Bergen: Bergen Aquarium Entry Ticket

Planning a trip to Bergen and wondering if visiting the Bergen Aquarium is worth your time? We’ve looked into it, so you don’t have to guess if this spot will make your trip memorable. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even bringing along kids, this aquarium offers a window into the fascinating marine life that surrounds Norway.

What we really like about this experience is how close you get to some truly charismatic animals—penguins, sea lions, crocodiles, and European otters—plus the chance to see over 100 fish species. The fact that the aquarium has a long-standing history since 1960 gives it a sense of tradition and trustworthiness. On the other hand, it’s not a huge, sprawling attraction—so if you’re expecting a full-day adventure, you might want to couple it with other activities. This is a solid choice for anyone interested in marine life or looking for a family-friendly outing that’s both fun and educational.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy animal encounters, want a relaxed but engaging day out, and appreciate seeing Norwegian coastal wildlife in a controlled environment. It’s also a great option if you prefer a flexible schedule, as tickets are valid for one day and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Key Points

• Accessible & flexible: Valid for a full day with multiple viewing and feeding opportunities
• Educational & engaging: Learn about Norwegian coastal animals through live presentations and short films
• Variety of animals: Penguins, sea lions, crocodiles, otters, snakes, geckos, and numerous fish
• Affordable value: At $39 per person, it offers a lot of educational entertainment
• Convenient location: Just a 15-minute walk from Bergen’s city center or easy to reach via bus, boat, or car
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children and all ages, especially those interested in animals and marine life

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overall Experience at Bergen Aquarium

When we think about visiting aquariums, it’s the mix of visual splendor and live animal interactions that really make an impression. The Bergen Aquarium delivers on both. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted with a variety of exhibits that showcase the local and global marine environment. The real treasure here is the chance to see penguins waddling about and sea lions performing tricks—which many reviews highlight as high points.

The aquarium’s main draws include the penguin and sea lion exhibits, both designed to give you a close-up view of these lively creatures. Watching the sea lions perform during feedings is particularly fun; many visitors mention how engaging the staff are during presentations, offering insights into the animals’ behaviors and habitats. “You can learn about the animals in a fun way, especially during feeding sessions,” one reviewer shared, adding that it feels very interactive.

The crocodile and reptile areas are also noteworthy, featuring European otters, snakes, and geckos. While some might not find these as captivating as the marine mammals, the exhibits are well-maintained and informative. For those interested in marine biodiversity, the over 100 fish species on display highlight the diversity of life along Norway’s coast, which many of us find fascinating.

What to Expect on Your Visit

Expect to spend around 2-3 hours exploring the aquarium thoroughly, depending on your pace. The aquarium opens from 10AM to 6PM during September 1 to April 30 and from 9AM to 6PM May to August. It’s open almost year-round, only closed on four days, so check the schedule beforehand.

As you wander through the exhibits, you’ll find the environment designed for easy viewing, with information available in both Norwegian and English. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ready to answer questions or explain animal behaviors. Keep an eye on the program for scheduled presentations and feeding times—they’re often the highlight of the visit.

Most reviews praise the stunning views of the animals and mention how educational and fun it is to see the animals in real life. The penguins, in particular, receive lots of love, with visitors noting how adorable they look waddling around. The sea lions are equally entertaining, often drawing crowds during their lively feedings.

The Practicalities

For transportation, the aquarium’s proximity to Bergen’s city center makes it very accessible. You can walk, take a bus, or even arrive by boat, with the aquarium only about a 15-minute walk from the Tourist Information. This makes it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.

Tickets cost $39 per person, which we believe offers reasonable value, especially considering the variety of animals and the live presentations. The experience includes multiple feedings, exhibits, and short films, so you’re getting more than just a viewing—you’re gaining insights into marine ecosystems.

There is no need to worry about guided tours or food—those are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks if desired. The ticket is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, a handy feature if your plans change unexpectedly.

Real Review Insights

One visitor pointed out, “The staff are very friendly, and the presentations are fun and informative.” Others appreciated the accessible location and the chance to see animals they might not encounter elsewhere. Some reviews mention that the aquarium is smaller compared to larger international facilities, but that adds to its charm; it’s manageable and not overwhelming.

A few reviewers pointed out that the exhibits are well-maintained, though some noted that the crocodile and reptile sections could be more extensive. The entertainment value during feedings appears to be a recurring highlight, with many calling it “worth the visit just for that.”

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Who Should Consider Visiting?

This tour is ideal for families, especially those with children who love animals. The engaging presentations and playful animals make it a hit for younger visitors. However, adults interested in marine life will also find plenty to enjoy, especially with the chance to learn about Norway’s coastal creatures.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning animal views and likes to combine educational activities with a relaxed day out, this is a good choice. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a flexible, low-stress experience—no rushing, just enjoying the animals and learning at your own pace.

The Sum Up

The Bergen Aquarium offers a genuinely enjoyable mix of animal encounters, educational presentations, and beautiful views. At $39, it’s a reasonably priced way to learn about marine life and see some adorable creatures up close. It’s especially suited for families, animal lovers, or anyone curious about Norway’s coastal ecosystem.

While it might not be a massive or highly elaborate facility, what it does, it does well—providing a relaxed and informative experience in a setting that’s easy to access. The live feedings and interactive exhibits are standout features that many visitors find memorable. If you’re in Bergen and want a break from city sightseeing, this aquarium is a solid addition to your itinerary.

For those who enjoy discovering local wildlife in a friendly, manageable environment, this is a place you’ll likely appreciate. Just be sure to check the schedule, plan some extra time for the presentations, and bring your curiosity along. It’s a place where you’ll not only see animals but learn something new about the sea that surrounds Norway.

FAQ

Is the Bergen Aquarium suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children love the animals, especially penguins and sea lions, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long does a typical visit take?
Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits and watching feedings, but you can stay longer if you wish.

Can I visit the aquarium on the same day as other Bergen attractions?
Absolutely. It’s only about a 15-minute walk from the city center, so it fits well into a day of sightseeing.

What animals can I expect to see?
Expect to see penguins, sea lions, crocodiles, European otters, snakes, geckos, and over 100 fish species.

Are there guided tours?
Guided tours are not included, but the staff provides informative presentations during feedings, and information is available in Norwegian and English.

What’s the best time to visit?
The aquarium is open almost year-round, with slightly longer hours from May to August. Check the schedule and plan for the time when you’ll be most comfortable.

Is there an option to cancel my ticket?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re curious about marine life, enjoy a relaxed pace, and want a fun, educational outing, the Bergen Aquarium is a solid choice. It combines charm, learning, and the chance to see some of Norway’s coastal wildlife in a friendly setting—a visit that many travelers find worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here: