Bergen Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bergen with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the natural and cultural attractions, food and drink scene, and learn about local customs and safety tips.


Introduction to Bergen

Nestled in the North Holland Peninsula, Bergen is a charming town in the western part of the Netherlands. With its idyllic landscape, vibrant art scene, and rich history, Bergen is a popular destination for tourists.

The town is surrounded by lush forests and sand dunes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. It’s also known for its cultural landmarks such as the Kranenburgh Museum and Het Hof, a historic farmhouse-turned-restaurant.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Bergen has something to offer for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the must-visit places, food and drink options, local customs, and safety tips.

List of Places to Visit in Bergen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kranenburgh Museum

Founded in 1915, the Kranenburgh Museum is a popular destination for art lovers. The museum houses a collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by acclaimed Dutch artists such as Charley Toorop and Leo Gestel.

Het Hof

Located in the heart of Bergen, Het Hof is a historic farmhouse that has been converted into a restaurant. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, serving local specialties such as organic vegetables and locally-sourced meat.

Ruïnekerk

Ruïnekerk is a 17th-century church that was partly destroyed during the Spanish siege of Bergen in 1574. Today, the church houses an impressive collection of stained-glass windows and hosts regular concerts and events.

Natural Attractions of Bergen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Schoorlse Duinen National Park

Schoorlse Duinen National Park is the largest natural park in the Netherlands. With its towering sand dunes, lush forests, and picturesque beaches, this national park is an ideal destination for hiking, biking, and swimming.

Het Woud

Located on the outskirts of Bergen, Het Woud is a nature park that spans over 30 hectares of forests and meadows. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the park’s scenic trails and spot wildlife such as deer and squirrels.

Bergen aan Zee

Bergen aan Zee is a beautiful seaside village located just a short drive from Bergen. The village’s pristine beach and charming cafes make it a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bergen

Bergen is home to some of the most picturesque hiking and biking trails in the Netherlands. Here are some of our top picks for outdoor adventures:

  • Schoorlse Duinen Nature Reserve
  • Woudweg - Damvaart - Van Wierenlaan
  • Klimduin - Hargen - Sand to Sloot
  • The Bergen Cycle Route

Best Things to Do in Bergen: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Bergen:

  • Take a guided tour of the Kranenburgh Museum
  • Visit Het Hof and enjoy a traditional Dutch meal
  • Explore the natural beauty of Schoorlse Duinen National Park
  • Relax on the sandy beaches of Bergen aan Zee

Week-Long Itinerary for Bergen

Day 1: Explore Bergen and its historic landmarks such as Ruïnekerk and the Kranenburgh Museum. Day 2-3: Discover the natural beauty of Schoorlse Duinen National Park through hiking and biking trails. Day 4-5: Relax on the picturesque beaches of Bergen aan Zee and explore the charming seaside village. Day 6-7: Visit nearby attractions such as the Alkmaar Cheese Market and Amsterdam.

Food and Drink Scene of Bergen

Must-Try Dishes

When in Bergen, make sure to try these local specialties:

  • Hollandse Nieuwe (raw herring)
  • Stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables)
  • Pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes)
  • Oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts)

Local Beverages

Here are some of the popular local beverages in Bergen:

  • Jenever (Dutch gin)
  • Pils (Dutch beer)
  • Dutch chocolate milk

Where to Stay in Bergen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy guesthouses, Bergen has plenty of options for accommodation. Some of the top-rated hotels in Bergen include Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Jan van Scorel and Hotel Villa Breeberg.

What to Buy in Bergen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the popular souvenir items and local products to buy in Bergen:

  • Cheese from Kaasboerderij de Franschman
  • Locally-made honey
  • Artistic glassware and ceramics from Venn.nl

Local Culture and Customs of Bergen

The Dutch are known for their laid-back attitude and direct communication style. When visiting Bergen, it’s important to respect local customs and etiquette, such as being punctual and addressing people by their last name.

Best Time to Visit Bergen

The best time to visit Bergen is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, Bergen’s picturesque landscape and cultural events make it a great destination year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bergen

Do:

  • Do try local delicacies such as Hollandse Nieuwe and pannenkoeken
  • Do respect local customs and etiquette
  • Do explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area

Don’t:

  • Don’t be late for appointments
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment
  • Don’t smoke in public areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Bergen

Bergen is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and bicycle thefts in crowded areas. It’s also important to be cautious while hiking in natural areas and follow safety guidelines.

Health in Bergen

The Netherlands has a world-class healthcare system, and Bergen has several medical clinics and hospitals. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Bergen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bergen

The nearest airport to Bergen is Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, which is about an hour’s drive away. Visitors can take a taxi, rental car, or train to Bergen from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Bergen

Bergen has a bus station located near the town center, which offers connections to nearby destinations such as Amsterdam and Alkmaar.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Bergen by train from Amsterdam or other major Dutch cities. The train station is located in the town center and offers connections to major destinations across the country.

How to Get Around in Bergen

Bergen is a small town, and most attractions can be easily reached on foot. Visitors can also rent a bicycle or take a bus to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Bergen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after your visit to Bergen:

  • Alkmaar: a historic town known for its cheese market
  • Amsterdam: the vibrant capital of the Netherlands
  • Texel: a picturesque island with sandy beaches and charming villages

Conclusion

Bergen is a hidden gem in the Netherlands, with its breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a foodie, Bergen has something to offer for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to Bergen and make the most out of your visit.

Former Egmond Castle Former Egmond Castle