside, and view the reptiles and fish inside.

Combine the Bergen Aquarium with number 4, as you walk right past Nøstet to get there.

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It’s easy to do all of these in one day, as long as you get an early start (especially during the winter when sunlight is reduced). With these activities alone, I would suggest picking up the Bergen card, because it will help you save some money.

You will receive entrance to the Aquarium, the funicular, as well as free public bus transportation. As your Bergen card is valid for two days, you can choose a whole new set of activities for the following day!

Thanks to Visit Bergen for the Bergen Card!