Bergen Fish Market: Ultimate Guide to Visiting

The Bergen Fish Market is an iconic establishment in Bergen and an essential stop on any visit to this charming Norwegian city. The bright colorful wooden houses are in fact the quintessential shot of the ‘Bryggen’ wharf – home of the Bergen Fish Market, an indoor and outdoor fish market, right in cultural heart and center of Bergen.

During my recent visit to Bergen, Norway, I had the opportunity of exploring the Bergen Fish Market on a Sunday. The experience was truly unforgettable. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, full of energy, lively atmosphere and bustling stalls selling fresh seafood on a sunny May morning. A must-do activty when visiting Bergen!

The below post is a guide to visiting the Bergen Fish Market based on my own recent experience, covering useful information you need to know for your visit.

Why is the Bergen Fish Market Famous?

Bergen is known as the seafood capital of Norway, having a rich maritime history and being surrounded by waters abundant in fish including cod, herring and salmon.

This makes the Bergen fish market the perfect place to explore and enjoy ready-to-eat seafood dishes, sample local specialties, and interact with knowledgeable vendors, A definite enriching and memorable experience and must-do for any trip to Bergen.

Why visit the Bergen Fish Market

Bergen Fish Market offers the chance to savor incredibly fresh and diverse seafood in the nordic water amongst a vibrant, picturesque setting by the harbor. The market provides a rich cultural experience central to Nordic fishing culture that is a must-do experience when in Bergen.

The Bergen Fish Market attracts over 1 million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Norway. This is especially driven by the fact that the market itself is located just by the Bryggen wharf where a large number of cruise ships dock during the year.

On peak summer days, the fish market sells seafood up to 30,000 kg (about 66,000 pounds) of seafood, including fish, shellfish, and other marine products.

A large proportion of the seafood sold at the Bergen Fish Market is certified sustainable. This is reflective of Norway’s more broader commitment to responsible fishing practices. As such, the Bergen Fish market plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable seafood consumption amongst its visitors.

The fish market itself has been operating for over 700 years, making it one of the oldest continuously running fish markets in the world!

Bergen Fish Market Opening Times

Summer Season (May to September):

Monday to Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Winter Season (October to April):

Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday and Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

These times can vary slightly, so I would advise its best to check the current schedule on the official Bergen tourism website before planning your visit.

What is the best time to visit the Bergen Fish Market?

This really depends. One would always think it’s best to visit a fish market first thing in the morning. However I disagree, I think it really depends on what you want out of the experience. As a tourist or visitor you likely may not be looking to buy and take home the seafood for cooking, but rather want to experience the market for its lively atmosphere and activity. In which case, late morning to early afternoon is best.

However if you are visiting specifically for the freshest seafood and a quieter experience, an early morning is best.

The market is vibrant and bustling during weekends and special events, especially during summer so I recommend keeping this in mind when planning your visit.

It also depends which time of year you happen to be in Bergen, in terms of when best to visit:

Summer (May to September)

Morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM): For the freshest catch of the day and a quieter experience, visit early in the morning. This is when the market is less crowded, and you can interact more easily with vendors and trade people.
Late Morning to Early Afternoon (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM): This time is ideal for those who enjoy a bustling atmosphere with plenty of activity. You’ll find the market in full swing with a wide variety of seafood and prepared dishes available.
Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Visit in the evening to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere as the market winds down. It’s a good time to sample prepared dishes and enjoy the scenic views of the harbor.

Winter (October to April)

Late Morning to Early Afternoon (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM): During the winter, the market is less crowded overall. Visiting around midday ensures you get the best selection of seafood and can enjoy the market at a leisurely pace.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, making it easier to navigate and spend time chatting with vendors.
However weekends are more lively and bustling, with a vibrant atmosphere with more visitors and an excellent selection of food stalls.

Bergen Fish Market Location

The Bergen Fish Market is centrally located in the heart of Bergen, Norway. Specifically, it is situated at the eastern end of the Vågen harbor, adjacent to the historic Bryggen area – think colourful red-brown wooden houses.

If you’re looking this up on google map, the address is:

Torget 5, 5014 Bergen, Norway

This location places it within walking distance of many of Bergen’s main attractions, including the Bryggen and its surrounding shops and restaurants and boutique souvenir shops.

It also close to the Fløibanen funicular also know as the which is another must do activity in Bergen. This can be done either as journey up and down Mount Floyen or as part of a day trip hiking the Bergen Vidden trail – a beautiful hike offering stunning views of the surrounding fjords, mountains and lakes.

The market’s waterfront setting is perfect for stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains in the backdrop. This was an unforgettable highlight of my trip to Bergen and I cannot emphasis enough how picturesque of a place it is!

How busy does the Bergen Fish Market get?

The mornings are the least busy time of day to visit the Bergen fish market, with the best selection of seafood and buying opportunities. During the day the foot traffic can vary.

One thing to note is, given its right on the harbor where large cruise ships arrive, the amount of foot traffic you can encounter at any point during the day at the fish market can largely be determined by any new cruise ships arriving and or leaving the harbor.

I would say, if you’re like me and visit in the summer, then expect it to be extra busy during the day given there is very likely to be cruise ships stopping at various points throughout the day.

Best Food to try at the Bergen Fish Market

Visiting the Bergen Fish Market offers a chance to sample a variety of delicious local foods. Here are some of the best foods to try:

1. Smoked Salmon:

Renowned for its rich flavor, Norwegian smoked salmon is a must-try. It’s often served with bread or crackers and a variety of accompaniments like capers and cream cheese.

