Bergen Airport Mini Guide
Why do People go to Bergen?
Bergen is Norway’s second largest city and its most popular destination for tourists who are drawn there by the history and the geography of the city. Bergen was once the capital of the country and the fortress was the seat of the kings of Norway.
Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains – berg means mountain in Norwegian – and these allow for great hiking trails, climbing faces and great views out over the city. The old part of the city is formed around the harbour of Bryggen which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular place to people watch or just to see the little fishing boats bob in and out.
How do I get to Bergen?
Bergen’s airport is just outside the city and is the second busiest in the country. Nearly six million people arrived in Bergen through the airport last year and it has dozens of daily flights from throughout Europe with many from regional
UK airports such as
Gatwick,
Heathrow,
Edinburgh. Use one of the bus routes to get into the city or take the airport shuttle which drops off at various destinations around Bergen. Car hire is a popular way to get from the airport as it allows travellers to explore the city more easily.
What is the Airport Like?
The airport has a single terminal with eleven gates. The terminal was built in 1988 and is unique in having a system whereby the international section can be extended, when necessary, by means of sliding doors converting domestic gates into international ones. There are eleven jet bridges but some passengers, mostly domestic arrivals, have to disembark via steps and walk to the terminal.
What Should I do When I Arrive at Bergen?
After disembarking, you’ll be on the upper level of the airport where the duty free shop is located. To collect your luggage, you’ll have to watch the displays for an indication of the reclaim belt number before descending to the lower level and the arrivals hall. International arrivals will have to pass through passport control whilst domestic arrivals can simply head for the reclaim area. In the arrivals hall there is a passenger information desk should you require assistance of any kind and a bank if you wish to exchange currency. If all you need is quick cash, you’ll find several ATMs around the airport. Car hire desks are easily located against the wall of the terminal building and public transport is accessed directly outside the terminal door.
What are the Facilities Like for Departing Passengers?
After dropping off your luggage you can wander through the selection of airport shops which include a men’s and women’s fashion store selling designer labels, a bookstore and three kiosks/general stores selling newspapers and magazines plus a selection of groceries, one, the 7eleven store, also does light hot and cold meals! Further dining options are extensive with café bars serving hot and cold snacks as well as a fish restaurant serving Bergen specialities. There’s a hot baguette and pizza outlet there too so you won’t go hungry. Once you’ve finished shopping and eating you can settle down with your laptop and enjoy free internet access from the airport’s Wi-Fi network.