Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, serves as a gateway for fjord tourism. During the tourist season, it becomes a lively hub, attracting visitors from all over the world. The heart of tourism in Bergen is the Bryggen district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The charming and colorful warehouses from the city's prosperous Hanseatic era have been repurposed into museums and souvenir shops.
In this article, we will introduce four must-buy souvenirs that capture the essence of Bergen, focusing on items available in the Bryggen district. Some of these are exclusive and cannot be found elsewhere, so be sure to check them out!
1. Seafood from the Fish Market
One of Bergen’s major tourist attractions is the Fish Market. The market is located on the ground floor of a beautiful glass-walled building, bustling with visitors who come for fjord sightseeing. During the summer, the market extends outside the building, creating a lively and visually impressive scene.
Boiled shrimp is a must-try! Just peel and pop one into your mouth—the natural sweetness spreads, making it hard to stop eating. Other options include crab meat and salmon sandwiches, which can be enjoyed on the spot, making it perfect for a walking food tour.
For those who prefer a sit-down meal, there are also restaurants available.
As for souvenirs, you’ll find reasonably priced delicacies such as smoked salmon, canned crab miso, bottled salmon roe, and caviar—luxurious items that would be quite expensive in Japan. The taste is guaranteed! Don’t forget to pick up something for yourself as well.
Name: Fish Me
Address: Strandkaien 3, Bergen 5013, Norway
Official/Related Website: https://fishme.no/
2. Handmade Sámi accessories
Juhls' Silvergallery sells accessories inspired by the lifestyle of the Sami people, the indigenous people of Scandinavia. If you’re looking for an authentic Nordic souvenir, this might be the perfect place.
Their main store is actually in the Arctic Circle! It is located in Kautokeino, a village near the Finnish border
The silver products, crafted with motifs of Sami art and craftsmanship, are truly worth seeing. While there was once a branch in Oslo, it has since closed, meaning that these accessories can now only be purchased at the Bergen store or the main store. Since they are nearly impossible to find in Japan, this is a must-see for those looking for a unique and special souvenir.
Name: Juhls' Silvergallery
Address: 9520 Galaniittuluodda, Norway
Official/Related Website: https://www.facebook.com/juhlssilvergallery/
3. Troll doll
One thing you will always see in Norwegian souvenir shops is the troll figurine. With bulging eyes, long noses, messy hair, and long tails, these little creatures may look a bit eerie at first, but after taking a closer look, you might find them oddly charming—and before you know it, you’ll want one for yourself!
Trolls are said to live in the forests along the fjord coast. If humans misbehave, they get angry and turn them into stone, but otherwise, they are quite gentle. They have been cherished in Norway for centuries, and it is believed that keeping one nearby will bring good luck.
Each troll figurine is carefully handcrafted using natural materials like rubber and rabbit fur, making them uniquely Norwegian. If you find one that seems to be looking at you, take it home—it just might be meant for you!
4. Chocolate
For those who prefer a more classic souvenir, chocolate is always a safe choice. Norway has chocolate brands available in supermarkets as well!
Freia, founded in 1889, is Norway’s most beloved chocolate brand. While their classic milk chocolate is a staple, their chocolate cookies are also extremely popular. You’ll find a variety of chocolates from different brands in Norwegian supermarkets, but if you want something truly Norwegian, Freia is the best choice!
◎ Summary
If you’re looking for a truly special souvenir that you can’t find in other countries or cities, why not go for something unique? In Bergen, Sami accessories are a great option.
While their designs may be unfamiliar to those in Japan, there are plenty of cute everyday pieces like earrings and necklaces. Be sure to stop by and check them out!