2. Fresh Salmon:

Available in sushi, sashimi, or grilled forms.I have to say regarding salmon that ever since I visited Bergen, I have never thought about salmon the same way. During my visit to Bergen, I did a walking tour where our tour guide, who also used to work in a fish market highlighted the difference between the way farmed salmon and wild salmon are raised. And honestly, this was disturbing to heat the poor conditions in which most ‘non wild’ salmon are raised.

3. King Crab

King Crab Legs: These are a delicacy. You will often find them served simply with butter and lemon, best kept simple to enjoy the tender meat.

4. Shrimp

Freshly boiled and typically served cold, Norwegian shrimp are sweet and flavorful. I saw a lot of sandwich shops doing shrimp or shrimp paste in sandwiches.

5. Fish Soup (Fiskesuppe)

A creamy, flavorful soup made with a variety of local fish, shellfish, vegetables, and often flavored with dill and other herbs. It’s a comforting and hearty option.

6. Fish Cakes (Fiskekaker)

These are made from minced fish, often cod or haddock, mixed with potatoes and seasoning, then fried. They are a popular street food and can be eaten on their own sandwiched together with sauces and bread.

7. Seafood Platter

Mixed Seafood Platter: A good mix if you’re looking to try a bit of everything, with the typical selection being mussels, clams, crab, shrimp, and sometimes lobster. These really vary from vendor to vendor.

8. Caviar

Norwegian caviar is typically made from cod roe, it’s often served on bread or crackers and cream cheese and sushi (my personal favorite!)

9. Fresh Oysters

Fresh, locally sourced oysters are typically served with a squeeze of lemon or a mignonette sauce.

Bergen Fish Market Restaurants

In and surrounding Bryggen, you will find several restaurants serving fresh seafood from the market in a more relaxed setting. Below are some well known suggestions:

1. Fjellskål Fisketorget

Located at the Fish Market, Fjellskål is renowned for its high-quality seafood and vibrant atmosphere. It offers both a seafood bar and a dining area.
Specialties: King crab, lobster, fresh fish dishes, oysters, and sushi.

2. Fish Me

Part of the Fish Market, Fish Me is well-known for its wide variety of seafood offerings, both as a restaurant and a seafood shop. It’s popular for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
Specialties: Seafood platters, fish soup, smoked salmon, and ready-to-eat seafood.

3. Enhjørningen

Located in the historic Bryggen area, Enhjørningen is famous for its traditional Norwegian seafood cuisine and charming, historic setting in one of the old wooden buildings.
Specialties: Fish soup, baked cod, halibut, and other traditional seafood dishes.

4. Bryggeloftet & Stuene

This historic restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu full of traditional Norwegian dishes. It’s a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Specialties: Fish soup, reindeer, various seafood dishes, and traditional Norwegian fare.

5. Pingvinen

This is a highly popular Norwegian gastropub known for traditional Norwegian food, about a 10 min walk from the Bergen Fish market and Bryggen harbor. This was the perfect heart meal I had after finishing the Vidden Bergen hike and hence the meal was extra memorable!
Menu highlight include Gratinated fish, fish soup. fresh cod, plukkfisk and pan seared cod to name a few!

Bergen Fish Market Prices

The prices at the Bergen Fish Market can vary widely depending on the type of seafood, the season, and the specific vendors. Here are some general price ranges for popular items in 2024:

Fresh Seafood

Salmon: Around 200-300 NOK per kilogram (approx. $20-30 USD).
King Crab: Approximately 500-800 NOK per kilogram (approx. $50-80 USD).
Shrimp: About 150-250 NOK per kilogram (approx. $15-25 USD).
Cod: Around 100-200 NOK per kilogram (approx. $10-20 USD).

Ready-to-Eat Dishes

Fish Soup: Typically 100-150 NOK per bowl (approx. $10-15 USD).
Seafood Platter: Varies widely based on the content, generally 200-600 NOK (approx. $20-60 USD).
Shrimp Sandwich: Around 100-150 NOK (approx. $10-15 USD).

Specialty Items

Smoked Salmon: Approximately 300-500 NOK per kilogram (approx. $30-50 USD).
Caviar: Prices can range from 400 NOK and up per small jar (approx. $40 USD).

Drinks and Other Items

Soft Drinks: Around 30-50 NOK (approx. $3-5 USD).
Local Pastries (like Skillingsbolle): Typically 30-50 NOK each (approx. $3-5 USD).

There you have it, I hope you have enjoy your visit to the Bergen Fish market and make the most of everything this picturesque fish market has to offer!

Bergen Fish Market FAQs

Is the Bergen fish market open in winter?

Yes, the Bergen fish market is open in winter with modified opening hours. Late Morning to Early Afternoon (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM).

Do people bargain at the Bergen Fish market?

Prices at the market are generally fixed, but it can be worth inquiring on any discounts or potential deals, especially if buying in bulk from a single vendor.

Do merchants take bank cards?

Norway is known as one of the most cash free societies and hence merchants accept both cash (NOK) and credit cards. There are atms dotted throughout the area nonetheless.

Is seafood at the Bergen Fish market expensive?

Food is generally more expensive in Norway. However in the Bergen Fish market itself I would say the higher prices reflect the freshness and quality of the seafood, which is often caught the same day, but also the fact that its a central tourist hub and hence the prices of seafood here can attract a location premium.

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