Bergen International Festival

Festspillene i Bergen has run since 1953 and takes place over about two weeks from late May into early June, presenting classical music, contemporary music, theatre, dance, opera and visual art across the city: the Grieghallen concert hall, Troldsalen at Troldhaugen, Hakonshallen at Bergenhus fortress, the Den Nationale Scene theatre and smaller venues including churches and outdoor spaces. It is the largest festival of its kind in the Nordic region, with several hundred events and international artists alongside Norwegian programming. Grieg's music has a permanent place in it given the city's association with him. Free outdoor events and the opening in the city centre draw people who never buy a ticket.

What you actually see

• The main concerts - orchestral and chamber programmes at Grieghallen.
• The historic venues - performances at Troldhaugen and Hakonshallen.
• The theatre and dance - drama and contemporary performance across the city.
• The free events - outdoor and open programming through the two weeks.

When to go

Late May to early June, the fixed festival period; programmes are announced in the preceding winter and popular concerts sell out early. Bergen weather at that time can be anything, and much of the programme is indoors.

Honest expectations

Accommodation in Bergen is scarce and expensive during the festival and must be booked months ahead. Tickets for headline events go quickly. The programme is spread across the city, so moving between venues takes planning.

Nearby

Grieghallen and the city centre venues are central; Troldhaugen is south on the light rail.