Akvariet i Bergen, Norway’s National Aquarium, is on Nordnesbakken 4 on the Nordnes peninsula. Its indoor tanks bring together species from the Norwegian coast and tropical waters, while outdoor pools house seals, sea lions, penguins and otters. Look for tropical fish, reptiles and crocodiles, then check the daily programme for feeding sessions, demonstrations or screenings. Touch areas and activities for children add variety, and the exhibits include information about the animals. Allow time to explore the lower levels as well as the main displays.
From Norwegian waters to tropical tanks
Akvariet i Bergen opened in 1960, with a focus on sharing knowledge about Norwegian marine life. The collection now extends well beyond the coast: alongside local fish are tropical species, reptiles and animals such as crocodiles. Around 60 large and small tanks give the indoor exhibits room to cover different habitats and species.
Take your time with the information panels as you move between tanks. Touchscreen displays provide details about the animals, and explanations are available in multiple languages. The exhibits are designed to be informative for adults as well as children, so a visit can combine close-up viewing with learning about the species in each display.
Outdoor pools and animal presentations
The outdoor pools are home to seals, sea lions, penguins and otters. These animals are a focus of the daily programme, which can include feeding sessions and presentations. Schedules can change from one activity to another, so look them up before your visit and plan your route around the sessions you most want to see.
Indoors, the range includes fish, snakes, lizards and crocodiles, as well as tropical displays. The aquarium also holds screenings and other activities at intervals through the day. Check what is scheduled on the day rather than assuming every activity will run at a particular time.
Planning a visit with children
Interactive areas and a touch tank give younger visitors something to do between the exhibits. The aquarium has a café, and visitors can also bring their own food. The café is described as relatively costly, so bringing food is an option if you would rather not buy a meal on site.
The site has several levels, including basement areas. A shorter visit can cover the main exhibits, but allow two to three hours if you want to explore the full aquarium and include presentations. Some enclosures, including the penguin area, have limited space, so be prepared for a tighter viewing area there.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Bergen Aquarium?
Allow 2 to 3 hours to explore the levels and fit in a presentation. Some visitors see the exhibits in less time, depending on how many activities they attend.
Can I see feeding sessions at the aquarium?
Feeding sessions and other presentations are part of the daily programme. Check the schedule online before your visit.
Is Bergen Aquarium suitable for children?
Yes. It has interactive areas, a touch tank and exhibits that appeal to children, alongside information for adults.
Can I bring food to Bergen Aquarium?
Yes. Visitors can bring their own food, and there is also a café on site.
Does the Bergen Card include aquarium admission?
The Bergen Card provides free admission to the aquarium.
